Self-Paced Online Colleges

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FBD Staff
Written By - FBD Staff

Ready to earn a Bachelor’s degree on your terms? Self paced Bachelor’s Degree Programs offer the flexibility to study at your pace, balancing education, work, and personal life. Explore some of the best self paced online colleges.

Self paced online colleges offer a flexible and personalized approach to education, allowing students to learn at their own pace. These programs are ideal for balancing work, family, or other commitments, eliminating the need for a fixed schedule. Students can progress through courses at their own pace, focusing on areas where they need more time and advancing quickly through familiar topics. Self-paced learning often incorporates online resources, interactive materials, and assessments that can be completed whenever convenient. With this flexibility, students can take more control over their academic journey, making it easier to maintain a work-life balance while achieving their educational goals. These programs cater to self-motivated learners who thrive in independent environments.

self paced bachelors degree programs

Table Of Contents

National University

PROGRAM: Best Online Masters Programs

National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Best Online Masters 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 Universities Offer the Self-Paced Online Programs

Here’s a list of universities offering self-paced Bachelor’s programs, providing unparalleled flexibility to accommodate diverse schedules and support students in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

  1. Ball State University
  2. Western Governors University
  3. Capella University
  4. Southern New Hampshire University
  5. Thomas Edison State University
  6. Purdue University Global
  7. University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global)
  8. Walden University
  9. Liberty University
  10. National University

What Are the Top Self-Paced Online Colleges

Here’s a list of the best self-paced Bachelor’s degree programs, recognized for their academic quality and dedication to offering flexible, individualized learning opportunities tailored to diverse student needs.

  1. Business Administration(Marketing)
  2. Computer Science
  3. Nursing (RN to BSN)
  4. Criminal Justice
  5. Psychology
  6. Early Childhood Education
  7. Cybersecurity
  8. Data Science
  9. Communication
  10. Finance

Universities That Offer Self-Paced Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs – Details

self-paced online colleges

To identify the best online Bachelor’s programs, our team conducted a detailed evaluation using a custom methodology. Scores were assigned based on key factors, considering both positive and negative aspects. Data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) was analyzed to assess hundreds of institutions. This thorough process highlighted top universities, showcasing exceptional options for students seeking quality, flexible, and accessible online education. Here is the list:

Ball State University, located in Muncie, Indiana, offers a variety of self-paced undergraduate online programs, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Applied Cybersecurity, Business Administration, Computer and Information Technology, and Criminal Justice and Criminology. Known for its commitment to flexible learning, Ball State allows students to progress at their own pace while maintaining academic excellence. The university’s accredited programs are designed to meet the needs of working professionals, offering a career-focused education that accommodates individual schedules.
Univ Address
Ball State University

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

Self-Paced Paying Bachelor’s Degree Programs – Details

Self-paced paying Bachelor’s degree programs provide a flexible pathway to earning a degree while managing other commitments. These programs allow students to progress through coursework at their own speed, tailoring their education to fit personal schedules. Tuition is often structured per course or credit, offering control over educational expenses. Ideal for working professionals, parents, or those seeking a non-traditional study plan, self-paced programs emphasize convenience and accessibility. They combine independence with quality learning, enabling students to achieve their academic goals on their own terms.

Here is the detailed list of the top self-paced Bachelor’s degree programs:

Bachelor of Business Administration(BBA) Marketing

Job Title: Marketing Manager[1]
Median Salary: $156,580 per year
Job Description: Marketing managers develop strategies to promote products, services, or brands, aligning efforts with business goals. They oversee campaigns, analyze market trends, and manage budgets to maximize impact. Collaboration with sales, creative teams, and market researchers ensures cohesive messaging. Success relies on creativity, analytical skills, and adaptability in evolving market landscapes.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Job Title: Computer Programmers[2]
Median Salary: $99,700 per year
Job Description: Computer programmers write, test, and modify code to ensure software and applications function seamlessly. They translate designs from developers into executable instructions, debug errors, and optimize performance. Programmers use languages like Java or C++ to create, update, and expand programs. Collaboration with developers and efficiency tools like code libraries enhance their impact.

Nursing (RN to BSN)

Job Title: Registered Nurses[3]
Median Salary: $86,070 per year
Job Description: Registered nurses (RNs) provide patient care, administer treatments, and educate on health management. They assess conditions, document medical histories, and collaborate with healthcare teams. RNs may specialize in oncology or geriatrics, tailoring care to patient needs. They also guide families, offering emotional support and post-treatment instructions.

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Job Title: Police and Detectives[4] 
Median Salary: $74,910 per year
Job Description: Police officers and detectives safeguard lives and property, enforce laws, and investigate crimes. Duties include responding to calls, patrolling, arresting suspects, collecting evidence, and preparing cases for court. Specializations range from narcotics and homicide to wildlife enforcement. Collaboration, detailed reporting, and adherence to legal protocols are essential in this role.

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Job Title: Psychologists[5] 
Median Salary: $92,740 per year
Job Description: Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social behaviors to understand and improve mental health and behavior. They diagnose disorders, research, administer tests, and develop treatment plans. Specializations include clinical, school, industrial-organizational, and forensic psychology, each addressing specific populations or challenges to enhance individual well-being or organizational dynamics.

Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education

Job Title: Middle School Teachers[6] 
Median Salary: $64,290 per year
Job Description: Middle school teachers educate students in grades 6–8, bridging elementary and high school education. They create lesson plans, teach subjects, assess progress, and address learning challenges. Teachers communicate with parents, enforce rules, and prepare students for standardized tests. Some also mentor extracurricular activities, fostering academic and personal development in students.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity

Job Title: Information Security Analysts[7] 
Median Salary: $99,410 per year
Job Description: Information Security Analysts safeguard computer networks and systems by implementing security measures, monitoring breaches, and addressing vulnerabilities. They maintain firewalls, research IT security trends, and develop disaster recovery plans. Analysts recommend enhancements, educate users on security practices, and ensure organizational resilience against evolving cyber threats through proactive defense strategies and risk mitigation.

Bachelor of Science in Data Science

Job Title: Database Administrators and Architects[8] 
Median Salary: $117,450 per year
Job Description: Database administrators and architects design, manage, and secure data storage systems. They ensure databases operate efficiently, meet user needs, and protect sensitive information. Responsibilities include creating databases, managing access, testing modifications, and preventing data loss. Architects focus on database design and integration, while administrators oversee maintenance, performance, and user support.

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Job Title: Public Relations Specialists[9] 
Median Salary: $66,750 per year
Job Description: Public relations specialists manage the public image of individuals, groups, or organizations. They write press releases, respond to inquiries, and develop social media campaigns to shape public perception. They also evaluate public opinion, arrange interviews, and ensure promotional efforts align with the organization’s communication strategies.

Bachelor of Science in Finance 

Job Title: Financial Analysts[10] 
Median Salary: $99,890 per year
Job Description: Financial analysts help businesses and individuals make investment decisions to generate profit. They assess financial data, study economic trends, and evaluate company performance. Analysts may focus on specific industries or regions and work as buy-side analysts (for institutional investors) or sell-side analysts (advising sales agents). They prepare reports and recommend investment strategies.

FAQs About Self-Paced Online Colleges and Programs

What is a self-paced bachelor’s degree program?

A self-paced bachelor’s degree program allows students to progress through coursework at their own speed rather than following a fixed schedule. This flexibility lets learners complete assignments, exams, and coursework according to their pace, making it ideal for those balancing work, family, and other commitments.

How does a self-paced degree program work?

Are self-paced programs completely flexible?

What is the difference between self-paced and traditional degree programs?

How do I interact with professors and classmates in a self-paced program?

Can I earn a self-paced bachelor’s degree in any field?

Can I work full-time while enrolled in a self-paced degree program?

What are the costs associated with self-paced bachelor’s degree programs?

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