Pros and Cons of Earning an Online Degree

Pro #1: Additional Flexibility

If a student is in need of a flexible schedule, earning a degree online can accommodate this necessity. A flexible schedule is oftentimes needed by those students who are working professionals or parents.

Con #1: Little Interaction

Even though some interaction does take place with course professors and other students, not near as much takes place as there is when earning a degree through a traditional brick-and-mortar college campus.

Pro #2: No Need to Feel Awkward

When taking courses through online degree programs, there is no reason to feel awkward about one’s age; this is especially advantageous to those students who choose to earn a degree later on in life.

Con #2: No College Experience

In addition to earning a degree, many people want to go to college for the experience. When earning a degree online, much of the traditional college experiences are missed out on.

Pro #3: Tech-Savvy

Earning a degree online can help students become more tech-savvy than students who earn a degree at a traditional college campus.

Con #3: No Hands-On Experience

Online degree programs do not incorporate hands-on experiences into their lectures. The only way hands-on experience will be obtained is if the online program calls for an internship.

Pro #4: No Social Activities

In one aspect, since there are no social activities involved with earning a degree online, this helps in making sure a student does not become distracted in his or her studies.

Con #4: No Social Activities

On the other hand, no social activities means there are no extra-curricular activities to take part in, which some students consider essential to fully experiencing college.

Pro #5: Many Types of Programs

There are a wide array of degree programs that can be completed online. From healthcare degrees to finance degrees, every industry has some type of degree that can be earned online.

Con #5: Little Accountability

Online learning programs tend to have little accountability.

Pro #6: Fast Graduation Times

Many online courses can be completed in as little as five weeks, meaning full degree programs can be graduated from in as little as 15 months; this is much quicker than traditional degree programs which usually take at least 24 months to graduate from.

Con #6: Constant Use of Computers

For students that hate using computers, it is best to steer clear of online degree programs because, most times, all assignments have to be completed and submitted using a computer.

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Universities and museums are natural allies. Both have missions that include examining and preserving knowledge about the natural and human world to increase human understanding. Museums within universities are partnerships that often bring an extraordinary depth of research to the collections they contain while also bringing these artifacts into public view.

There are many kinds of museums. Each focuses on a specific area of human knowledge from anthropology to contemporary art to naval warfare to zoology. Collaboration with a college or university brings research tools, student and volunteer labor, and community support and input into the process of procurement, preservation, and exhibition of each university museum’s collection.

Museums generally have permanent collections that are always on display, temporary exhibits that come and go, and other artifacts that are cataloged and stored for research and other purposes. Museums are also sometimes the location for displays of film, video, live performances, and educational and interactive presentations of many kinds. University museums also serve as centers of teaching and research and many are located in buildings of significant architectural relevance and beauty.

Here is a list of 30 the most outstanding university museums around the world listed by country.

UNITED STATES

1. The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Philadelphia, PA

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This museum was founded in 1887 as a part of the University of Pennsylvania. Among its many collections is the largest collection of African artifacts in the United States. Many of these objects were obtained by the famous German ethnographer Leo Frobenius between the years of 1891 and 1937 during the early history of European encounters with African cultures.

The museum does much of its own field excavation work in conjunction with University researchers and students, including the collection of artifacts belonging to the America Section. This is the largest section in the museum with over 300,000 specimens of anthropological significance from Alaska to Argentina covering the span of human history.

Also included in the permanent collection are significant specimens from ancient Cannan and Israel, 42,000 items from ancient Egypt and Nubia – the largest collection in the U.S., a museum section devoted to prehistoric European archeology, an Oceanian collection, a Historical Archaeology Section housing materials relating to world history since the year 1400, and one of the largest collections of Babylonian clay writing tablets in the world.

2. Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge, MA

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The Harvard Museum of Natural History is the public exhibition venue for the research museums at the Museum of Comparative Zoology, the Harvard University Herbaria, and the Mineralogical and Geological Museum at Harvard University.

The museum features many interactive exhibits and is visited by over 33,000 school children every year. It has permanent galleries of South American animals, New England forests, Asian birds and animals, an Africa gallery, fossil mammals, minerals and gems,and climate change, along with frequent special exhibits.

A unique exhibit among the permanent collections is the Glass Flowers Collection comprised of 4,000 intricately detailed glass models of flowers from 847 different plant species made by glass artisan Leopold Blaschka and son Rudolph between 1887 and the late 1930s.

3. Lincoln Heritage Museum at Lincoln College, Lincoln, IL

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The Lincoln museum preserves artifacts related to the life and presidency of Abraham Lincoln. Objects from Lincoln’s home, books and other personal possessions of Lincoln, and a one of a kind handmade campaign banner depicting Lincoln as the “Rail Splitter Candidate” are among the permanent displays. There is also a unique Civil War drum and several portraits and sculptures of Lincoln.

The museum also has some items unrelated to Lincoln, including a steel beam from the World Trade Center recovered after the September 11, 2001 attacks and a Hall of Presidents with handwritten documents from every president of the United States.

The museum is part of Lincoln College, the only college established during Lincoln’s lifetime bearing his name.

4. Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, Berkeley, CA

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A part of the University of California at Berkeley, BAM/PFA was founded 1963 with a donation of 45 paintings by artist Hans Hofman along with a gift of $250,000 made by him to the University. The modern building design was done by architects Mario Ciampi, Richard L Jorasch, Ronald E. Wagner, and the building opened in 1970.

This museum is one of largest university art museums in the U.S., possessing an archive of over 16,000 paintings, sculptures, and other artworks as well as 14,000 films and videos. The art museum’s focus is abstract expressionism, and it has the biggest collection of Abstract Expressionist artists in any museum in the world.

The Pacific Film Archive was founded in 1971 with a mission of preserving significant cinematic history. The public theater has 450 programs each year showing classic and experimental cinema. rare films and print editions, thematic retrospectives, and restored silent era films with live musical accompaniments .

5. University of Arizona Arts & Museums, Tucson, AZ

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There are several separate museums at the University of Arizona.

Established in 1893, the anthropology section is the oldest anthropology museum in Arizona. It contains outstanding ethnographic collections representing the indigenous Indian cultures of the region with large samples of pottery, basketry, and other artifacts.

The University of Arizona is also home to a world-class art museum featuring examples of European and American fine art since the Renaissance and a performing arts center where student performances in music, dance, and theater are open to the public.

A few miles outside of Tucson is the Biosphere 2 “World Under Glass.” This unique, human-made environment covers 14 acres and is completely enclosed in a glass bubble. It contains a living rain forest, a replica ocean, and other niche ecological environments where researchers live and study. The Biosphere 2 is listed in the book “Time-Life 50 Wonders of the World.”

The Campus Arboretum is the oldest green space in Arizona and home to thousands of plant specimens from semiarid climates around world.

The Center for Creative Photography is an archive, museum, and research center for the art of photography.

The Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium has regular astronomical exhibits and shows.

The Jim Click Hall of Champions records the history of athletics in the state of Arizona.

There is also a Pharmacy Museum and a Mineral Museum at the University of Arizona.

6. U.S. Naval War College Museum, Newport, RI

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The collection at the U.S. Naval War College Museum highlights important events and developments in the science of war at sea, particularly the naval history of Narragansett Bay starting in the colonial era. Exhibits tie in with the curriculum of the college.

The building that houses this museum was originally the location of the Newport Asylum of the Poor. In 1884 it was converted to use as the U.S. Naval College and later designated as the museum. The building is now in the registry of Historic Landmarks.

Well known naval historian Captain Alfred Thayer Mahan, US Navy, taught here between 1886 and 1889, giving lectures that were later published in the important naval history book, “The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660-1783,” published in 1890.

CANADA

7. Agnes Etherington Art Center, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario

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This Art Center was originally developed in 1926 with the formation of the Kingston Art and Music Club by Agnes Etherington (1880-1954), a private patron of the arts. An eight million dollar fund raising campaign in the year 2000 financed an expansion of eight new exhibition halls, a large archival storage facility, a studio for production of public programs, an atrium, an art rental and sales venue, and restoration of Agnes Etherington’s original house.

The museum’s collections are centered on Canadian historical and contemporary art and contain the Alfred Bader Collection of 100 paintings by Canadian artists. The museum also owns the Justine and Elisabeth Lang Collection of West African Art which is the biggest of such collections in Canada. Also represented are examples of of Inuit art, Canadian quilts and costumes, and other ethnographic holdings related to the region.

8. Museum of Anthropology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver

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This museum is world-renowned for its high quality research and teaching programs, multiple collections, public programs, and community involvement. The spectacular regional architecture of the Anthropology Building, and its beautiful location on the cliffs of Point Grey, are other points of attraction.

The Museum of Anthropology building is built in a traditional Northwest Coast open post and beam style of construction. Designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, the museum first opened in 1976. In 1990, a building extension added a resource library, laboratory, office space, and an exhibition gallery where 600 European ceramic pieces are on display.

A significant architectural detail is a set of enormous wooden doors carved by Walter Harris, Earl Muldoe, Art Sterritt, and Vernon Stephens. All four are master carving artisans of the local Gitxsan indigenous community.

The Museum of Anthropology contains 38,000 ethnographic objects and another 535,000 archaeological objects cared for by UBC’s Laboratory of Archaeology. These materials come from many parts of the globe, including Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, America, and Europe.

There is also an extensive collection of textiles from around the world and over 6,000 specimens from British Colombia’s indigenous cultures.

9. University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

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This University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon has multiple museums including:

The Museum of Antiquities exhibiting full scale replica sculpture from ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Near East civilizations; The Gordon Snelgrove Gallery hosting exhibition space for student artists and members of the community; and The Museum of Natural Sciences which is operated jointly by the Biology and Geology departments at the University, focusing on exhibits concerning physical evolution through geological time.

PORTUGAL

10. Science Museum of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra

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The University of Coimbra was founded in the year 1290, and it is one of the oldest and longest operating universities in the world.

The main collections here come from the departments of botany, physics, anthropology, zoology, and mineralogy at the University of Coimbra. Separate museums run by each of these departments were brought together into one museum in 2007.

In addition, there are collections from the Astronomical Observatory and Geophysical Institutes at the University displaying numerous scientific instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries.

POLAND

11. The Collegium Maius, Jagiellonian University, Krakow

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Collegium Maius means Great College in Polish. The museum is located in the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University in Old Town Krakow. Originally built as a private manor in 1364, the building was converted into a university in 1400.

Renovations in the early 1500s gave the building a Gothic architectural makeover and added a courtyard with a well at the center and surrounding arcades. The two story building originally had upstairs living quarters for professors and downstairs lecture halls where students gathered, including the famous astronomer Copernicus.

On exhibit are the historic lecture halls, communal living and study areas, professors quarters, original library, and a collection of Gothic maces. The Jagiellonian Globe, the oldest globe showing the Americas, is also housed here. Numerous medieval scientific instruments, globes, paintings, coins, and medals are part of the collection.

A permanent exhibit called, “The World of Senses” explores the human capacities of perception and mis-perception. There are also frequent visiting exhibits and temporary displays.

AUSTRALIA

12. Museums at the University of Queensland, Oueensland

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The University of Queensland Museum of Art collection is the second largest public art collection in Queensland, containing a total of 3,000 artworks. One gallery features the National Collection of Artist’s Self Portraits with self-portrait paintings and photographs by Australian artists.

There is also an extensive collection of other works by 20th century artists including Rupert Bunny, Robert Hawker Dowling, Rosalie Gascoigne, Peter Hennessey, Rosemary Laing, Sidney Nolan, and Tony Tuckson.

The University of Queensland also houses an Antiquities Museum with a large collection of ancient coins from Rome and Greece and the Marks-Hirshfeld Museum of Medical History which is the largest of its kind in Australia.

The University’s Anthropology Museum contains over 19,000 ethnographic specimens as well as 5,000 ethnographically relevant photographs. Nearly half of the collection is made up of objects and photographs of, or by, Aboriginal Australian groups and individuals. There is also a large collection of artifacts from the Pacific peoples.

13. Museums and Collections, Macquarie University, Sydney

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Macquarie University has nine separate museums and galleries, including the Macquarie University Art Gallery which displays six shows per year featuring contemporary artists.

The Museum of Ancient Cultures exhibits artifacts from prehistoric Australian, Pacific Island, and Asian cultures.

The Macquarie University Sporting Hall of Fame highlights past and present successes in sports at Macquarie University as well as athletes on the world stage, especially Australian Olympic athletes.

SINGAPORE

14. National University of Singapore Museum

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The primary focus of this museum is South East Asian art and culture. The University and museum were established 1955 before Singapore achieved its independence from Britain. The collections span the time periods from the classical Chinese and Indian era to modern and contemporary art. There are a total of over 7,000 artworks and artifacts. Malaysian self-identity and history are central themes in the displays.

ISRAEL

15. Hecht Museum, University of Haifa

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Rueben and Edith Hecht donated their private collection of artifacts acquired over a 60 years time span to found this museum. The artifacts they collected are mainly from ancient Israel in the Canaanite period up to the end of the Byzantine period. The layout of the museum’s displays follows a chronological sequence educating visitors about the highlights of the Israelite period.

The museum’s permanent collection started with the Hecht donation but has been expanded significantly since then. It now also includes artifacts on loan from Israel Antiquities Authority and from excavations conducted by the University of Haifa.

Exhibits cover Phoenician culture from the Biblical period and ancient crafts and industries, including the remains of seven ancient boats. One sea vessel on display is a 2,400 year old ship with its original anchor and part of its cargo. Tools and technologies related to glass manufacture, metalworking, mosaic art, medical science, and writing are also represented.

There is also an art wing called “Impressionism and Jewish Artists in the School of Paris” that includes paintings by Van Gogh, Manet, Monet, Pissarro, and others.

16. Beth Hatefutsoth, Tel Aviv University

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Also known as the Diaspora House, this unique museum follows the history of the Jewish diaspora throughout the world. Opened in 1978, the museum uses innovative audiovisual displays, along with more traditional exhibits, to trace the history of the movement of the Jewish people from 600 BCE to the present.

FRANCE

17. Zoological Museum of Strasbourg, University of Strasbourg

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Built originally in 1872, and located on the Strasbourg University campus, this museum began with collections from Jean Hermann’s Gallery of Natural History. It has been expanded and remodeled several times over the centuries. It is considered the best natural history collection in France.

Exhibits are from around the world and cover natural history from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Hundreds of thousands of specimens of stuffed animals, animals and insects preserved in alcohol, assembled fossil skeletons, animal skins, bird and reptile eggs, nests, and other natural objects provide a graphic understanding of natural history and its relationship to the environment.

There is a particular emphasis on Alsatian fauna of the region. The collection includes a total of 1,350,000 invertebrate specimens, 1,000,000 insect specimens, and 10,000 mammal specimens.

ENGLAND

18. New Hall Art Collection, University of Cambridge

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The New Hall Art Collection is part of the Murray Edward’s College at Cambridge University and was founded in 1954 for women students at the University when Cambridge had the lowest number of women students in the U.K. This permanent collection of works by modern and contemporary women artists includes paintings, prints, and sculptures. A total of 400 artworks by international women artists have been donated to the museum by artists and other donors and are on display.

A virtual online catalog allows Internet visitors access to the Gallery’s contents.

19. Whipple Museum of the History of Science, University of Cambridge

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An extensive collection of scientific instruments, apparatus, design models, drawings, photographs, and books related to the history of science are on view at this museum. A working library with many early books on scientific topics is also part of the facility.

The museum was founded 1944 with the donation of a private collection by Robert Whipple to the University of Cambridge and is currently part of the Department of History and Philosophy of Science at the University.

Many objects from the medieval period to the 18th century made by English instrument makers are on display. Instruments and manuscripts relating to the fields of astronomy, navigation, surveying, drawing, calculating, and studies in electrical technology are well represented.

20. Pitt Rivers Museum, University of Oxford

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This museum was founded in 1884 by Lt. General Pitt Rivers with the donation of his private collection. One half million archeological and ethnographic objects from the world are now owned by the museum and are available for exhibit.

An archive of photographic and rare sound recordings are also part of the collection, along with original manuscripts of notable early anthropologists and curators associated with museum.

SPAIN

21. Basque Museum of the History of Medicine and Science, University of the Basque Country, Leioa

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A collection of 6,000 medical and scientific objects from the 19th and 20th centuries used by doctors and hospitals in Basque Country, and a large library of medical books and encyclopedia from the same time period, preserve the collective history of modern medicine in this area.

Collections are displayed in rooms entitled Pharmacy, Weights and Measures, Unconventional Therapies, Anatomy and Physiology, Electrotherapy, Folk Medicine, Microscopes, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Anesthesia, and Surgery.

JAPAN

22. Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Science

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Use of this 40 acre site dates back to 1684 when Tokugawa shogun, Tsunayoshi established a medicinal herb garden in this location. In 1877 the Gardens became part of the University of Tokyo.

Live specimens include 1,400 hardy woody plants, 1,500 hardy herbaceous plants, and 1,100 tropical and subtropical plant species with notable collections of cherries, camellias, maples, and bonsai trees.

Research at the facility is focused on plant evolution and physiology. A library with 20,000 books and journals and a herbarium with 1.4 million specimens are also part of the Botanical Gardens.

23. Kyoto Museum for World Peace, Ritsumeikan University, Kita-ku, Kyoto

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The University of Ritsumeikan created this museum as part of its mission of social responsibility in promoting world peace. Each level of the three story structure develops a particular theme related to peace.

The basement level focuses on Japan’s “Fifteen Year War” with China and later the U.S., U.K., and Netherlands which ended on August 15, 1945 after the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It portrays the effects of war on individual people’s lives.

The first floor is devoted to the theme of “Investigating Peace” and houses a Media Library for international peace studies and a lounge with art work on themes related to world peace. The top level contains displays on the theme of “Building Peace,” emphasizing the obstacles that hinder the peace process and what ordinary people can do to create a more peaceful world.

SWITZERLAND

24. Museum of Design, Zurich University of the Arts, Zurich

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Industrial design, visual communication, architecture, and craft are the subject matter in exhibits at this museum operated by the Department of Cultural Analysis of the Zurich University of the Arts. The museum has four extensive collections of poster, graphics, design, and applied art of international significance.

Each year, five to seven temporary exhibits are displayed in the main hall and another five in other areas of the building. There are also occasional small interventions and performances in various locations around museum.

ARGENTINA

25. Samay Huasi, National University in La Plata, Chilecito, La Rioja Province

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A ranch that once belonged to prominent Argentine mining attorney Joaquin V. Gonzalez is the location of this museum. Samay Huasi means resting place in the local Quechua Indian language, and Gonzalez used the ranch as a vacation home beginning in 1913. Orchards, vineyards, and gardens planted by him still surround the old ranch house and buildings.

The ranch was used as an artist and writer’s retreat in the 1940s and as a retreat for University staff since then. In 1960, part of the ranch was converted into a museum, displaying anthropological and geological materials and manuscripts collected by Gonzalez.

The Antonio Alice Pinacotheca art gallery is also on the premises and features works by Argentine painters.

GERMANY

26. Grassi Museum fur Musikinstrumente (Museum of Musical Instruments), University of Leipzig

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This museum contains one of the largest collections of musical instruments with over 10,000 specimens from many parts of the world, especially Europe.

The museum was founded in 1886 with a collection of musical instruments owned by a Dutchman that was later sold to a paper merchant in 1905. In 1929 the collection was purchased by the University of Leipzig. During WW II, the collection suffered many losses, but it was rebuilt in the 1950s and has been open to the public since then.

The displays are arranged in 13 chronologically sequenced sections and include bowed, wind, and percussion instruments from the 16th century onward. The museum also owns an extensive collection of player piano rolls.

27. Akademisches Kunstmuseum (Academic Art Museum), University of Bonn

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Founded in 1818, this teaching art museum was one of the first established in Bonn. It has one of the largest collections of replica plaster casts of ancient Roman and Greek sculptures in the world. On display are 500 reproductions of statues and other sculpture. Over 2,000 original works of sculpture from the Classical world are also part of the extensive collection.

The Neoclassical building was completed in 1830 and was designed by Hermann Friedrich Waesemann and Karl Friedrich Schinkel.

ITALY

28. Museo Galileo, University of Florence

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The Museo Galileo was established in 1927 by the University of Florence. Among the more famous of this museum’s specimens is the middle finger from the right hand of famous astronomer and inventor Galileo Galilei. The finger was accidentally removed when Galileo’s body was transported to a new burial spot in 1737.

The museum features many scientific objects from the 15th to 19th centuries, including world globes, telescopes, stethoscopes, and navigation instruments. Video exhibits accompany and expand on material in the displays.

As one the world’s major scientific museums, Museo Galileo’s mission includes conserving and exhibiting their extensive collection of Medici and Lorraine scientific instruments collected since the Renaissance.

DENMARK

29. Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen

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The development and evolution of the Earth and solar system are at the center of the Natural History Museum of Denmark’s research along with cataloging of the natural diversity of Earth’s life forms and exploration of the interaction between humans and their environment.

The museum was formed by a merger of the Botanical Garden, the Botanical Museum & Library, the Geological Museum, and the Zoological Museum at the University to become the Natural History Museum of Denmark. It is now the national museum for natural history in the country.

TAIWAN

30. Asia University Museum of Art, Taipei

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The newest museum on this list is located in the first building in Taiwan to be designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The Asia University Museum of Art is set to open in the middle of 2013.

The museum will contain works of art ranging from a replica of French sculptor Auguste Rodin’s “The Thinker” to paintings by French artist Edgar Degas to works by contemporary Taiwanese sculptors and painters.

How to Find the Cheapest Online RN to BSN programs

Be thorough as you evaluate your options in a best affordable online RN to BSN program.

Financial Aid for Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

Would you like to save even more money? The good news is that financial aid is available to nursing students enrolled in an online RN to BSN degree program. Registered nurses planning to upgrade their credentials to the baccalaureate level can submit an online Free Application for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) just like any other college student. More than 5 million undergraduate students received need based Federal Pell Grants last year. Are you willing to finance your online program? The U.S. Department of Education offers low interest Federal Student loans to qualified applicants, including students in online RN to BSN degree programs. Don’t forget that many hospitals offer financial assistance to employees seeking to advance their education in the form of low interest loans, scholarships, hospital grants and work/study programs. Check with your current employer to see whether assistance is available.

Resources on Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Degrees

• Top 10 Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs
• Can You Do a Cheap RN to BSN Online?
• Are Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited?
• What Are the Best Cheap Online RN to BSN Degree Programs?
• How Much Does the Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Cost?

Finding the Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Program

The Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs Cost Around $150 per Credit Hour.

Resources on Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Degrees

• Top 10 Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Programs
• Can You Do a Cheap RN to BSN Online?
• Are Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited?
• What Are the Best Cheap Online RN to BSN Degree Programs?
• What Are the Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs?

Do Your Homework to Find the Best Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

How To Find The Best Affordable Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

When looking for an online program, potential candidates want to look for three things: accreditation, national ranking, and reputation. Accreditation is a validity certification given out by accreditation commissions that certify a school is valid and their degree works out in the field. Getting a degree at an non-accredited school will not be worth anything, so this is important to keep in mind when looking for schools. The second thing is national ranking. These change every year, so it’s best to keep in touch with the national ranking institutions such as US News and World Report. Lastly, reputation is something to consider. Your degree can be looked down upon if you choose a university that isn’t reputable or has a bad name in the industry. This is why it’s important to do your own research about schools before applying. Three are three good schools to start your search. All of these schools are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education(CCNE). Drexel University Online is ranked top 3 nationally by US News and World Report and has relatively low tuition costs at approximately 569$ per credit hour. Sacred Heart University has hosted an RN to BSN program for over 30 years and costs approximately 570$ per credit hour. Finally, ASU online is a good choice because of the reputation of the university and the lower cost of $442 per credit hour.

Financial Aid for Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

Financial aid is available for most programs. These include anything from student loans to work programs. For example, Drexel will discount your tuition if you work with an organization within their network. You can also apply for programs such as FAFSA for federal help in paying your tuition if you meet eligibility requirements. With the advent of the internet, there has never been a better time to look for cheap online RN to BSN degree programs.

Resources on Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Degrees

• Top 10 Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs
• Can You Do a Cheap RN to BSN Online?
• Are Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited?
• How Much Does the Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Cost?
• What Are the Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs?

Check with your state to make sure your affordable online RN to BSN degree program is accredited.

Accreditation of institutions of higher learning is done by each state in conjunction with regional and professional accrediting organizations and then overseen by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation is an ongoing process that requires periodic reviews for maintaining the accreditation.

By contacting the state Department of Higher Education where the school is located, you can check on accreditation of a degree program.

Resources on Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Program

• Top 10 Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs
• Can You Do a Cheap RN to BSN Online?
• What Are the Best Cheap Online RN to BSN Degree Programs?
• How Much Does the Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Cost?
• What Are the Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs?

Background of Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

Many registered nurses are looking for a cheap RN to BSN degree program to advance their careers. The RN to BSN degree is specifically designed for working registered nurses with Associate Degrees who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It is also possible to earn a BSN without first becoming an RN, but this is a separate academic pathway from the RN to BSN degree program.

Online learning has advantages for working RNs, and many RNs continue working full-time while getting an online degree. Online courses can be done at flexible hours and places, and a new student can often enter an online program at any time of the year, unlike campus based programs that have set start dates for semesters and quarters.

The BSN degree allows nurses career advancement into specialized nursing positions in hospitals and clinics. Other BSN graduates move up from practicing nursing into leadership and administrative roles. Some find employment outside of hospital settings in research and consulting jobs.

Nurses with a BSN degree earn salaries averaging 30 to 50 percent more than nurses with an RN degree. The median salary for staff nurses with a BSN degree was approximately $78,000 in 2010, and specialized care nurses earned an average of $90,000 a year, according to salary.com. Many employers also offer BSN graduates generous benefit packages and signing bonuses as well.

How to Find Cheap RN to BSN Programs Online

Finding affordable RN to BSN programs online is easy by doing a web search. Choosing one can be harder. Besides accreditation, tuition cost and availability of scholarships and financial aid are the next points to consider. When considering cost, also look at other fees that may apply, like application fees, transcript fees, books and supplies, that may or may not be included in the tuition amount.

Some programs are single purpose and only offer degrees in nursing, like Chamberlain College of Nursing. Chamberlain’s online RN to BSN degree tuition is $14,160 for the entire program and they are fully accredited.

Other institutions have other courses of study besides nursing, like SUNY Delhi, a part of the State University of New York system. SUNY Delhi offers online RN to BSN for tuition of $3007.50 per semester with full time academic load. Three semesters are needed for graduation.

University of Texas Arlington is another accredited state university offering cheap RN to BSN programs online for a tuition of $8,995 for the complete program.

Can you do an affordable RN to BSN online?”

Resources on Cheap and Affordable RN to BSN Programs

• Top 10 Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs
• Are Cheap Online RN to BSN Programs Accredited?
• What Are the Best Cheap Online RN to BSN Degree Programs?
• How Much Does the Most Affordable Online RN to BSN Cost?
• What Are the Cheapest Online RN to BSN Programs?

Online RN to BSN programs are just as rigorous and require the same time commitment as their campus counterparts. RN to BSN online programs provide students with many benefits, such as the convenience and flexibility of completing coursework at any time of day. Nurses who complete these programs can advance in the field and pursue specialty positions, such as pediatric endocrinology nurses. Those with a BSN can also move up to higher level positions, such as head nurse or clinical nurse educators.

How To Find Cheap Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

When looking for an online RN to BSN program nurses should only consider schools that are accredited to make sure that they meet specific standards to offer high quality academic programs. The ranking of an institution is also a helpful aspect and many publications rank colleges and universities based on various characteristics, like retention rate and quality of programs. Important components to consider when looking specifically for online to RN to BSN degree programs are coursework, features of the online platform, and if there are any clinical requirements. Examples of top schools that offer high quality online RN to BSN degree programs that are also inexpensive include the University of Wyoming, Kaplan University, and Colorado Technical University. The University of Wyoming offers an RN to BSN program that is $106 per credit hour. The program has no campus requirements and there are no clinical components. The program can be completed in as little as one year. The tuition costs at Kaplan University are $315 per credit hour. Kaplan University offers multiple state dates and the program can be completed in as few as 18 months of full-time enrollment. Colorado Technical University offers courses at $305 per credit hour. The program can be completed in as little as 22 months of continuous enrollment.

Financial Aid for Online RN to BSN Degree Programs

Majority of schools that offer online RN to BSN degree programs enable students to receive the same financial aid as those enrolled in campus-based programs. Examples of financial aid include the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Stafford Loans. Students must still meet the eligibility requirements, such as being a U.S. citizen and not in default on a previous federal student loan or grant. Students must submit the FAFSA form to apply for any type of financial aid. Additionally, there are scholarships available for those enrolled in online RN to BSN programs, such as the TravelNursing.org Nursing Education Scholarship. Individuals looking to advance their nursing education will find various options of cheap RN to BSN online.

However, there are options that can make it feasible while still allowing single fathers to keep their jobs and continue to see their kids on a regular basis. The most effective and realistic option is to pursue a degree online, allowing flexibility and eliminating the need to commute. It’s a great way to save time and trouble while gaining valuable knowledge and career opportunities.

Read Our Featured Article: 10 Best Online Degrees for Single Fathers

So how should a single father pursue a degree online? Fortunately, there are a great many options, but the first step is to choose a suitable degree with good potential for enhancing income, and the next is to find a quality school with a good reputation and online degree program that offers that particular degree. Because there is such a wide range of degrees on offer, it may take some time to find what you’re looking for, so be sure to refer to college guides with a wealth of information and a large selection of schools and degrees. One valuable source is the US News and World Report online database, which features a searchable index of distance learning programs that can be refined by area of study.

To determine the quality of the institutions you have found, check with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the US Department of Education to assess the reputation of the school in question. This will help you separate the wheat from the chaff, and prevent you from wasting resources on a shoddy program that offers neither quality instruction nor worthwhile credentials.

Additionally, keep in mind that while distance learning and online programs generally allow most coursework and classes to be taken from home or wherever one has access to a good internet connection, some require occasional meetings at the school, which may rule out some schools located in different regions. Online classes may also be held on fixed days, so scheduling is another important consideration. Other considerations include time commitment, both in terms of weekly hours and length of time required to complete classes and a degree, and expense. All factors should be taken into account when making your decision; as a single father you are well aware that every minute and every dollar counts.

Most importantly, think of who you are and be true to yourself. What holds your interest? What kind of environment do you see yourself thriving in? Your decisions will have to be influenced by honest self-appraisal as well as the the income potential of any particular field. Some men may be happy to crunch numbers as an accountant, while others may be better suited to sales and business negotiation. One may be well-suited to computer network administration, while another prefers managing construction projects on site. There are a lot of options, so don’t box yourself in based on the hottest trends, which may not last forever in any event.

Although it can be difficult to be a single father, and there’s often a lot of heartache involved, one thing that should strengthen your resolve is that investing in yourself and your future will not only give you more choices and freedom in your life, it will directly benefit your children as well. With a quality degree and a better career, you’ll be able to provide for them better materially, and you’ll set an example they can look up to as they grow up. Every kid wants to be proud of his or her dad, so your kids will be happy to see you succeed and master your life. Remember: when you are doing well in life and have your life in your hands, your family will thrive.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of degrees by convenience, job prospects, the special considerations of a single father’s life and availability online for single fathers who are looking for ways to get ahead and make a more effective contribution to their own and their children’s lives. Ambitious single fathers should consider that there’s a world of opportunity if they are willing to approach their continuing education wisely and in a practical manner.

1. Construction Management

For single fathers who have experience in the construction industry, construction management could a great step up the ladder to a better, more lucrative career. Not only do construction managers make significantly more than laborers and technicians, they should have good job prospects as older managers retire, particularly when they have a degree in construction management. Fortunately for those who already have some experience in construction, people with both a degree and on-the-job experience have the best employment prospects. Pay for construction managers averages over $90,000 per year, so it is a lucrative field that provides a good lifestyle. Although some people with good work experience and an associate’s degree can get a job as a construction manager, it is increasingly important for new hires to have a bachelor’s degree. Fortunately, there are plenty of schools around the country that offer a degree in construction management, so if you’re interested in positioning yourself for the job, there are plenty of opportunities for finding a degree.

2. Accounting

If you’ve got a good head for math, accounting may be the right field for you. Single fathers who like to do books and can balance a budget could find accounting to be a great career option. Today, most accountants are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, so your first step toward becoming an accountant is to find a good school that offers an accounting degree. Average pay for accountants runs over $60,000 per year, so it’s well-compensated job with plenty of security — accountants are always in demand. Obtaining an accounting degree prepares students not only for the job, but for the very important certification process, which is necessary across the nation for all who wish to work as accountants.

3. Network Administration

Network administrators are responsible for running computer systems for organizations. People with good tech skills and an interest in computers may want to look into the career, because demand is quite high and job growth is expected to be significantly stronger than average. Average pay is almost $70,000 per year, and the overwhelming majority of network/systems administrators are fully employed. Both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are offered in network administration, but it is most common for employers to hire those with bachelor’s degrees. To prepare yourself for a well-paid job as a network/systems administrator, you should find an accredited school that is certified by major tech companies, and educate yourself about the requirements and process. Obtaining a degree in network/systems administration is a good idea for the more technically inclined, and can lead to great pay and job opportunities.

4. Database Administration

Like network administration, database administration is a job that is predicted to have explosive growth over the next decade, and the average salary is a very reasonable $73,000 per year. Database administrators are typically expected to have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, but your best bet is to get a database administration degree offered by a quality school. Fortunately, online degrees in database administration are offered at a number of technically-oriented schools that offer certification with major tech companies, such as Microsoft and Cisco. Because database administration is a very important job in today’s high-tech world, classes cover design, security, performance analysis and a number of other key concepts regarding database administration. Single fathers who have a knack with programming and an interest in tech should consider a database administration degree, asd it could offer them an opportunity to make a very comfortable living.

5. Diesel Mechanic

Single fathers who like to work with machines and know how to troubleshoot engines may want to consider becoming diesel mechanics. One of the advantages of being a diesel mechanic is that one can find work just about anywhere, from an Alaskan fishing port to a Midwestern farm, so no matter where your kids are you can be fairly sure to find work. Although becoming a diesel mechanic used to be a matter of learning on the job, employers now prefer hiring people with postsecondary education. For a diesel mechanic, an associate’s degree is sufficient to land a good job, but some may want to gain extra certification so as to work with particular types of engines, such as large marine engines, truck engines, etc. If you’re a single father who already has some mechanical experience and wants to complete a degree in two years, a diesel mechanic associate’s degree may be a good idea.

6. Criminal Justice

Single fathers with a military background, or who like to protect the community, may find themselves drawn to police work. A good first step to becoming a police officer is obtaining a criminal justice degree. Criminal justice degrees are typically two-year programs that prepare potential police officers for the technicalities of the job, such as Constitutional law, state law and civil rights law. Average yearly pay for a police officer is just over $55,000 per year, and police tend to have great job security, union support and benefits. Not everyone is cut out to be a cop, but police officers are a necessity in today’s society and those who perform the job can have some confidence in the fact that they are doing a great deal of good for the communities they serve. A single father who works as a police officer after obtaining a criminal justice degree can make his kids proud, and they’ll know their father is doing right by them and the community.

7. Engineering

A single father who knows he’s got an imaginative mind and good math and science skills should look into obtaining an engineering degree. Engineering encompasses a lot of different disciplines, but the first step to becoming an engineer is to get started on the degree. Once fully immersed in the field of engineering, a lot of options open up to the dedicated student. An engineering degree is probably a good idea for a single father who may have begun postsecondary education, but still hasn’t made up his mind. Once you take a look at the opportunities, you may decide it’s exactly what you want to become. Some engineering degrees, such as aerospace or civil engineer technician, and drafting only require an associate’s, but the majority are four-year degrees. Generally, the more education an engineering job requires the better it pays, but petroleum engineers are very well compensated with a bachelor’s degree. For the right kind of single father, engineering could become a lifelong passion, and it’s a great way to introduce your kids to the world of science and technology.

8. Physical Therapist

If you enjoy helping people get better after injuries, recover from surgery or simply improve their quality of life, becoming a physical therapist is a great way to do so and make a good living. Physical therapists are well-paid, at over $76,000 per year on average, and can expect great job security as the population ages and has more need for licenses physical therapists. A degree in physical therapy is a professional degree, and mainly postgraduate, generally taking two to three years to complete. However, some schools incorporate physical therapy into undergraduate programs, allowing the degree to be obtained at least in part before graduating from college with a bachelor’s degree. Being a physical therapist is something of a physical job itself; as a hands on profession it requires some strength combined with a human touch. Many single fathers should already have a good deal of experience with that, so it’s a good option for the single father who wants to have a comfortable, well-compensated job in the health field without spending the long years required to become a physician. Single fathers with a background in biology or medicine are probably best suited to this job, and veterans may find it particularly appealing.

9. Computer Science

People who are interested in programming and software, and who are considering jobs in the industry, should look into getting computer science degrees. Single fathers who have an interest in programming and have gained some proficiency may want to capitalize on their talent by making it official with a computer science degree. In doing so, they will be trained in the theory and basics of programming, logic and computation, data structures and computer architecture among others. Median pay for programmers/software developers is quite high, running over $90,000 per year, and the job outlook is excellent. Furthermore, it is an exceedingly wide field, with applications in everything from entertainment to defense, so job opportunities can be found in a very wide range of companies. Single fathers who have a good head for math and a love of computers can turn their skills and passion toward making a great living for themselves and their children as software developers. For many of them, all that’s standing in the way is a computer science degree.

10. Pharmacy

Pharmacists fill prescriptions, check for contraindications and advise patients on drug side effects, among other tasks. Given how tricky medicine and drug interaction can be, it’s an important job, and because of this it pays very well. Like Physical therapy, it is a growing occupation due to the aging of our population, and the job outlook is very good. Even better, it pays very well: the average hourly wage for a pharmacist is almost $54, which comes out to well over $100,000 per year. A Pharmacy degree is a professional degree, and requires undergraduate classes in chemistry, biology and anatomy. A Doctor of Pharmacy degree generally takes four years to complete, and most students must take an entrance test called the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT). However, if you can pass that bar, the profession compensates very nicely. A single father with some undergraduate background in science and medicine may want to look into obtaining a pharmacy degree online, as it could be the path to a very lucrative career and very solid employment security.

DeVry University

A graduate degree really can make a difference, especially when it's from DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management. Online, evening and weekend classes are available.

Programs:

• Master's-Electrical Engineering

Brown Mackie College

Discover the power of ONE COURSE A MONTH® to fit education into your busy life. Brown Mackie College’s ONE COURSE A MONTH® schedule lets you focus on your course work one subject at a time. 

Programs:

• Associate of Applied Science in Electronics

Locations: Louisville

ECPI University - Online Degrees

With convenient class schedule options, 24/7 tech support, and graduate employment services, ECPI's Online Degrees offer the flexibility to get the education and skills you want - on your schedule.

Programs:

• Electronics Engineering - Associate

Refrigeration School Inc

RSI can give you the hands-on training and skills you need to launch a rewarding career as an HVAC technician. Job search assistance for graduates is available.

Programs:

• Mechanical Maintenance Engineering

Locations: Phoenix

Colorado Technical University

A degree from CTU can connect you to what matters most: powerful professional network, faculty who are real-world professionals and innovative technology. So once you earn your degree you hit the ground sprinting. Are you in?

Programs:

• Denver North - Master of Science - Systems Engineering

Locations: Denver

Regis University

Regis University offers a rich tradition of Jesuit education to enrich your life and further your career.

Programs:

• MS in Systems Engineering

Porter and Chester Institute

Explore a new direction in your education with Porter & Chester Institute. We offer programs in a variety of fields at our nine campus locations in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Programs:

• Computer Aided Drafting and Design

Locations: Stratford

New England Institute of Technology

New England Institute of Technology is a private, non-profit, co-educational technical college offering over 30 Associate in Science, Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree programs. As a leader in Technical Career Education in southern New England, New England Tech is committed to providing hands-on technological programs that prepare graduates for positions of leadership in the technical, industrial, business, and allied health communities. Most of our associate degree programs can be completed in as little as 18 months, and bachelor’s degree programs in as little as three years. 

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology
• Associate in Science in Architectural Building Engineering Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Architectural Building Engineering Technology
• And more...

Locations: East Greenwich

Temple University, College of Engineering

Work toward your degree with Temple University, College of Engineering. We offer master's degree programs in bioengineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering, plus a PhD program in engineering.

Programs:

• PhD in Engineering
• Master of Science in Bioengineering
• Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
• And more...

Locations: Philadelphia

International Academy of Design & Technology Online

Turn your talent for design or technology into a viable career at the Academy online. You'll learn from experienced industry pros and gain valuable real-world knowledge. You'll complete your coursework 100% online, at the times and places that fit your schedule. And you'll get the skills and confidence you need to succeed.

Programs:

• Associate of Science in Building Information Modeling

The following schools all offer high-quality engineering programs, are accessible to most Americans, and have reasonable to very low tuition. Students who graduate from them will have a quality degree in their field of study and can expect good employment opportunities without incurring significant debt. Below are our top 10 value engineering schools for 2012.

1. University of California San Diego

In-state, full-time: $0 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $14,694 per year

The University of California San Diego was explicitly founded to compete with Caltech in science and engineering, so the bar was set high from the beginning. UCSD is a fairly young school, having been founded in 1960, and as such has a very modern style. Located on the Pacific, the school is heavily involved in oceanic research, working closely with the nearby Scripps Institution of Oceanography. In the 1980s, UCSD played a key role in bringing technological innovation to San Diego, which greatly increased its national prestige and led to a large increase in private donations. By 1995, it was ranked among the top ten graduate programs in the nation by the National Research Council, which promotes the dissemination of scientific knowledge. The considerable endowments of UCSD allow it to provide California residents their education free of tuition, while non-residents pay under $15,000. Given the quality of the school, California engineering students who are accepted by UCSD are fortunate indeed. Out of state students, while they must pay tuition, are also getting a great deal. Add to this the laid-back, pleasant environment of San Diego, and UCSD is a great choice for an engineering student who wants to get the most out of his degree without breaking the bank.

2.Georgia Institute of Technology

In-state, full-time: $9,986 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $26,860 per year

Founded in 1885 as the Georgia School of Technology as part of the post Civil War Reconstruction effort to industrialize the South, Georgia Tech started with an emphasis on engineering. The first degree it offered was in mechanical engineering, but by the early 20th century it came to include electrical, civil and chemical engineering. Consistently ranked as one of the top ten public schools in the US, Georgia Tech is a great deal for Georgia residents at under $10,000 per year, and its engineering program, which is rivaled only by other top engineering schools such as the very expensive Stanford and MIT schools of engineering, makes it a great deal even for out of state students. Students at Georgia Tech have a beautiful campus to enjoy, which features both classical and modern architecture. Sports fans can cheer on the Yellowjacket football and basketball teams, both of which have sent many players on to professional teams, and Atlanta offers a thriving nightlife and music scene.

3. Missouri University of Science & Technology

In-state, full-time: $5,881 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $15,183 per year

Missouri S&T is well-known as an engineering school, and has earned accolades for its entrepreneurial spirit and innovative labs. In 2009, Popular Science magazine named its Experimental Mine as the number 1 “awesome lab” in the United States. Students participate in designing and building race cars, aircraft and robotic vehicles, and the school features a 200 kilowatt nuclear reactor. The school’s focus on engineering is particularly strong, with 70% of students in one engineering program or another, exceeding even MIT and Georgia Tech. One of the more curious features of the school is a replica of Stonehenge constructed with granite blocks cut by water jet cutters. Located in Rolla, Missouri, Missouri S&T offers one of the best engineering programs in the Midwest, and at a very affordable price. In-state tuition of under $6,000 is an excellent deal, and even out-of-state tuition is very reasonable.

4. Virginia Tech

In-state, full-time: $10,048 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $19,497 per year

Virginia Tech, founded in 1872 and located in beautiful Montgomery County in the New River Valley, is the largest school in Virginia, and has over 8,400 students in its engineering school alone. Its engineering school was ranked 13 in 2011 by US News and World Report’s Best Colleges report, and its engineering specialties consistently rank in the top 20 nationally. In June 2011, Virginia Tech opened the Virginia Tech Research Center-Arlington in an effort to reach out to federal research agencies in the National Capitol Region, positioning itself to participate in federal scientific and engineering endeavors. This will provide Virginia Tech students with many opportunities to find internships and jobs with the federal government in defense, civil engineering and other government projects. Given the high quality of its engineering school, the low cost of tuition and the lucrative opportunities in the nearby capitol region, Virginia Tech provides great value for its students.

5. Stony Brook University–SUNY

In-state, full-time: $8,870 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $15,160 per year

Stony Brook University is a relatively young public research university located in Stony Brook, New York, on the North Shore of Long Island some 50 miles east of Manhattan. Like UCSD, it is a young school, having been founded in 1957. The school helps manage the Brookhaven National Laboratory, being one of only a few universities that run federal labs, and is a center for marine and atmospheric research. Stony Brook is a national leader in supercomputing, and has received a grant from the federal government to find ways to prevent cyberterrorism. However, Stony Brook really stands out for its excellent value, particularly for the region. While there are plenty of good engineering schools in the Northeast, they tend to be far more expensive than Stony Brook, which remains competitive despite being a good bargain. For students looking for a quality engineering school in the Northeast who also want to get the most for their money, Stony Brook is one to strongly consider.

6. University of Texas Austin

In-state, full-time: $9,232 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $16,898 per year

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest schools in the US, with an enrollment of over 50,000 undergraduate students. It is also a major research university, spending over $640 million on research in the 2009-2010 school year alone. Its Cockrell School of Engineering, with almost 8,000 students, is ranked as one of the best in the world. Notably, the architectural and petroleum/geosystems engineering departments are ranked #1 in the US News and World Report 2010 rankings. UT Austin features prominently in the city of Austin, which is a youthful progressive place that offers ample employment opportunities in its thriving tech industry to graduates with engineering degrees. Considering the opportunities and quality of the University of Texas Austin, and the Cockrell School in particular, tuition is an excellent deal. Additionally, cost of living in Austin is not prohibitive as far as cities go, so it’s a great value for both native Texans and out of state students alike.

7. North Carolina State University

In-state, full-time: $7,834 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $19,882 per year

North Carolina State University, located in Raleigh, offers a wide range of engineering degrees, from textile engineering to aerospace, with plenty in between. The Princeton review ranked the school as 6th in terms of value for US public universities, 12th according to Kiplinger’s finance and 5th according to US News and World Report. Given its emphasis on science and engineering, it definitely deserves a place in the top ten value engineering schools. NC State is a large school with diverse programs, including some cutting edge research in engineering departments. Special focuses include bioengineering, nanotechnology and information and communications technology. As the anchor of the Research Triangle in the North Carolina Piedmont, the university is close to many tech companies as well as two other universities, Duke and Chapel Hill. The concentration of highly educated people and the universities’ scientific facilities in the area has served to attract a great number of businesses eager to take advantage of both. Students at NC State can count on both value and opportunity from the region and the school.

8. University of Utah

In-state, full-time: $5,771 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $15,523 per year

The University of Utah, founded in 1850 as the University of Deseret, is located in Salt Lake City and has a combined enrollment of over 30,000 students. It ranks in the top 50 schools for BS degrees in computer science, civil engineering, chemical engineering and electrical engineering, and was one of the four original nodes of ARPANET, which later evolved into the Internet. Additionally, the school features a small nuclear reactor in its Merrill Engineering Building, giving nuclear engineering students the opportunity to gain first-hand experience with reactors. However, what really sets the school apart from comparable institutions is its affordable tuition — under $6,000 for Nevada residents and just over $15,000 for out of state students. Salt Lake City is also a bargain compared to most other university towns, is very safe, and has plenty of outdoor recreation available nearby. For a comfortable undergraduate experience at a quality engineering school with very affordable tuition, the University of Utah is an option worth considering.

9. University of Texas Arlington

In-state, full-time: $8,558 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $14,192 per year

UTA, located in Arlington in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, is a high research activity school with a heavy emphasis on science and technology. Although it doesn’t have the largest engineering college in Texas (4,000 students), it has ambitious goals and research expenditures have grown to over $40 million. New buildings are under construction, including nanotechnology and robotics research facilities. The school is quite serious about building its engineering program, so this may a good time to take advantage of it before the competition heats up. With its lofty goals and low tuition, UTA is a good choice for the cost-conscious and ambitious engineering student.

10. Colorado State University

In-state, full-time: $8,982 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $20,582 per year

Colorado State, located in Fort Collins, brings an emphasis on the environment to science and engineering. Engine efficiency, solar energy and fuel cells are areas of special focus. The conscientious engineering student with an altruistic approach to the discipline may appreciate the school for an emphasis on improving society and solving problems related to energy bottlenecks and pollution. Engineering professors actively seek out opportunities to teach students about designing electric cars, solving major environmental crises in large cities and groundbreaking medical research. CSU is located at the base of the Rockies, about 45 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park. Denver is an hour’s drive to the south, and outdoor recreation in a spectacular setting is accessible year round. Tuition is affordable, particularly for in-state students, and the quality of both life and instruction are high. For those engineering students interested in alternative energy and the environment, Colorado State offers good value for the cost.