What to Consider When Comparing Online Universities

Online degrees are an increasingly popular option for higher education in today’s competitive job market. Online degree programs can be especially beneficial for busy adults looking for ways to balance their work and family life with the prospect of going back to school. As more universities expand their digital offerings, understanding how to evaluate online programs becomes essential for choosing the right path. 

But not all degree programs are alike. Below are eight crucial questions to consider when reviewing your options for an online degree program.

1. Is the Online Degree Program Accredited?

There’s more to online degrees than cost. An online degree’s legitimacy—more specifically, its accreditation—is also an important consideration. Accreditation ensures that the university you select has passed rigorous requirements from organizations that specialize in determining quality within higher education. Regional accreditation is the gold standard of accreditation for colleges and universities, indicating that the school has earned the approval of an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. National accreditation, while legitimate, typically applies to vocational or trade schools and may not be as widely accepted for credit transfers or graduate admissions.

If the institution you select is not accredited, the work you invest could be undermined because other institutions and employers may not recognize your degree or credits. Make sure to check the school’s accreditation status by examining its official website, particularly the degree program pages, and cross-reference with databases from recognized accrediting bodies such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

2. How Fast Can I Graduate?

Just because a degree can be earned online doesn’t always mean a degree program can be completed faster. While online courses are often more flexible, you should still learn about the school’s credit transfer policy, learning style (or model), student support system, and degree program structure.

For many adult learners, finishing a degree faster means entering or advancing in the workforce sooner, reducing tuition expenses and saving time. Consider the following questions:

• How many credits can I transfer from my previous college experience? Many schools accept previous college coursework credits, even if you did not finish your degree program.
• Can I leverage my current work experience while earning an online degree? Many individuals considering returning to school opt to earn degrees in fields where they already work. A few schools—like WGU—offer a competency-based education model, which allows you to accelerate your degree progress by moving more quickly through subjects you already know well.
• How does the school support me while enrolled in a degree program? Online learning might seem lonely or isolating for some, and support systems can vary widely. Some offer 24/7 tech support, tutoring services, or peer mentoring, while others rely solely on asynchronous resources. Make sure the school you select has an excellent support system. For example, WGU offers dedicated Program Mentors who partner with and advocate for students from enrollment all the way to graduation. 
• How many courses can I take at a time? Depending on the school, you may be limited in how many courses you can take at once. Some online universities require students to log in at certain times of the day to finish courses. Other schools have no set log-in times, allowing you to access courses on your own schedule. You may also be able to take as many online classes as you are able to complete in a given term. Look into whether the school follows a term-based or self-paced model, as this significantly affects how quickly you can move through your program.

3. How Committed Am I?

Some people perceive online universities as easier than traditional, on-campus schools. Accredited online schools have to pass the same requirements as traditional schools, and high-quality virtual learning can often be more rigorous than traditional campus study. With more flexibility comes greater responsibility—online learners must manage their time effectively and stay disciplined without the structure of in-person classes. The degree to which faculty, mentors, and fellow students are available to offer support—coupled with your drive to succeed—goes a long way in determining the level of success you’ll achieve.

4. Will an Online Degree Be Worth It?

Value is a measure of both cost and quality. The first three questions on this checklist are major indicators of the quality of a school’s educational experience. But you should also consider the quality of the results of your degree—or in other words, its return on investment (ROI). According to a 2024 Harris Poll, WGU graduates who earned a bachelor’s degree saw an average income increase of $21,040 within two years of graduation. With the right online university and degree program, a bachelor’s or master’s degree is still one of the best investments to boost your career advancement opportunities. And ROI can be measured not just in salary gains, but also in job satisfaction, career mobility, and long-term employment stability.

5. How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?

While important, the price of an online degree shouldn’t be the sole factor in deciding which school to attend. But it’s also true that quality education shouldn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. At WGU, the average annual tuition (including fees) for undergraduates is $8,300 compared to more than $12,000 at similar institutions. And with an average time of completion for a WGU bachelor’s degree being two years, students spend about $16,600 in total to earn a bachelor’s at WGU. Many online institutions also offer financial aid packages, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement options for eligible students.

6. Does the Degree Program Match My Area of Interest?

Whichever online university or degree program you choose, you can be sure that it aligns with your interests by exploring each degree program web page. There, you’ll find out what you’ll learn, which skills you’ll gain and how they relate to specific careers, and job opportunities and average salaries for graduates in the field. Make sure the program not only meets your current interests but also aligns with your long-term career goals and emerging industry trends. Consider reviewing degree program pages from different schools, comparing and contrasting the information to determine which program is best for you.

7. What Are the Admission Requirements?

Most online schools require at least a high school diploma or GED, academic transcripts, and access to the internet. You’ll also likely need to meet with an enrollment counselor and complete enrollment tasks like choosing a start date, documenting financial aid if needed, and completing orientation. Not all online universities are open enrollment, meaning that you may need to take a standardized test like the SAT or ACT, provide letters of recommendation, or write a statement of intent. Some specific degree programs may have additional requirements such as a minimum GPA, prior degree, or prerequisite coursework.

8. What Technologies Are Used for Online Classes?

Common technologies used among online universities include digital learning management systems, course software, live or automated proctoring for exams, ebooks, and more. Modern technologies like AI are also prevalent, which allow for adaptive learning software and AI-enhanced tutoring resources to give students real-time feedback based on where they are in the learning process. 

Since courses are completed remotely, you’ll engage with mentors and instructors via video conferencing, phone calls, and online chat. Students might also be able to share ideas and learn from one another on live forums and discussion boards. In short, technologies used for online degree programs emphasize accessibility, flexibility, and hands-on user experiences.

Begin Your Online Education Journey

Choosing the best online university can be a life-changing decision. With a competency-based education model, flat-rate tuition, and a student-focused approach, WGU is designed to meet the needs of today’s working learners. 

WGU offers more than 75 online, accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, technology, healthcare, and education. Each program is designed with input from industry experts to grant only the most job-ready skills that will help you thrive in your career. Learn more today about how WGU is the perfect place to begin—or continue—your education journey.