RU Online

The RU Online program offers three majors 100% online: Accounting, Business Management, and Human Services. The flexible online format offers 5 start dates throughout the year, and enables working professionals, parents, military service members, frequent travelers and many more to earn their bachelor’s degree online at Rockford University.

Majors & Certificates

Accounting

Gain a solid foundation in the field of accounting and familiarity with various accounting procedures. Learn how to record financial transactions and make managerial decisions using accounting data. Analyze and develop financial statements. B.S. in Accounting Degree Requirements.

Business Management

Harness leadership abilities, cultivate interpersonal skills, and promote decision-making based on critical thinking all within the context of a liberal arts education. Build on your previously completed coursework to embrace a changing workplace, success in business management, and aspire to leadership. B.S. in Business Management Degree Requirements.

Human Services

Understand the human services system and how non-profit systems are funded. Learn strategies for interventions with various populations and implement trauma-informed approaches to serving clients. Gain skills for collaborating and working in teams. B.S. in Human Services Degree Requirements.

RU Online Certificates

Rockford University’s Online Certificates give you the professional edge to lead, manage, and succeed in today’s competitive workplace. Each 9-credit certificate is designed to build practical skills you can apply immediately- and every course counts toward a future RU Online bachelor’s degree if you choose to continue.

Certificates Offered:

  • Accounting
  • AI Experience
  • Bookkeeping
  • Digital Marketing
  • Finance
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Resources
  • Leadership
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Supply Chain Management

Earn a certificate, boost your resume, and open the door to bigger career opportunities.
Apply today and start advancing your career with RU Online.

Transfer Credits

If you’ve already completed college coursework, those credits may help you get closer to your earning your bachelor’s degree at Rockford University. We accept transfer credits from community colleges, colleges, universities, and other accredited post-secondary institutions, allowing you to build on the coursework you’ve already completed.

Transfer credit may also be awarded for Advanced Placement (AP), College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), and International Baccalaureate Courses.

Wondering how your credits will transfer? Transferology makes it easy to find out. This free tool lets you quickly check how previously completed courses may transfer to Rockford University. Simply visit the Transferology page, enter your courses, and see potential equivalent courses at RU.

After applying, your Admission Counselor will personally guide you through the transfer process so you can make the most of your prior coursework and move efficiently toward your degree.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

We recognize that valuable learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. Many adult learners bring knowledge and skills gained through professional experience, military service, certifications, training programs, and prior coursework. Through our Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) process, eligible students may convert this experience into college credit that counts toward their degree.

RU Online evaluates prior learning using nationally recognized assessment methods such as DANTES Standardized Test (DSST), Joint Services Transcripts (JST), professional certifications, and other documented workforce training or continuing education.

Students interested in receiving credit for prior training or certifications should meet with their Academic Advisor to determine their eligibility for enrollment in RUOL 391 – Prior Training and Certification, a 1-credit independent study course that guides them through the evaluation process.

  • Eligibility: Students must complete at least 6 RU Online credits with a grade of C or better and be in good academic standing before enrolling.
  • Documentation: During the course, students submit supporting materials such as certificates, training records, transcripts, or other documentation demonstrating college-level learning from professional or technical experience.
  • Evaluation: Submitted materials are reviewed to determine potential credit awards.
  • Credit Limits: Students may earn up to 25 elective credits through Prior Training and Certification (PTC).

Our goal is to help experienced learners move forward faster—saving time and reducing the total cost of completing a degree—while maintaining the academic integrity and quality of a Rockford University education.

Why RU Online?

It’s Flexible.

  • Enjoy online 8-week classes.
  • 100% online classes allow you to earn your degree from anywhere.
  • Complete in as few as 18 -24 months (depending upon transferable credits).

It’s Collaborative.

  • Virtually interact with your peers in small classes of up to 25 students.
  • Learn from faculty members with corporate, real-world experience.

It’s Affordable.

  • $485 per credit hour – 25/26 academic year.
  • $495 per credit hour – 26/27 academic year.
  • Financial Aid is available to those who apply and qualify.
  • Utilize your employee or military tuition benefits.

It’s Convenient. 

  • Multiple start dates per semester for your convenience.
  • Applications accepted year-round.
  • Your experience matters. You may qualify for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). 
  • Transfer credits from community colleges, colleges, universities, and other accredited post-secondary institutions.
  • Wondering how many of your credits will transfer? Transferology is a quick and easy way to find out if the college credit you’ve earned will transfer to Rockford University.

Ready to Apply?

Classes start soon- apply for free today!

Virtual Information Sessions

Learn about RU Online and have your questions answered at a virtual info session.

Have Questions?

Fill out the form below to connect with an Admission Counselor.

Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
Call: 815-226-4050
Fax: 815-226-2822
Admissions@rockford.edu

Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.

Rockford University has given me the opportunity to do it all. While juggling a family of six and working full-time, going back to school to finish my degree did not seem possible. But with the right program at Rockford University and excellent staff, I CAN do it all. Thanks to the accelerated business program at RU, I am now on the right track to finishing my degree.

Monica Villarreal