The Best Online Colleges of 2018

Northern Arizona University is a large, public institution based in the college town of Flagstaff. While the college town appeal is a big draw for NAU, many students decide to study toward an online degree. NAU is considered to be one of the best online colleges, largely because of their numerous programs offered entirely online. Through the online program, students will not only have access to their schooling whenever they want, but they also get access to technical support, library resources, tutoring and other campus resources for those who are able to commute to campus. Students aren't required to be living in the state of Arizona to attend the online school, but many of the benefits that come with their online program can only be accessed in person.

Best known for their dominant athletics, the University of Alabama is much more than just an athletics school. Considered one of the best schools, if not the best, in the state of Alabama, The University of Alabama has a long reputation for helping educate students that go on to do great things. The same can be said about Alabama's online school. One of the best online schools in the nation, Alabama's distance learning program offers the same high-quality, accredited education that they do on campus. Along with that, the distance learning program gives students - including military personnel and adults - the chance to study at their own pace and freedom. Alabama offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees through their online school, so students at all levels can find something to fit their needs.

Judson College is a private institution in Alabama that draws from its Baptist roots to form high standards of education and conduct. Being an undergraduate school with limited degree options, Judson College is best for students that want to earn a bachelor's degree in arts and sciences. However, the degrees that Judson College offers are well-regarded, and their track record has led them to become a respected institution. The online school at Judson College is also worth noting as it is one of the best online schools for an undergraduate degree. Just because students can study and earn their degree online doesn't mean that the courses or requirements are any easier, though. By earning an online degree from Judson, students will be just as prepared as any other graduate to begin their career.

Adult students looking to earn a degree from one of the best online schools for bachelor's degree should consider Siena Heights University. Founded on Catholic ethics, Siena Heights has gained a reputation for being one of the best liberal arts schools for adult learners and working students. Their degree programs are designed to help students further their careers, giving them the knowledge they need to make a jump from one career to another or advance further in their current field. The online school at Siena Heights is nationally recognized for the quality of their bachelor's degrees as well as their incredibly high graduation rate. Students who study at Siena can also choose to study in a hybrid format, allowing them to study both online and on-campus. There are many resources students can use as well, most of which are available entirely online.

The University of Southern Mississippi began as a small teacher's school, but over time it has grown into a successful university that offers various degree programs. One thing of note about USM is that their online college is considered to be the best online college in the nation in terms of affordability. Via the online schools, students are able to study toward many of the degrees that USM offers on-campus. There are dozens of online degrees offered at different levels, all of which are accredited. The graduate programs make up the bulk of USM's online degrees, many of which are related to the field of education, going back to the school's roots. Undergraduate degrees and certificates are also available online, as are doctoral degrees.

One of the top schools in Central Florida, Saint Leo University has established its presence in the area by having over 40 locations for students to study at. However, the online school at Saint Leo University makes up a large part of their total student body. Online degrees at Saint Leo are available to students around the world, and the quality of education is the same that students would get if they were to study on-campus. Students can also choose to do a hybrid of both online and on-campus courses to complete their degree. The flexibility of the online programs combined with the expert staff make Saint Leo's one of the best online schools for adult learners who are looking to earn a degree to further their professional career.

As the oldest college in the state of Mississippi, Mississippi College is well aware of how challenging and busy life can be for students, especially adult learners. To help with this, they've crafted one of the best online schools in the state of Mississippi. The degree programs at their online school are available to students around the world, not just those who live in-state or in the country. As long as students have access to the internet, they can learn wherever, whenever they please. MC does offer some undergraduate degrees online, but their master's degree programs are the most popular. Many students choose to study toward a master's degree in education, communication or business administration with different focuses being available for all three.

Webster University strives to be a global school, so along with their main campus they've opened up locations around the world. The goal is not only to give students the chance to see something new, but to show that they are including the global community. They also connect the local and global community through their online learning program which is available to people around the world. Through their online program, students can study toward one of more than 50 degree programs, all of which can be completed entirely online. Consistently ranked as one of the top online schools in the nation, Webster does an excellent job of keeping their online curriculum challenging, making sure that their graduates are prepared for the professional world after graduation.

Designed largely for the independent and business minded, Fort Hays State University's degree programs give students an education that helps them prepare for a career in their field. Because of this, Fort Hays has become one of the best spots for adult learners to earn an education. For adult learners who don't live in Kansas or are unable to commute to regularly scheduled classes, Fort Hays offers online degrees. There are over 50 degrees offered through their virtual college which is considered to be one of the best online schools for the price. Most of their degrees are at the undergraduate level, so adult learners who prefer to study online will have plenty of options to choose from.

The University of Oklahoma is a large public research school that offers various degrees for students with all types of interests. A highly regarded school, OU tries to give each student a unique, valuable education that works for them. To help with this, OU has an extended campus where students can study online. There are many different courses offered online, all of which can either go toward a degree or help bolster a student's education in whichever field they're interested in. OU is considered to be one of the best online schools in the state for graduate degrees, particularly because they offer a wide variety of master's degrees online. This is ideal for students that are busy with work or family and cannot regularly commute to campus for classes.

There are many different ways students can pursue an excellent education at the University of Virginia. Students who study on campus have access to many different schools, each with their own set of accredited degrees. Also useful for students is the online education offered by UVA. Because of the size and scope of the school, UVA offers different types of online programs. One popular option is their School of Continuing and Professional Studies, best for students that want to further their career either with a bachelor's degree, graduate degree or certificate. Also available is a master's degree in engineering. UVA is considered to be one of the best online schools in the nation for an online master's in engineering, so students who want to earn a graduate degree that fits their schedule may find this is the perfect fit.

While Wayland Baptist University was founded with Baptist roots, the school has grown into a large university that offers plenty of different degree options for students. One of the options offered by Wayland Baptist is their online program, designed to give students the flexibility to study at their own pace. Most students that choose to study through the online school are studying toward a master's degree. Wayland Baptist is considered one of the best schools in the nation to earn a master's degree in fields like divinity and Christian ministry, two popular options for online students. Aside from graduate degrees, Wayland Baptist also offers undergraduate degrees through their online school.

Murray State University has made a point to be an inclusive institution where all people are able to learn. However, not everyone is able to commute to campus for classes, whether it be because of a job, family or location. To help with this, Murray State offers many of their degrees through their online school. Students can study for degrees at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels online, making Murray State one of the best online schools for students at any point in their education. Each of their graduate degrees is designed to help give their students a deeper knowledge of their field to help them advance in their career. Similarly, the undergrad programs at Murray State give students practical knowledge they need to begin a career. Popular options through their online school include RN to BSN, computer information systems and business administration.

While most schools prepare students for their career right after they graduate, East Carolina University prepares students for a changing world. This means that their degree programs are designed to give students the knowledge to adapt to changing fields so that they can advance throughout their life. This is particularly true for students who earn an online degree from ECU. Residents of North Carolina and students from across the nation can complete their bachelor's degree online, but what really makes ECU one of the best online colleges in the nation is their master's degree program. With dozens of degrees and focuses available at the graduate level, ECU prepares students for a long, prosperous future in their career.

Mississippi State University has created a history of excellence, and it all starts with their degree programs. Regardless of what students study, each degree is meant to give students all the resources they need to succeed throughout their life. The same philosophy is applied to their online program, often considered one of the best online colleges in the nation. Students can study online while learning from faculty who also teach on-campus courses, meaning the quality of the education is consistent from on-campus to online. Also, Mississippi State offers in-state tuition to all online students, not just residents of Mississippi. Degrees can be earned entirely online from start to finish for students all around the world.

Not all students are able to study toward a degree in a traditional manner. To reach out to these students, Jackson State University has created an online program that allows students to earn a degree entirely online while also receiving the same benefits that traditional students receive. One of the best online schools in Mississippi, JSU designed their online degree programs to help students who want to improve their long term career outlook. Each degree offered online teaches students how to succeed in their field while also giving them the credentials to advance. Because JSU places such an emphasis on the career outlook for students, most of their online degree programs end with a master's degree. For students who want a mix of online and on-campus, some of the programs offered can be completed in a hybrid format.

The University of Alabama in Huntsville is one of the top research schools in the state with many students going on to earn a degree in science or engineering. However, many graduates realize that a bachelor's degree is no longer enough to advance through some careers. With this in mind, UAH has created one of the best online schools in Alabama to earn a master's degree. One of the popular areas of study for online students is engineering with degrees offered in seven different focuses. Some of these degrees are available at both the master's and doctoral level, giving students the chance to study toward two graduate degrees at the same online school. For students who live in the area, some of the courses offered are available entirely online or in a hybrid of both online and on-campus.

For many people, earning a college degree is about much more than just the degree. Newman University knows that many people earn a degree to improve their career, so they offer degree programs that don't just educate, but prepare students for life after college. The same can be said about the online degrees offered at Newman University. Designed for working adults who cannot regularly attend scheduled classes, and students that live away from campus, the degrees offered through the online school will help students learn the skills to change or improve their career. Because of the quality and direction of the master's programs, Newman University is considered one the best online schools for students who want to advance their career, particularly if they are involved in theology or education.

For over a century, Colorado Christian University has been providing students in Colorado with some of the best education in the state and nation. Nationally recognized as one of the best online schools for adult learners, CCU's online degree programs are largely designed to give adults a stronger education. This often translates to a better career, or the opportunity to advance through their current career. One impressive part of CCU's online school is the number of degree programs offered at each level. Students can study toward an undergraduate, graduate or associate degree, and these degrees can be completed entirely online. For adult learners looking to make a change or jump in their career, the flexibility and size of this program is a big part of why it's nationally respected.

The University of Saint Mary has established itself as one of the tops schools in the Midwest, largely due to their healthcare and science programs. The same can be said about the school's online programs, it is one of the best online schools for earning a degree in nursing or healthcare. One reason their healthcare and science degrees are so well respected is because of the emphasis the University of Saint Mary puts on liberal arts. With a liberal arts background in any field, students gain a better all-around perspective, something that be helpful for advancing through future careers. Online degrees are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and while many students study toward a nursing or healthcare degree, a master's in business administration is also available.

Flexibility is important to students that choose to study online, and Troy University offers just that. Online programs at Troy can be completed entirely online or through a hybrid of online and on-campus courses, allowing students to choose what works best for them. Also, online courses are only nine weeks long, so students aren't committed to courses for a whole semester. Troy is one of the best online colleges for earning a bachelor's degree because of their flexibility and the number of programs offered. Students can study in just about any field online through Troy, and each degree is designed to prepare students to begin a career in their field of choice. Associate and graduate degrees are also available through the online school.

Well known as one of the most innovative institutions in the country, Arizona State University has established itself as a leader in online education. ASU is one of the best online colleges in terms of accessibility, degree offerings and quality, and a lot of their success is due to their innovative spirit. Students that choose to study online will find that there is no shortage of options at any level. ASU has an impressive list of online programs offered, which can be completed entirely online. The online programs are accredited, and classes start each quarter, so students can study toward a degree at their own pace. These degrees are perfect for students who are unable to commute to campus but still want to earn an ASU education.

The University of Toledo has been offering online courses for two decades, giving them plenty of time create one of the best online schools in the nation for adults who want to further their career. The flexibility of the courses offered by UT is one of the biggest draws, particularly for adults who are working or have families, or for military members. These students are usually looking for a way to move forward, and the online degrees offered by UT are designed to do just that. With degrees offered from the associate to doctoral level, students and adult learners of all ages can find something that fits their needs, helping them advance their career or learn new skills to pivot into a new field.

King University was founded in 1867 in Bristol, TN as King College, a Christian, Presbyterian-affiliated institution of higher learning. For 30 connected years now, U.S. News and World Report has named King College a Best Regional University in the South. Its academic colleges offer 90 majors through the King College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, School of Education, School of Nursing, the Peeke School of Christian Mission, School of Behavioral and Health Sciences, and School of Communication, Information, and Design. Consistently ranked among the best online colleges in the region, King's Department of Online Studies hosts 15 degrees that can be completed entirely online. These include an Associate of Arts, 12 online baccalaureate degrees, and two master's degrees.

Davenport University, founded in 1866, is a private, non-profit university serving 7,500 students at its Michigan campuses and through its extensive online programs. There are more than 50 academic programs at Davenport's Colleges of Business, Arts & Sciences, Technology, Urban Education, and Health Professions. Among the best online schools in the Midwest, Davenport University has been an annual recipient, from 2012-2017, of the INSIGHT into Diversity's "Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award". At DU, online students can prepare for the workplace or advance their careers in some of the most in-demand fields of employment. There are 25 online master's degrees and graduate certificates at DU. Online baccalaureate degree majors include accounting, finance, computer science, nursing, general business, human resource management, international business, leadership and organizational performance, management, marketing, and sport management. Students may also complete an associate degree in computer science, health information technology, accounting, business administration and finance.

The University of Maine was founded in 1865 along the Stillwater River in Orono, ME. Current enrollment includes 9,279 undergraduates and 1,961 graduate students. The university offers 90 undergraduate programs, 85 master's degree programs, and 35 doctorates at its flagship campus and online. It was ranked among the 50 Green Colleges by The Princeton Review and hosts one of the best online schools in Maine. In fact, UMaine Online offers two undergraduate degrees, 16 master's and doctoral degrees, and 15 graduate certificate programs. There are eight education graduate degrees online, along with in-demand MBA and social work master's programs. Online doctorates are available in biomedicine (engineering and science).

What is today's University of Louisiana at Monroe opened its doors in 1931 as Ouachita Parish Junior College. It has since become the largest university in North Louisiana with 9,700 students taking campus-based and online courses. eULM, the university's distance education division, has been ranked as Louisiana's "Best Online College," now offering more than 30 online degree programs. Online students can complete a 63-hour Associate of General Studies (AGS), one of 14 bachelor programs of 120-125 hours, one of 24 master's degree programs of 30-39 credit hours, or a 60-hour online doctorate in education or philosophy (marriage and family therapy). Online students gain virtual access to ULM's faculty, advisors, and admissions counselors.

Amridge University, founded in Montgomery, AL in 1967, was among the first 15 universities to offer online degree programs as part of a U.S. Department of Education initiative. The study culminated with a change in Federal laws to allow more students to receive online degrees. Ranked among the best online schools, AU currently offers programs leading to an Associate or Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts or Science, Master or Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy. Its online programs are administered by the College of Business, College of General Studies, School of Human Services, and Turner School of Theology.

Established in 1888, Tiffin University has developed an innovative online program serving 4,282 students at home in Ohio and around the world. It offers graduate and undergraduate degrees in business administration, bachelor and master's degrees in criminal justice, and baccalaureate and master's degrees in the arts and sciences. As one of the nation's best online colleges, Tiffin was ranked in U.S. News and World Report's 2018 edition of the Best Colleges and Regional Universities. Classes are small, averaging 10-15 students to allow close, personalized educational experiences with the faculty. Online degree programs begin each year in January, March, May, July, August and October.

Beginning with the establishment of a campus in Moscow in 1889, the University of Idaho today serves more than 12,000 through its home campus, education centers in Coeur d'Alene, Boise and Idaho Falls. U of I also provides educational programs at extension offices in 42 Idaho counties and online. Students have a selection of 93 undergraduate and 67 graduate majors, leading to degrees and certificates. Graduates of the university have received National Science Foundation Fellowships, Rhodes Scholarships, and Fulbright Awards. The university has one of the best online colleges in the region, and was has been recognized for its online graduate education programs. Master's level education degrees are offered in adult organizational learning and leadership, educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, physical education, and special education. More than 25 online degrees are offered at U of I, including the M.S., M.Ed., M.S., M.Engr., P.S.M., M.A.T., M.P.A., and Ph.D.

Over the past 150 years, Oregon State University has built its reputation for innovative solutions to many of the world's problems, whether dealing in forestry, oceanography, marine biology, agriculture or natural resources. Today, OSU has added the field of robotics to its acclaimed specialties. The university's two campuses serve nearly 32,000 students, offering more than 200 academic programs at 11 colleges, 35 extension offices, and 15 experiment stations. OSU's eCampus degree program has been recognized among the best online colleges in the nation. There are 22 online bachelor degrees available through the eCampus, along with online master's degrees in the fields of business, natural resource sciences, science and engineering, public policy, adult education and higher education leadership, and teacher and counselor education. Online students may also complete one of 12 graduate certificates.

Central Michigan University, established in 1892 as a teacher's college, today offers more than 200 majors through its undergraduate, master's, specialist and doctoral degree programs. It serves more than 20,000 students at its Mount Pleasant campus and another 7,000 students pursuing degrees and certificates wholly online. CMU is one of the small number of educational institutions to hold the two highest Carnegie research classifications. CMU Online offers wholly online degree and certificate programs held in 8-, 12- and 16-week sessions. One of the nation's best online schools, CMU Online has been ranked among the best colleges for online bachelor degrees, MBA degrees, and graduate education. Distance students have full access to CMU's Online Learning Resource Center.

Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary enrolled its first students at its location near Knoxville in the fall of 1851. Today's Carson-Newman University enrolls 2,362 students, some of whom come from 28 different countries to complete one of 50 undergraduate majors and 11 graduate degrees offered at the school. More than 96 percent of all Carson-Newman students qualify for financial aid. The university has one of the best online colleges in the region and has been ranked as one of the Best Baccalaureate Colleges by Washington Monthly. The university's Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (BSIS) completion-degree can be earned entirely online, as can the B.S. in Organizational Leadership, Bachelor of Business Administration. Online graduate students can earn their Master of Business Administration degree at Carson-Newman University.

Campbellsville University, a comprehensive, Christian institution, offers students a wide range of associate degrees, undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as non-credit technical programs. As one of the best online colleges, Campbellsville University offers programs like certificates in Christian ministry, five associate degrees, and 20 different wholly-online master's degrees. In addition to its celebrated graduate business studies, the university focuses on teacher training, offering a selection of online master's degrees in education with 13 different specializations.

The Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph founded Brescia University in 1950. While offering an extensive range of academic programs on its campus in Owensboro, the Roman Catholic university began offering online courses in 2007. Ranked among the Top-30 Regional Colleges in the South, Brescia has also become one of the best online schools in the region. Students will benefit from online tuition, which has been frozen at its current level through 2022. Online courses are offered in accelerated 8-week formats. Programs at Brescia Online culminate in four associate degrees, six bachelor degrees (including degree-completion), and two master's degrees. Students can also complete an online certificate in accounting.

North Greenville University, in Tigerville, SC, is a private institution founded in liberal arts traditions of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Students can complete one of more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees at NGU's main campus, at its sister campus in Greer, SC, or entirely online. The university has one of the best online schools in the region, ranking second among the "2018 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina." NGU offers wholly online bachelor degrees in business & leadership, Christian ministries, criminal justice, elementary education, applied psychology, and general studies. Online graduate studies lead to degrees in business, ministry, education, music education, and health science. Students can complete their Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in as little as 18 months with classes that have five starting dates annually.

In March 1906, the Kentucky General Assembly approved the establishment of the Bowling Green school that was to become Western Kentucky University. Today, more than 100 majors lead to the baccalaureate degree, and students can choose from 111 academic minors. U.S. News and World Report has ranked WKU 12th in The Best Online Bachelor's Programs and 12th in Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs for 2018. Among the best online schools in the region, WKU offers 20 online undergraduate degrees, 30 wholly online master's degrees, and online 45 graduate/undergraduate certificates. Students may also enroll in one of more than 100 courses offered through the on-demand program that offers for-credit classes in 7-week semesters.

Midway University, founded in 1847 by Dr. Lewis L. Pinkerton, was one of the nation's first schools to serve disadvantaged or orphaned women. Today, the coeducational Midway offers its 1,005 students over 30 academic majors in many of the region's top-demand fields of business, teacher education, nursing/healthcare, and equine studies. For distance education, Midway is among the best online colleges in the region. Students can earn their associate degree online, one of more than 20 baccalaureate degrees, or a 100-percent-online MBA, M.Ed., or MSN graduate degree. Online options for a bachelor's degree in education include more than 12 areas of specialization. Midway's Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program may grant course credits for online students based on their work experience or career preparation outside the classroom.

For more than 160 years, the University of Florida has consistently grown in status as a major research university. Last year, UF received $724 million in research awards. UF was ranked second among all AAU institutions in the number of baccalaureate degrees awarded to Hispanic students. U.S. News also ranked UF Online among the nation's best online colleges, singling out high marks for the Best Online MBA Programs, Best Online Bachelor's Programs, and Best Online Graduate Education Programs. In addition to more than 200 college degree programs, UF Online also offers certificate programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Auburn University, chartered in 1856 and closed during the Civil War, Auburn University is Alabama's oldest 4-year, coeducational institution. Today it enrolls 29,776 students who attend degree programs at Auburn's College of Agriculture; College of Architecture, Design & Construction; Raymond J. Harbert College of Business; College of Education; Samuel Ginn College of Engineering; School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences; Graduate School; College of Human Sciences; College of Liberal Arts; The School of Nursing; James Harrison School of Pharmacy; College of Sciences and Mathematics; College of Veterinary Medicine; University College; and Honors College. Auburn Online is one of the region's best online schools. It garners top-20 national rankings in the categories of best online MBA programs and best online graduate computer information technology programs. Students can earn one of four online baccalaureate degrees as well as undergraduate certificates in education, and pharmacy studies.

Park University was founded on 700 acres along shore of the Mississippi River in Parkville, MO, in 1875. The university today enrolls 16,933 students at its main campus, at 41 campus centers, and online. Undergraduate students can complete one of 38 bachelor and eight associate degrees. Graduate students have a selection of eight master's degrees. There are also 27 undergraduate and graduate-level certificate programs. Park University is one of the best online colleges in the region, offering 63 online degrees. Park Universities' business and management programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).