Many students choose online college because of the schedule flexibility. Rather than commuting to class on campus, online schools let students complete coursework from anywhere. In many cases, this makes online programs a more accessible pathway to a degree. Students can enroll in the best schools online without needing to relocate or quit their jobs.
The best online colleges are the ones that build the knowledge and skills necessary for career advancement and offer student services especially for online learners, including online tutoring, career services, and academic advising. The top online programs also offer strong alumni networks and connections with prospective employers.
This page covers the basics of online education and ranks the best online schools. You can use it to find the right program to help you reach your professional goals.
Online colleges let students earn degrees through an online learning format, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and graduate degrees. Online students can pursue degrees in areas like business, education, healthcare, or engineering. During an online degree, learners complete coursework by watching recorded lectures, participating in discussion boards, and taking online examinations.
Attending an online program is a great way to build your skills or change careers while still working full time. You can plan coursework around your schedule. Students with family obligations may also prefer the flexibility of an online college.
Often, online degrees are offered through the same institutions as regular degrees and carry the same weight as an on-campus degree. So long you earn it through a regionally accredited school, your online degree will be taken seriously.
The biggest difference between online programs and on-campus programs is the schedule flexibility. In an asynchronous online course — meaning it doesn't have set class times — students can finish classwork whenever it is convenient for them. This flexibility appeals to working professionals and students who need to balance school with other responsibilities. Many learners can also save on transportation costs by choosing an online degree.
Some learners prefer the face-to-face experience of on-campus programs. But online programs allow students to connect through discussion boards, group projects, and other interactive elements. Plus, online programs with lab or practicum requirements often let students do those classes locally. For example, online nursing programs often use local health clinics. It's also common for online colleges to have on-campus orientations or residencies.
There are several factors to consider when evaluating an online college. For example, students should research the total cost of the degree, any on-campus requirements, and concentration options to find a program that fits their goals and needs. Learn more about how to choose an online degree below.
University of Florida true View School Profile $$ Gainesville, FL Public Nonprofit 88% 39% 24% 50% University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). UF grants degrees both from its 2,000-acre campus in Gainesville and through UF Online. The public institution offers over 200 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Degree-seekers can earn bachelor's degrees in unique majors like advertising, communication disorders, and sports and media journalism. UF also offers undergraduate majors in business administration, education, and nursing.
At the graduate level, enrollees can pursue degrees in areas like engineering, business, and healthcare. Applicants to UF Online must meet the university's general admission requirements. Distance learners can work with the financial affairs office to receive financial aid. UF Online graduates receive the same diplomas as on-campus students.
University of Central Florida true View School Profile $$ Orlando, FL Public Nonprofit 73% 43% 39% 57% University of Central Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This public research university in Orlando, Florida, ranks among the best online colleges, thanks to UCF Online. Online learners at UCF work with success coaches to complete degree requirements and navigate distance learning resources. The university's most popular online bachelor's programs include psychology, nursing, criminal justice, and English. At the graduate level, master's students can pursue online degrees in social work, healthcare informatics, nursing, nonprofit management, and criminal justice.
The same faculty members teach online and on-campus programs. UCF Online prioritizes affordability and convenience for learners.
University of Georgia true View School Profile $$$ Athens, GA Public Nonprofit 86% 49% 35% 12% University of Georgia is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Founded as a public institution in 1785, UGA boasts an illustrious history in higher education. Today, Georgia's flagship university offers online programs to make a UGA degree more accessible. The online courses limit class sizes and use the same high academic standards as on-campus classes.
UGA offers an online bachelor's degree in special education and multiple online graduate programs in education. Degree-seekers can also earn master's degrees in community nutrition, international biomedical regulatory sciences, emerging media, and avian health and medicine. Other available online master's programs include business, technology, and social work.
Georgia Institute of Technology true View School Profile $$$ Atlanta, GA Public Nonprofit 87% 22% 27% 31% Georgia Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Georgia Tech enrolls nearly 40,000 students on its campus in Atlanta. This public research university also offers online programs through Georgia Tech Online. As one of the best online colleges, Georgia Tech makes affordable online degrees more accessible by charging a lower tuition rate for distance learners.
The career-focused programs at Georgia Tech include 10 fully online master's programs and three hybrid professional master's degrees. Degree-seekers can study subjects like aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, manufacturing leadership, or analytics at Georgia Tech. Graduates earn the same degrees as on-campus enrollees.
Florida State University true View School Profile $$ Tallahassee, FL Public Nonprofit 83% 37% 38% 42% Florida State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). FSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs on its campus in Tallahassee, and students can also enroll in Distance@FSU to earn their degrees in a fully online format. With synchronous and asynchronous class options and experienced faculty, FSU offers flexible programs that prepare graduates for careers in tech, education, and business.
At FSU, online students can earn bachelor's degrees in social science, computer science, and criminology. Its online master's programs include business administration, educational leadership, and art education. Online learners receive academic and career advising to help them transition into the workforce. FSU also offers academic tutoring, library services, and online mentoring to support distance learners.
Florida International University true View School Profile $ Miami, FL Public Nonprofit 58% 59% 34% 65% Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). FIU is a public research university in Miami, Florida, that offers more than 100 online programs through FIU Online. As one of the best online colleges, FIU prioritizes flexibility and convenience in its online classes.
FIU offers online bachelor's degrees in areas like computer science, Asian studies, biology, and criminal justice. Graduate students can also earn online master's degrees in finance, forensic science, cybersecurity, and health informatics. Distance learners receive academic development support, and FIU Online offers scholarships for online students.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse true View School Profile $$ La Crosse, WI Public Nonprofit 71% 71% 54% 25% University of Wisconsin La Crosse is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Founded in 1909, UW-La Crosse is a public university that enrolls over 10,000 students every year. Degree-seekers can enroll in online programs at UW-La Crosse with both undergraduate and graduate options, advancing their education through a flexible format.
At the undergraduate level, learners can study health and wellness management or health information management in partnership with other UW campuses. UW-La Crosse also offers an online MBA, graduate programs in education, and a master's in data science. Distance learners can access student services to complete the admission and registration process, apply for financial aid, or participate in student life activities.
Harding University true View School Profile Searcy, AR Private Nonprofit 67% 75% 54% 10% Harding University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in Searcy, Arkansas, Harding is a private, Christian university. Harding's fully online programs help students complete a degree in a flexible format. In addition to ten online degrees, Harding offers hybrid programs and online certificates.
At Harding, degree-seekers can earn online graduate degrees in business or education. Harding also offers a master's in information systems, an MBA program, and a master's in teaching. Educators can also pursue endorsements in early childhood education, special education, or reading. Hardin's graduate school of business offers online certificates to help professionals develop their skills in specific areas.
Albizu University true View School Profile Miami, FL Private Nonprofit 100% 50% 66% 5% Albizu University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Founded as an institute of psychology in 1966, Albizu University operates campuses in Puerto Rico and South Florida. The university's virtual programs allow learners to enroll in flexible online master's programs.
At Albizu University, graduate students can pursue master's-level online degrees in industrial and organizational psychology and teaching English for speakers of other languages. The industrial/organizational psychology program trains students to understand corporate culture and apply their knowledge in workplace settings. Distance learners can access courses and administrative services through the university's campus portal.
Texas A & M University true View School Profile $$$ College Station, TX Public Nonprofit 82% 68% 32% 8% Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Founded in 1876 as Texas's first public university, Texas A&M enrolls over 69,000 students annually on its College Station campus. Texas A&M also offers distance education programs, including online degrees that meet the same standards as on-campus programs.
At Texas A&M, distance learners can earn bachelor's degrees in nursing or pursue nearly 50 different online graduate degrees. For example, the university offers an online master's in analytics, master's programs in nursing, and a master of public health program in epidemiology.
The University of Texas at Dallas View School Profile $ Richardson, TX Public Nonprofit 72% 69% 43% 18% University of Texas at Dallas is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). UT Dallas is a public university that offers online programs and courses in multiple disciplines to over 28,000 enrollees.
UT Dallas's Jindal School of Management offers an online MBA program where learners can expand their business training in a fully online program. UT Dallas also offers online master's programs in accounting, management science, marketing, and information technology. Undergraduate learners can also access individual courses online to earn UT Dallas credit through a flexible format.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire View School Profile $$ Eau Claire, WI Public Nonprofit 67% 78% 54% 28% The University of Wisconsin Eau Claire is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). As one of Wisconsin's public universities, UWEC builds critical thinkers and innovators. UWEC Online offers online programs and certificates for students. In addition to degrees, learners can choose individual online courses to earn UWEC credit.
At the graduate level, UWEC offers an online MBA program, a master's in data science, and a master's in communication sciences and disorders. Learners can also pursue certificates in business, education, or communication sciences. UWEC's student services help distance learners strengthen their study skills and balance school with other responsibilities.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill View School Profile $$ Chapel Hill, NC Public Nonprofit 89% 23% 27% 14% University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). North Carolina's flagship institution, UNC-Chapel Hill, dates back to 1789. UNC-Chapel Hill offers online degrees and courses as part of the state's consortium of University of North Carolina online programs.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers online master's programs in accounting, digital curation, and public health. Degree-seekers can also complete online MBAs at UNC-Chapel Hill. Undergraduates can choose from dozens of online courses offered each semester. Most online programs charge a flat tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students.
University of South Florida View School Profile $$ Tampa, FL Public Nonprofit 73% 43% 39% 54% University of South Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Located in Tampa, Florida, USF enrolls over 50,000 students annually across several campuses. USF students can also choose from dozens of online programs, including online undergraduate majors in criminology, information studies, public administration, and public health. Graduate students can earn degrees in areas like curriculum and instruction, cybercrime, or applied behavior analysis.
Distance learners receive both academic and technical support. USF also offers career services to help students explore different career paths after graduation.
University of Washington View School Profile $ Seattle, WA Public Nonprofit 84% 49% 26% 9% University of Washington is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). UW is a public university that offers online degrees and certificates through UW Online. Students can choose from over 40 certificates that use fully online or hybrid formats, as well as online bachelor's and master's programs.
Undergraduate options include degrees in social sciences or early care and education. The online master's programs include aerospace engineering, library and information science, infrastructure planning, and education. Distance learners can also earn a master's in engineering, logistics, or computational finance.
Louisiana Tech University View School Profile $ Ruston, LA Public Nonprofit 54% 63% 32% 14% Louisiana Tech University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Founded in 1894, Louisiana Tech enrolls 12,000 students annually on its Ruston campus. Students can also earn flexible and convenient online degrees, which use interactive courses that still meet Louisiana Tech's academic standards.
At the undergraduate level, Louisiana Tech offers a variety of programs, including an online bachelor's degree in health informatics and information management. Graduate students can earn master's degrees in engineering, English, history, and health informatics. Louisiana Tech also offers an online MBA program.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign View School Profile $$$ Champaign, IL Public Nonprofit 84% 62% 35% 35% University of Illinois at Urbana-Campaign is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). At U of I, students can choose from over 100 online degrees and programs. The public university also offers more than 1,700 individual online courses to help learners advance their education with added convenience.
In the college of liberal arts and sciences, online learners can pursue degrees in topics like sustainability, with multiple concentration options. At the graduate level, learners can study business, engineering, and education. U of I also offers an online MBA program for business professionals seeking career advancement. The same faculty members teach both online and on-campus courses.
Georgia College & State University View School Profile $$$$ Milledgeville, GA Public Nonprofit 64% 78% 44% 25% Georgia College and State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Founded in 1889, Georgia College is a public, degree-granting institution that offers online programs with a professional focus. With graduate options in business, healthcare, and education, the online university offers career advancement opportunities and a flexible delivery method.
In the college of arts and sciences, graduate students can earn a degree in music education, criminal justice, or public administration. The college of business offers an online MBA and master's programs in logistics and management information systems. Its college of education offers educational leadership programs, and advanced practice nurses can develop their skills through the college of health sciences.
Truman State University View School Profile $$ Kirksville, MO Public Nonprofit 72% 65% 39% 12% Truman State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Named for President Harry Truman, Truman in Kirksville, Missouri, ranks among the best online colleges, thanks to its slate of online courses. The university encourages active learning in its online classes, strengthening problem-solving skills. Truman emphasizes interdisciplinary connections and a well-rounded educational foundation, taking a liberal arts approach to the online format.
In addition to dozens of online class options for degree-seeking students, Truman also offers an online graduate certificate in data science. Distance learners can access counseling services, a writing center, and tutoring support.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point View School Profile $$ Stevens Point, WI Public Nonprofit 62% 83% 61% 36% University of Wisconsin Stevens Point is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in the heart of Wisconsin, UWSP emphasizes critical thinking and sustainable living. Founded in 1894, UWSP now offers flexible, online programs. Distance learners can earn accredited degrees, enroll in online courses, and pursue continuing education options at UWSP.
At the undergraduate level, online students can major in applied computing, nursing, health and wellness management, or health information management. Graduate-level enrollees can study biotechnology, data science, education, leadership, or healthcare administration, all online. Prospective students must apply to UWSP before enrolling in online courses.
California State University-Bakersfield View School Profile $ Bakersfield, CA Public Nonprofit 42% 23% 34% 41% California State University, Bakersfield is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WSCUC). This public institution in the Central Valley offers online programs for working professionals that integrate networking opportunities and academic support. With fully online and hybrid options, the online university's flexible formatting helps working students reach their educational goals.
CSUB offers fully online bachelor's programs in communications and sociology and online master's degrees in management, education, or kinesiology. CSUB also offers an online MBA degree and hybrid programs in education, nursing, and social work.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater View School Profile $$ Whitewater, WI Public Nonprofit 58% 76% 58% 34% University of Wisconsin Whitewater is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). This public institution is one of the top-ranked online colleges, offering flexible online degrees. The school's asynchronous class format allows learners to arrange coursework around their schedules.
At the undergraduate level, students can major in applied arts and sciences, economics, finance, business, or liberal studies. Other online options include degrees in political science, occupational safety, and special education.
At the graduate level, UW-Whitewater offers an online MBA program and master's degrees in business analytics, communication, cybersecurity, and environmental safety and health. Distance learners receive the same diplomas as on-campus students, and UW-Whitewater charges a flat tuition rate for most online students, regardless of state residency.
Georgia Southern University View School Profile $$$ Statesboro, GA Public Nonprofit 50% 68% 53% 35% Georgia Southern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Established more than 100 years ago, Georgia Southern is a public research university offering online degrees in an asynchronous class format.
Fully-online undergraduate programs include modern languages, interdisciplinary studies, information technology, and criminal justice and criminology degrees as well as an RN to BSN program. Most undergraduate degree programs require 124 credit hours and a capstone project or an exit exam.
In addition, Georgia Southern offers online master's programs, including master's degrees in computer science, criminal justice and criminology, and public health; several business and health master's degrees and 20 degrees in the college of education.
University of Arkansas View School Profile $$$ Fayetteville, AR Public Nonprofit 66% 77% 37% 27% University of Arkansas is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Founded in 1871, U of A is a public research institution comprising 10 colleges and schools. It offers 9 bachelor's degrees that are available entirely online.
Online bachelor's options include communication, general business, supply chain management, nursing, and human resource degrees. Most bachelor's programs require 120 credits and take four years to complete.
U of A also offers online master's degrees in fields like education, science, and social work, plus doctoral degrees in education and nursing practice. Certification and licensure programs are also available online. Fully online students are eligible for in-state tuition regardless of their state of residency.
The University of West Florida View School Profile $ Pensacola, FL Public Nonprofit 44% 42% 64% 63% The University of West Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). UWF has awarded more than 100,000 degrees in its more than 50-year history as a public university. Today, UWF offers 14 bachelor's degrees online, as well as 25 master's degrees.
Bachelor's degree options include accounting, health science, maritime studies, and psychology. Online master's degree options include accountancy, computer science, English, curriculum and instruction, political science, and healthcare administration. UWF's online criminal justice program is an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program, which saves students 12 credits.
Online courses at UWF typically run 8-16 weeks. Undergraduate degrees require up to 132 credits, and students typically complete their degrees in 2-4 years.
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