Best Online Degrees For Working Adults in 2025

Working adults increasingly seek higher education to enhance their career prospects and earning potential in today's fast-paced world. The challenge, however, lies in balancing professional responsibilities with academic aspirations.

Recognizing this, many institutions now offer online degrees specifically designed for working adults. These programs provide the flexibility and relevance needed to upskill without putting careers on hold.

The article explores the best online degrees for working adults, offering insights into how these programs can help achieve higher earning opportunities and professional growth.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Online Degree

Before diving into online education, working adults must consider several key factors.

These include the flexibility of the program, its accreditation, the institution's reputation, and how well the degree aligns with their career goals. Here are a few of them:

Flexibility

Flexibility is crucial for working adults, balancing their studies with professional and personal responsibilities.

Ideal online degrees offer asynchronous classes, self-paced learning, and flexible deadlines, allowing students to fit their education into their busy schedules without compromising their work or family commitments.

Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that the educational program meets specific quality standards and is recognized professionally.

Working adults should seek online degrees from accredited institutions to ensure their education is respected and valued by employers and that it provides a solid foundation for their career advancement.

Reputation of the Institution

The educational institution's reputation for offering the online degree can significantly impact career prospects. Renowned schools often have more robust networks, better resources, and more recognized degrees.

Choosing a program from a well-regarded institution can open doors to more significant opportunities and career advancements.

Alignment with Career Goals

Working adults must choose an online degree that aligns with their long-term career objectives.

The program should provide relevant skills and knowledge that directly contribute to their professional growth and help them achieve their specific career aspirations.

Credit for Professional Experience

Some online programs offer credits for professional experience, acknowledging the practical skills and knowledge that working adults bring to their studies.

This recognition can shorten the path to degree completion and reduce the overall cost of education, making it a valuable factor for adult learners.

Accelerated Paths to Completion

Accelerated programs allow students to complete their degrees faster than traditional timelines. Several 3- to 6-month online certificate programs are available to upgrade skills quickly.

This option is particularly beneficial for working adults looking to quickly gain qualifications and advance in their careers without spending several years in a study program.

Best Online Degrees For Working Adults

As we enter 2024, here are some of the best online degrees for working adults, each designed to provide valuable skills and knowledge applicable to today's job market.

Business Administration

An online degree in business administration equips working professionals with leadership, management, and strategic thinking skills essential for climbing the corporate ladder.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University's online Bachelor of Science in business administration - management degree costs $3,755 per six-month term.

This flexible program accommodates students' progress based on their existing knowledge, with a remarkable 70% completing it within 35 months.

WGU is renowned for its competency-based education model, which guarantees that students acquire the essential skills required for their professional journeys.

The program establishes a robust grounding in business management, ensuring that students are well-prepared to navigate the intricacies and demands of today's business landscape.

Southern Utah University (SUU)

Southern Utah University's online business management bachelor's program is available at a competitive rate of $282.00 per credit hour after the first credit. It distinguishes itself through its flexibility, quality, and affordability.

This program offers fully online coursework and holds AACSB accreditation, assuring a high standard of education and providing an option to complete your degree in as little as three years.

The program delivers a comprehensive business education, equipping students with the readiness to navigate diverse business environments effectively.

Computer Science

Ideal for those interested in technology, an online degree in computer science offers knowledge in software development, data analysis, and information systems.

University of Central Florida

The Bachelor of Science in computer science (BS) program at the University of Central Florida (UCF) provides students with a strong foundation in computational thinking and programming skills.

This program emphasizes mathematical and theoretical aspects of computing, preparing graduates for careers in emerging technologies such as robotics, computer gaming, virtual reality, and more.

With a tuition fee of $212.28 per credit hour for in-state students, this program can be completed in four years and offers affordable education with exciting career opportunities.

Arizona State University

The Bachelor of Science in computer science program at Arizona State University (ASU) offers a comprehensive curriculum.

With 120 credit hours spread across 41 classes, students can complete this program at their own pace, with course durations ranging from 7.5 to 15 weeks each.

The total academic year costs $8,277, making it an affordable choice for aspiring computer scientists.

Accounting

Accounting degrees focus on financial reporting, taxation, and auditing, preparing individuals for corporate finance, public accounting, and financial analysis roles.

Santa Fe Community College

Santa Fe College presents an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in accounting program that encompasses a comprehensive curriculum.

This program is tailored to accommodate students holding Associate of Science or Arts degrees and aligns with state prerequisites.

Tuition for upper-division courses is priced at $126.33 per credit hour, resulting in an approximate total of $7,579.80 for the 60-credit program.

Prepare yourself with the skills and knowledge required to excel in diverse accounting roles, unlocking financial opportunities.

Utica University

Utica University offers an outstanding opportunity through its online BBA in accounting degree program.

This program provides essential accounting expertise and facilitates your journey toward obtaining the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential.

Upon completing the online BBA in accounting degree and Utica University's graduate accounting program, you will fulfill the 150 credit hour academic prerequisite to sit for the CPA exam.

With 100% online delivery, flexible start dates, and a cost of $420 per credit, you are on an expedited path to becoming a certified accountant.

Finance

A degree in finance provides insights into financial management, investment strategies, and economic analysis, crucial for careers in banking, investment, and financial planning.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)

The University of Maryland Global Campus presents an online Bachelor of Science in finance program designed to give students the analytical insight and knowledge essential for a prosperous finance career.

Offering the advantages of online learning and the opportunity to transfer up to 90 credits, this program ensures access to quality education, regardless of geographical constraints.

Tuition stands at $318 per credit for in-state students, $499 for out-of-state students, and a discounted rate of $250 for military personnel, making it an affordable choice catering to diverse learners.

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)

Eastern New Mexico University extends a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree program featuring a specialized emphasis in Applied Economics and Finance.

This program delves deeply into economic principles and financial intricacies, arming students with the aptitude to decipher economic disparities and monetary trends.

Delivered entirely online, it offers unmatched flexibility for students. Scholarship opportunities await enrolled students, and program graduates are primed for careers in economics, finance, law, academia, and beyond.

The tuition fee is set at $218 per credit hour.

Marketing

Online marketing degrees cover digital marketing, consumer behavior, and brand management, essential for marketing, advertising, and public relations roles.

William Paterson University

William Paterson University extends an online Bachelor of Science in Marketing program, meticulously crafted to equip students for dynamic marketing careers.

The program's focus encompasses understanding customer needs buyer behavior, and honing vital analytical and communication skills.

Encompassing a spectrum of marketing facets, including research, pricing, consumer behavior, social media, and digital marketing.

With 120 credit hours, the program offers affordability at $360 per credit hour, ensuring students receive a comprehensive marketing education.

Western Governors University (WGU)

WGU presents an online bachelor's in marketing program meticulously designed to prepare students for prosperous marketing careers.

The program's curriculum covers a broad spectrum, including traditional marketing concepts, digital marketing, data literacy, consumer behavior, and marketing analytics.

Students acquire valuable sales, promotion, branding, and practical communication skills.

With a flexible schedule and a budget-friendly tuition rate of $3,755 per six-month term, WGU's program enables students to expedite their degree completion while keeping costs in check.

Project Management

This degree is tailored for those aiming to enhance their skills in organizing, planning, and executing projects across various industries.

University of Arizona

The Bachelor of Arts in project management program at the University of Arizona empowers students with the knowledge and expertise to excel as effective managers across various industries.

Graduates are well-prepared to oversee teams, manage budgets, allocate resources, and meet project timelines in diverse sectors, including healthcare and construction.

With an accelerated format featuring five to six-week courses, the flexibility to transfer up to 90 credits.

The cost per credit is $510, making it a valuable investment in your future.

Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University presents an online Bachelor of Science in business administration program with a concentration in Project Management.

Graduates emerge with the ability to inspire teams, uphold personal values, and demonstrate moral excellence and professional competence in the workplace.

The program comprises 120 credits, potentially transferring up to 90 credits. Tuition costs $270.00 per credit, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.

Empowering Your Educational Journey

In conclusion, the best online degrees for working adults in 2024 offer a blend of flexibility, practicality, and relevance.

These programs are designed not just to educate but to empower, providing working professionals with the tools to advance in their current careers or pivot to new ones.