Lindsey - I feel that the advice and direction you gave this person was insufficient. First Online degrees are often not respected or accepted by companies. Although one may acquire the same education, the perception is that the work and grades are not comparable. Additionally many of these schools are expensive.

Here is another path - first 2 years at local community college . . .assuming other universities accept these hours. Cost - low. Many of the classes might be taken online or via TV - with only a few on campus visits required.
Most universities will accept up to 60-65 credits from community colleges.

Second - after completing the community college work and selecting the traditional university, check to see if this school will accept CLEP credits. Many accredited universities will accept 15-21 CLEP credits - which are tests offered on a variety of college subjects. They are not easy (nor that difficult); will require study prior to testing. However, one can then earn 15 hours+ plus for less than $100 per 3 hour course. Note - these tests must be taken after starting the Junior year at the 4 year school.

That leaves the remaining 40-45 hours at the more expensive school - and today many classes are offered online. However, this class method is not reported on the transcript.

The benefit from having an associate or even better bachelor degree is intangible. And getting a better job is only part of it. Improving critical thinking skills and self-esteem for having accomplished this feat - priceless.

(I have taken graduate classes online and found the rigorous requirements to be much higher than in class at the same university.)