25 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges [2024 Guide]

By Joy Cromwelle
Updated on April 14, 2024
Edited by Briana Sukert
Ready to start your journey?

If you hope to set your own schedule while earning a degree, then you may be interested in self paced online college classes. With this style of education, the more quickly you learn the material, the sooner you’ll complete classes and reach graduation.

Best Self-Paced Online Colleges

At your own pace, online college programs are available for many different majors, so you may be able to find one that suits your interests.

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If you’re determined and motivated, you might have your college degree in hand before you know it.

25 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer flexible online degree programs.

1. Albertus Magnus College

Albert Magnus College offers flexible online degree programs in fields such as accounting, computer information systems, and communications. Courses use accelerated, 8 week terms, so up to 30 credits may be earned in 1 year while taking only two courses at a time. Online students may choose to take some courses on campus.

Albertus Magnus College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

2. American Public University

At American Public University, online courses start monthly and are usually 8 weeks long. There are no set login times, but there may be some scheduled due dates to help students stay on track. Over 200 degree and certificate programs are available in fields such as communications, history, and math.

American Public University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Capella University

Capella University’s online FlexPath programs are designed to allow students to work at their own speed and move on to the next course when ready. Students typically take just 1 or 2 courses at a time. Potential fields of study for bachelor’s degree programs available in this format include accounting, health information management, cybersecurity, and general psychology.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University’s online degrees are designed to provide the same education that can be received on campus, while also allowing students to study anywhere, any time. Online students have opportunities to participate in research and hands-on learning experiences. Possible undergraduate majors include entrepreneurship, general management, and information systems.

CMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Columbia College

Columbia College offers more than 30 fully online degree programs in fields such as marketing, child development, management information systems, and human resource management. There are six 8 week sessions each year, and the program offers the flexibility to fit studies into busy schedules.

Columbia College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. Fort Hays State University

Online degree programs at Fort Hays State University aim to provide convenient and flexible scheduling. Courses may be taken every semester or breaks may be taken as needed. Possible undergraduate majors include communication studies, organizational leadership, political science, and technology leadership.

FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Indiana Wesleyan University

A degree can be earned 100% online at Indiana Wesleyan University. Online classes are 5 to 8 weeks long and have no set meeting times. Typically, one class is taken at a time. Online undergraduate majors are offered in fields such as communication, cybersecurity, business administration, and early childhood education.

IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Liberty University

Liberty University offers numerous Christian degree programs 100% online with no set login times through the online learning platform Canvas. Courses are typically 8 or 16 weeks long. Bachelor’s degrees are available in fields such as business administration, information technology, applied ministry, English, and creative writing.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Lourdes University

Lourdes University is a Catholic school that offers three degree programs in a fully online, self-paced format: a BS in Business Administration, an RN-to-BSN, and an MSN Nurse Educator. The degrees can be started at any time. Each online student is paired with a personal success coach.

Lourdes University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Mercy College

At Mercy College, a degree can be earned 100% online in a field such as counseling, cybersecurity, education, or computer science. Online classes are available in several different formats, including options with no set meeting times. Each student is paired with a professionally trained mentor to help them achieve success.

Mercy College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

11. Metropolitan State University of Denver

The Metropolitan State University of Denver offers self-paced online courses designed to fit busy schedules. Courses are 8 or 18 weeks long during fall and spring semesters and 10 weeks long during the summer. Because the courses are self-paced, the degrees may be completed at an accelerated pace. Online degree programs are offered in fields such as business administration, accounting, and political science.

MSU Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Purdue University

Purdue University’s accelerated ExcelTrack degree programs consist of highly focused, 1 credit courses. There’s no maximum number of courses that may be taken each term, and the school offers a readiness assessment to allow students to quickly move past what they already know. Bachelor’s degree programs with this format are available in several fields, including criminal justice, analytics, health care administration, and nursing.

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

13. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University offers fully online degree programs with multiple start dates every year. Possible fields of study available for bachelor’s degrees include computer information systems, leadership and organizational behavior, emergency management, and general studies.

SLU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University offers self-directed courses in which assignments and a final project are completed autonomously with 12 week terms. Courses may require proctored examinations. Assignments can be sent by mail, without internet access. TESU offers online bachelor’s degree programs in several fields, including electrical technology, liberal studies, and English.

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

15. University of Arkansas – Little Rock

The University of Arkansas – Little Rock offers over 450 online courses that teach the same academics as on-campus courses but with a higher level of flexibility. Courses do feature weekly deadlines. Fully online undergraduate majors are available in political science, history, applied communication, and business analytics.

UA Little Rock is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers open-enrollment, self-paced Flexible Learning courses which can take as long as 16 weeks to complete but may be finished sooner. UF offers fully online degree programs in fields such as computer science, biology, anthropology, business administration, and communication sciences.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign offers two types of self-paced courses: On-Demand and NetMath. On-Demand courses can be enrolled in at any time, and NetMath courses are from the math department and are 16 weeks long. Fully online undergraduate degree programs are available in fields such as early childhood professional education, social work, and sustainability.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

18. University of Massachusetts Global

MyPath online programs from the University of Massachusetts Global are designed to be completed at one’s own pace. Support coaches and staff are available to provide help when needed. Degrees available in this format include a Bachelor of Business Administration, a BS in Information Technology, and an MA in Organizational Leadership.

The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

19. University of North Dakota

Some online courses at the University of North Dakota can be enrolled in at any time. They may be completed at one’s own pace as long as they are completed in 9 months. Degrees that can be earned entirely in this format include a Bachelor of General Studies and a BA in Communication or Social Science.

UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

20. University of Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin offers Flexible Option online bachelor’s degree programs. Fields of study offered include information science and technology, biomedical sciences, business administration, and nursing. Classes have no set meeting times and may be started any month, not just at the beginning of a traditional semester. Assessments are available to earn credit for prior knowledge.

UW is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

21. Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University offers online, self-paced distance learning options with the ability to have one-on-one communication with instructors. Courses start every month, and students can take up to 6 months to finish them. Fully online bachelor’s degrees are available in fields such as financial management, communication studies, accounting, and criminal justice.

Upper Iowa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

22. Walsh College

Fully online undergraduate degrees at Walsh College are available in fields such as information technology, applied management, accountancy, and business administration. There are multiple possible concentrations to choose from within the business administration program. The school’s programs are designed to be flexible and fit into busy schedules while providing personalized attention.

Walsh College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

23. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University offers self-paced courses that can be registered for at any time. Courses can potentially be completed in just 1 month, and up to 6 months is allowed. Self-paced courses are available for a variety of different subjects and degree programs. Fields of study offered include sports and exercise, media communication, political science, social work, and criminal justice.

West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. Western Governors University

Online courses at Western Governors University may be completed at one’s own pace as long as the minimum number of competency units are met each term. Credits may be earned from passing assessments on material learned from prior experiences. Western Governors University offers online degree programs in several fields, including information technology, business, education, and nursing.

Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

25. Western Washington University

Western Washington University offers online courses in both a term-based interactive format and a self-paced format. The self-paced courses are designed to foster independent thinking and learning while being highly flexible with regards to scheduling. Subjects in which online courses may be taken include English, management information systems, and mathematics.

Western Washington University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Self Paced Online Colleges

When you’re looking for the best self paced online college, you can start by thinking about what major you’d like to pursue. Once you’ve selected a program, you can then search for colleges that offer that degree in a self-paced format.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

The program that’s best for you will depend on your personal interests and professional goals.

Online Accounting Degree

Accountant tracking company's finances

As an accounting student, you can count on learning about financial recordkeeping, auditing, and taxation. The branches of accounting that you’ll study may include financial and cost accounting. You might take business math and statistics classes too.

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Accounting majors often work as management accountants, auditors, tax examiners, budget analysts, or cost estimators. Earning graduate credits could help prepare you to become a certified public accountant.

Online Business Administration Degree

Business Administrator discussing with operations manager

Business administration is a field of study that includes many different disciplines. You’ll receive an introductory education in marketing, human resources, finance, logistics, and more. The school might offer you the chance to specialize in a particular area of business, such as accounting or information technology.

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With a business degree, you might be ready for entry-level work in a department like sales or HR. Some business admin professionals quickly advance into management roles.

Online Communication Degree

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If you’ve been told that you excel at delivering messages or breaking down complex information, then you might want a career in communication.

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A degree in this field will address public speaking, mass communication, and clear writing. You may practice using videos and other digital media to share messages as well. Communications graduates may work in journalism, freelance writing, public relations, marketing, or social media management.

Online Computer Science Degree

computer programmers discussing about their project deployment

Computer science is the study of how computers and their applications work. For success in this field, it helps to be good at math and logical thinking.

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You’ll study algorithms, programming languages, operating systems, and web development. Cyber security might be an additional topic. Computer science grads have in-demand skills for many jobs in technology. Examples include computer programming, software development, systems analysis, and IT management.

Online Criminal Justice Degree

correctional facility officer securing the area for new inmate

Majoring in criminal justice could help get you ready for a career that’s dedicated to keeping your community safe. You’ll get to know the systems used for law enforcement, prosecution, and corrections. Interesting areas of study may include crime prevention and juvenile justice.

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You could apply for jobs in local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. You could also work for a private security company or a correctional facility.

Online Cyber Security Degree

Cyber Security professionals tracking security threats

Protecting data is one of the primary responsibilities of cyber security professionals. Getting ready for the job requires learning about computer programming, scripting, networking, cloud computing, and data storage. You might practice penetration testing and ethical hacking.

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Job titles for this degree include security analyst and digital forensic specialist. Positions are available in the military, law enforcement departments, government agencies, and private businesses.

Online Data Analytics Degree

Data Analyst reviewing visual presentations

Today’s data analytics practices involve machine learning and big data mining. You’ll learn about those topics and more in your self-paced data analytics program. Other classes will address databases, scripting, statistical modeling, cloud solutions, and networks.

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With a data analytics degree, you might want to be a computer programmer, a marketing analyst, or an operations research analyst. You could also pursue a career as a data scientist.

Online Education Degree

K-12 Teacher handing out test papers

You can study online to become a K-12 teacher. The coursework will cover learning styles, curriculum planning, and literacy development.

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You’ll also learn about special education law. Before graduation, you’ll work as a student teacher in a local school. This degree typically leads to teacher licensure from your state. Then, you can work in public or private schools, where you may teach a particular grade or subject.

Online Electronics Engineering Degree

Electronics engineers working on their project

In an electronics engineering program, you’ll study the fundamentals of engineering, and you’ll delve into lessons about electrical systems and electronics.

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Common topics include AC and DC circuits, semiconductors, and controls. There will be multiple math and physics classes, and lab experiences are usually part of the curriculum as well. Bachelor’s degree graduates often work as electronics or electrical engineers. There are engineering technician and technologist roles available too.

Online Engineering Degree

civil engineers discussing at construction site

A general engineering program usually covers topics like calculus, physics, computer programming, mechanics, and thermodynamics.

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You’ll touch on various branches of engineering, including civil, mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineering. You may have the opportunity to specialize in one area by taking a series of relevant courses. Studying general engineering could qualify you to work as an engineer, particularly in your chosen area of specialization.

Online Entrepreneurship Degree

Entrepreneur checking orders from online portal

For those who want to run businesses, an entrepreneurship program could provide the necessary skills. You’ll learn strategies for succeeding in business as you take classes in customer service, inventory management, funding acquisition, and team leadership. The courses may also teach you how to use entrepreneurial strategies in corporate settings.

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Entrepreneurship students often become small business or franchise owners. Operations analysts or production managers could also use this degree.

Online Finance Degree

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Studying money markets and investment principles could help you launch a career in finance. The courses will teach you to analyze financial statements and build well-performing portfolios. You can learn some accounting skills too.

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Some graduates work as personal financial advisors, loan officers, or insurance underwriters. Other potential job titles include financial examiner, financial analyst, risk manager, and budget analyst.

Online Graphic Design Degree

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If you have an eye for what looks good, you might consider developing your skills in a self-paced graphic design program.

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You can enhance your ability to create visually appealing layouts and to communicate through text and graphics. Digital design courses will play a key role in your studies. Graphic designer is a top job title for people with this degree. Other options might include web developer or creative director.

Online Health Services Degree

Manager in physicians’ office, discussing with staff

You can learn the basics of the allied health profession in a health services degree program. Studying medical terminology and human anatomy will help prepare you for working in healthcare facilities. Plus, you’ll gain business skills as you study customer service, records management, insurance reimbursement, and quality assurance.

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Health services graduates are often managers in physicians’ group practices, laboratories, hospitals, and public health departments.

Online Healthcare Administration Degree

Health services manager meeting with medical records technicians

Healthcare administration focuses on the business side of running medical facilities. Students engage in lessons on marketing, finance, accounting, and personnel management for healthcare organizations. There are courses in medical billing, public health, and patient privacy too.

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Once you graduate, you might start working as a medical records technician or a health services manager. You could also start a career in healthcare policy development.

Online Information Technology Degree

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As you start your IT degree program, you’ll first familiarize yourself with computer hardware and software. Next, there may be classes in networking, operating systems, and the internet.

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Before you graduate, you’ll also study scripting, project management, system analysis, and cyber security. IT graduates often work in tech-focused roles, such as network support specialists, network administrators, software testers, and systems analysts.

Online Liberal Arts Degree

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If you’re a working adult who’s ready to list a degree on your resume, you might consider a liberal arts major. You can gain knowledge about a broad array of topics, such as writing, math, art, psychology, history, and science. After taking an assortment of interesting classes, you’ll become a college graduate!

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A liberal arts degree could help prepare you for many jobs, including event planner, HR specialist, and project coordinator.

Online Management Degree

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A self-paced management degree program can help get you ready for business leadership roles. The curriculum will address communication, sales, team-building, and vision-casting.

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You can practice leading projects, and you’ll gain tools for helping groups through transitions. The teachers might also talk about marketing and finance principles. This degree could be useful for jobs in operations, logistics, or marketing management. You might also seek a position as a management consultant.

Online Marketing Degree

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A marketing degree program will teach you about traditional marketing and digital marketing. There will be courses in consumer behavior, market research, and sales.

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You can become more knowledgeable about ad campaigns, branding, and social media management. Most schools will also include an assortment of general business classes in this degree program. You might work in ad sales, brand management, social media strategy, marketing research, or copywriting.

Online Nursing Degree (RN to BSN)

Registered nurse taking notes at the operating room

With a self-paced RN-to-BSN program, you can build on your registered nursing training and earn a college degree. You’ll expand your education with classes in patient care and professional development. Specific topics might include public health, anatomy, electronic health records, and patient assessments.

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Getting a degree might qualify you for nursing department promotions or leadership roles. You might be eligible to enroll in advanced practice nursing programs.

Online Organizational Leadership Degree

Training and development manager meeting with employees

This degree focuses on helping organizations accomplish their goals through successful leadership and team collaboration.

The curriculum might prepare you to motivate employees, navigate change, oversee projects, communicate clearly, and develop strong teams. Organizational leadership grads may go on to become business managers or executives.

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You might take a general management role or work in a specific department, such as sales, training and development, client relations, or human resources.

Online Psychology Degree

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Psychology students learn about people’s thoughts and behavior. In this program, you’ll take classes in human development and personality theory.

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Other courses might focus on abnormal psychology or cognitive processes. In addition, it’s common to study psychology research. Psychology degrees are useful in careers that involve working with people, including marketing and human resources. Some people become psychology assistants or psychiatric technicians.

Online Social Science Degree

Public relations specialists checking on press releases updates

The field of social science incorporates disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, and sociology. You’ll study each of those branches in a social science program. Comparative politics may be another key topic.

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In addition, you’ll explore research methodology and data analysis tools used in social science. A social science degree might be useful for working in public policy, program leadership, law enforcement, or public relations.

Online Software Development Degree

Mobile app designer and developer working together

Your software development curriculum will include multiple programming courses. In addition, you can become well-versed in databases and data structures.

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You can expect to study IT fundamentals, including networking and operating systems, as well. The coursework may prepare you for industry certifications. Possible jobs related to this field include being a software developer or tester. You could also go into programming, web development, or mobile app design.

Online Supply Chain & Logistics Degree

Logistics warehouse manager checking inventory

As a supply chain professional, you could be an expert in getting items where they need to go. In preparation, you can study warehousing and inventory management.

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You’ll learn about transportation and global importing and exporting. Contracts and project management are other frequent topics in supply chain programs. Once you finish your degree, you might work in logistics, procurement, or quality assurance.

Pros and Cons of Self Paced Online Colleges

Student attending Self Paced Online College

Before you commit to an at your pace online program, you may want to take a look at the pros and cons so that you can know what to expect.

Pros:

  • Can choose a relaxed pace if you’re a busy adult with work or family responsibilities
  • Can move quickly through the material if you want to finish as soon as possible
  • May save you money if you can finish in just a few terms
  • Might allow you to skip some classes if you already know the information
  • Will develop your self-discipline and organization, which are valuable workplace skills

Cons:

  • Can feel quite different from your previous school environments
  • Can increase your costs if you spread the courses out over several years
  • May be hard to stay motivated without hard deadlines for your assignments
  • Offers less interaction with other students and fewer group projects
  • Presents fewer opportunities for industry networking

If your goal is to save as much time and money as possible in earning a degree, then the pros of self-paced learning are likely to outweigh the cons.

Is Attending Online Colleges at Your Own Pace Right for You?

Woman attending an Online self-paced program

Online self-paced programs offer many advantages, but they can be a lot different from the classroom experiences of your past.

Before you sign up, you may want to take a good look at whether this schooling approach will mesh with your strengths and learning style.

You’ll be more likely to succeed in self-paced studies if you:

  • Are determined to graduate
  • Are self-disciplined and willing to set up a study schedule
  • Enjoy working on your own
  • Have a strong support system in place
  • Know how to stay organized

If you’re this type of learner, then self-paced online college could be a strategic fit.

Accredited Self-Paced Online Colleges: Tips to Succeed

Man pursuing Self-Paced Online College degree

Once you’ve determined that self-paced school is right for you, it’s time to prepare for success. You can use these tips to help you make the most of your college experience:

  • Choose your program carefully. You may find staying motivated easier if you’ve selected a major that truly interests you.
  • Consider what you already know. If you choose an area of study that aligns with your professional experience, you could be at an advantage. For one thing, you might find the coursework easier. Also, you may be able to test out of some learning modules, which can put you on track to graduate sooner.
  • Create a learning space. It’s helpful to set aside an area of your house that you can use for school. You may do best if this is a quiet space that’s free from visual clutter.
  • Enlist your family or friends. If you’re planning to devote a large chunk of your time to studying, then you may need others to pitch in extra for a while. You may also want them to hold you accountable for getting schoolwork done.
  • Make a plan. It’s strategic to pull out your calendar and block off sections of each day for completing coursework. Choose times when you can be free from any other distractions.
  • Use your school’s tools. If your online college offers study sessions, free tutoring, academic advising, digital library access, or other resources, it’s beneficial to take advantage of them throughout your college experience.

With the right major, the right support system, and the right organization in place, you may fall in love with self-paced learning.

How to Choose a Self Paced Online College Program

Friends checking Self Paced Online College Programs

As self-paced education is becoming more popular, you might have a variety of colleges to consider for your degree. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a program:

  • Accreditation. Regional accreditation bolsters a school’s reputation.
  • Class selection. Some colleges offer all of their classes in this format, and other schools have only a handful of self-paced courses.
  • Cost. A college may charge per class or by term. With per-term payments, your degree will likely cost less if you finish classes quickly.
  • Student services. You might appreciate support programs like tutoring or counseling during your studies.
  • Time limits. There may be a deadline for wrapping up each class or finishing your degree. Also, there are a few colleges that require you to stay enrolled in each class for a minimum number of weeks.

You may want to talk to past students for their recommendations.

Self Paced Online Courses Admissions Requirements

Woman preparing requirements for Self Paced Online Course

Admission guidelines vary from one college to the next, but self-paced schools often have generous admissions policies. They tend to welcome as many students as possible.

To enroll, you might be asked to turn in:

  • Application form
  • High school transcripts or a GED certificate
  • Standardized ACT or SAT test scores (not required at all colleges)

You might be asked to speak with an admissions counselor during the enrollment process. Much like open admissions colleges, there may also be placement tests to take before beginning classes.

Self-Paced Online Colleges Accreditation

University offering Self-Paced Online College degrees

You can get a quality education from a self-paced college program, just like you can from a traditional on-campus program. The key is to make sure you enroll at a regionally accredited college.

Accredited schools have been independently verified as good educational institutions. The work you do at a regionally accredited college may transfer from one school to another. Earning an accredited degree might qualify you for admission to a graduate program.

A potential employer might also be glad to see an accredited college degree on your resume. Plus, in some industries, regionally accredited studies may be necessary for licensure or certification.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Self-Paced Online College Financial Aid

As with standard-paced degree programs, self-paced programs might be eligible for various types of tuition assistance.

There are online colleges that pay you to attend. Your college may give out scholarship money if qualifying students select a specific program, enroll by a particular date, or possess certain qualifications. You may also be able to apply to scholarships from national or community organizations. State and federal funds can also be applied to these college programs. Your student aid package might include both grants and loans, depending on your eligibility.

To apply for government help, you can turn in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also see if your employer contributes to college studies.

What Is Self-Paced Learning?

Man pursuing Self-Paced Learning program

Self-paced learning is an approach to college studies that lets you advance through the program on your own timetable. The goal is mastery of the material, so as soon as you demonstrate that you understand a concept, you can move on to the next step.

With this approach to education, there isn’t a set due date for each assignment or a predetermined end date for each course. Rather, you can set your own schedule for completing the work. Even still, self-paced learning is not entirely open-ended. Many schools enforce a limit on how long you can be enrolled.

Can You Attend College at Your Own Pace Online?

student studying self-paced learning modules of an online college

Yes, many online colleges offer self-paced learning modules. You can earn your college degree by completing a series of go-at-your-own-pace classes. Many adult learners appreciate this approach to college studies.

If you’re in a hurry to graduate and have a lot of time available for studying, then you can fully dedicate yourself to quick college completion. On the other hand, if you are too busy to keep up with a heavy workload, then self-paced classes may feel more doable than a traditional college schedule.

Just like competency based online degree programs, you won’t have to worry about missing deadlines or falling behind.

Do Self Paced College Courses Have Completion Timelines?

Man attending self-paced classes

While self-paced classes don’t have firm deadlines for watching lectures and completing assignments, your enrollment might not be open-ended. Schools often set a limit for how long you have to complete one class. For instance, 6 months is a common timeframe.

If you’re using federal financial aid, you may be required to wrap up a class before the end of the traditional semester in which the aid was granted. Some schools may cap the number of years you have for finishing your degree.

What Is the Cheapest Self-Paced Online College?

Student attending Self-Paced Online College

Tuition costs can vary greatly from one school to the next, and your financial aid package may strongly influence your final costs. Often, though, attending a public university or a community college as an in-district resident will be cheaper than going to a private school.

When it comes to self-paced programs, the most affordable ones sometimes charge per term rather than per class. You would pay a set fee and can take as many courses as you want during that period. Finishing your entire degree in just 2 or 3 terms could help keep your costs fairly low.

What’s the Difference Between Self Paced Learning vs. Instructor Led Programs?

Online self paced courses take a different approach to education than most college classes that follow an instructor-led format.

Self-Paced Classes Instructor-Led Classes
  • Let you set your own schedule for completing the work
  • Let you advance through the material as you demonstrate competency
  • May allow you to finish a bachelor’s degree in well under 3 years
  • Has firm deadlines for turning in assignments and taking tests
  • Has you advanced through the material according to the prescribed schedule
  • Often takes 3.5 to 4 years to finish a bachelor’s degree

While self-paced schooling offers many advantages, some students prefer the structure of instructor-led classes.

Are Self-Paced Online Courses for College Credit Worth It?

Friends attending self-paced online courses for college

Yes, self-paced online courses for college credit are worth it for many students. With self paced college courses online, you may be able to earn a degree in just 1 year or 2 years. The sooner you graduate, the sooner you may be able to put your degree to work for you.

A degree could help bring higher earnings and greater job stability. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, getting a college degree lowers your chances of being unemployed. For instance, the overall unemployment rate is around 4.7%. Among people with bachelor’s degrees, the unemployment rate was only 3.5%.

Attending Online Colleges at Your Own Pace

student enrolled in at-your-pace college classes

Online education is a convenient way for many students to earn a college degree. Self-paced studies make learning even more flexible and accessible.

When you enroll in at-your-pace college classes, you can determine your schedule for completing work. For those who are self-motivated and determined, a self-paced program could be the best way to quickly earn a college degree. As soon as you master a course’s material, you can move on to the next class. Before you know it, you may be ready for graduation!

For a quality education, it’s strategic to choose regionally accredited self-paced online courses. Start exploring your options today!

Ready to start your journey?