Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
What Is Bachelor’s Degree?
A Bachelor's degree is an undergraduate academic degree awarded by colleges and universities upon completion of a course of study that typically lasts four years in the U.S. and most countries around the world. It's the degree level most students aim for after completing their secondary education.
Types of Bachelor's Degrees
There are several types of Bachelor's degrees, including:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): Usually involves a majority of coursework in the arts, such as humanities, social sciences, performing arts, or literary studies.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Typically involves more technical or scientific coursework like engineering, computer science, biology, and mathematics.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.): Most common in fields related to visual and performing arts.
Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A): Focuses specifically on business-related subjects like marketing, accounting, finance, and economics.
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Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
The requirements for earning a Bachelor's degree can vary depending on the institution you attend and the specific degree program. However, there are common elements to all Bachelor's degree programs. Here are some of these key requirements:
Completion of Credit Hours: Universities typically expect students to complete between 120 and 130 credit hours for graduation. This includes general education courses, major-specific courses, and in some cases, electives.
General Education Courses: These are foundational courses in key subjects such as English, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. They are designed to provide a broad educational base and are a requirement for virtually all Bachelor's degree programs.
Major-Specific Courses: Once you've chosen a major, you'll be expected to complete a certain number of courses that are specific to that major. This includes both introductory and advanced-level courses. Some programs may also require "core" courses common to all students within a particular field.
Grade Point Average (GPA): While the specific GPA needed can vary from school to school, maintaining a certain GPA is typically required to remain in good academic standing and to graduate.
Residency Requirement: Many universities also require students to complete a certain number of credits in-house. This means even if you're transferring credits from another institution, there will likely still be a minimum number of credit hours you need to complete at the university granting the degree.
Capstone or Senior Project: Some majors require students to complete a capstone project, thesis, or comprehensive exam before graduation. This work typically integrates and applies learning throughout the degree.
These are general guidelines, and specific requirements may vary by institution or by specific program, so it's always best to check the specific requirements at the particular institution or within the specific program you're interested in.
Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree Program
Regarding cost, it varies greatly between institutions and countries. In the U.S., according to College Board, the average cost (tuition and fees) for the 2020–2021 academic year was:
$37,650 at private colleges
$10,560 for state residents at public colleges
$27,020 for out-of-state students at state schools
It's important to note that financial aid (FAFSA, etc.), scholarships, and grants can significantly reduce these costs.
Courses You Will Take
General education courses, also known as "gen ed" or "core curriculum" courses, are classes that give students a broad educational experience before they focus on a specific major. These courses vary from institution to institution but usually ensure that students have fundamental skills and knowledge base. Here are some of the most common categories of general education courses:
English Composition and Literature: This typically includes coursework in writing, research, critical analysis, and sometimes public speaking.
Mathematics: Classes may include college algebra, statistics, or calculus.
Natural Sciences: This might include coursework in general biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science.
Social Sciences: Many institutions require students to take courses in psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, or political science.
Humanities: Courses in this category can include philosophy, ethics, religious studies, art history, or world cultures.
Foreign Languages: Some colleges require coursework in a foreign language.
Fine Arts: This includes classes focused on music, theater, visual arts, or dance.
Computers/Information Technology: Basic computer skills or specific subjects like web design or programming may be included.
Physical Education/Health: Some colleges require students to take physical education courses.
