Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

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FBD Staff
Written By - FBD Staff

Are you thinking about earning an online bachelor’s degree? Accreditation is key to ensuring quality education and career value. This guide unpacks everything you need to know about accredited online bachelor’s degree programs to help you make a confident, informed decision for your future.

Accredited online bachelor’s degree programs—what does it mean, and why is it essential? Accredited programs ensure students receive an education that meets rigorous academic standards. For students, this guarantees their degree’s recognition by employers and institutions, supporting career growth and advanced education prospects. Accreditation assures the program’s credibility and reflects the institution’s commitment to academic excellence. It bolsters universities’ reputations, attracts a wider student demographic, and ensures compliance with educational benchmarks. Moreover, accreditation fosters continuous program improvement through regular evaluations. Accredited online bachelor’s programs benefit students and universities by promoting quality and trust, paving the way for academic and professional success.

accredited online bachelors degree programs

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Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Bachelors Programs

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

Which Schools Offer Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Here is a list of the top universities that offer Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

  1. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
  2. Liberty University Online
  3. University of Massachusetts (UMass) Online
  4. University of Florida Online
  5. Colorado State University Global
  6. Purdue University Global
  7. Northern Arizona University (NAU) Online
  8. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) World Campus
  9. Colorado State University Global
  10. California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) Online
  11. Washington State University (WSU) Global Campus
  12. Rutgers University Online
  13. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
  14. Ball State University Online
  15. Regent University Online

What Subjects Are Available in Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs?

Here are some of the top accredited online Bachelor’s programs across various disciplines:

  1. Business Administration
  2. Accounting
  3. Marketing
  4. Finance
  5. Economics
  6. Psychology
  7. Sociology
  8. Criminal Justice
  9. Education
  10. Computer Science
  11. Biology
  12. History
  13. Healthcare Administration
  14. Nursing (RN to BSN)
  15. Public Health

What is Accreditation for Online Bachelor’s Programs: A Quick Look

Accreditation for online bachelor’s programs is a quality assurance process, ensuring institutions meet rigorous academic and ethical standards. This recognition is granted by accrediting bodies authorized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accredited programs demonstrate a commitment to excellence in curriculum, faculty, and student support services. They offer students confidence in the value of their education and degrees respected by employers and institutions worldwide.

Why Accreditation Is Crucial:

  • Ensures Educational Quality: Guarantees programs meet established academic standards.
  • Degree Recognition: Makes degrees credible and widely accepted by employers and institutions.
  • Access to Financial Aid: Only students in accredited programs qualify for federal aid.
  • Career Advancement: Enhances job prospects with respected credentials.
  • Transferability of Credits: Simplifies transferring credits between accredited institutions.
  • Institutional Accountability: Encourages universities to maintain and improve educational standards.

What Are the Different Types of Accreditation for Online Bachelor’s Programs?

Accreditation for online bachelor’s programs ensures educational quality and institutional credibility. It falls into two main categories: institutional accreditation and specialized/programmatic accreditation. Institutional accreditation, which includes regional and national accreditation, evaluates entire colleges or universities. Regional accreditation is often seen as more prestigious, focusing on academic excellence, while national accreditation typically applies to vocational or technical schools. Specialized accreditation assesses specific programs within a school, such as business, engineering, or healthcare, ensuring high standards in particular disciplines.

Here are the six regional accrediting agencies that accredit programs in the U.S.:

Here are six key national accrediting bodies in the United States:

Programmatic accreditation focuses on specific master’s programs rather than the entire institution. It is often tied to particular fields or industries. Here are some examples:

These organizations focus on specific fields and ensure that institutions offering bachelor’s programs meet the rigorous standards needed for those career paths.


What Subjects Are Available in Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs — Details

Accredited online bachelor’s programs cover various disciplines, offering quality education backed by trusted accrediting bodies. These programs are tailored to support diverse academic interests and career objectives. Here are some of the top accredited online bachelor’s programs:

Business Administration

An online Bachelor’s in Business Administration provides a flexible path to gaining essential business skills in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Designed for aspiring professionals, this program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing graduates for leadership roles or advanced studies in the competitive business world.

Accounting

An online Bachelor’s in Accounting equips students with financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting expertise. This program offers flexibility for aspiring accountants to balance studies with other commitments. Graduates gain a strong foundation for finance, public accounting, or corporate management careers and are well-prepared for certifications like CPA or CMA.

Marketing

An online Bachelor’s in Marketing provides students in-depth knowledge of consumer behavior, branding, digital marketing strategies, and market research. Designed for flexibility, it enables learners to develop creative and analytical skills essential for thriving in dynamic business environments. Graduates are equipped for advertising, public relations, sales, and brand management roles.

Finance

An online Bachelor’s in Finance equips students with knowledge of investment strategies, financial planning, risk management, and corporate finance. The program emphasizes analytical and decision-making skills vital for navigating financial markets. Graduates are prepared for careers in banking, investment management, financial analysis, and other roles requiring expertise in financial systems and economic principles.

Economics

An online Bachelor’s in Economics gives students a deep understanding of economic theories, market dynamics, and data analysis. The program covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, international trade, and public policy. Graduates gain skills to analyze and solve complex economic problems, preparing them for finance, consulting, research, and policymaking careers.

Psychology

An online Bachelor’s in Psychology explores the complexities of human behavior, mental processes, and social interactions. Students study subjects like developmental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and abnormal psychology. This program equips graduates with critical thinking and research skills, preparing them for careers in counseling, human resources, social services, or further academic pursuits in psychology-related fields.

Sociology

An online Bachelor’s in Sociology explores the study of society, culture, and human interactions. Students explore social inequality, globalization, family dynamics, and organizational behavior. This degree fosters analytical and research skills, paving the way for careers in social work, public policy, community development, or advanced studies in sociology and related disciplines.

Criminal Justice

An online Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice provides an in-depth understanding of the justice system, including law enforcement, corrections, and the courts. Students study topics like criminology, criminal law, and forensic science, equipping them with the skills needed for careers in law enforcement, homeland security, probation, or further studies in criminal justice and legal fields.

Education

An online Bachelor’s in Education prepares students for impactful teaching and educational leadership careers. Coursework includes pedagogy, curriculum design, and classroom management, fostering skills to support diverse learning environments. Graduates often pursue roles as educators and instructional coordinators or advance to graduate studies, contributing meaningfully to future generations’ academic and personal development.

Computer Science

An online Bachelor’s in Computer Science equips students with essential programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development skills. It covers artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and database management, fostering expertise in solving complex technological problems. Graduates often secure roles in software engineering, IT, data analysis or further their knowledge through advanced studies.

Biology

An online Bachelor’s in Biology explores the study of living organisms, covering genetics, ecology, microbiology, and human anatomy. Students explore foundational and advanced concepts in life sciences, preparing for careers in healthcare, biotechnology, environmental science, or research. Graduates can also pursue advanced degrees in medicine, pharmacy, or related scientific fields.

History

An online Bachelor’s in History offers an in-depth exploration of past events, cultures, and societies, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Students examine historical patterns, significant events, and influential figures across global and regional contexts. This degree prepares graduates for careers in education, research, public service, or further studies in law, politics, or archival work.

Healthcare Administration

An online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration equips students with the knowledge to manage healthcare systems and organizations effectively. Coursework covers healthcare policies, management principles, finance, and operations. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, contributing to improved healthcare delivery and organizational efficiency.

Nursing (RN to BSN)

An online RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to advance their education and career prospects. Evidence-based practice, community health, and nursing management coursework enhance patient care, leadership, and healthcare systems skills. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in clinical and administrative settings.

Public Health

An online bachelor’s degree in Public Health equips students with knowledge to address health challenges on a community and global scale. The program covers topics like epidemiology, health policy, and environmental health. Graduates are prepared for health education, policy-making, and public health advocacy roles, contributing to healthier communities and populations.

Which Schools Offer Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs — Details

accredited online bachelors degree programs

Accredited online bachelor’s programs are available through various reputable colleges and universities across the United States. These institutions offer rigorous academic curricula that meet established accreditation standards, ensuring quality education. Students can choose from diverse fields, benefiting from flexible online formats while maintaining academic integrity. 

Here are the top universities that offer Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

The online bachelor’s programs offered by Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) are accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Known for its student-focused approach, SNHU provides a wide range of online programs designed to support diverse career goals. The university is widely recognized for its commitment to accessibility and academic excellence.
Univ Address Tuition Grad Rate
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page

Here are some additional resources prospective Bachelor’s students can use to find accredited online Bachelor’s programs in their preferred field and location:

U.S. Department of Education (USDE): The U.S. Department of Education (USDE) is a federal agency responsible for overseeing national education policies, administering financial aid programs, and ensuring equal access to education. It accredits institutions, sets academic standards, and supports initiatives to improve educational quality across primary, secondary, and postsecondary levels.

Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA): The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) is a nonprofit organization that recognizes accrediting agencies in the U.S. It ensures the quality and effectiveness of higher education institutions and programs. CHEA promotes academic excellence by supporting accreditation standards and offering resources for institutions and prospective students to ensure credibility in education.

FBD’s Accreditation Guide: The FBD Accreditation Guide assists students in finding accredited programs, ensuring they receive quality education, and making well-informed decisions for their academic and professional futures.

FAQs About Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Why should I choose an accredited university?

Choosing an accredited university ensures high-quality education that meets recognized academic standards. Accreditation guarantees that degrees are respected by employers and other institutions, providing graduates with greater opportunities for career advancement and further education. It also signifies the university’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education.

How does accreditation affect the value of an online degree?

How often are online programs reassessed for accreditation?

Are Accredited Online Master’s Programs valued by employers?

Can an online program be accredited if it doesn’t offer in-person classes?

What are regional and national accreditations?

Can students transfer credits from accredited online programs to other schools?

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