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
Assess your career goals and interests
Plan your course sequence
Step 2: Enroll in StraighterLine
Begin studying at your own pace
Utilize support resources and tutoring
Step 3: Transfer to UoPeople
Ensure all credits transfer correctly
Begin upper-level coursework
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?
Visit StraighterLine's-University of the People partner page to explore degree and course options
Learn more about University of the People degree programs
Connect with admissions counselors to discuss your specific situation
Join thousands of students who've already transformed their lives through affordable, flexible education
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.