Accredited Self-Paced Online Colleges in Ohio 2025

If you need a flexible affordable college degree, self-paced online colleges allow you to learn independently without any set deadlines or class meeting times. Online students can complete readings, assignments, and other projects at their own pace.

Ohio residents managing busy schedules can enroll in these flexible online degree programs without disrupting their current responsibilities and commitments. Keep reading to discover these accredited self-paced online colleges.

Self-Paced Online Degree Programs in Ohio

For those juggling multiple commitments, online colleges in Ohio with self-paced learning may be the right fit. We discuss these flexible programs below.

1. University of Toledo

At the University of Toledo, online learners can pursue flexible programs at their own pace. The school offers over 60 online degree programs in various fields, including:

• criminal justice
• healthcare administration
• marketing

Classes are asynchronous, so students don't have to worry about fitting class meeting times into their busy schedules.

Tuition for full-time undergraduates is $5,296.68 per semester. Out-of-state students pay a $5 per credit hour surcharge.

2. Cedarville University

Cedarville University offers several undergraduate degrees online. Online learners can start earning their degrees quickly, thanks to the school's multiple start dates and accelerated eight-week courses. Courses are asynchronous and self-paced so students may complete their coursework within their busy schedules.

Tuition is also affordable; the rate is $375 per credit hour. Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for financial assistance.

Online Colleges in Other States Offering Self-Paced Programs

Students in Ohio can choose from other distance learning institutions that offer self-paced learning. Below we cover some of the top out-of-state schools with self-paced degree programs.

Southern New Hampshire University

At Southern New Hampshire University, students can choose from numerous affordable online degree programs. Students can complete coursework on their schedule. Some of the academic fields include:

• business administration
• health science
• information technology
• operations and supply chain management

American Public University

American Public University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a distance learning institution. Students can choose from over 200 online programs with monthly start dates. Courses are self-paced so students can pursue higher education even with a busy schedule.

Tuition is affordably priced at $350 per credit for undergraduates. Financial aid is available to qualifying students.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), is primarily a distance-learning school that offers accelerated programs. Students can take as many courses as they wish during the semester and pay a flat rate.

This learning model allows students to complete their degrees quickly and affordably. Coursework is self-paced, so students can finish courses as soon as they understand the material.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers over 600 online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These flexible programs allow students to complete courses at their own pace.

It's also an affordable school; tuition is $390 per credit for full-time undergraduates. Financial aid and scholarships are available for online learners and military members can receive a tuition discount.

Walden University

Walden University in Minnesota offers 12 online degrees in fields like nursing, education, and small business management. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), these programs feature self-paced coursework, where students learn independently. With this learning model, students can control how long it takes to complete the program, which may affect the total cost of the program.

Capella University

Capella University is a private school accredited by the HLC. Students can pursue numerous online degree programs through the self-paced learning format known as FlexPath. Online learners can set their own deadlines and complete their studies at their own pace. Students who finish their courses quickly can save money on tuition.

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a public research institution that offers respected online degrees. Students can choose from self-paced courses or semester-based classes.

These enroll-anytime courses are cheap; tuition is $384.88 for one undergraduate credit. Students can access plenty of support services during their independent learning, including 24/7 online tutoring.

Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs online. These eight-week accelerated courses are self-paced, which gives students the flexibility to learn and complete assignments within their busy schedules.

Tuition for self-paced courses is $350 per credit hour. Scholarships and other kinds of financial aid are available for qualified students.

Our Selection Criteria

Students can choose from numerous self-paced online programs throughout the country. To find the best options, we used several ranking considerations, which include:

• Learning format: We selected schools that offer self-paced courses, where students can learn independently in a flexible environment.
• Accreditation: To ensure academic excellence, we chose schools that are accredited.
• Distance learning: We chose schools that offer at least three fully online programs students can complete from anywhere.

How Self-Paced Online Degree Programs Make Higher Education More Affordable

Prospective students searching for an affordable degree should consider online colleges that accept FAFSA and offer self-paced learning. For example, Walden University and Western Governors University charge tuition based on a flat rate per semester. This structure allows students to take advantage of their ability to complete multiple courses at once.

At some of the cheapest online degree programs available, learners complete more credits in a shorter time frame, effectively lowering the total tuition owed. The schools also accept federal and state financial aid, which helps to make higher education more affordable.

How To Find Online Degrees With Self-Paced Options

To find accredited self-paced online colleges, students should start by researching accredited online schools that offer flexible scheduling. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) can help verify schools' accreditation statuses.

Additionally, prospective students can explore university websites, focusing on their online program offerings and filtering for self-paced or asynchronous courses. It's essential to check if the program allows students to set their own deadlines or if there are specific timeframes for completing assignments.

Self-Paced Courses vs. Other Online Courses

In self-paced courses, students can progress through the material at their own pace, allowing them to spend more time on challenging topics or accelerate through easier ones. This format is particularly beneficial for those who may have other commitments, such as work or family, as it allows for a more personalized learning experience.

In contrast, regular online courses typically follow a set schedule with specific start and end dates, requiring students to adhere to a set timeline for completing assignments and participating in discussions. While these courses may offer some flexibility, they often involve weekly deadlines and synchronous components, such as live lectures or group activities.

FAQs About Self-Paced Online Learning in Ohio

Many prospective students have questions about self-paced online degree programs. We discuss tuition, benefits, and more below.

What Is the Easiest Online College To Get Into in Ohio?

According to NCES, the University of Toledo has a 95% acceptance rate. Students aren't required to submit test scores or essays to be considered during the admissions process.

How Much Does Online College Cost for Learners in Ohio?

Based on the two schools on this list, online college in Ohio is quite affordable. With both options, students enjoy a rate well under $500 per credit hour; however, the University of Toledo is the cheapest self-paced online college on this list.

Out of all online schools in Ohio, U.S. News & World Report claims that students should expect to pay $414.13 per credit. Additionally, students can apply for financial aid and scholarships to lower tuition.

What Are the Benefits of Self-Paced Online Programs?

Many students enroll in self-paced online degree programs due to their incomparable flexibility. Students can earn a college degree without disrupting family or work commitments. Some motivated online learners can also save money by finishing courses quickly.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degree Programs With Accreditation

If you're searching for flexible undergraduate programs, browse the accredited self-paced online colleges on our website. Reach out to schools individually if any interest you.