How to Get a $5K Bachelor's Degree: The Revolutionary UoPeople and StraighterLine Partnership

How to Get a $5K Bachelor's Degree: The Revolutionary UoPeople and StraighterLine Partnership

StraighterLine
5 minute read

Are you one of the millions of smart, motivated people who dream of earning a bachelor's degree but feel blocked by astronomical costs, complex requirements, or life's demanding schedule? What if we told you that you could earn a fully accredited bachelor's degree for just $5,000?

Thanks to the groundbreaking $5K Degree partnership between University of the People (UoPeople) and StraighterLine, this isn't just a dream — it's a reality that's changing the landscape of higher education.

Here’s how it works: 

  • Complete your general education and prerequisite requirements with StraighterLine. 

    • UoP $5K Degree students get 50% off StraighterLine's 4-month membership, just $349 (normally $699). 

    • Need more time? Your membership autorenews at the discounted rate. Cancel anytime — your membership remains active until the end of the 4-month cycle. 

  • Credits earned through StraighterLine are pre-approved to transfer directly to University of the People. 

  • Once you’ve transferred your credits, you’ll complete the rest of your bachelor’s degree with University of the People. 

  • University of the People offers bachelor’s degree programs in Business Administration, Health Science, and Computer Science.*

*Please Note: While the Health Science and Business Administration degrees can be completed for $5,000 or less, the Computer Science degree will typically total closer to $6,000 due to additional requirements.

The Traditional Path Isn’t the Only Path in Higher Ed

For over two decades, education professionals have witnessed the same heartbreaking story repeatedly: intelligent, driven individuals who desperately want a degree but encounter insurmountable barriers:

  • Cost: Average student debt exceeds $37,000

  • Complexity: Confusing admission processes and requirements

  • Inflexibility: Rigid schedules that don't accommodate working adults

  • Life circumstances: Family obligations, work commitments, and other responsibilities

These obstacles have left millions of potential students feeling that college "just wasn't possible anymore."

Introducing the $5K Bachelor's Degree Solution

Dr. Mel Glennon, Chief Learning Officer at StraighterLine, explains how this innovative partnership creates "a new kind of degree pathway — one that's flexible, affordable, and designed for working adults, returning students, and anyone who thought college just wasn't possible anymore."

Here's How the Program Works:

Step 1: General Education at StraighterLine

Begin your academic journey with foundational courses through StraighterLine's trusted platform:

Step 2: Self-Paced Learning with the LEAP Model

StraighterLine's LEAP learning model offers unprecedented flexibility:

  • Move at your own pace

  • Dive deeper when you need additional understanding

  • Accelerate through material you've already mastered

  • Study around your work and family schedule

Step 3: Seamless Credit Transfer

Transfer your earned credits directly to University of the People to complete your degree online.

Available Degree Programs

The partnership offers bachelor's degrees in three high-demand fields:

🏥 Health Science

Perfect for aspiring healthcare professionals, this program provides:

  • Comprehensive health science foundation

  • Preparation for various healthcare careers

  • Flexible online format for working professionals

💻 Computer Science

Ideal for tech-minded students seeking:

  • Programming and software development skills

  • In-demand technical expertise

  • Career opportunities in the growing tech sector

📊 Business Administration

Designed for future business leaders wanting:

  • Management and leadership skills

  • Entrepreneurial knowledge

  • Corporate advancement opportunities

Who Benefits Most from This Program?

The $5K Degree pathway is specifically designed for:

  • Working Adults: Study around your career schedule

  • Returning Students: Pick up where you left off without starting over

  • Career Changers: Gain qualifications for your dream field

  • Budget-Conscious Learners: Avoid crushing student debt

  • International Students: Access quality American education globally

  • Military Personnel: Flexible format accommodates deployment schedules

  • Parents: Study while managing family responsibilities

Key Program Benefits

✅ Affordability

At just $5,000 total, this program costs a fraction of traditional degrees while maintaining full accreditation.

✅ Flexibility

Complete your general education courses with StraighterLine on your schedule, and finish your degree with University of the People entirely online. 

✅ Quality Education

Both institutions are accredited and committed to academic excellence.

✅ No Hidden Costs

The $5,000 figure represents the total cost — no surprise fees or additional expenses.*

*Reminder: The total cost of the Computer Science degree is estimated at $6,000 due to additional requirements. 

✅ Career Advancement

Earn the same degree recognition as traditional programs for career growth and opportunities.

Getting Started: Your Path to the $5,000 Degree

Step 1: Research and Plan

Step 2: Enroll in StraighterLine

Step 3: Transfer to UoPeople

Step 4: Graduate

  • Complete degree requirements

  • Participate in graduation ceremonies (optional)

  • Launch your enhanced career

FAQs

Is the $5K degree accredited?

Yes, as a degree-granting institution, University of the People is both regionally (WSCUC) and nationally accredited (DEAC) — ensuring your degree is recognized by employers and other institutions.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Completion time varies based on your pace and schedule. Most students finish within 2-4 years, but the flexible format is designed to accommodate your unique timeline. 

Can I work while completing this program?

Absolutely! The program is specifically designed for working adults, with flexible scheduling that accommodates full-time employment.

What technology do I need?

A reliable internet connection and computer or tablet are sufficient. All coursework is delivered online through user-friendly platforms.

The Future of Higher Education

This partnership represents more than just an affordable degree option — it's a glimpse into the future of higher education. By prioritizing accessibility, affordability, and flexibility, UoPeople and StraighterLine demonstrate that quality education doesn't require financial hardship or life disruption.

As Dr. Glennon emphasizes, "This is higher education that fits real life." The program recognizes that students have diverse needs, circumstances, and goals, then adapts to meet them where they are.

Take the First Step Today

The $5,000 bachelor's degree isn't just changing individual lives — it's transforming entire families and communities by making higher education accessible to everyone. Whether you're a working parent, career changer, or someone who thought college was out of reach, this program offers a genuine pathway to your goals.

Ready to start your journey?

Don't let cost, complexity, or circumstances keep you from achieving your dreams. The $5K Degree is here, and it changes everything.


Have questions about the UoPeople and StraighterLine partnership? Contact our education specialists at https://www.straighterline.com/contact-us/ for personalized guidance on your educational journey.

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