Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Updated October 25, 2023
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Best Online Liberal Arts Programs
If you aren't sure about your career path, and are interested in a variety of subjects and fields, an online liberal arts degree may be a good fit for you. This bachelor's degree program provides an overview of many disciplines across the arts and sciences. By choosing a general liberal arts major, you'll enjoy the flexibility of multiple career options and income potential. According to the Condition of Education report, liberal arts majors between the ages of 25 and 29 earn a median annual salary of $39,090. An online liberal arts degree can expose you to several different professional or academic passions, and can be the first step towards a rewarding career.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Whitewater, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin Whitewater supports 4,715 distance learners across two fully online programs. Of these programs, the bachelor's in liberal studies is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in their field. The liberal arts program prioritizes flexibility through full- and part-time study options.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in various fields. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. According to the institution, enrollees earn a median salary of $37,500 six years after finishing their degree. When preparing for the cost of education, students should know that the average cost of tuition and fees after aid is $12,309. Prospective students can contact the liberal arts program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
University of Wisconsin Whitewater at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,715
Total Online Programs: 2
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 79%
#2 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Arizona State University, located in Scottsdale, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The college supports distance learning across 54 remote bachelor's programs. The bachelor's degree in liberal studies is one of 54 programs providing premier education.
The online liberal arts degree places flexibility at the forefront. Students can customize the program in consultation with an academic advisor. Learners can also choose elective classes or pursue a minor to further their learning.
Liberal arts students can expect to pay $19,282 in tuition. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses. Learners can expect to be awarded $10,278 in financial aid, on average.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
#3 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in liberal arts should consider University of North Carolina at Greensboro's online BA in liberal and interdisciplinary studies. The college supports distance learning across 11 remote bachelor's programs. Learners in the liberal arts program are prepared for the demands of various fields through rigorous study.
The online liberal arts degree prioritizes flexibility. Learners work with academic advisors to create a course schedule meeting their career and academic goals. Enrollees can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduate liberal arts students can expect to pay $19,581 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college. The college averages financial aid award packages of $9,250 per degree-seeker.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 10,282
Total Online Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 82%
#4 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Utah State University
Logan, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Utah State University, located in Logan, facilitates online learning throughout 27 online degree programs. Online undergraduate students can benefit from studying in one of seven online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance their career, the online liberal arts BA is a wise choice. The liberal arts program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Throughout their coursework, students gain broad knowledge through general and advanced classes. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The college boasts a median salary of $37,400 for graduates six years after completing their studies. The college reports that the average undergraduate pays $13,452 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective enrollees can meet with the liberal arts department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Utah State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 13,952
Total Online Programs: 27
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 91%
#5 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh enables remote learning across nine online degree programs. Of these programs, three are available to undergraduate students. Learners seeking competitive study in liberal arts in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in liberal studies.. The liberal arts program supports learners from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their field. Students gain broad knowledge and skills, preparing them for life after their degree. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $37,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Liberal arts students can expect to pay $11,980 in tuition and fees per year. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,533
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 76%
#6 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Northern Iowa, located in Cedar Falls, facilitates online learning throughout 16 online degree programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from two online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of liberal studies program prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. The liberal arts program supports flexible study for enrollees learning at a distance.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their field. Students complete classes relevant to various fields, as well as general education requirements. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $39,600, according to the college. The average undergraduate pays $15,760 in tuition and fees yearly. Students can meet with the liberal arts department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
University of Northern Iowa at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,732
Total Online Programs: 16
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 79%
#7 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals seeking advanced online study should consider one of Northwestern State University of Louisiana's 53 online degree programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 16 online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance their career, the online bachelor of arts in liberal arts is a wise choice. Learners in the liberal arts program benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, including increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $35,700 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Liberal arts students typically pay $12,336 for tuition and fees, on average, per year. Prospective students can contact the liberal arts program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,906
Total Online Programs: 53
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 82%
#8 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Oregon State University's online bachelor's degree programs. The public school supports distance learners across 22 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in liberal studies supports flexible, rigorous study.
Liberal arts students can maximize flexibility through modified coursework and the option to pursue part-time enrollment. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.
Typically, undergraduate students pay $29,445 tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies. The school offers an average financial aid award package of $7,288 per student.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,977
Total Online Programs: 50
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 82%
#9 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Iowa State University
Ames, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Iowa State University enrolls distance learners in 35 programs. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from two online bachelor's degree programs. For students looking to advance in their field, the school's online bachelor of liberal studies is a wise choice. Students in the liberal arts program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time enrollment.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing liberal arts coursework. The program curriculum prepares students for the demands of various fields. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. Graduates who have completed their degree earn a median salary of $44,000 after six years. The college reports that the average undergraduate pays $15,195 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Iowa State University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the liberal arts department.
Iowa State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,802
Total Online Programs: 35
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 92%
#10 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Kansas supports highly ranked bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Lawrence. The liberal arts program is one of eight online bachelor's programs available through the institution. Distance learners interested in the various fields can enroll in the school's BGS in liberal arts and sciences program.
The liberal arts program balances rigor with flexibility. The curriculum equips students with knowledge relevant to many industries. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
Currently, undergraduate liberal arts students pay $26,960 in tuition. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution. Degree-seekers receive a financial aid award package amounting to $6,834 on average.
University of Kansas at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,005
Total Online Programs: 38
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 93%
#11 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-St. Louis supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 25 online degree programs. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from seven online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance their career, the online bachelor of liberal studies is a wise choice. The liberal arts program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the skills needed to advance in their field. These classes equip students with broad knowledge. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $38,700 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $7,977 per year in tuition and fees. Prospective students should contact the liberal arts department directly before applying to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
University of Missouri-St. Louis at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,037
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 73%
#12 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Colorado State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 39 online degree programs. Undergraduate students from around the globe can connect with Colorado State University through one of its three fully online bachelor's programs. Students seeking advanced online study in the liberal arts can enroll in the school's online bachelor's in interdisciplinary liberal arts program. The program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.
Throughout the liberal arts program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing broad coursework. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The institution reports a median salary of $39,900 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. The average undergraduate pays $16,793 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Colorado State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,786
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 81%
#13 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Springfield is a public, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. The public college supports distance learners across 12 online bachelor's programs. The online bachelor's in liberal studies is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in any field.
The online liberal arts degree places flexibility at the forefront. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Enrollees can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $15,948 at the school. The institution's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. The school awards an average financial aid package of $12,821 per enrollee.
University of Illinois at Springfield at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,006
Total Online Programs: 32
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 77%
#14 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of the University of Southern Mississippi's 60 online degree programs. Undergraduate students seeking a flexible, remote program can choose from one of 22 online bachelor's degree programs. Learners looking for advanced, remote study relevant to many fields can enroll in the school's online bachelor's program in liberal studies. The liberal arts program allows for full- or part-time study, making it a flexible choice for working professionals and busy students.
During the liberal arts program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to various fields. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to a variety of careers. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
Graduates can easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. The institution reports a median salary of $33,500 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. The college notes that the average undergraduate pays $14,485 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.
University of Southern Mississippi at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,842
Total Online Programs: 60
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 97%
#15 Best Online Liberal Arts Degrees
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
As a leader in online education, Northern Arizona University supports 14,098 distance learners across 70 remote degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 18 online bachelor programs. Learners hoping to advance in their field can enroll in the college's BA in liberal arts program. The liberal arts program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students complete classes relevant to many fields, as well as general education requirements. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Many graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $36,900. The college states that the average undergraduate pays $14,236 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,098
Total Online Programs: 70
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 85%
Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Programs
Choosing a Program
Pursuing a liberal arts degree online provides students with a foundation of knowledge rooted in the arts, sciences, and humanities. The wide range of courses in English, mathematics, science, and philosophy will deepen your analytical and critical thinking skills. Graduates with a liberal arts degree typically have excellent writing, communication, and public speaking abilities.
As the degree itself doesn't delve deeply into any one subject, many students opt to supplement it with a minor. Popular choices include business, communications, political science, economics, media, and computer science. A minor can help students direct their studies once they've discovered a passion without requiring them to change their major.
Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Careers
Earning a liberal arts bachelor's degree online prepares students for a variety of career opportunities. The general nature of the degree provides a knowledge base across many subject areas, though many specific careers may require additional training or advanced degrees. Popular professions for graduates with this degree include teaching, community work, bookkeeping, sales, and real estate.
Teacher Assistants
These professionals help teachers with classroom instruction by working with students individually or in groups. Teaching assistants may also work exclusively with special education students. Childcare centers and traditional schools hire teacher assistants to execute tasks that streamline lesson planning, grading, and child supervision. A liberal arts degree is sufficient for teacher assistants, whereas certified teaching positions require advanced degrees and licensure.
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
These officials record incomes and expenses for companies and organizations. Bookkeepers, accountants, and auditing clerks typically make payments, manage employee payroll, and generate reports. Some positions include budgeting and forecasting responsibilities. With minimal education requirements, many applicants receive on-the-job training.
Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents
Real estate professionals assist clients with buying and selling residential or commercial properties. This profession requires excellent attention to detail and expertise in marketing concepts and strategies. Brokers and agents must pass real estate exams for licensing, and many participate in mentorship programs upon entering the field.
Header Image Credit: stefanamer | Getty Images
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