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It’s true: Students can earn an online bachelor’s degree without ever stepping into a physical classroom. While not available for every discipline, there are bachelor’s degree programs available completely online and for a variety of fields of study. 

Whether a student is attending college for the first time or is a transfer or military student, earning a bachelor’s degree completely online has some things in common with traditional, in-person college experiences. As with any bachelor’s degree, there are usually required classes pertaining to one’s course of study as well as general education classes every student in the same program takes, plus elective courses that students can choose from.

For example, students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business at ������ý would take the classes Business Communication and Modern Leadership as part of their required course of study and English Composition and Psychology of Learning as general education courses. From there, a student may choose courses like Leading Through Change and Total Compensation as elective options.

Additionally, just like a degree earned in a physical classroom, completing a specified number of credits (typically 120 credits for a semester-based school) in the three categories and maintaining a minimum grade point average (GPA) are requirements for a student to graduate.

Because there are many options for online college degrees, it’s important to choose wisely. Accreditation is a process in which an external agency evaluates the quality and standards of a university’s programs and operations to help ensure they meet an established criteria as a measure of quality assurance. Accrediting organizations for higher education institutions look at a school’s mission, educational programs, faculty qualifications, student support services and overall effectiveness. Not only does accreditation potentially ensure the quality of education, but it can be an important factor when transferring credits from one college or university to another, and it may be necessary for receiving financial aid.

One difference between earning a bachelor’s degree completely online and attending in person is ancillary cost. Earning a bachelor’s degree completely online can eliminate commuting expenses like gas and parking. Online students also don’t have to pay for on-campus housing and meals, which can translate to significant savings.

According to the College Board, transportation costs will account for about 11% of living expenses for commuting students in 2026–27, and housing, utilities and food will account for 52% of a total budget for living expenses, which the organization estimated at between $26,150 and $39,030 for one year.

Another consideration when earning a bachelor’s degree completely online is potential expediency. Online degree programs, including those at ������ý, can offer multiple options for start dates, well beyond just fall and spring semesters, adding to the flexibility of these programs.

Conversely, as an online student, connecting with fellow students and instructors may feel different than in a physical classroom, given that teaching, collaboration and learning are completely virtual. Some students also find that in a less structured environment — like at home — motivation can be harder to sustain, and good time-management skills become critical to succeeding academically.

In-person classes can also offer students more opportunities for real-time socialization, and the clear structure of classes held at specific days and times can be helpful to those who like being part of an immersive environment focused on academics. Attending a traditional university may also provide easier access to resources like an in-person library, sports facilities, and meetings of clubs and on-campus professional organizations.