30 Best Affordable Catholic Colleges with Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2020

In the following ranking, we highlight the top 30 best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees. As a whole, the Catholic Church values education. Some of the oldest, most storied universities and colleges in the country were established by the Catholic Church. Many of these institutions continue to educate students within the Catholic tradition, providing academic programs that are both rigorous in content and designed to help students both grow in their personal faith and serve the world. The Catholic faith is rich in history and culture, so students who are planning to pursue an online bachelor's degree must carefully consider the Catholic university or college that best meets their academic, professional, and spiritual goals.

Methodology

To develop a list of the 30 best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, we awarded points based on three of the most important things students look for in a college program: the average cost of attendance, student-to-faculty ratios, and graduation rates. We used the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to find schools to meet our guidelines. We then narrowed down the search results from 97 colleges and universities into the top 30 programs based on the methodology.

Average Cost of Attendance

Since the goal of this ranking is to examine the best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, the first factor we used to award points was the average cost of attendance. While you might want to choose the cheapest program to save money, and there is certainly nothing wrong with basing your decision on affordability, also keep in mind other features of the program and what the school can offer, including internships, extracurriculars, and concentrations in which you might be interested. For this article, we ranked tuition based on the cost of one academic year of study (15 credit hours per semester) for an online student using tuition information obtained from each school's website.

• Points:

• Under $7,500: 5 points

• $7,500 to $15,000: 3 points

• $15,001 and above: 1 point

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Next, we looked at student-to-faculty ratios to help students get a better idea of the average class size at each school. Keep in mind that, while some students prefer to learn in a larger setting, others depend on the accountability that smaller classes provide. Also, schools with low ratios may be more likely to enroll fewer students, thereby offering opportunities for individualized studies, one-on-one mentoring, and the chance for students to build personal relationships with their peers and professors. For this ranking, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities that reported student-to-faculty ratios of 10 or fewer students per faculty member, as reported by NCES.

• Points:

• 10:1 or less: 3 points

• 11:1 to 15:1: 2 points

• Greater than 15:1: 1 point

Graduation Rate

Finally, we used each school's graduation rate from NCES to gauge whether or not the institutions on our list are producing satisfied students. In other words, those who are happy with their academic programs are more likely to remain enrolled and graduate with their degree. On the other hand, unhappy students may leave and finish their degrees elsewhere. Student satisfaction may depend on any number of factors, including the affordability of academic programs, the experience and/or helpfulness of professors and faculty, and the level of academic support provided by the school. We awarded the most points to colleges and universities that reported the highest graduation rates according to the following ranges.

• Points

• More than 50 percent: 3 points

• Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points

• Less than 30 percent: 1 point

Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Catholic Colleges With Online Bachelor's Degrees

30. Villanova University

Villanova, Pennsylvania

Villanova University is one of the most affordable Catholic universities for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Established in 1842 as the Augustinian College of Villanova, Villanova University is a private Catholic research institution of higher education and the oldest Catholic university in Pennsylvania. The only Augustinian university in the country, Villanova offers several low-cost online bachelor's degrees, including programs in public service and administration, organizational development and management, leadership, classical studies, and general studies. Also, the school is recognized for its engineering programs, providing low-cost undergraduate degrees in chemical, civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Courses are available entirely online, allowing nontraditional and working students the flexibility they need to pursue their education without sacrificing work or family commitments.

29. Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, Hawaii

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a low-cost Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

The Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private Marianist institution of higher education that was established in 1955 as St. Louis Junior College by the Society of Mary. Chaminade confers several affordable online bachelor's degrees, including Bachelor of Arts degrees in business administration, English, historical and political studies, management, and religious studies. Undergraduates may also pursue cost-effective Bachelor of Science programs in psychology and criminology/criminal justice as well as three online education majors in early childhood education, elementary education, and secondary education. All programs feature the rigor of the on-campus degrees but allow students the freedom to participate in course discussions, take in lectures, and complete classwork when it best suits them.

28. Seton Hill University

Greensburg, Pennsylvania

Seton Hill University offers low-cost online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1885 by the Sisters of Charity and named for Elizabeth Ann Seton, Seton Hill University is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Catholic Church. SHU offers several affordable online bachelor's degrees designed for adult learners looking to either advance in their current careers or switch to a new field. Undergraduates of this high-value university can choose from online-only degrees in accounting, behavioral health, criminal justice, healthcare administration, nursing, and business administration. In addition, SHU's online general studies degree gives students the power to design a program that best meets their interests and professional goals. SHU offers six start times each year, allowing students to balance the demands of finances, family, employment, and education.

27. La Salle University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

La Salle University is a top-value Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

La Salle University, established by the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in 1863, is recognized as one of the best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees. La Salle offers two low-cost, fully online learning options at the undergraduate level for students who wish to combine convenience, flexibility, and academic quality: a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership degree and a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Both programs are delivered in an accelerated format that is ideal for nontraditional students and working professionals, and conveniently feature several start dates per year.

26. Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, Connecticut

Sacred Heart University offers inexpensive online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Established in 1963, Sacred Heart University is a private Roman Catholic institution of higher learning and the second-largest Catholic university in New England, behind Boston. Recognized among the fastest-growing Catholic colleges in the country, SHU offers more than 80 degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels to more than 8,500 students. Those looking for affordable online bachelor's degrees can choose from three low-cost undergraduate programs: communication disorders, social work, and nursing. In addition to offering rigorous and inexpensive academic degrees, SHU is also ranked 10th on the Princeton Review's list of "Colleges With the Happiest Students" for 2020.

25. Saint Joseph's University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Saint Joseph's University is one of the most affordable Catholic universities for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Saint Joseph's University is a private Jesuit institution of higher education that was established as Saint Joseph's College in 1851 by the Society of Jesus. Today, SJU confers four inexpensive online bachelor's degrees, including a Bachelor of Business Administration and three Bachelor of Liberal Studies programs in general studies, psychological studies, and organization development and leadership. Specifically, SJU's major in general studies allows students to choose from four concentrations: autism, humanities, professional studies, and social sciences. Undergraduates of this low-cost university may set their own pace of study and take as few or as many courses as their schedules allow. Online learners have access to personalized support services, including career services, 24/7 tech support, and academic advising.

24. University of Mary

Bismarck, North Dakota

The University of Mary is a top-value Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded as Mary College in 1959, the University of Mary is a private Benedictine institution of higher education and one of the best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees. Known for academic excellence, UMary offers professionally focused, values-based programs grounded in servant leadership, the liberal arts, and robust experiential learning experiences. Undergraduates of this top-value university can choose from several fully online bachelor's degrees in areas such as business, criminal justice, healthcare administration, and information technology management as well as nursing, psychology, and respiratory therapy. Depending on the number of credits transferred, students may earn their degrees in as few as two years.

23. Saint Xavier University

Chicago, Illinois

Saint Xavier University is an economical Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy as Saint Francis Xavier Female Academy, Saint Xavier University is a private Roman Catholic institution of higher learning. Students looking for top-value online bachelor's degrees can choose from four affordable programs in communication, leadership and public administration, business administration, and nursing. Each program offers a highly interactive experience in a flexible scheduling format designed for working professionals with busy lifestyles and outside commitments. SXU's online programs are influenced by the school's Center for Instructional Design and Technology (CIDAT), which is made up of experts who are specially trained in online class instruction to help faculty members and students.

22. Rosemont College

Rosemont, Pennsylvania

Rosemont College is an affordable accredited Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Rosemont College is a private liberal arts institution of higher education and one of the best-value Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees. Founded by the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus as a women's college in 1921, Rosemont offers three fully-accredited online Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in business, criminal justice, and applied psychology. Undergraduates may transfer up to 84 credits and earn college credit for previous work and life experience. Classes are offered every five or seven weeks, depending on the course, and undergraduates may choose from multiple start dates per year.

21. Regis University

Denver, Colorado

Regis University offers inexpensive online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1877 as Las Vegas College by the Society of Jesus, Regis University is a private university and a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Regis provides many opportunities for students to earn an economical online bachelor's degree, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Applied Sciences programs. Major areas of study include humanities and the social sciences, healthcare, computer and information sciences, education, and business, economics, and management as well as science, engineering, and math. Not only do undergraduates complete the rigorous curriculum they need to reach their professional goals, but they are also challenged to reflect on change, continuity, and tradition.

20. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis University is an affordable Catholic university for online bachelor's degree programs.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1818 as Saint Louis Academy, Saint Louis University is one of 28 schools in the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and the second-oldest Jesuit university in the country. SLU's online learning counterpart, the School for Professional Studies, offers cost-effective online bachelor's degrees that combine the prestige of the nationally ranked school with the affordability and flexibility to take education anywhere. Undergraduates can choose from majors in computer information systems, nursing, social work, and organizational leadership and technology. SLU also offers a rigorous security and strategic intelligence program with concentrations in strategic intelligence, global corporate security, and business continuity.

19. Immaculata University

Immaculata, Pennsylvania

Immaculata University is a best-value Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 7Program Website

Immaculata University is a private university affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Established in 1920 by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, it is also a top choice among undergraduates seeking affordable online bachelor's degrees at Catholic colleges. Through the College of Adult Professional Studies, students can pursue online programs in areas such as business, healthcare, nursing, cybersecurity, and organizational behavior, to name a few. Immaculata's distance education programs are taught by the same experienced faculty as those who teach on-campus degrees. Immaculata allows students to transfer up to 72 undergraduate credits, meaning that students can graduate in as few as two years.

18. Notre Dame College

South Euclid, Ohio

Notre Dame College offers low-cost bachelor's degrees online.

Points: 7Program Website

Notre Dame College, established in 1922, is a liberal arts institution of higher learning as well as an inexpensive Catholic college with online bachelor's degrees. Designed for working adults, NDC's online bachelor's degrees provide undergraduates with the education and training they need to build their careers, increase their earning potential, and make significant impacts in their respective fields. Students can choose from high-value, fully online bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and business administration with concentrations in management, human resources management, and healthcare administration. NDC also offers online degrees in education, although these programs are comprised of both online and on-campus coursework.

17. Brescia University

Owensboro, Kentucky

Brescia University is an inexpensive Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 7Program Website

Founded in 1925 as Mount Saint Joseph Junior College for Women, Brescia University is a coeducational Catholic university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Recognized as one of the best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, students can choose from high-value programs in majors such as psychology, social work, theology, and business. Not only are these degrees among the most affordable in the country, but they also provide academic support and flexibility for working professionals and adult students. Courses are offered entirely online with no campus visits required, allowing students to advance their education when it is convenient for them.

16. Walsh University

North Canton, Ohio

Walsh University is one of the most affordable Catholic universities for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Walsh University, founded by the Brothers of Christian Instruction in 1960, is a private university affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Walsh University's Digital Campus provides more than 10 degree programs designed for adult learners from all stages of life. Undergraduates looking for a best-value online bachelor's degree can choose from Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Bachelor of Business Administration programs. Majors include business, communication, cybersecurity, healthcare, and interdisciplinary studies. Taught by expert faculty, Walsh's fully online courses make it easy for busy students to achieve their professional goals.

15. Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Mount Mercy University is an affordable accredited Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Mount Mercy University is a Catholic liberal arts institution of higher learning that was established in 1928 by the Sisters of Mercy. Since its founding, MMU's academic programs have focused on social responsibility, ethical leadership, and service. Recognized among the best-value Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, MMU offers several low-cost majors in areas such as business, healthcare, liberal studies, religious studies, and nursing. Undergraduates can pursue their bachelor's degrees entirely online with no campus visits required. In many cases, classrooms are often the communities themselves, allowing students to apply what they have learned to make a difference in the world.

14. Creighton University

Omaha, Nebraska

Creighton University offers low-cost online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Established in 1878 as Creighton College by the Society of Jesus, Creighton University is a private Jesuit institution of higher education. Creighton's affordable online bachelor's degrees are mainly geared toward adult learners through the College of Nursing and the College of Professional Studies. Undergraduates can choose from three 128-credit programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Leadership, a Bachelor of Arts in Healthy Lifestyle Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services degree-completion program. Students pursuing this top degree are awarded 49 credits based on paramedic experience and education after completing all curriculum requirements.

13. Alvernia University

Reading, Pennsylvania

Alvernia University is one of the most affordable Catholic colleges for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Established in 1958, Alvernia University is a private Franciscan Roman Catholic institution of higher learning and one of the top-value Catholic universities for an online bachelor's degree. Designed for busy working adults, Alvernia's low-cost, fully online programs allow students to earn their undergraduate degree without stepping foot on campus. Students can choose from Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in majors such as nursing, psychology, and business management as well as addictions and mental health treatment, healthcare administration, and criminal justice. Alvernia implements a rolling admissions process and offers six convenient start dates each year.

12. DePaul University

Chicago, Illinois

DePaul University is an economical Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Established as St. Vincent's College in 1898, DePaul University is the largest Catholic institution of higher learning by enrollment in the country. DePaul places a special emphasis on the recruitment and enrollment of first-generation undergraduates as well as students from disadvantaged backgrounds. DePaul offers fully online courses in areas such as psychology, information technology, computer science, communication and media, and business administration. For years, the school has invested in developing digital learning tools, a unique distance education curriculum, and award-winning training for only staff and faculty. As a result, DePaul is recognized among the top affordable Catholic colleges for an online bachelor's degree.

11. Loyola University New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana

Loyola University New Orleans is a top-value Catholic university for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Loyola University New Orleans is a private Jesuit institution of higher learning that was established as Loyola College in 1904. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the "10 Best Regional Universities in the South," Loyola provides several rigorous bachelor's degree programs via an online-only delivery format. No mandatory login times, asynchronous classes, and accelerated course formats ensure that students earn the same degree as on-campus students at a pace that works best for them. Majors available at this high-value university include criminology, business, psychology, communication, computer and information systems, ministry and theology, and interdisciplinary studies.

10. St. Ambrose University

Davenport, Iowa

St. Ambrose University offers inexpensive bachelor's degrees online.

Points: 8Program Website

Founded in 1882, St. Ambrose University is a private Roman Catholic liberal arts institution affiliated with the Diocese of Davenport. Recognized as one of the best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, St. Ambrose offers more than 60 undergraduate majors, including three low-cost online bachelor's programs in applied management studies, business administration, and nursing. Courses are available entirely online, and students benefit from a rigorous academic curriculum, unique educational opportunities, an array of support services, and experienced faculty members who push them to do and be their best.

9. Madonna University

Livonia, Michigan

Madonna University is an affordable accredited Catholic university for bachelor's degrees online.

Points: 8Program Website

Madonna University is a private Catholic institution of higher learning that was founded as Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary College in 1937. Today, Madonna University offers a cheap, high-quality academic programs and unparalleled support to its undergraduate and graduate students. Madonna University confers more than 10 online bachelor's degrees in areas such as social work and sociology, the arts and humanities, business, criminal justice and law, nursing and health sciences, psychology and social sciences, and education. Coursework is offered completely online, and students are supported by the entire Madonna University community, including faculty members, career and academic advisors, and the school's network of successful alumni.

8. Marian University

Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Marian University is a cost-effective Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Marian University is a private Roman Catholic liberal arts university that was founded by the Congregation of Sisters of Saint Agnes in 1936. At Marian, undergraduates can pursue affordable online bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, homeland security, psychology, healthcare administration, interdisciplinary studies, and homeland security. Also, those looking to earn a bachelor's degree in business administration can choose from three concentrations in management, healthcare administration, and accounting. Marian also offers five degree-completion programs in dental hygiene, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, radiologic technology, and respiratory therapy. Marian's top online degree programs are comprised of either a traditional 15-week semester, a 7-week accelerated timeline, or a more flexible schedule depending on the degree chosen. All degrees are designed for adult learners and take a student-centered approach.

7. Anna Maria College

Paxton, Massachusetts

Anna Maria College is a high-value Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Anna Maria College, established in 1946, is a private Catholic liberal arts institution of higher education and one of the best economical Catholic colleges for an online bachelor's degree. AMC provides two options for distance learners looking to advance their education, including a Bachelor of Science in Fire Science and an RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree-completion program for students who are already registered nurses. Students pursuing the FESHE-accredited B.S. in Fire Science program have the option to complete up to three graduate-level classes before advancing to earn a Master of Public Administration degree. Online learners receive the same high level of advisement and support as AMC's on-campus students as well as the flexibility. They earn their degree when it best suits their needs and schedules.

6. Emmanuel College

Boston, Massachusetts

Emmanuel College is an affordable accredited Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Emmanuel College was established in 1919 as New England's first women's Catholic college by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. A member of the Colleges of the Fenway consortium, EC officially became a coeducational institution of higher learning in 2001. Today, undergraduates can pursue a cost-effective online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration that features a rigorous curriculum founded in the liberal arts. Students complete 128 total credits of study, and courses are taught entirely online. Areas of study include strategic leadership and decision-making, economics, business law and ethics, leadership and organizational behavior, and business. Distance learners complete both group and individual assignments that foster creative problem-solving and innovative thinking that can be applied to real-world business settings.

5. The College of Saint Scholastica

Duluth, Minnesota

The College of St. Scholastica is one of the most affordable Catholic colleges for bachelor's degrees online.

Points: 8Program Website

The College of St. Scholastica is a private Benedictine college that was known as Sacred Heart Institute from 1892 to 1912. Recognized as one of the best-value Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees, CSS offers undergraduate programs in an accelerated format designed for busy, working adults. Students can pursue affordable online majors in areas such as business, health information management, psychology, nursing, organizational leadership, and computer information systems, to name a few. Undergraduates of this low-cost college may also opt for an undecided major and self-design a curriculum that meets their academic and professional goals. Online students have access to the same activities and services as on-campus students, including student groups, tutoring, and counseling.

4. Rivier University

Nashua, New Hampshire

Rivier University offers inexpensive online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Rivier University is a private Catholic liberal arts university that was established in 1933 as Rivier College by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. With several in-demand online bachelor's programs, Rivier allows students the opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and world-class scholars in an environment consisting of state-of-the-art resources and technology as well as dedicated one-on-one support and attention. Undergraduates can choose from top-value bachelor's degrees in areas such as public health, psychology, and nursing as well as individualized studies, human services, and business administration. All programs are available entirely online and consist of studies in the liberal arts and sciences that prepare students for careers beyond graduation.

3. Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, Maine

Saint Joseph's College of Maine is one of the most affordable Catholic colleges for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 8Program Website

Saint Joseph's College of Maine was founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy as an institution for women. Today, it is the only Catholic college in the state and one of the best affordable Catholic colleges for an online bachelor's degree. SJCM offers a handful of low-cost distance education programs at the undergraduate level, including majors in business and healthcare administration, theological studies, social work, and nursing. All programs are offered completely online and provide the flexibility that adult learners need when pursuing a college degree. Undergraduates receive the same rigorous academic curriculum as their on-campus counterparts and benefit from a low 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that allows faculty members to get to know their students on a personal level.

2. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a low-cost Catholic college for bachelor's degrees online.

Points: 9Program Website

Established in 1840 by the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods Colleges is a Roman Catholic liberal arts institution of higher learning. SMWC is the oldest Catholic postsecondary school in the state and is known for the Mari Hulman George School of Equine Studies. Inspired by its Catholic identity and rooted in the liberal arts, SMWC offers 13 top-value online bachelor's degrees. Distance learners can choose from a variety of fully online majors in areas such as business, healthcare, criminology, and psychology as well as information technology, theology, education, and professional writing. In addition, SMWC's whopping 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students to receive one-on-one support and develop close relationships with their peers and professors.

1. Dominican University

River Forest, Illinois

Dominican University is ranked as the best affordable Catholic college for online bachelor's degrees.

Points: 9Program Website

Topping our list of the best affordable Catholic colleges with top online bachelor's degrees is Dominican University, a private institution of higher learning affiliated with the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters. Established in 1901, DU offers a hybrid program that combines online and on-campus study in business administration with concentrations in marketing, management, and finance. Fully online majors include nursing, human services, and legal studies. Distance education programs are focused on personal connections as well as thoughtful discussions provided by an engaging community. Not only are students taking exams and reading materials, but they are also enjoying experiential projects and mentorships that expand their skills and prepare them for career success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Difference Between Catholic and Secular Education?

The main difference between Catholic colleges and traditional schools boils down to the set of core or fundamental values that these institutions uphold. Many secular universities and colleges base their academic offerings on generalized principles, including global responsibility and academic excellence. On the other hand, Catholic colleges are generally geared toward certain sects within the Catholic doctrine. For example, a Benedictine college may focus on servitude founded on the principles of the Benedictine monastic heritage, while a Franciscan school might promote the beliefs of St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order.

Also, students who attend Catholic colleges for online bachelor's degrees will usually be expected to follow rules, guidelines, and policies that may not be found at secular institutions, including theology requirements or mandatory community service hours. While Catholic institutions do not generally force students with no religious affiliation or non-Catholic beliefs to participate in tasks that do not comply with their personal beliefs, Catholic schools are recognized for heavily promoting the Catholic faith above other religions.

What is Online Learning Like at a Catholic College?

Much like how traditional colleges and universities have implemented distance learning as another option for delivering their academic programs, many Catholic institutions have also added online offerings to their repertoire as well. Remote learning offers a challenging yet flexible experience for undergraduates, instilling both organization and self-discipline while breaking down the barriers of "time and place." Students who are considering pursuing an online bachelor's degree at a Catholic college should be aware of the two learning models to determine the one that best meets their academic needs.

Programs that are offered in a synchronous format require that undergraduates be regularly active and engaged in the program. They may need to take timed exams, stick to strict deadlines, work with classmates on collaborative projects, log into the system or chat rooms at predetermined times, or otherwise handle a set schedule. Synchronous programs offer the flexibility and convenience of distance learning with the traditional and structured feel of a "normal" classroom.

Programs that are offered in an asynchronous format allow undergraduates to complete coursework at their own pace, on their own time. They can typically take exams, submit assignments, and read materials either as their schedules allow or according to a schedule that has extended deadlines far enough in advance that students can adequately plan for them. The asynchronous, self-paced option is popular among those who are either working in the field or who need the flexibility to handle family and work commitments.

Keep in mind that Catholic colleges and other Christian-focused institutions of higher learning can infuse messages of faith and beliefs into online bachelor's degrees in the same way that they would in a traditional classroom. Distance learners are bound to find message boards, chat rooms, and support groups that focus on the Catholic faith. Online students may also be able to take advantage of service work, conference calls, and pastoral guidance through the school's distance learning software.

Are Catholic Colleges Accredited?

Regardless of whether a student chooses a Catholic college or a secular university for his or her degree, there is one important factor to keep in mind: accreditation. When colleges are accredited, it means that their programs have been thoroughly reviewed by a government-approved, independent agency. Not only does accreditation ensure that students are receiving a high-quality education, but it also allows students to receive federal financial aid. Also, should a student wish to transfer to another college or university, only accredited institutions can transfer and accept credits in full.

Catholic and Christian colleges can receive accreditation from several different sources. For example, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Higher Education recognize accrediting bodies such as the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada Commission on Accrediting, the Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation, and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. These three primary accrediting bodies ensure that Christian- and Catholic-based degree programs meet specific religious and secular standards.

In terms of accrediting online bachelor's degree programs, the main accrediting agency is the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). Students considering completing online courses through any postsecondary institution, secular or Catholic, can consult the DETC website and evaluate whether an online program or class is endorsed. Even if DETC-accredited programs are not offered, the school's national or regional accreditation may cover its online offerings.

Catholic colleges focus on fostering positive relationships with others, spirituality, and maturity. While faith-based schools are not concerned with reforming students, they do attempt to instill lifelong habits for success as well as core beliefs in every student. In fact, many students pursue online bachelor's degrees at Catholic colleges to expand their worldview as these institutions often introduce new lifestyles and ideas that they might not have otherwise considered. Whether you are looking for a Catholic-focused education or you are not strong in your religious convictions but would still like to consider a degree from a Christian institution, we hope that our list of the top 30 best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees serves as a helpful starting point.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable Catholic colleges with online bachelor's degrees.

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