Best Online Degrees for Stay-at-home Moms

Stay-at-home moms (SAHM) take care of the kids and manage the household while their husbands go to work to support the financial needs of the family. Some say SAHMs keep the family together, but to many, giving up what could be a thriving career and staying home doesn’t sound like a great idea.

In 2016, there were 11 million stay-at-home parents, and many of these women had their own reasons for choosing to be homemakers than going outside to work. Interestingly, 45% of the SAHMs said every child, including their own, needed a working mother. Up to 90% of moms toy with the idea of going back to work. Unsurprisingly, many women who generate income, make financial decisions for their household.

Thanks to modern technology, moms can now strike a balance between managing the household finances and contributing to them—all without leaving home! Job opportunities offer flexible schedules that make working for stay-at-home moms very convenient.

SAHMs as College Students

Today’s global market needs a highly trained and well-educated labor force. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the American economy will require an estimated 15.6 million jobs to meet the projected total employment of 161 million by the year 2022. Jobs that require post-secondary education are projected to grow by 14% by the same year, with fast-growing occupations demanding more graduates.

It’s common knowledge that earning a degree gives you better and more chances at career success. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research has reported that out of the 3.8 million student-parents, there are approximately 2.7 million mothers (in college).

Are you a stay-at-home mom thinking about starting or going back to college? Going back to school provides benefits but it also presents challenges that, to a busy mom, could be insurmountable. Researching on the schools and degree programs suited for you is one thing; picking ones that are structured to your family responsibilities is another.

With nontraditional education platforms and an outstanding array of online college guides and resources to help you get started and keep going, you can earn a degree while caring for your children and looking after your family.

How Online Education Helps SAHMs

Women going to college and succeeding in their careers isn’t uncommon these days. Why do stay-at-home moms go back to online schools? Here are some factors for going back to school and enacting those plans:

A Sense of Fulfillment

Stay-at-home moms want to grow as an individual. They want to take care of their children and have their own careers at the same time. They want to be sure that they’ve fulfilled their responsibilities at home and at work. Returning to the classroom (virtually) keeps moms from being idle from learning and helps them improve their life.

Skills to Take the Lead as a Professional

As parents, SAHMs can set a good example for their children. Their children will learn that education is a necessity. This is one way of showing how SAHMs can become role models for their children. Children take their parent’s college journey as an inspiration to strive for their own education no matter what situation they are in.

Build a Network of Valuable Professional Contacts

Going back to school provides more opportunities to stay-at-home moms. It enables them to meet new people and interact with industry professionals. Moms do not only learn a lot about their chosen field, but they form bonds and connections which can help them in their future career and family as well. This is possible through social media sites, online community for colleges, and alumni networks.

Financial Stability

College credentials lead to greater pay and career advancement. The Bureau of Labor Statistics stated that among the fastest-growing occupations, 18 of them need workers who hold an associate or higher degree. These jobs give workers more than $34,750 median wage each year. It is a given fact that getting a degree provides a great financial edge. Stay-at-home moms who go back to school and finish a degree are game-changers. They turn from being provided to becoming providers.

Ease in Switching Fields

Some moms have long been working part-time jobs and may find themselves discontented with it. Earning a degree online lets them explore new professions and career paths that help them gain a competitive edge. Some moms may hold a bachelor’s degree but it’s never too late to expand education, whether it be a master’s degree or Ph.D. They can make some changes to help them get close to their dream job.

Online Schools for Stay-at-home Moms

The many features of distance learning, unconventional as it is, make it an ideal option for stay-at-home-moms. Whether you’re a new mom or have been one for years to many kids, attending online school and earning a degree online is ideal for these reasons:

Low Cost

According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, the vast majority of students raising children live in or near poverty. Online programs are usually cheaper than traditional options and students get financial support through grants. This opens an opportunity for those who are struggling student-parents, including stay-at-home moms pursuing their educational goals. Some schools offer special grants and loan programs to student-parents and some offer childcare support.

Convenient

Moms enrolled in an online program don’t have to worry about sitting in a classroom for long hours. Online education provides materials and all the needed resources to complete the requirements. They do not have to take public transportation or spend their money on gas to get to the campus. No need to fight traffic. Also, online students can focus on their courses with fewer distractions from peers and other students. This allows them to possess a great ability to concentrate.

Flexible Schedules

Stay-at-home mothers devote a significant time caring for their family. They have to handle different tasks at different times. So, schools that have now adapted self-paced learning are the best choice for them. This helps them be in control of their schedule. They find time for everything, from requirements to completing assignments. They will likely find it easy to plan study time and family time. They do not have to be forced to go to class on sick days or when their child gets sick. They can work on the courses at a different time.

High-quality Education

Today’s traditional and online schools make great effort to offer accredited programs taught by top-rated faculty. Students learn skills even at the beginning of the semester. The school expects the student to show participation, management, and even technical skills. This is a great way to improve on skills that SAHMs who have long forgotten or those that they want to improve on. Higher education offers a wide range of options. No matter what field of interest and what degree level they want to pursue, they can find courses they need.

Networking Opportunities

Online students are given the opportunity to interact more by class participation through online forums and sessions. Student mothers who are reluctant to participate in face-to-face class discussions can take advantage of an online platform. Although they won’t see their classmates or instructors every day, they still win better connections with virtual schools.

Overcoming the Challenges of Online Degree for SAHMs

Going back to school for adults can be difficult. For one, they risk interrupting their busy schedules. With routine tasks like feeding the kids, cleaning the house, and planning family activities, schoolwork can be tough.

To earn a degree, student-parents need to determine ways to add academic tasks to their already busy calendars. Finding a quiet place to study, handling financial burdens, and managing school-induced stress while parenting can be taxing on SAHMs.

But moms can do anything, can’t they?

Here’s how you can triumph over these challenges as you journey through college as a student-mom:

Discuss with family members.

Student moms must sit down with their husband or partner to discuss the adjustments that need to be worked on to accommodate the online school. You also need to communicate with your kids, explaining to them why it is necessary. You have to set expectations about how college can affect your routine. This way, everyone in the family gets a clearer picture of how the household will be like with the new routines and responsibilities.

Take it one step at a time.

Balancing family and college is no small thing. Moms have to create a life schedule that lets her handle responsibilities, and should not be burdened by how fast they can accomplish something. Set soft deadlines and take it all one day at a time. No matter how stressful things can get, it always pays to take some time to breathe. Don’t feel like you’re failing as a parent either. Make a decision that is right for you and does not compromise your mommy duties.

Apply for financial aid and programs.

Resources from the government are available to help student-parents survive financially. One of the federal programs that aims to help student-parents enrolled in higher education institutions is the Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program. Some state programs also provide resources for eligible student-parents enrolled in any level of the program. FAFSA, local charities, and scholarships for moms are also available to help fund college and offer other forms of assistance.

Rally family and friends.

The decision of going back to school can make you feel alone and scared. Moms have to seek a support system that willingly helps them in each stage. Support can come from their partners, family members, friends, advisors, and peers. It is also best to speak with an advisor since they are more familiar with the ropes of the school and its programs. Getting help should not mean moms as students are not able to solve their problems. Instead, it should mean a support network can make a great difference in your college life. Remember, you do not have to go through it alone; the support you get from those you love can make things much easier for you.

Set attainable goals.

Moms should determine what they want to achieve with their degree. They have to evaluate the time needed to pursue their goals. Moms need to work harder to achieve these goals and maintain what they have. Goals may vary from keeping track of your homework better, developing better study habits, spending more time with kids, or even getting the best results in tests, but what matters is how you organize them so you can see the progress you make on a daily basis. It is important to create reachable goals to survive and succeed in college.

Take some me-time and celebrate personal milestones.

Your accomplishments while in college, such as getting an A or a B, call for a celebration! You deserve that new outfit once in a while; why not get one to celebrate acing that very important college exam? Whether you celebrate on your own or with those you love, it pays to reward yourself.

Most Popular Online Degrees Moms are Earning

Gaining the knowledge and skills you need can give you a head start in the career path you are pursuing. The most popular online degrees for moms can vary in the chosen fields of interest in the Associate, Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate levels.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these online degree levels help you land jobs in fields with a high demand for an educated workforce:

Online Associate Degree

Moms can start with an online associate degree in the field of healthcare. There are a number of medical programs that do not require years in a medical school or hospital.  No matter what the economic situation is, people are going to need healthcare services. This means a stable employment when you decide to go back to work. A high percentage of medical-related fields make up the top 20 fastest-growing occupations for the next decade.

Moms can enroll in programs in Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Phlebotomy, Medical Assistant, Nursing and more. For moms who want to work at home in the future, they may start their career with an associate degree in Information System Analysis and Software Development. These programs help fill the skills gap among student-parents.

Online Bachelor’s Degree

For moms who have existing credits or certificates and want the best careers in their chosen field, an online bachelor’s degree may give more opportunities. An online bachelor’s degree increases your chance of earning more.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that the median wage for a worker who holds a bachelor’s degree is $73,960. Still, a field in healthcare, information technology, and mathematics win the ranking among a worker who has a bachelor’s degree. Some of the programs moms can enroll in include Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counseling, Information System Analysis, Operations Research, Software Development, Market Research Analysis and more.

Online Master’s Degree

Go-getter moms can further their education by enrolling in online master’s degree programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations that require a master’s degree have a projected change of 13.7% for the years 2018 to 2028. These occupations include various areas in Mathematics and Statistics, Speech-Language Pathology, Marketing Research, Nurse Practitioner, Genetic Counseling, Postsecondary Education, and Marriage and Family Therapy. Moms also up their game in the fields of business, technology and healthcare. 

Online Doctoral Degree

Moms getting an online doctoral degree, or a Ph.D. may sound impossible and people may wonder if it’s really worth earning. Everything becomes overwhelming, from completing major exams, research, to writing a doctoral dissertation. A doctorate degree requires both undergraduate and master’s degrees. Individuals who hold a doctorate degree earn approximately 43% more than those with a bachelor’s degree and 44% more than those with a master’s degree. Sectors include business, healthcare, technology and science. The online format gives moms the advantage in pursuing whatever topic they want to cover in any location.

Best Online Degrees for Moms

Online Degrees in Business Management/Administration

Enrolling in a Business degree gives moms a lot of options when they graduate. Moms who build their own business at home create a professional pathway on their own. Business Administration is a very broad field that can yield a great return on investment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business occupations had higher median annual wage for all occupations in 2018 and employment is expected to grow 7% in 10 years. Moms can start their own business, work as a business writer, be virtually employed as market research analyst, human resources specialist, sales manager, and so much more. They can choose to work full-time without even going outside the house.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

UMass-Lowell’s Graduate, Online, and Professional Studies division offers a fully online Business Administration program. Students are welcome to earn an associate, bachelor’s, or a master’s degree. Moms can enroll part-time, therefore, making classes more convenient for them. The program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. Courses covered include Accounting, Marketing Principles, Advanced Cost Management, Professional Communications, Operations Management, and Workforce Analytics. Its MBA program gives students selections for concentrations like Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Healthcare, Information Technology, International Business, Managerial Leadership, and Marketing. Transfer students may have 90 college credits approved and a variety of financial aid is available.

• Campus Location: Lowell, Massachusetts
• Acceptance Rate: 72%
• Retention Rate: 85%
• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS-LOWELL’S ONLINE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS.

Granite State College

Granite State College offers one of the best value programs in associate, bachelor, and graduate degrees. The 47-year old institution provides flexible programs especially for busy adults like moms. In addition to its quality education, Granite State College offers affordable tuition rates. It’s Business Management program gives online students the opportunity to gain a solid foundation in business in undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of the coursework included in its customizable curriculum are Legal and Ethical Issues in Business Management, Financial Management, Organizational Behavior, Changing Economics, and Decision Analysis for Managers.

• Campus Location: Concord, New Hampshire
• Acceptance Rate: Open Admission
• Retention Rate: 32%
• Graduation Rate: 23%
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

LEARN MORE ABOUT GRANITE STATE COLLEGE’S ONLINE BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS.

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin

What most student parents look for in a college or university is affordability. The University of Texas of the Permian Basin delivers this to its students. With business programs that are entirely online, UTPB create graduates with career flexibility. The school offers Master’s of Business Administration and Master’s of Business Administration Finance. These programs can be completed in as little as 12 months and are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. Students can get started with 2 courses while waiting on their GMAT scores. Coursework sample include Production and Operation Management, Marketing Management, Business Research Methods, and International Finance.

• Campus Location: Odessa, Texas
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• Retention Rate: 68%
• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Accreditation: Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC)

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS OF THE PERMIAN BASIN’S ONLINE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM.

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University is a research university governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. Among its more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs is the Bachelor of Business Administration. For 20 years, NAU has been offering flexible programs that fit each student’s lifestyle. The Business Administration program is offered on campus, in a traditional online and competency-based online format. Online students who choose competency-based programs lets students set their own deadline, work through individualized coursework and start the six-month subscription anytime. The Business Administration program offers 6 specializations — Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Global Business, Human Resource Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Management, and Marketing.

• Campus Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
• Acceptance Rate: 83%
• Retention Rate: 73%
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM.

University of Nebraska-Kearney

For students interested in a career in business, the University of Nebraska- Kearney’s Business Administration program opens a gateway to many opportunities in a variety of industries. The program is offered in bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The BSBA program requires 35 credit hours and 33 credit hours for MBA. UNK’s Master’s in Business Administration program provides experiential learning for those who want to take positions particularly in nonprofit, or public service sectors. Students are trained to solve issues, identify responsibilities in organizations, and hone decision-making skills. Undergraduate core courses include Business Law, Operations and Supply Management, Administrative Strategy and Policy, and Principles of Management. MBA students can follow one of the 3 tracks offered – Generalist, Marketing, or Human Resources.

• Campus Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
• Acceptance Rate: 94%
• Retention Rate: 80%
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-KEARNEY’S ONLINE BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMS.

Online Degrees in Information Technology

Techie moms or those who have the passion for the tech field can earn their credentials through online programs. This field entails bright prospects for a wide range of computer and tech jobs not only for the corporate setting but also for those who want to work at home. Moms can use their problem-solving skills to give clients the solution or the business processes they need. They interact with individuals or clients directly as they assist and walk them through the solution. The field also allows moms to meet the financial needs of the family which helps motivate to work in this field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual wage for Computer and Information Technology Occupations was $86,320 and employment will grow 12% in the next 9 years. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. Information technology can give moms a long list of work-at-home jobs. How can one become a part of this field? Start with a degree program. Here are some of the best Information Technology moms can enroll in:

Bellevue University

Bellevue University has been educating adult students in the state of Nebraska since 1966. The university is recognized for its affordable undergraduate and graduate programs. Its Online Learning division lets students attend class for lectures and assignments on their own schedule. One of the programs distance learners get to explore is the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.  They will learn computer systems and networks and acquire skills in installing, configuration, and troubleshooting information systems without setting foot on the campus grounds. Some of the fundamentals offered through this program are Networks and Network Security, Cloud Computing, Servers and Data Storage, and Routing and Configuration.

• Campus Location: Bellevue, Nebraska
• Acceptance Rate: Open Admission Policy
• Retention Rate: 77%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM.

New Mexico State University

As one of the two flagship universities in New Mexico, New Mexico State University has a history that dates back to 1888. An online program in Information and Communication Technology is offered through NMSU’s Department of Engineering Technology. Students are prepared to successfully enter the workforce through the integration of hands-on learning and theory. Course highlights include Networking and Network Security, Application and Operating Systems Software, Application and Operating Systems Software, System Integration, and Database Design and Management. The program is available in two pathways: Bachelor’s degree or Bachelor’s degree completion. It is delivered 100% online with up to 120 credits to complete.

• Campus Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
• Acceptance Rate: 66%
• Retention Rate: 74%
• Graduation Rate: 47%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM.

University of North Texas

University of North Texas is the flagship institution of the University of North Texas System. The school is recognized as a Tier One research university by the Carnegie Classification. It offers accelerated online programs that students can complete in as few as 12-18 months. One of these programs is the Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Applied Technology. Students can expect to learn to build a skillset in topics that cover information systems, information architecture, health informatics, information organization, and digital content and curation. This program helps students address issues related to social media, security, privacy, and more. Emphasized areas of the program include Information Science and Knowledge Organization, Project and Knowledge Management, Information Management and Health Informatics, Digital Content and Information Systems, Human Language Technology, and Data Science.

• Campus Location: Denton, Texas
• Acceptance Rate: 71%
• Retention Rate: 78%
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS’ ONLINE INFORMATION SCIENCE AND APPLIED TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM.

Central Washington University

Central Washington University has become a Hispanic-serving institution with a growing population of Hispanic students. The school was established in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School (WSNS). Today, CWU offers more than 130 programs at an affordable price. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition rates as the resident students by tuition waivers. Online programs are priced just the same. These programs allow students to tailor their degree to their preferences. A Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management helps students sharpen their soft and hard skills in technical information and management. The program is available completely online with 136 credits to finish. For graduates who want to take it up a notch, a Master of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management with a part-time option typically is completed in 6 quarters.

• Campus Location: Ellensburg, Washington
• Acceptance Rate: 78%
• Retention Rate: 69%
• Graduation Rate: 55%
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM.

Online Elementary Education

Moms have two important roles: parenting and teaching. These two things make learning worthwhile for kids. It could be a struggle to have both roles but when you are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary, it will be deeply rewarding. A career in elementary education is beneficial to you and your kids. You can work as a teacher at the school where your kids go to and have the opportunity keep up with them for the whole day. Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook report, elementary school teachers earn $57,980 per year. Typically, they need a bachelor’s degree to be qualified for the position. Since working hours start from morning to afternoon (school hours), moms still have the time to do chores and take care of the family in the evening and during weekends.

Liberty University

Liberty University is one of the largest non-profit institutions in the United States. The Christian-based university serves more than 70,000 students enrolled in on-campus and online programs. The school established its distance education in the 1990’s and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation. Students do not have to set log in times which makes earning a degree convenient. Its Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education is offered entirely online in 8-week sessions. Coursework is completed online as students work towards their licensure. Some courses include Principles of Education, Educational Philosophy for Teachers, Scholarly Writing & APA, and Classroom Management for Teachers.

• Campus Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
• Acceptance Rate: 56%
• Retention Rate: 82%
• Graduation Rate: 50%
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S  ONLINE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION PROGRAM.

Calvary University

Calvary University is a faith-based institution that opened in 1932. The university offers several adult education and online programs for associate and bachelor’s degrees. Aspiring teachers who want to study online may enroll in its Bachelor of Science in Education – Elementary. The program consists of biblical, general education, and professional education courses. Degree requirements include two field experiences and a student teaching practicum. Major courses include Technology for Teachers, Educational Psychology, Educational Assessments, and Reading and Literacy in Elementary School. Online learners of this program are expected to finish 145 credits to graduate.

• Campus Location: Kansas City, Missouri
• Acceptance Rate: 67%
• Retention Rate: 62%
• Graduation Rate: 29%
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

LEARN MORE ABOUT CALVARY UNIVERSITY’ ONLINE EDUCATION-ELEMENTARY PROGRAM.

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University builds on its excellent track record as a public research university through its undergraduate and graduate programs. The university was built in 1899 as a normal school and is under the umbrella of the Arizona Board of Regents. Students get to choose between two pathways (Traditional Online or Competency-Based Online) for their online programs. Its Interdisciplinary Studies – Early Childhood program gives students the flexibility to earn their licensure from any location. To earn this degree, students must complete 120 units of credit. Educational Foundations, Bilingual and Multicultural Education, Curriculum and Instruction, and Special Education are some of the coursework of the program.

• Campus Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
• Acceptance Rate: 83%
• Retention Rate: 73%
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES-EARLY CHILDHOOD.

Sterling College

Sterling College is a Christian liberal arts college established in 1887. It was first named as Cooper Memorial College by the Presbyterian Church. Today, the school offers accredited programs for both in-class and online students. Future Elementary School teachers will get the opportunity to be well-trained and be highly-qualified licensed teachers. The Sterling Teacher Education Program (STEP) online allows students to be exposed to clinical teaching experiences in their community. Some of the core requirements in the curriculum are Elementary Art Methods, Methods of Teaching Elementary Reading and Language Arts, Child and Adolescent Literature, and Elementary Music Methods.

• Campus Location: Sterling, Kansas
• Acceptance Rate: 41%
• Retention Rate: 50%
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT STERLING COLLEGE’S ONLINE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION PROGRAM.

Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is a comprehensive public university under the Kansas Board of Regents. It was opened in 1902 to train teachers and now holds prestigious education programs in the nation. The school welcomes adult and distance learners through their virtual school. One of its accredited programs is the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. The program gives opportunities to graduates to qualify for a licensure exam. Successful candidates may teach K-6 students in the state. Major courses of the program include Human Growth & Development, Concepts of Elementary Mathematics, Diverse Learners, Children’s Literature, and many more. Complete 127 credits to earn the degree.

• Campus Location: Hays, Kansas
• Acceptance Rate: 92%
• Retention Rate: 73%
• Graduation Rate: 44%
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE EDUCATION – ELEMENTARY PROGRAM.

Online Degrees in Communications

Communication creates an interdisciplinary field that utilizes both verbal and non-verbal interaction in conversations, discussions and public speaking. It is also one of the mothers’ secret tools in building a happy home. It is an important tool to keep the family’s sense of security. Choosing to study this field means a great opportunity for a mom to improve and be a more effective communicator. Communication degrees lead to promising careers especially for stay-at-home moms. Media and communications industries in this age demand for creativity in different platforms.

With access to the Internet and a working computer, moms can take on jobs like editing, writing, social media content creation, and marketing which all involve communication. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for this field is expected to increase within the next nine years.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida is a public state university founded in 1963. With over 68,000 students, it is the largest public university campus (by enrollment) in the U.S. UCF is an emerging research university with high-grade facilities in business administration, education, engineering and computer science, optics and lasers, and more. Among its top-ranked programs is the online Bachelor of Arts in Technical Communication. The program has a flexible format focused on a broad range of technical writing courses. Topics include documentation, technical publication, technical communication for virtual workspaces and more. Students graduate after completing 120 credits and work in editing and publishing, teaching, information technology, law, and other fields.

• Campus Location: Orlando, Florida
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Retention Rate: 90%
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S ONLINE ENGLISH-TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION PROGRAM.

Northeastern University

Established in 1898, Northeastern University is a private research university with campuses across the nation. It is recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an R1 institution (Doctoral Universities: Highest Research Activity). The undergraduate Digital Communication and Media program at Northeastern University is offered entirely online. The program takes students to an experiential learning through internships and other professional practices. Students have the chance to work virtually with a sponsoring organization. Coursework samples include College Writing, Writing for the Professions: Business and the Social Sciences, End-User Data Analysis Tools, Web and Mobile Development, Managing Communication Projects, and more. For a total of 120 semester hours, students earn the degree and are qualified for career advancement for jobs within communications and marketing.

• Campus Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Acceptance Rate: 19%
• Retention Rate: 97%
• Graduation Rate: 88%
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DIGITAL COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA PROGRAM.

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is the largest and oldest among the University of Minnesota system members. As the flagship university, the school is a leader in research and was once listed as a Public Ivy institution. This public university offers both on-campus and online programs in a variety of areas. One of its popular program is the online Bachelor of Science in Communication. The program allows students to choose among its 3 concentrations – Communication Studies, Organizational Communication/Public Relations or Writing. U of M produces Communication graduates equipped with tools to become a spokesperson for organizations and communities. Communication Theory, Communication Technology Trends, Business and Professional Speaking, Technical Communication, Report Writing are some of the courses in the program. This fully-online program requires 120 total credit to complete.

• Campus Locations: Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota
• Acceptance Rate: 52%
• Retention Rate: 93%
• Graduation Rate: 80%
• Accreditation: The Higher Learn Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA-TWIN CITIES’ ONLINE COMMUNICATION PROGRAM.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is the main institution of the Texas Tech University System. The Carnegie Foundation categorized TTU with a Very High Research Activity.  Among its 12 divisions is the Worldwide eLearning which delivers highly-flexible programs to its distance learners. Students interested in the school’s Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies can take advantage of its 100% online program. The 120-credit program lets students gain real-world strategic skills and capabilities. Communication students learn skills essential in all aspects of their lives: personal, professional, and public. This program requires 120 total hours to complete. Course of study includes Communicating in a Global Society, Visual Storytelling, Public Speaking, and Foundations of Media and Communication.

• Campus Locations: Lubbock, Texas
• Acceptance Rate: 71%
• Retention Rate: 85%
• Graduation Rate: 60%
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE COMMUNICATION STUDIES PROGRAM.

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota has been around for more than 130 years. This public research university was established with a liberal arts curriculum and expanded for scientific research. Future students who want to major in Communication may do so with UND’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication. The program emphasizes skills involving digital tools, information presentation and sharing of ideas. There six emphasis areas Communication students can choose from are: Strategic Communication, Digital Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations, Social Media Strategy, and Digital Analytics. When it comes to quality and affordability, UND’s Communication program is certainly one of the best in the nation. Students earn a degree after completing 120 credits. Besides the undergraduate program, a Ph.D. in Communication is also available.

• Campus Locations: Grand Forks, North Dakota
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Retention Rate: 80%
• Graduation Rate: 55%
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA’S ONLINE COMMUNICATION PROGRAM.

Online Degrees in Software Development

Software development is the process of designing foundations of operative systems that are then used by computer programmers. Learning in-demand skills is important especially for stay-at-home moms who want to enter the workforce again. It may not be easy but it’s possible. For moms to access high-paying jobs, acquiring tech skills is key. For some, a career in the software development field is a dream. Some have started to learn quite a few things about it and needed to pause to fulfill parenting responsibilities. The great news is that more and more accredited schools have adapted the online learning format. This includes computer programming and software development degree programs. Moms can earn their degree without going for in-class attendance and graduate to be qualified for many work-from-home software development jobs. Some find themselves building a digital business that perfectly fits their lifestyle.

Bellevue University

Bellevue University was opened in 1966 as Bellevue College. It was built to serve working adults who want to continue their education. The school still operates on the same purpose up to the present through its online programs. For programmers or certificate holders who want to improve and earn a degree, an online program is available to fit their needs. Bellevue University’s online Bachelor of Science in Software Development program helps students gain hands-on skills in Java, Web applications, Ruby on Rails, and SQL. Its curriculum includes topics such as Business Telecommunications, Information Security, System Analysis and more. The program requires students to complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series in addition to the major courses.

• Campus Location: Bellevue, Nebraska
• Acceptance Rate: Open Admission Policy
• Retention Rate: 77%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus is an online education university derived from the evening program for adults at the University of Maryland. It is headquartered in Adelphi, Maryland and now serves more than 90,000 students across the globe. Most of its online programs are designed to teach and train students with the necessary skills for today’s digital world. One of these programs is the Bachelor’s Degree, Software Development and Security. With the help of industry experts and scholars, the completely online program provides a rigorous curriculum so its graduates can apply for a job right away. Major coursework and subjects include Building Secure Web Applications, Database Security, Secure Programming in the Cloud, and Current Trends and Projects in Computer Science.

• Campus Location: College Park, Maryland
• Acceptance Rate: Open admission policy
• Retention Rate: 53%
• Graduation Rate: 15%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GLOBAL CAMPUS’ ONLINE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT AND SECURITY PROGRAM.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private non-profit university that enrolls over 100,000 students. It is one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation after the expansion of its online programs. Designed to train professional game developers, SNHU boasts one of its online programs in Game Programming and Development. Besides the traditional software development training, the program provides technical expertise in the field. Online students can take advantage of its efficiency and flexibility. They can learn and finish courses at their own pace within the eight-week terms per year. The program requires 120 credits to finish. Foundation in Application Development, Project Management in Information Technology, Gameplay Systems Development, Interactive Animation, and Digital Graphic Design for the Web are some of the courses in the program.

• Campus Location: between Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire
• Acceptance Rate: 73%
• Retention Rate: 68%
• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GAME PROGRAMMING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

Champlain College

Chaplain College has a history that reaches back 141 years ago. It first opened as a Business school and expanded its programs to cater to a more diverse career pathway. Students learn through either on-campus or online classes. Champlain College Online has a variety of programs that help transform careers. It offers a bachelor’s degree program in Software Development. Online Software Development majors complete 120 credits hours before graduating. They can also earn a certificate along the way. Specializations for the program are C++ Programming, Java Programming, Software Development, or Visual C#. Online students can work on each course in 10-17 hours a week. In this way, students can find time to fit in their classes in their busy schedules.

• Campus Location: Burlington, Vermont
• Acceptance Rate: 75%
• Retention Rate: 77%
• Graduation Rate: 64%
• Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE’S ONLINE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

Baker College

Baker College is a career college founded in 1911. It started as a business school and has grown to establish multiple campuses in Michigan. There are over 150 programs offered on-campus and in its online platform. Baker College prepares programs for students who want to earn their degree and enroll part-time. Its undergraduate program in Game Software Development lets students enjoy creating and producing games and simulations on mobile devices or on computers. Major coursework includes Database Management and Design, Introduction to Programming, Java Programming, Artificial Intelligence, and Unity Game Programming. Students complete 120 credits to earn the degree.

• Campus Location: Owosso, Michigan
• Acceptance Rate: 53%
• Retention Rate: 49%
• Graduation Rate: 19%
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT BAKER COLLEGE’S ONLINE GAME SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.