How to choose an accredited online university that fits your goals

By: The Capella University Editorial Team with Irene Abrego Nicolet, PhD, NCSP, LSSP, Vice President and Dean of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Bradly E. Roh, PhD, DBA and Interim Dean and Vice President for the School of Business, Technology and Health Care Administration; and Buddy Wiltcher, EdD, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Interim Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences

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An online degree can fit around your job, your family and your goals. The key is knowing how to choose the right university and program before you apply.

To choose an accredited online university, confirm that the school holds institutional accreditation from an accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). If you are pursuing a degree that leads to licensure, make sure your program holds the appropriate specialized accreditation. You can then compare your options on learning format, student support, transfer policies and admission requirements.

Explore six considerations that will help you evaluate accredited online universities and identify the program that fits your goals, schedule and learning preferences.

Looking for an accredited online university built for working adults? Discover what you can achieve at Capella.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a quality assurance review conducted by independent organizations to evaluate colleges, universities and individual programs against established standards.

Independent organizations award accreditation based on whether a program or university meets established standards, and there are two main types of accreditation. Institutional accreditation applies to an entire college or university, while programmatic accreditation applies to a specific degree program or unit within that university.

For example, Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, many of our online programs also hold programmatic accreditation from industry or trade-specific bodies. Our nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and our Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling specialization program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Accreditation is important when you’re researching online colleges or universities because it shows which institutions have completed an independent review against an accreditor’s published standards.

Accreditation can also affect practical parts of your enrollment.

If you’re switching programs or institutions and want to transfer courses to count toward your new degree, the admissions department at your new school may only be able to accept credits earned at an institution with similar accreditation. Access to federal student aid, like college loans or grants, may only be available if the institution you’ve applied to is an accredited college.

That’s why it’s essential you understand what accreditation is and how it works when you’re comparing online universities and degree programs. Understanding it helps you compare online universities and degree programs on a factual basis.

6 Key considerations when selecting an accredited online university

Online universities can vary more than their program pages suggest. Differences in accreditation standing, learning format, support infrastructure and credit policies determine whether a program genuinely fits your schedule, your goals and your budget.

Use the six considerations below to evaluate any school consistently before you commit.

1. Verify institutional accreditation

Verifying institutional accreditation is a good first step when evaluating an online university. Accreditation alone doesn’t tell you everything about a university, but it can help you figure out whether that university has undergone an independent review and meets the accreditor’s established standards.

First, confirm that the university you’re looking at holds institutional accreditation from an accrediting organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). These bodies recognize accreditors based on their ability to meet firm federal standards, and most universities will make this information easy to find on their websites.

After you’ve confirmed the schools you’re looking at hold an institutional accreditation, it’s time to dive deeper into programmatic accreditation. If you’d like to pursue work in a field that requires licensure or additional certifications, you may find that industry bodies require completion of a university program with a specific programmatic accreditation.

That might include nursing programs with a CCNE accreditation, a counseling program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) or a social work degree accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

As an example, here’s a list of Capella’s range of program-specific accreditations, designations and recognitions:

Type	Accreditation	Degrees
Program-specific accreditation	Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)	Bachelor of Science (BS) Business, BS in Health Care Administration (HCA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science (MS) in Human Resource Management (HRM), Master of Health Administration (MHA), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Management, Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and Doctor of Health Administration (DHA)
	Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET	BS in Information Technology (IT) (GuidedPath only)
	Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)	All nursing programs
	Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)	MS in Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling
	American Psychological Association (APA)	MS in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Counseling
	Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)	Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work programs
	Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE)	MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
	Project Management Institute Global Accreditation Center for Project Management (PMI GAC)	BS in Business, MBA, MS in IT (project management specs only)
	Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)	Capella’s Educator Preparation Provider (EPP), which includes the MS in School Counseling, MS in School Psychology, EdS in School Psychology and select specializations of the MS in Education

Programmatic accreditation means a program has been reviewed against the standards set by the relevant professional body. You can check the accreditation status of an institution or program on the list of approved programs on any accreditor’s website.

2. Program offerings and specializations

After confirming accreditation, consider the programs and specializations each school offers as they relate to your interests and long-term goals.

The right online university for you should offer a degree pathway that supports where you’re at in your life right now, as well as where you hope to go in the future. That means you need to look beyond program titles and explore each institution’s academic offerings and areas of focus.

You should specifically look at the degree levels of study available, as well as specializations and concentrations. For example, Capella’s MS in Education lets you choose between eight specializations, ranging from adult education or special education teaching to English language learning and teaching. This sort of flexibility enables you to develop specialized knowledge rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum.

Finally, look at how each program is structured and designed.

You need to understand how programs connect learning to real-world applications to ensure you develop competencies that align with industry expectations. That’s why Capella uses a competency-based curriculum designed with workplace relevance in mind. Our students demonstrate mastery through assessments rather than through traditional exams.

Meanwhile, many of our programs incorporate applied learning opportunities, capstone projects or internships that enable you to connect the dots between academic theory and practical workplace scenarios.

Here’s a quick example of how our programs are set up:

Curriculum structure	Competency-based curriculum: Each course is built around competencies and students demonstrate mastery through assessments instead of exams*. Both of our learning formats, GuidedPath and FlexPath, are competency-based but have different structures. GuidedPath: Students demonstrate competencies through structured weekly assignments and interactions with faculty and peers in the online courseroom, and faculty assign grades on an A–F scale, including the final course grade. FlexPath: Students demonstrate competencies on assessments completed at one’s own pace. Students must demonstrate each competency at acceptable levels to pass the course.
Capstone requirements	Capella policy requires different culminating assessment types depending on degree level. Bachelor’s: must include a capstone course Master’s: requires a final master’s project or integrative assessment Doctoral: requires an original research component, such as a dissertation or professional research project
Internship requirements	Programs that lead to professional licensure require supervised internships or practicums, during which students complete structured hours in real-world settings. Learn more about your program and specialization’s specific requirements on its individual program page (https://www.capella.edu/online-degrees/)

3. Flexibility and learning format

Flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of earning a degree online. However, not all online courses are designed the same way. Different institutions have their own learning formats, so you need to be able to see how those structures may or may not fit with your existing work schedule, family responsibilities or preferred learning style.

The format that works for you will support your ability to make consistent progress and continue to engage. Some key factors to evaluate include:

• Full-time and part-time enrollment options
• Weekly deadlines and assignment schedules
• Access to course materials and digital tools
• Expectations around participation and collaboration
• Opportunities to adjust your pace when life circumstances change

Many online programs fall into one of two broad categories: self-paced or structured learning.

Self-paced learning lets you move through coursework at your own pace. Here at Capella, our self-paced learning format is called FlexPath. FlexPath enables you to complete assignments and assessments at your own pace within a 12-week session, and this approach tends to work for working professionals who are comfortable managing their own schedules and learning independently.

Structured formats provide more guidance through regular deadlines and scheduled coursework. For example, Capella’s GuidedPath format embeds established deadlines, regular instructor check-ins and weekly peer discussion posts to help you stay focused and motivated.

To give you an idea, here’s how Capella organizes its courses by flexibility and learning format:

100% online vs. hybrid	Our coursework is 100% online, though some programs include in-person residencies, practicum or internships. See your program’s requirements on its program page (https://www.capella.edu/online-degrees).
Asynchronous vs. live classes	The majority of Capella’s classes are asynchronous. There are two learning formats, FlexPath and GuidedPath. FlexPath is fully asynchronous; GuidedPath is also asynchronous, but more structured.
Self-paced vs. term-based	Capella offers two learning formats, GuidedPath (all programs) and FlexPath (select programs). - GuidedPath is Capella’s more structured learning format, which is closer to traditional online universities. Courses run on fixed, 10-week academic terms with students following weekly schedules and deadlines. - FlexPath is a self-paced format without weekly deadlines, and students can move to the next course as soon as they finish the current one. Students have 12 weeks to complete their FlexPath course and they can enroll in one or two courses at a time but can take as many as they want within their 12-week billing session. Tuition is charged per 12-week billing session; however, there are no traditional terms.
Start dates (rolling vs. fixed semesters or quarters)	- FlexPath programs have monthly start dates - Some GuidedPath programs have monthly start dates, while others are offered in a traditional quarter-based academic calendar. See your program’s requirements on its program page. - Our Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is an anomaly that offers traditional quarter-based starts with an additional Sept start for the summer quarter.
Part-time vs. full-time options	GuidedPath works like a traditional university with a credit-based definition of full time and part time. FlexPath works differently and doesn’t use a fixed definition of full time vs. part-time.

At the end of the day, different formats support different needs. Whether you prioritize schedule flexibility or prefer a more structured environment, understanding how you want to learn will help you identify the accredited college program that will best align with your needs.

4. Student support and learning experience

Strong support systems are essential for staying organized and engaged as an online student. Ongoing student support and a well-designed learning experience ensure you’re able to stay on track and succeed, which is why most online programs provide multiple layers of support from the start.

Look for universities that give you access to academic and career advisors who can help you plan your path and choose the right classes that align with your goals. Enrollment support is equally important, as it helps you adapt to your new program and hit the ground running.

However, one key area that sets online colleges apart is technical support. Your success as an online student depends on your access and understanding of unique digital platforms. As a result, you must ensure the university you choose offers online support and access to digital libraries and research tools that will support assignments and deeper learning.

The learning experience itself should play a central role in deciding which accredited online program to apply to. After all, just because you’re choosing to study online doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to engage with faculty and peers. Regardless of the learning format you choose, you should receive regular faculty interaction through feedback and guidance, as well as online collaboration with other students through discussion and group work.

For example, here’s a snapshot of the support services that Capella offers its online students:

Enrollment Services and Academic Advising	Capella offers one-on-one enrollment and advising support. Your dedicated enrollment specialist will have experience with your area of study. They can help you enroll, transfer credits and explore financing and savings. Once you’re enrolled, your personal academic coach advises you throughout your program, keeping your specific goals in mind. They will help you adjust your academic plan, track progress and answer any other questions.
Coaching services	Capella offers academic support through a writing center, an online library and coaching. The support team brings extensive professional experience to the course room, enriching the curriculum with practical insights and real-world relevance.
Tech support	Capella’s tech support is available 24/7 to help troubleshoot any issues students may have with their technology.
Faculty accessibility	A key focus of our faculty is student success, with an emphasis on providing practical insights to help prepare students to pursue their personal and professional goals.
Online learning platform usability	Capella uses Canvas as its course management platform, where students access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with instructors and view grades. The platform offers 24/7 access.

5. Credit transfer and prior learning

Transfer credit and prior learning policies determine how much of your past coursework and work experience may count toward a new degree. As an adult learner, you’ve probably already got some previous education and work experience. In some cases, those experiences may cover some of your program requirements, helping reduce the time and cost of getting your new degree.

The issue is that transfer policies vary widely between institutions. That means credits you earn at one school aren’t automatically accepted by another. As a result, you need to review transfer guidelines carefully before enrolling in a new program. This is where accreditation comes back into play, as your new school may be more likely to transfer credits from an accredited institution.

Most universities use a credit evaluation process to decide what you can apply towards a degree, and they should be transparent about that process. At Capella, the credit transfer process is fast and simple. When you apply, you can grant us access to your previous transcripts. We’ll then automatically pull those records and evaluate them based on applicability to degree requirements, grades earned and how closely a course matches our online courses.

The most common transfer pathways are community college credits, previous bachelor’s degree coursework and eligible certifications or professional training programs.

Some schools and programs may also have residency requirements. These rules set a minimum number of credits that must be completed directly through the institution to earn the degree. Many online programs also offer prior learning assessment opportunities that allow students to receive credit for professional experience, military training or industrial certifications.

To give you an idea, here’s a more in-depth look at how transfer credits work at Capella:

Transfer credit acceptance	Capella generally accepts transfer credits from other institutionally accredited institutions and from other programs on a case-by-case basis. Each of our programs has a limit on how many transfer credits can be applied, so the best way to find out is to connect with an enrollment specialist. - Bachelor’s: A student can typically transfer up to 135 quarter credits out of the 180 required to complete the program. This may be limited by your program and specific course. - Master’s: Typically, about a quarter of a master’s degree can be fulfilled via credit transfer. - Doctoral: Programs vary. Some programs accept transfer credits, and some do not.
Military credit policies	Whether you are a service member or a veteran, you likely have training that may be recognized toward your Capella degree as course credits. Additionally, Capella offers a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs for students with a military affiliation.
Prior learning assessments (PLA)	Credit for prior learning is a method of awarding/earning college credit for prior college-level experiences and skills acquired outside formal instruction. The process requires that students document their existing knowledge and skills through written assessments or the evaluation of specific credentials. Professional and industry certifications also apply. This is available at the bachelor’s and master’s level and there are nuances for FlexPath students – an enrollment specialist can help you understand what to expect for your chosen program and specialization.
Competency-based education options	With a focus on practical knowledge and relevant professional skills you can use in the workplace right away, Capella offers competency-based education that can help you prepare for your career. All of Capella’s courses are designed to help teach you the skills that are relevant in your industry, so you can start applying them right away in your workplace.

If you need help meeting admissions requirements, Capella also offers support through its partnership with Sophia Learning. This pathway lets you complete no-cost general education courses so you can progress to your online degree pathways quickly and efficiently.

6. Admission requirements and readiness

Admission requirements vary by program and degree level. Most online programs require previous educational credentials, such as a bachelor’s degree or a high school diploma, and others may consider Grade Point Average (GPA) or standardized test scores as part of the admissions process.

Depending on the level of study you’d like to pursue, you may also need to write a personal statement, get references or demonstrate work experience in applied fields. Before you apply, it’s essential that you ask questions about the admissions process and understand exactly what you need to provide for consideration.

That’s why Capella offers a range of enrollment support resources and academic coaches who help you evaluate program fit and expectations before applying.

Here’s a quick look at the general admissions requirements for entry at Capella:

GPA requirements	Capella’s GPA requirements vary by degree level and program. The minimum recommended GPA for bachelor’s and master’s programs in FlexPath is a 2.8. For a doctoral program, the minimum GPA is 3.0.
Standardized test requirements	Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), SAT or ACT are not required for admission. International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency by achieving a minimum score on an acceptable test.
Application fees	Apply for a Capella program with no application fee and no hidden fees for transcripts or transfer credit evaluation. There are fees assessed for credit for prior learning (CPL).

In addition to admissions requirements, it’s also important at this stage to assess your own readiness for online learning.

As an online student, you’ll be expected to manage your time independently and stay organized without the regular structure of a traditional, in-person school. For many working professionals, that’s what makes online learning so attractive. However, you must ask yourself the right questions about how you want to learn, what you want to learn and your ultimate career goals.

Questions to ask before choosing an online university

Before you settle on a particular university, it helps to compare programs side-by-side. This helps you see which options best align with your goals and your learning preferences, and it starts with asking a series of simple questions about each option.

Some questions you could ask include:

• Is the university institutionally accredited?
• Does the program offer specialized accreditation if needed?
• Which learning formats are available?
• How flexible is the coursework schedule?
• What student support services are offered?
• How are transfer credits evaluated?
• What real-world learning opportunities are included?

These considerations will help you move beyond surface-level comparisons and focus on what will actually impact your student experience and overall success.

It’s also worth speaking directly with admissions representatives or enrollment counselors at any online colleges you’ve shortlisted. A quick chat can give you the extra clarity you need to understand how a particular program aligns with your background and goals before you hit “apply.”

Finding an online university that supports your future

When selecting an online university program, accreditation should be non-negotiable. Confirming a university’s accreditation status tells you it has completed an independent review against an accreditor’s standards. However, choosing the right online university for you involves more than just verifying its accreditation.

You need to consider the quality of your shortlisted programs and the flexibility of their learning formats. Likewise, you want to choose an institution that offers the right support services and long-term alignment to help you balance your existing responsibilities while pursuing your career goals.

Here at Capella University, we offer a wide range of accredited online degree programs designed to support adult learners at different stages of their educational journeys. We know there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to university, and we’ll do everything we can to support you in choosing the right pathway.

Ready to explore online learning options? Discover Capella’s online degree programs.