10 Best Online Colleges and Universities 2025
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The best colleges offer an excellent education you can use to start or advance your career. However, not everyone can pause their lives to earn a degree. The best online universities offer a solution, letting you complete your education while working or juggling other responsibilities.
Online schools help you succeed by providing classes and student services tailored specifically to remote learners. The best programs also feature personal and professional growth opportunities, such as internships close to home.
10 Best Online Colleges and Universities 2025
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
Florida International University (FIU) is a distance education pioneer, offering online courses for over 25 years. The school hosts more than 60 fully online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including top-ranked programs in psychology and business. FIU students benefit from varied scholarship options and strong support for adult learners and veterans.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $2,299
Out of State | $8,499
Why Students Choose FIU:
- Student Success Coaching: Advisors help online learners set and meet academic goals.
- 24-7 Technology Support: FIU offers comprehensive assistance with online learning platforms and tools.
- Flexible Start Dates: Many programs offer several start dates throughout the year
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Out-of-State Tuition: Nonresident undergraduates pay a higher tuition rate per credit than Florida residents.
- Test Scores Required: SAT or ACT scores are required for undergraduate applicants.
- Scholarships Available: Online students can apply for many of the same scholarships as on-campus students. Â
67%
$ 6,168
92%
$18,566
- Acceptance Rate
- 59%
- Students Enrolled
- 54,085
- Institution Type
- Public
The Pennsylvania State University
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
In operation since 1998, The Pennsylvania State University's World Campus boasts a long history of distance education. The school offers more than 70 online programs in engineering, healthcare, and business. Most online classes are fully asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework at any time.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $7,678-$8,288
Out of State | $7,678-$8,288
Why Students Choose Penn State:
- Student Services: Online students can take advantage of academic advising, career counseling, and disability services.
- Strong Alumni Network: Penn State grads join one of the largest alumni networks in the country.
- Support for Military Students: Penn State offers strong support for active-duty military service members and veterans, including specialized admissions and financial aid counseling.
Know Before You Enroll:
- No Out-of-State Tuition: Online students pay the same tuition rate regardless of state residence.
- Accessible Scholarships: Students can apply for many awards with just one application.Â
- Payment Plans Available: Penn State allows students to pay their tuition in monthly installments.
54%
$15,400
87%
$25,084
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 88,914
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
A top-ranked public college with a sizable distance education program, the University of Florida (UF) emphasizes flexibility, affordability, and community for online students. Students can choose from fully online bachelor's and master's programs in technology, science, healthcare, and more. UF offers varied experiential learning activities for online students, such as internships and research opportunities.Â
Cost per Semester:
In State | $1,950
Out of State | $8,295
Why Students Choose UF:
- Dedicated Community: Online students can meet one another and receive community support through the UF Online Plaza.
- Flexible Enrollment Options: You can take classes in a variety of formats, including full time, part time, and asynchronous.
- Academic Advising: UF offers dedicated online advising and boasts a low student-to-advisor ratio.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Out-of-State Tuition: Students outside Florida pay a higher online tuition rate.
- Tuition Waivers Available: UF offers tuition discounts and waivers for veterans, undocumented students, and other groups.
- Optional Fee Package: Online students can pay extra to access campus resources like health services and recreation facilities.Â
57%
$ 4,477
97%
$25,694
- Acceptance Rate
- 24%
- Students Enrolled
- 54,814
- Institution Type
- Public
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
One of the country's largest online education providers, Arizona State University (ASU) boasts more than 100,000 online alums. The school offers over 150 online degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Online learners benefit from flexible credit transfer policies and accelerated degree completion options.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $3,052-$4,234
Out of State | $3,052-$4,234
Why Students Choose ASU:
- Online Community: ASU offers online groups based around academics, identity, and career paths.
- 24-7 Mental Health Resources: Online students receive on-demand counseling and other mental health resources.
- Global Internships: Study-abroad internships are available for many online majors.
Know Before You Enroll:
- No Out-of-State Tuition: Students pay the same tuition rate regardless of where they live.
- Strong Scholarships and Financial Aid: About 80% of ASU students receive some type of scholarship, grant, or other financial aid.
98%
$10,978
74%
$13,248
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 62,551
- Institution Type
- Public
New Mexico State University
- Las Cruces, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
New Mexico State University's (NSMU) Global Campus offers more than 50 online degrees in technology, education, agriculture, and consumer services. Many online programs offer credit for prior learning, allowing students to receive academic credit for job training, existing skills, and other life experiences. Â
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,931
Out of State | $5,931
Why Students Choose NMSU:
- Convenience: NMSU offers fully online programs with no campus requirements.
- Student Resources: Online support services include tutoring, disability access, and health and wellness counseling.
- Support for Diverse Students: NMSU is designated a Hispanic-serving and FirstGen Forward-recognized institution.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Scholarship Opportunities: The New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship may cover up to 100% of tuition for state residents returning to college.
- Limited Out-of-State Enrollment: Residents of certain states may have limited online enrollment options at NMSU.
70%
$ 6,728
75%
$25,055
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,779
- Institution Type
- Public
Purdue University Global
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
Geared toward working adult students, Purdue Global offers career-focused degree programs fully online. The school offers asynchronous and live class options to accommodate different learning styles. Several programs offer an accelerated, competency-based format that allows students to test out of course content they already understand.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,565
Out of State | $5,565
Why Students Choose Purdue Global:
- Frequent Start Dates: New academic terms start every month.
- Credit for Prior Learning: Students can earn credit for previous experience, such as job training.
- Career Support: Purdue's Center for Career Advancement can help with career planning and job hunting.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Open Admissions: No SAT or ACT scores are required to apply.
- Free Trial Available: Interested students can try the online course format for up to three weeks for free.
- Fast Completion Time: On average, online learners take two years to complete a bachelor's degree.
100%
$10,080
17%
$13,356
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 45,125
- Institution Type
- Public
Louisiana State University
- Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
Louisiana State University (LSU) offers online degrees at all academic levels, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral. Programs in popular areas of study, including business, engineering, and human services, train online learners for immediate employment after graduation. LSU graduates join a professional network of over 225,000 alums.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,985
Out of State | $5,985
Why Students Choose LSU:
- Flexible Enrollment: Six start dates are offered per year.
- 100% Online Format: No campus visits are required for any online degree programs.
- Enrollment Support: Online enrollment coaches can help distance learners navigate the application process.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Flat-Rate Tuition: There are no extra charges for out-of-state students.
- Stackable Credit Options: Credits earned through certificate programs can be applied toward LSU's online degree programs.
- Limited Online Scholarship Opportunities: While online students can access financial aid, scholarships are only available for public health students.
48%
$ 8,038
84%
$24,731
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 39,418
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
University ofMaryland Global Campus (UMGC) has offered adult education since 1947 and online classes since the 1990s. An early adopter of distance education, the school now offers dozens of online degrees in fields including education, public safety, and healthcare. UMGC also maintains more than 175 in-person education centers worldwide, offering hybrid courses, advising, and testing services.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $4,860
Out of State | $7,485
Why Students Choose UMGC:
- Credit for Life Experience: Students can gain academic credit for prior learning, job training, and military experience.
- Few Required Textbooks: Most online courses utilize free digital materials.
- Student Organizations: Online learners can join academic organizations, professional societies, and community groups.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Open Admissions: UMCG does not require SAT, ACT, or GRE scores for admission.
- Transfer Friendly: Up to 90 transfer credits are accepted for bachelor's degree candidates.
- Higher Out-of-State Tuition: Out-of-state students pay higher tuition rates than Maryland residents.Â
96%
$ 7,488
43%
$11,976
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 55,838
- Institution Type
- Public
Kennesaw State University
- Kennesaw, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
Kennesaw State University (KSU) offers 38 online degree programs, including uncommon options such as information security and assurance and computer game design and development. Students benefit from advising and registration counseling, as KSU offers support at every stage of their education. Most courses use a fully asynchronous format, though some may include synchronous elements, such as live virtual lectures.Â
Cost per Semester:
In State | $3,474
Out of State | $10,929
Why Students Choose KSU:
- Online Community: KSU offers community opportunities for distance learners through its OWL Life platform.
- Well-Being Resources: Online students can access disability services, mental health counseling, and other wellness services.
- Online Tutoring: KSU provides online tutoring in all academic subjects and college preparation topics.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Admission Requirements: SAT or ACT scores are required for applicants with a GPA below 3.2.
- Occasional In-Person Requirements: Some programs are 95% online and require occasional campus visits for orientations, internships, or other activities.
62%
$ 5,562
79%
$19,630
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 45,152
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:Â
The University of Cincinnati (UC) offers online degree programs designed specifically for working students. The school's online degree options include business, healthcare, and human services. Nearly all programs use a fully asynchronous delivery mode, and UC offers courses in both seven-week and 14-week formats.Â
Cost per Semester:
In State | $3,632-$7,063
Out of State | $3,812-$7,243
Why Students Choose UC:
- Fully Online Curriculum: Nearly all programs are 100% online, requiring no campus visits.
- Support for First-Generation Students: First-generation college students comprise over a quarter of all UC graduates.
- Comprehensive Advising: Online students have access to enrollment advising and student success coaching.
Know Before You Enroll:
- GPA Requirement: Most undergraduate programs require a GPA of 2.5 or higher for admission.
- No Dedicated Online Scholarships: UC does not offer scholarships specifically for online students.
- Tuition Guarantee: UC locks in tuition for the length of a student's bachelor's program.
62%
$11,892
86%
$27,226
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 43,976
- Institution Type
- Public
Types of Online Degrees
Advances in online learning allow students to pursue an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. These degrees use the same curriculum as on-campus programs.
Some online college programs may use a hybrid curriculum, particularly for degrees that may require lab work or in-person experience. In-person requirements may include an on-campus seminar, internship, or other hands-on experience.
Popular Online Degrees
The best colleges offer a variety of online programs in different fields, such as healthcare, business, liberal arts, and STEM.
Working with college advisors can help you explore majors that align with your education and career goals. Some schools let you complement an online degree with a second major or minor.
Choosing an Online College That’s Right for You
Online colleges appeal to many groups, such as parents or caretakers and full-time professionals. Asynchronous online education can benefit these and other potential learners tremendously. This learning style lets you view lectures and complete assignments when convenient.
Online school may not be ideal if you learn best in an in-person, social environment. On-campus instruction may also benefit you if you learn better by engaging with lectures rather than just watching them.
Define Your Goals
Define your personal, educational, and professional goals before applying to online colleges. This will help you narrow your school search and focus on programs that meet your unique needs.
Choose a Major
Use your goals to find the major you need for career success. Narrow your school search by eliminating those lacking the major that interests you. Don’t forget to look at concentration options because they let you gain specialized knowledge and can affect which careers you can pursue after graduation.
Compare Accredited Schools
Limiting your search to accredited online colleges helps you avoid potential downfalls. Attending an unaccredited school means you may not qualify for federal financial aid, even if you prove need.
Additionally, employers may not hire you if you earned a degree from an unaccredited institution. Organizations such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation can help you research a college’s accreditation status.
Consider Your Budget
Your choice of college could be influenced by financial factors. Degree costs vary widely by program and school. For example, bachelor’s programs generally cost more than associate programs and private schools usually charge more than public schools.
Online Colleges By State
Choosing an online college in your state can help lower tuition costs, allow you to attend hybrid programs, and allow you to use on-campus resources.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges
Yes, if you know what you want to do with your degree and attend an accredited online school. Remember that online education may offer other advantages, such as lower tuition and no commuting costs. You also receive the same academic and career resources available to on-campus degree-seekers.
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