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Fastest Online Economics Degree Programs for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

In today's rapidly evolving global landscape, a deep understanding of economics is more crucial than ever. From analyzing market trends to shaping public policy, economic principles underpin virtually every aspect of our lives. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2024 there were approximately 17,500 employed economists in the U.S.

For those looking to gain this invaluable expertise efficiently, the fastest online economics degree programs offer a compelling solution. This article will explore the burgeoning field of accelerated online economics degrees, shedding light on what prospective students can expect from these programs.

We'll explore the streamlined curricula, flexible learning formats, and career opportunities that make these degrees an attractive option for both busy professionals and ambitious learners. 

What are the benefits of getting a degree in economics?

  • An economics degree opens doors to a wide range of careers, including roles such as economist, financial risk analyst, data analyst, and various public sector positions.
  • The median annual salary for someone with an economics degree in the United States is approximately $82,064, with the top earners making up to $116,500 per year.
  • Earning an economics degree online offers significant flexibility and convenience, allowing students to tailor their studies around work or family commitments and access course materials anytime, anywhere, making higher education more accessible without sacrificing current responsibilities.

What can I expect from an economics degree?

An economics degree offers a comprehensive education in how economies function, covering topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and econometrics. Through this program, you can expect to develop strong analytical, quantitative, and critical thinking skills, learning to apply economic theories to real-world problems and policy issues.

The curriculum often emphasizes data analysis, economic modeling, and the use of statistical tools, preparing you to interpret and communicate complex economic arguments effectively.

Where can I work with an economics degree?

With an economics degree, you can work in a wide range of sectors and roles due to the highly transferable analytical and problem-solving skills you develop. Common career paths include economist, financial risk analyst, and data analyst.

Beyond traditional finance and government roles, economics graduates find opportunities in tech companies, commercial businesses, charities, NGOs, international development, education, journalism, law, and research institutes.

How much can I make with an economics degree?

With an economics degree, you can expect to earn a strong salary in the United States. The average annual pay for someone with a bachelor’s in economics is about $82,064, with most salaries ranging from $69,000 (25th percentile) to $98,500 (75th percentile), and top earners making up to $116,500 per year.

For those with advanced degrees or specialized roles, the average salary can be even higher, reaching around $107,594 annually, with similar top-end earnings. These figures highlight the strong earning potential and opportunities for advancement that come with an economics degree.

Table of Contents

  1. List of the Fastest Online Economics Degree Programs for 2025
  2. How long does it take to complete an online economics degree program?
  3. How does an online economics degree program compare to an on-campus program?
  4. What is the average cost of an online economics degree program?
  5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online economics degree program?
  6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online economics degree program?
  7. What courses are typically in an online economics degree program?
  8. What types of specializations are available in an online economics degree program?
  9. How to choose the best online economics degree program?
  10. How can an online economics degree facilitate advanced education and leadership roles?
  11. Do employers value online economics degrees as much as traditional ones?
  12. What career paths are available for graduates of an online economics degree program?
  13. What is the job market for graduates with an online economics degree program?
  14. Everything Else You Need to Know About the Fastest Online Economics Degree Programs

List of the Fastest Online Economics Degree Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools?

Selecting a program that is accredited ensures that the education you receive meets high academic standards. The right program can also significantly enhance your career prospects. Research.com has developed a ranking system employing rigorously validated and recent data to facilitate this crucial choice. You can visit our methodology page to learn more.

1. Florida International University Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Florida International University (FIU) offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Economics designed to provide students with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and real-world application. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret financial data, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in business, government, finance, and beyond. 

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $205
  • Required credits to graduate: 60 credits
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Penn State World Campus BS/BA in Economics

Penn State World Campus offers both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics, fully online, providing flexibility for students balancing education with work or family obligations. The program is nationally recognized and designed to equip students with essential economic skills for a wide range of careers in business, finance, government, and beyond.  Students learn to analyze market trends, determine pricing policies, evaluate economic environments, and collect and interpret data using spreadsheets and statistical software. 

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $678
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. UMass Dartmouth BS/BA in Economics

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth offers a fully online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics, designed for students seeking flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Courses emphasize both economic theory and practical application. Students learn to collect and analyze economic data, evaluate findings, interpret market trends, and formulate recommendations for business and policy decisions.

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Economics
  • Cost per credit: $434
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. Liberty University Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and Data Analysis – Economics

Liberty University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and Data Analysis – Economics. The program is structured to equip students with both core business competencies and specialized economic analysis skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles in business, government, and public policy. Students study macroeconomics, microeconomics, economic forecasting, data analysis, and international trade, gaining the ability to analyze market trends and make informed business decisions

  • Tracks/concentrations: Economics
  • Cost per credit: $390
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. Ottawa University Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics

Ottawa University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics (BBE) fully online, designed to provide students with practical insight into economic decision-making in business and society. The curriculum focuses on analyzing economic systems and data, applying knowledge to solve business problems, and forming recommendations to improve efficiency and equity. The program incorporates a liberal arts approach to develop well-rounded critical thinking and communication skills.

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $499
  • Required credits to graduate: 51 credits
  • Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

6. Regent University BS in Business with Economics concentration

Regent University offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business with a concentration in Economics, delivered fully online or on campus in Virginia Beach. This program combines a strong foundation in business administration with specialized economic training, all taught from a Christian worldview. Students explore core economic concepts such as cost and inflation theories, market structure, capital budgeting, macroeconomics, microeconomics, political economy, entrepreneurship, and market processes

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $450
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

7. American Public University Bachelor of Arts in Business

American Public University (APU) offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Business degree that includes a strong emphasis on economics, designed to provide students with a broad understanding of business principles alongside economic theory and applications.  Students learn to collect and analyze data using various tools, apply critical thinking to solve business problems, and integrate economic and market information into strategic business plans. 

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $350
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

8. Grand Canyon University Bachelor of Science in Economics

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Economics where students study mathematical models, statistical techniques, and economic incentives that influence human behavior, markets, and economies. The coursework covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, financial systems, money and banking, investments, and economic policy analysis. 

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $485
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

9. Lakeland University Economics minor

Lakeland University offers an Economics minor as part of its liberal arts curriculum, designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory alongside practical decision-making skills relevant to the business world. The program emphasizes understanding economic principles as the "science of choice," focusing on how individuals, businesses, and governments allocate scarce resources to meet their needs and wants. 

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $550
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

10. University of Arizona MBA with Business Economics specialization

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers an online MBA program with a specialization in Business Economics. This specialization equips students with a foundational understanding of economic principles and their application within today’s complex business environments. The economics specialization supplements core business curricula, enhancing students’ ability to analyze economic forces affecting businesses, including employment, inflation, monetary, and fiscal policy.

  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Cost per credit: $460
  • Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
  • Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How long does it take to complete an online economics degree program?

The time it takes to complete an online economics degree program typically depends on factors such as the student's course load, transfer credits, and the program structure. For full-time students starting from scratch, most bachelor's degree programs in economics require about 120 credits and can be completed in approximately four years.

However, many online programs offer degree completion options for transfer students, enabling them to finish their degree in as little as two years by applying previously earned credits.

Students who take heavier course loads each semester can also accelerate their studies, potentially finishing in three years or less, while those balancing other commitments might take five years or more by taking fewer courses per term. The flexibility of asynchronous online courses and multiple start dates further allows students to tailor their pace to their schedules and goals. 

For students comparing their options, it can be helpful to look at other flexible and affordable online programs—such as the cheapest maintenance technician training online—to understand how short-term, skills-based learning stacks up in terms of time and cost versus a full degree.

How does an online economics degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Online economics degree programs and traditional on-campus programs share many similarities in curriculum and learning objectives, but they differ notably in delivery format, flexibility, and student experience. Online programs offer unmatched flexibility, allowing students to study asynchronously from any location and often at their own pace, which is particularly beneficial for working adults or those with family commitments.

Research indicates that online learning can be more time-efficient, requiring 40% to 60% less time than face-to-face classes, and students often retain more information in online settings. Additionally, online education tends to be more cost-effective, as it eliminates expenses such as commuting and housing. Many students exploring flexible options like online economics degrees also consider other high-demand pathways—such as the fastest online user experience design programs—that prioritize speed, flexibility, and career relevance.

However, studies have shown that students in traditional face-to-face economics courses generally achieve higher grades and success rates compared to those in fully online courses, especially among freshmen, sophomores, and less-prepared students.

This gap is partly attributed to the greater institutional support and engagement opportunities available to on-campus students, as well as differences in student characteristics and learning styles. Online students who are well-integrated with their institutions and take advantage of support services tend to perform better.

What is the average cost of an online economics degree program?

The average cost of an online economics degree program typically ranges between $30,000 and $70,000 in total tuition, with per-credit-hour costs varying from about $250 to $600 depending on the institution. Most bachelor's programs, like the most affordable online bachelor's degree in mathematics, require around 120 credits, so the overall price depends on the per-credit rate charged by the university.

Factors influencing cost include whether the school is public or private, in-state or out-of-state tuition rates, program length, and availability of financial aid or scholarships. For example, some public universities offer lower in-state tuition, while private institutions tend to be more expensive.

Additionally, students can reduce costs by transferring credits, utilizing employer tuition assistance, or applying for scholarships. Many prospective students also compare these expenses with other specialized online programs—such as affordable online pediatric nurse practitioner graduate certificate programs—that provide targeted career training at a lower total cost.

Compared to traditional on-campus programs, online economics degrees often provide more affordable options by eliminating expenses such as commuting and housing.

Overall, prospective students can expect to invest approximately $250 to $600 per credit, resulting in an average total tuition of between $30,000 and $70,000 for a complete online bachelor's degree in economics.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online economics degree program?

Students enrolling in an online economics degree program have several financial aid options available to them, similar to those pursuing on-campus degrees. These options can significantly help in covering tuition and other educational expenses. 

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This is the crucial first step for most students seeking federal aid. By filling out the FAFSA, students can determine their eligibility for various programs.
  • Direct Subsidized Loans: Available to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest while the student is in school at least half-time, during the grace period, and during deferment periods.
  • State Financial Aid: Many states offer their own grants and scholarships for higher education, including for online programs. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary by state. It's advisable to check with your state's higher education agency.
  • Private Scholarships: Numerous private organizations, businesses, and foundations offer scholarships for students in various fields, including economics. These can be found through scholarship search engines or by researching professional organizations related to economics. Examples include scholarships for specific academic achievements, diverse backgrounds, or those pursuing particular areas within economics (e.g., public finance, actuarial science). Students enrolled in high-demand programs—such as accelerated online social media programs or fast-track business degrees—may also find industry-specific scholarships designed to support careers in digital marketing and analytics.
  • Private Student Loans: These are offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders. They often have higher interest rates and less flexible repayment options than federal loans and typically require a good credit history or a co-signer. It's generally recommended to exhaust federal aid options before considering private loans.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online economics degree program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online economics degree program include what degree do you need to be an economist. It can also vary depending on whether you're pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, and on the specific university. However, there are common requirements you'll typically encounter:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: All programs will require proof of high school graduation or a GED. Some may prefer a minimum high school GPA (e.g., 2.7 or 2.5).
  • Introductory Economics Courses (for transfers/some programs): If you're transferring from another institution or sometimes even as a freshman, having completed "Principles of Microeconomics" and "Principles of Macroeconomics" can be a significant advantage or a direct requirement for admission into the major.
  • General Education Requirements: Like any bachelor's degree, you'll need to fulfill general education courses in areas like English, humanities, social sciences, and sometimes natural sciences. Some of these may be completed as prerequisites or within the degree program itself.

What courses are typically in an online economics degree program?

Online economics degree programs, whether at the bachelor's or master's level, are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of economic principles, theories, and analytical methods. The curriculum typically blends core economic concepts with quantitative skills and often allows for specialization in various subfields.

  • Principles of Microeconomics: Introduces the behavior of individual economic units (consumers, firms, industries), market structures, supply and demand, and resource allocation.
  • Data Analysis/Big Data for Economists: Increasingly common, these courses focus on the practical application of data science tools to economic problems. Some students even complement their studies with a fast-track graduate certificate in data analytics online, which can enhance their ability to work with complex datasets and apply advanced analytical tools—skills increasingly valued in today’s data-driven economy.
  • Statistics (Introductory & sometimes advanced): Covers probability, hypothesis testing, sampling, and data interpretation, laying the groundwork for econometrics.
  • Health Economics: Applies economic principles to the healthcare sector, including healthcare markets, insurance, and policy. For students particularly interested in leadership roles within healthcare, pairing their economics background with the shortest online MBA in healthcare management can provide a fast, focused path to combining business strategy and health sector expertise.
  • Economic History: Examines historical economic events and trends.
  • Quantitative Methods/Business Analytics: May cover topics like optimization, forecasting, and data visualization relevant to economic analysis.

Some students pair their economics degree with niche credentials—such as the shortest online graduate certificate in logistics and supply chain management—to gain a competitive edge in industries that rely heavily on economic forecasting and operational efficiency. This kind of combination enhances job readiness in global commerce, trade, and distribution sectors.

What types of specializations are available in an online economics degree program?

Online economics degree programs offer a growing variety of specializations to cater to diverse career paths and academic interests. While the core curriculum in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics forms the foundation, these specializations allow students to delve deeper into specific applications of economic theory and quantitative methods.

  • Financial Economics / Finance: This specialization applies economic principles to understand financial markets, investment strategies, corporate finance, risk management, and the behavior of financial institutions. It often involves a strong emphasis on quantitative modeling.
  • International Economics: Explores global economic interactions, including international trade, finance, exchange rates, and the impact of globalization on national economies.
  • Data Analytics / Econometrics / Quantitative Economics: With the rise of "big data," this specialization is increasingly popular. It provides rigorous training in statistical and computational methods for analyzing economic data, building predictive models, and testing economic theories. There are also affordable data science training programs online that can hone your skills further.
  • Public Policy / Public Economics: Examines the economic role of government, including taxation, public spending, social welfare programs, and the economic analysis of government policies.
  • Behavioral Economics: Integrates insights from psychology into economic models to better understand how psychological factors influence individual and group economic decision-making, often leading to deviations from purely rational behavior.

How to choose the best online economics degree program?

Choosing the best online economics degree program depends heavily on your individual circumstances, goals, and learning style. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

  • Regional Accreditation: This is paramount. Ensure the university offering the online program is accredited by a recognized regional accrediting agency in the U.S. (e.g., SACSCOC, Middle States, WASC). This ensures the degree is legitimate and recognized by employers and for further education.
  • University Reputation: Consider the overall reputation of the university. A degree from a well-regarded institution, even online, often carries more weight. Look at university rankings (though online program rankings can differ from traditional ones).
  • Program-Specific Accreditation (less common but worth noting): While economics programs don't typically have their own specialized accreditation like business schools Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or engineering programs, if the economics department is housed within a business school, that school's accreditation can be a positive indicator of quality.
  • Course Offerings: Compare the core courses and available electives. Do they cover the topics you're interested in? Do they align with your chosen specialization?
  • Quantitative Rigor: Economics is quantitative. Ensure the program offers sufficient coursework in calculus, statistics, and econometrics. For master's programs, look for advanced econometrics, mathematical economics, and potentially computational methods.
  • Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty members teaching in the online program. Do they have strong academic backgrounds, relevant research interests, and experience in online instruction? Many universities list faculty profiles on their department websites.

How can an online economics degree facilitate advanced education and leadership roles?

Graduates who complete an online economics degree gain a robust analytical framework that not only prepares them for immediate professional responsibilities but also positions them favorably for advanced studies and leadership roles. Leveraging their proficiency in data analysis and economic theory, many professionals choose to further their expertise by pursuing complementary graduate programs. This strategic progression often includes enrolling in affordable MBA online programs, which seamlessly integrate advanced business management with economic insights. Such academic enhancements support the transition into strategic decision-making, policy formulation, and executive leadership, further broadening career opportunities.

Do employers value online economics degrees as much as traditional ones?

Employers increasingly acknowledge that online economics degrees deliver rigorous, accredited curricula that cultivate essential analytical and quantitative skills. Industry leaders note that graduates from these programs demonstrate strong self-discipline, adaptability, and technical proficiency—qualities that are highly attractive in today’s fast-evolving work environments. Many organizations recognize that the flexibility inherent in online learning encourages continual professional development and practical problem-solving, ensuring that credential holders are well-prepared to meet real-world challenges. Experts also highlight the importance of complementary studies, such as accelerated online bachelor degree programs in sports management, which can further diversify a candidate’s skillset and enhance overall employability.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online economics degree program?

An online economics degree, whether at the bachelor's or master's level, equips graduates with highly versatile skills that are in demand across a wide range of industries. The core strengths gained from an economics education – analytical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, statistical modeling, and understanding complex systems – are valuable in almost any sector.

  • Finance and Banking: This is a very common destination for economics graduates due to their strong quantitative skills and understanding of markets.
  • Data Analysis and Science: Economics graduates are well-suited for the booming field of data science due to their strong background in econometrics and statistical analysis. To learn how to become a data scientist, you must acquire additional skills, like learning programming languages.
  • Consulting: Economics graduates often excel in consulting roles due to their ability to analyze complex problems, develop solutions, and communicate effectively.

What is the job market for graduates with an online economics degree program?

Graduates with an online economics degree can expect a strong job market with diverse and well-paying career opportunities across various sectors, including government, finance, business, and consulting. 

According to data from sources like Eastern Oregon University and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, economists earn a median annual salary of approximately $115,440, and the field is projected to grow at a rate of about 5%, which is significantly faster than the average salary of other professions such as business psychologist salary.

Career paths commonly pursued by economics graduates include roles such as economists, financial analysts, policy analysts, market research analysts, actuaries, budget analysts, and management consultants. These positions involve analyzing economic trends, evaluating financial risks, advising on policy, and helping organizations make data-driven decisions. 

Some professionals choose to advance their skills and earning potential by pursuing an accelerated master's degree in data analytics online, which equips them with advanced quantitative techniques and specialized data tools that complement their economics expertise.

Online economics degrees equip students with critical skills in data analysis, economic theory, and strategic thinking, making them valuable assets in sectors like banking, government agencies, healthcare, and technology.

Additionally, professional associations such as the American Economic Association and the National Association for Business Economics provide networking, continued education, and job resources that can enhance career prospects, including what jobs can you get with a masters in finance.

Overall, an online economics degree offers graduates access to a growing job market with competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement in a variety of industries.

Here's what graduates have to say about their online economics degree

"Pursuing my economics degree online was a game-changer. The flexibility allowed me to continue working full-time while gaining a deep understanding of market forces and policy impacts, which I immediately applied to my job. I truly felt empowered by the control I had over my learning pace and schedule, making a challenging subject accessible and incredibly rewarding." - Mariah

"I always wanted to understand the global economy, and the online format made that dream a reality. The interactive modules and virtual discussions with classmates from diverse backgrounds enriched my perspective immensely, far beyond what I expected from a digital classroom. I genuinely felt a sense of belonging and intellectual stimulation, proving that online learning can be just as engaging and impactful as traditional methods." - Hector

"Earning my economics degree online provided me with the analytical toolkit I needed to pivot my career into data analysis. The self-paced modules and readily available resources meant I could delve into complex economic models at my own speed, ensuring I truly grasped each concept. It was incredibly liberating to shape my education around my life, not the other way around, and the sense of accomplishment I feel is immense." - Millie

Key Findings

  • The median annual salary for someone with an economics degree in the United States is approximately $82,064.
  • For full-time students starting from scratch, most bachelor's degree programs in economics require about 120 credits and can be completed in approximately four years.
  • Prospective students can expect to invest approximately $250 to $600 per credit, resulting in an average total tuition of between $30,000 and $70,000 for a complete online bachelor's degree in economics.
  • The projected growth for economics is at a rate of about 14%, which is significantly faster than average.

Other Things You Need to Know About the Fastest Online Economics Degree Programs

What is the difference between a BA and BS in Economics online?

A BA in Economics is generally broader and more flexible, emphasizing the theoretical and conceptual aspects of economics within a liberal arts framework. This degree is ideal for students interested in exploring interdisciplinary studies, pursuing double majors, or preparing for careers in law, public policy, or social sciences.

In contrast, a BS in Economics is more technical and quantitatively rigorous, focusing on the practical application of economic principles, data analysis, and research methods. The BS curriculum requires more advanced coursework in mathematics, statistics, and econometrics, and often includes specialized courses such as financial economics, labor economics, and game theory.

What industries hire the most economics graduates?

Economics graduates find employment across a wide range of industries where their analytical, quantitative, and strategic thinking skills are highly valued. The finance and banking sector remains the top industry hiring economics graduates, offering roles such as investment banking, credit analysis, asset management, and financial advising, where graduates analyze market trends and assess financial risks.

The most common industries hiring economics graduates include finance and banking, consulting, government and public policy, technology, healthcare, environmental sectors, and non-profit organizations.

Are there hidden fees in online programs?

Yes, online degree programs often have hidden fees beyond the advertised tuition costs that students should be aware of when budgeting. These additional expenses can include the cost of necessary hardware like a reliable computer, high-speed internet access, and specialized software required for coursework. Students may also need to pay for course materials such as textbooks, which are sometimes not included in tuition. 

Moreover, many institutions charge various institutional fees, such as technology fees, enrollment fees, or graduation fees, which can add up over time. These hidden costs vary by program and school but can significantly increase the overall price of an online economics degree, so prospective students must research and factor them into their financial planning to avoid surprises.

How do I verify a program’s accreditation status?

To verify a program’s accreditation status, start by reviewing the school’s official website, where accredited institutions typically display their accreditation information on an “About Us” or “Accreditation” page, sometimes specifying both institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Next, cross-check this information directly with the accrediting agency’s directory by visiting the accreditor’s official website, where you can confirm the current accreditation status and renewal dates, ensuring the program hasn’t lost its accreditation. It is also essential to verify the legitimacy of the accrediting body itself; for institutional accreditation, the agency should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), which is necessary for federal financial aid eligibility.

References:

  • Hanson, M. (2024). Average Cost of Online College. Education Data Initiative.
  • National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). (2024). Average undergraduate tuition, fees, room, and board charges for full-time students in degree-granting postsecondary institutions, by control and level of institution and state: Academic years 2021-22 and 2022-23. Digest of Education Statistics. NCES.
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). 15-2051 Data Scientists. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved January 15, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes152051.htm
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). 19-3011 Economists. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved January 15, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193011.htm
  • Zippia. (2023, July 21). Best Colleges and Degrees For Economists. Zippia. Retrieved January 15, 2024, from https://www.zippia.com/economist-jobs/education

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