How to Overcome Time and Cost Barriers to Complete Your Degree

How Much Does a Bachelor's Degree Cost?

A bachelor’s degree is an investment in your future, but understanding its cost is key to making an informed decision. Tuition varies by institution, program, and format. Costs vary widely depending on the institution and a student's residency status, but most estimates place annual tuition at around $10,000 for in-state students at public colleges, and up to $60,000–$70,000 at elite private universities. When factoring in room, board, and fees, total annual costs at top private institutions can approach or exceed $90,000.

While those numbers may seem daunting, it’s important to weigh them against the long-term benefits. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a bachelor's degree earn, on average, 75 percent more per week than those with only a high school diploma. Over a lifetime, that difference can add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

However, the longer you wait, the more income and job opportunities you may miss. If advancing in your career requires a degree, postponing education could delay salary increases and limit professional growth. The good news? There are plenty of ways to make completing your degree more affordable.

If you’re still wondering if you can afford to complete your bachelor’s degree, here are a few tips to help make this a more affordable choice.

How to Make Going Back to School More Affordable

1. Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs to help employees advance their education while continuing to work. If you’re currently employed, check with your HR department to see if your company provides financial support for continuing education.

Some companies cover a set amount per year, while others may fully reimburse tuition for courses related to your job. “We always tell people to explore this first,” Rudder says. “It’s essentially free money.”

Regis actively partners with organizations to make tuition reimbursement more accessible for working professionals. If your company is part of one of Regis’ partnerships, you may be eligible for direct billing arrangements or tuition discounts that streamline the reimbursement process. Be sure to check with your HR department and reach out to Regis’ admissions or financial aid office to see if your employer is included in their network of tuition reimbursement partners.

2. Scholarships and Grants for Adult Learners

Many funding opportunities exist specifically for working professionals returning to school. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants don’t need to be repaid, making them one of the best ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs.

State workforce development programs often provide financial aid to adults looking to upskill or transition into high-demand fields. Private foundations and nonprofit organizations also offer scholarships tailored to adult learners, parents returning to school, and students pursuing certain industries.

Since many scholarships go unclaimed each year, taking the time to research and apply for multiple opportunities can significantly reduce your overall tuition expenses. Some institutions even provide dedicated scholarship search tools or financial aid advisors to help students find relevant funding options.

3. Flexible Payment Plans and Low-Interest Loans

If paying tuition upfront is a challenge, look for schools that offer flexible payment plans. Many institutions allow students to break tuition into smaller monthly payments rather than requiring large lump sums, making education more financially manageable.

Additionally, federal student loans often come with repayment options tailored to different financial situations. Income-driven repayment plans, for example, adjust monthly payments based on your salary, helping to keep costs reasonable after graduation. Some schools also partner with private lenders that offer low-interest loans specifically for adult learners.

By exploring these options, you can spread out the cost of your education in a way that fits your budget while still making steady progress toward completing your degree.

4. Tuition Guarantees and Fixed Costs

One often-overlooked factor when comparing schools is whether tuition rates are locked in for the duration of your program. Some institutions offer tuition guarantees, meaning the rate you start with will remain the same until you graduate. This can help prevent unexpected cost increases and make long-term financial planning easier.

“You don’t want to start a program thinking tuition is one price, only to have it increase the next semester,” Rudder says.

Before enrolling, ask about tuition policies and whether there are additional fees for course materials, technology, or lab requirements. Understanding the full cost upfront ensures you won’t be caught off guard by rising expenses.

5. Transfer Credits

If you’ve completed some college coursework before, transferring credits can significantly reduce the time and cost of finishing your degree. Many schools accept prior credits from accredited institutions, allowing you to pick up where you left off instead of retaking courses.

Some institutions also recognize professional experience and offer credit for work history, military service, or industry certifications. These alternative credit pathways can shorten your time to graduation and make earning your degree more affordable.

To maximize your savings, request a credit evaluation before enrolling. Knowing how many credits will transfer can help you choose the most cost-effective path to completing your degree.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree? 

Balancing school with work and family can feel challenging, but today’s degree completion programs offer flexible options to fit your schedule. A bachelor’s degree is typically designed to take four years of full-time study, but the actual time to completion often varies. For those completing their degree after prior coursework, the time it takes to finish depends on your previous credits, course load, and learning format. Some returning students graduate in one to two years, while others take longer to accommodate personal and professional commitments.

The key is finding a program that works for you. From choosing the right course format to adjusting your workload, here are strategies to help you fit school into your life.

How to Make Time for School

Research Your Modality Options

Online, hybrid, and evening classes offer flexibility that can help balance school with work and family responsibilities. Online programs allow you to complete coursework on your own schedule, while hybrid formats combine online learning with occasional in-person sessions for added structure. Evening classes may be a good option if you prefer face-to-face learning but need to fit courses around a full-time job.

However, not all online programs are the same, and success in an online environment requires strong time management and self-discipline. “It requires a high level of independence,” Rudder says. “Make sure the program is designed with adult learners in mind.” Before committing to an online format, consider whether you thrive in a self-paced environment or if you’d benefit from more structured interaction with faculty and peers.

Consider Starting Small and Scaling Up

Jumping into a full-time course load can be too much for some people, especially if you’re returning to school after several years. Taking one or two classes to start allows you to adjust to academic expectations while maintaining your other commitments.

“It’s okay to start slow,” Rudder adds. “The goal is progress, not perfection.” Starting with a lighter schedule can help you build confidence, establish study habits, and determine how much coursework you can realistically manage before fully committing to a heavier load. Many students find that once they develop a rhythm, they can gradually increase their course load to accelerate their path to graduation.

Don’t Be Afraid to Adapt Your Course Load When Needed

Life is unpredictable, and work or family responsibilities can sometimes disrupt your academic plans. A good program will offer flexibility, allowing you to adjust your schedule as needed—whether that means reducing your course load during a busy season or taking on more credits when you have extra time.

“Good programs work with students to help them adjust their schedules when needed,” Rudder emphasizes. So before enrolling, check whether the institution allows part-time enrollment, course withdrawals without penalty, or leave-of-absence options. Knowing that you have the ability to adapt can make returning to school feel less stressful and more manageable.

Find Ways to Manage Your Time Effectively

Balancing school, work, and personal life requires strong time management. Establishing a structured study schedule can help you stay on track while avoiding last-minute stress. Set clear, realistic goals for each semester, breaking down coursework into manageable tasks.

Creating boundaries is also key—whether that means setting aside specific hours for studying or communicating with family and employers about your academic commitments. “No one can do everything at once,” Rudder notes. “You have to prioritize and adjust.” Finding a system that works for you, whether through calendar blocking, to-do lists, or dedicated study spaces, can help you stay organized and maintain a sense of balance while working toward your degree.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

Overcoming financial and time barriers requires planning and the right support system. But investing in your education can lead to long-term career growth, financial stability, and personal fulfillment. The key is to take the first step; and the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll reach your goal.

“Going back to school isn’t just about getting a degree,” Rudder concludes. “It’s about setting yourself up for the future you want.”

Regis understands the challenges adult learners face, which is why the degree completion programs are designed with flexibility, affordability, and support in mind. With options like online and hybrid learning, employer tuition reimbursement partnerships, and financial aid opportunities, we help students navigate their education in a way that works for them.

If you're ready to take the next step, explore how Regis College can help you complete your degree and advance your career.