10 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges in 2025

Are you interested in attending a self-paced online college? Many online schools offer flexible self-paced programs that lead to quality career opportunities.

A self-paced online college is a school that lets students learn at their own pace. Instead of meeting on-campus on scheduled dates, students access their coursework online and learn whenever they choose.

Some self-paced online degree programs follow weekly or monthly schedules and determine when students will graduate. Other flexible online colleges let students navigate courses on their own and complete their degrees when they choose. A lot of online colleges and universities nationwide offer flexible programs such as various self-paced bachelor's degrees online. The key is finding the school that delivers your desired degree and a learning format.

Best Accredited Self-Paced Online Degree Programs

This list of accredited colleges and universities provides online courses you can take at your own pace.

1. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Global offers MyPath, a competency-based, self-paced learning format. MyPath lets you choose when to watch lectures, study, and complete coursework. You even get to set your deadlines.

After showing your competency � or how well you understand course materials &,dash; you'll pass the section you're working on and move on to the next one. Some programs available through MyPath include bachelor's degrees in business administration and information technology. You'll also find a master's degree in organizational leadership.

2. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is home to Self-Paced Enroll Anytime programs. These programs teach the same course materials as traditional programs, but you learn at your own pace.

UND offers three Self-Paced Enroll Anytime programs. Your options are:

Bachelor of Arts with a major in Communications
Bachelor of Arts with a major in Social Sciences
Bachelor of General Studies

You'll learn through the Blackboard learning management system, which provides:

instructor videos
assignments
lesson objectives

Most courses ask you to submit up to three items for grading each week.

3. Capella University

Students attending Capella University can take self-paced courses through FlexPath. This flexible learning format lets you choose your deadlines and study at the pace that works for you. Capella offers monthly start dates and lets you take one or two online classes at a time.

There are no course schedules, due dates, or weekly discussions.

Whether you want to earn a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or doctoral degree, you can find a program at this online college. The university offers FlexPath programs in:

business
psychology
information technology
education
nursing

4. Walden University

Walden University's Tempo Learning lets you personalize your online education by deciding its length, pace, and cost. Fit as many online classes as you want into a three-month subscription period. More than 25 Walden programs and specializations offer Tempo Learning. Self-paced distance learning degrees are available in:

criminal justice
business administration
psychology
education
healthcare
nursing

5. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers in-person education programs, but it also offers incredibly diverse, self-paced learning opportunities for online students, ranging from associate to doctoral degrees. SNHU students can earn degrees in over 200 fields of study in fully remote learning environments on their own schedules. Some of the most popular degrees at SNHU include:

business administration
human resources management
criminal justice
forensic psychology
software engineering

6. Liberty University

Liberty University's online programs allow students to interact with peers and instructors without ever having designated course times. Liberty's online catalog is divided into three types of courses: fully online, online with required intensives, and online with optional intensives.

Learners with intensives have to attend an on-campus, instructor-led program that usually lasts around a week, but many online degrees are without this mandate. Popular online degree options at LU include:

accounting
communication
cybersecurity
nursing practice
graphic design

7. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University is an accredited school located in New Jersey, with online degree programs available through multiple formats nationwide. TESU students can complete their degrees in traditional online formats with instructors, but they are also eligible to enroll in self-paced e-Pack courses.

These courses use non-graded quizzes to help students review learning material to build toward final exams. Although e-Pack courses are completed within a 12-week semester, all coursework is done entirely on the student's schedule.

TESU also offers self-directed and guided study courses. Learners can enroll in online courses for degrees such as:

education
liberal arts
healthcare
business management

8. Western Governors University

Western Governors University doesn't have students enroll per college credit hour, instead they enroll in six-month education periods. During these sessions, students can take as many courses and certificate programs as they see fit. Due to this delivery method, learners can complete courses at different speeds based on their understanding of the material and other responsibilities. WGU students can earn online degrees in:

business management
information technology management
healthcare administration
marketing
user experience design

9. University of Arizona Global Campus

Learners can pursue self-paced degrees through the University of Arizona Global Campus. Courses are delivered in accelerated five and six-week courses that students can complete anytime and anywhere through UAGC's app or website. Some of the most popular degrees earned at UAGC are:

business administration
accounting
child development
organizational management
early childhood education

10. University of Illinois Urbana Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana Champaign offers self-paced courses for both degree and non-degree students. Students looking to enroll in these courses will need special approval, but there are many opportunities to earn an online degree without regular course schedules. Additionally, students have opportunities to take self-paced online math courses. These courses can be completed through the partnership between the University of Illinois and NetMath. Students at UIUC earn online degrees in subjects such as:

early childhood professional education
social work
accounting
computer science
journalism

Students don't have to worry about set schedules or due dates. Simply take competency-based assessments to gauge your knowledge of the materials and then move on to a new topic when ready.

The Advantages of Self-Paced Learning in Higher Education

Online colleges are quite popular. More than seven million students took part in distance learning in 2022. However, the benefits of self-paced college make distance education even more exciting.

Why Consider Self-Paced Online Programs?

Do you wonder what makes self-paced online learning in higher education appealing? Here are some benefits:

Study whenever and wherever you choose.
Control the amount of coursework you learn at one time.
Balance your personal life and school commitments

Learning in a self-paced environment can also reduce the pressure you might feel to complete your studies within a specific timeframe.

The Value of an Online Degree at Your Own Pace

You might be concerned that an online degree does not hold the same value as a traditional degree. Studies show that employers believe a degree acquired online is just as credible as an on-campus degree if the school has gained accreditation and is reputable.

Earning a degree from an online college offers great career opportunities. This is especially true if you want to become a:

Nurse practitioner
Data scientist
Statistician

There are many fast-growing occupations to choose from.

Financial Aid Opportunities for Online Learners

Plenty of financial aid options are available at online universities that accept FAFSA. You can pursue scholarships, which are financial awards based on merit, talent, or your academic program. Federal financial aid like grants and student loans are also available. Grants, like scholarships, are financial awards that don't have to be repaid. Student loans, on the other hand, are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.

Also, consider military scholarships and grants for active service members and veterans. Working students can look into employer tuition reimbursement programs.

How Does a Self-Paced Online College Program Work?

While self-paced online college programs can vary from school to school, you might notice some similarities. Consider the following factors that make self-paced learning a great option for some online students.

Asynchronous Learning

It's common for self-paced programs to let students learn asynchronously. This means accessing online course materials anytime 24/7 without set class times or assignment due dates.

Flexible Terms

Some self-paced schools let students choose their start and end dates. Instead of completing courses within a semester, students create terms that match their schedules.

Competency-Based Format

Online schools sometimes offer self-paced degree programs with a competency-based format. Students take assessments to test their knowledge of the materials and then move on to new topics when ready.

Is Self-Paced Learning the Right Choice for You?

Before enrolling in a self-paced program, you should be certain it's right for you. A great way to find out is by assessing your:

Learning style
Level of discipline
Self-motivation
Time management

Some common questions to ask yourself are:

Do I learn easily from reading lectures or watching videos?
Do I plan well and avoid procrastinating?
Am I a natural self-starter and self-motivator?
Do I have the discipline to work independently?
Can I set aside sufficient time to learn and study?
Am I comfortable asking questions and interacting through emails or discussion forums?

If you answered ''yes'' to these questions, then self-paced learning might be the right choice. However, keep in mind that online learning also requires regular access to a computer and internet connection. You'll also need to be technologically proficient to learn online effectively.

How to Enroll in a Self-Paced Online College Course

Enrolling in a self-paced online course is often similar to enrolling in traditional on-campus courses. You'll gain admission to your school of choice and enroll in your desired program. Common admission requirements include the following:

Fill out the admission application.
Submit your high school diploma or GED equivalent and high school transcript with graduation date.
If you're transferring, submit college transcripts.
Meet the minimum GPA and prerequisite requirements for your degree program.

Submit all documents by the set deadlines. Contact your school's admissions counselor and use other student support services to make admissions easier. Also, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you want to qualify for financial aid.

Succeeding in Self-Paced Courses: Strategies and Tips

Taking self-paced courses is different from on-campus courses. Since you don't have set class times and assignment due dates, you must be disciplined and manage your time well. Here are some strategies for success in self-paced learning.

Get Organized

Determine how many classes you'll take each term. Find out what materials you need to get work done for each course.

Set Realistic Goals

Calculate the time you'll need to read or watch lectures, complete assignments, and study for exams. Don't take more credit hours in one term than you can realistically handle.

Make Adjustments When Needed

Be flexible so if the unexpected happens you can make adjustments. Self-paced learning offers the luxury of slowing down or speeding up coursework as needed.

Use Support Resources

Most online schools offer academic advisors, online forums, and other forms of student support. Don't be afraid to utilize these resources when you need help.

FAQs About Self-Paced Degree Programs

Do you want to learn more about self-paced programs? These frequently asked questions can help.

Why Enroll in a Self-Paced Online College?

A self-paced online college lets you earn a degree from an accredited institution on your terms. Flexible online courses let you learn from anywhere, anytime. You might even have the option to determine your enrollment and graduation dates.

Are There Online Colleges You Can Do on Your Own Time?

Yes, several online colleges allow students to learn on their own time, particularly through competency-based programs. These programs let enrollees study and take assessments whenever they want to progress through each course.

Is All Online College Self-Paced?

No, not all online colleges are self-paced. Some programs offer a traditional semester format with set class times and due dates.

What Is the Fastest Degree To Get Online?

Accelerated programs are typically the fastest online college degrees. These programs condense your coursework into a shorter timeframe. For instance, an accelerated bachelor's program might be completed in two years instead of four.

What Self-Paced Degrees Can You Earn Online?

If you're interested in earning a college degree, you might be surprised that self-paced associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees are all available online. Common online degree programs include:

Almost every subject area is also offered online. Contact your school of choice to find programs for your area of study.

Find Self-Paced Online Courses Near You

Self-paced online colleges offer the same benefits as traditional schools but with greater flexibility. Take your online learning experience into your own hands by enrolling in a self-paced program today. Find your state below: