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Online college is a great way to earn a degree. Learn more about the top online colleges and the costs of an online degree.
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Are you ready to discover your college program?
Best Online Colleges and Universities
More than 11.8 million college students took online classes in 2020, and nearly 7 million enrolled in fully online colleges. Online programs offer students a flexible, convenient way to further their education.
Online enrollees can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in many fields. Common areas include business, healthcare, and education. Some programs require students to attend virtual classes at set meeting times. Others allow learners to complete coursework at their convenience. Most programs allow online learners to complete any in-person requirements locally.
Our list ranks the best online colleges. Prospective students can use this list to find the right fit for their budget and goals.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a College Degree Online?
Earning a degree online offers flexibility. Learners can complete coursework from anywhere while managing work and family responsibilities.
An online learning format can also save students money. Many colleges offer tuition breaks for fully online students. They may charge a flat tuition rate regardless of learners' residency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges
How much does online college cost?
Cost varies by program and school. Students enrolled at public, in-state schools usually pay the most affordable tuition. As of August 2021, in-state tuition for an online bachelor's degree averages $38,500. Tuition averages $54,180 at out-of-state colleges.
Can I go to college online for free?
Eligible students can apply to tuition-free online colleges. Learners can also apply for financial aid such as scholarships and grants to lower out-of-pocket costs.
Is it cheaper to get a degree online?
Earning a degree online can help students save money since they do not need to commute to campus or relocate to attend the most affordable program. Many online programs run asynchronously. This delivery format allows students to continue working while earning their degrees.
The Best Online Schools 2023
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
A great option for an affordable college in Florida, the University of Florida offers 463 online programs for those outside of Gainesville. Students can pursue 16 bachelor's programs and 41 master's programs online in various fields, enjoying the flexibility offered by online schools. The college ranks among the best schools in the nation for top-ranked degrees. Transfer credits are available to help working professionals complete their bachelor's degree in less time, and master’s degrees are available in a variety of majors. Degree-seekers also complete community field experiences in some graduate programs.
The school offers an education many students can afford. Those hoping to attend should send school transcripts for admission consideration. Regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ensures strong academics at University of Florida.
University of Florida at a Glance:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 463
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 16
Master’s Programs Available Online: 41
Price of In-State Tuition for Undergrads: $4,477
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
53,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Schools 2023
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
Online learners at Southern New Hampshire University earn the same high-quality degrees as on-campus students. The private school offers 103 top-ranked online programs for distance learners. The school enrolls both undergraduate and graduate students, with various factors like job and family situations drawing many to distance learning.
The school's online programs offer affordable asynchronous learning opportunities. Working students can transfer credits to finish their degrees even faster. The school’s admission rate is 94%, and applicants do not need to submit test scores. The school holds regional accreditation from the New England Commission on Higher Education.
Southern New Hampshire University Facts:
School Status: Private
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 128,672
Number of Online Degrees: 103
Bachelor’s Available Online: 45
Tuition Per Credit: $465
Cost of Tuition for Undergraduates: $9,600 a year in-state; $9,600 a year out-of-state
Admission Rate: 94%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
134,345
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Schools 2023
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
A great school with online offerings, Florida International University offers some of the best online programs available. Online learners at the public institution can enroll in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science programs. Many of these programs let students earn a college degree entirely remotely. Instead of having to commute to the Miami campus, virtual enrollees earn their degree from the comfort of home.
Learners in online programs use virtual classroom settings to interact with peers and teachers, as well as the school's academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling. The institution also features experiential learning opportunities that help participants transition into the workforce.
Undergraduate and graduate program options at the accredited online institution meet the needs of diverse students. Degree-seekers meet graduation requirements more easily because of the flexible format.
Florida International University Fast Facts:
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 50,620
Total Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 40
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Percentage of Students Awarded Aid: 94%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 26%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Schools 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers a catalog of affordable, top-ranked online programs. Students can choose from 72 online master's degrees in various majors, as well as 32 bachelor's programs. Busy professionals like online schools for flexible learning, and students can use transfer credits to finish a four-year bachelor’s degree in less time. Learners can also pursue master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Graduate students complete local field experience in some programs.
Applicants must send school transcripts for admission. The programs at Liberty University have regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University Statistics:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 242
Bachelor’s Degrees Available Online: 32
Associate Degrees Available Online: 15
Master’s Degrees Available Online: 72
Average Per-Credit Tuition: $750
Average In-State Tuition for Undergraduates: $14,791
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Schools 2023
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, a nonprofit school, offers a comprehensive catalog that includes liberal arts and professional studies degrees. Online learning allows working professionals to conveniently earn accredited degrees.
Students can typically complete a 120-credit bachelor's degree in four years, while graduate students complete a master’s degree in two years on average. Enrollees complete their program using a combination of live and prerecorded classes and complete assignments within a set time frame. These online programs provide classroom lectures and sometimes practical experiences such as internships.
Distance learners can begin a bachelor’s degree at the school with shorter programs like certificates or associate degrees. While doing so, they can receive online support services such as tutoring and career advising and pay affordable online tuition. Enrollees receive an average total aid of $12,370, and prospective students can expect a 73% admission rate.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,038
Out-of-state
$8,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,132
Out-of-state
$9,132
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
34,285
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-Columbia's top-ranked online programs make it a solid school for online learning. Business, healthcare, STEM, and social science are some of the programs available to virtual learners at the public institution. Many programs feature a 100% virtual path to earning a college degree. Doing class assignments from home lets remote enrollees skip commuting to the Columbia campus.
Remote learners use an online classroom setting to communicate with teachers and peers. Participants transition to the workforce smoothly because of the knowledge and skills gained through the institution's many experiential learning opportunities. The school supports online learners with services like academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling.
With undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited online institution meets the needs of diverse students. Meeting the requirements for graduation is more accessible to more degree-seekers because of the flexible format.
University of Missouri-Columbia at a Glance:
Total Number of e-Learners Enrolled: 27,138
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 14
Total Number of Online Master's Programs: 25
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 93%
Percentage of Students Receiving Loans: 38%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,330
Out-of-state
$27,612
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,478
Out-of-state
$25,946
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,089
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers 158 total programs. Learners at the public institution can choose from both on-campus and online programs. Degree-seekers in online programs enjoy a 19-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and a flexible, accessible format. The school's top-ranking online programs especially appeal to busy students and working professionals.
Learners in these online programs use virtual classroom settings to interact with peers and teachers. They learn important skills and information for their chosen field. Developing in-demand skills, such as problem-solving and critical thinking, is one of the many benefits of general education classes. The school provides distance learners with academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling to support their academic journey. The degree that enrollees receive upon graduation meets accreditation standards.
University of Missouri-St. Louis at a Glance:
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 10
Online Master's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 58%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,328
Out-of-state
$29,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,283
Out-of-state
$30,154
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,874
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Schools 2023
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
At the University of West Florida, students earn affordable online degrees. The institution offers a robust catalog of programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Online students receive career preparation by enrolling full or part time. The school's online programs offer a flexible asynchronous format. Hybrid degrees offer the best of both worlds with both in-person and online sessions and personalized learning.
Graduate students can choose from among 17 online master's programs. Those who are working while attending will appreciate the affordable tuition and generous financial aid available to pay for their education.
University of West Florida Numbers:
Status of School: Public
Total Online Learners: 12,713
Number of Online Degrees: 26
Total Bachelor’s Programs Online: 8
Tuition Rate Per Unit: $390
Percentage of Students Receiving Aid: 93%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Schools 2023
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
One of the best colleges in the state, Colorado State University-Fort Collins administers 296 online programs. E-learners can choose from the school's 35 online master's programs in various fields, as well as 14 online bachelor's programs. Online schools appeal to students who want learning flexibility while pursuing some of the nation’s top-ranked programs. Undergraduates can complete a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Working professionals can earn master’s degrees in various fields. Students complete field experiences locally in some graduate programs.
Tuition is affordable at this school. The admissions department requires all usual transcripts upon application. Students at Colorado State University-Fort Collins earn degrees regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins at a Glance:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 296
Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 14
Number of Master’s Degrees Available Online: 35
Undergraduate Tuition Cost for State Residents: $9,426
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,426
Out-of-state
$28,147
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,520
Out-of-state
$25,791
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
32,428
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
University of Louisville offers 218 undergraduate and graduate programs on campus in Louisville, Kentucky. Students choose from 11 bachelor's programs and 17 online degrees in various majors. Distance learners enjoy the flexibility online schools provide as they pursue degrees that consistently rank among the best in the nation. Working professionals can complete a bachelor’s degree in less time with transfer credit. Nontraditional learners who already have bachelor's degrees can also pursue a master’s degree from the school’s catalog. Some graduate programs require online students complete field experience in their community.
The school’s affordable degrees attract many potential students. Applicants must send school transcripts for admission. The programs at University of Louisville have regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Louisville Fast Facts:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 218
Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 11
Number of MA/MS Degrees Available Online: 17
Tuition Rate Per Credit: $553
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,966
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,966
Out-of-state
$28,312
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,260
Out-of-state
$27,374
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
22,211
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Online Schools 2023
Utah State University
Logan, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Logan, Utah State University offers 358 programs, including 13 online bachelor's programs and 16 online master's programs in various fields. The flexibility of online schools attracts working students looking for a rigorous education from top-ranked degrees. Degree-seekers can earn master’s degrees in various subjects. Graduate programs may require field experience in the community.
Degrees at the school are affordable. Admission requires previous school transcripts. Utah State University maintains regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Utah State University at a Glance:
Total Programs: 358
Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 13
Number of Associate Degrees Available Online: 3
MA/MS Degrees Available Online: 16
Undergrad Tuition Rates for Residents: $6,732
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,732
Out-of-state
$21,677
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,164
Out-of-state
$21,575
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
27,691
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#12 Best Online Schools 2023
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Ball State University offers top-ranking online programs, making it one of the best online schools. Distance learners at the public institution choose from programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science. Many programs offer a fully online route to a college degree. Online enrollees skip having to commute to the Muncie, Indiana, campus and instead earn their degree from the comfort of home.
Learners in online programs use virtual classroom settings to interact with peers and teachers. The school provides distance learners with academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling to support their academic journey. Participants transition to the workforce smoothly because of the knowledge and skills gained through the institution's many experiential learning opportunities.
Undergraduate and graduate programs are available at the accredited online institution to meet the different needs of all kinds of students. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible format, which lets them complete the requirements for graduation more easily.
Ball State University at a Glance:
Number of Virtual Learners: 19,352
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Percentage of Learners Receiving Aid: 90%
Percentage of Learners Receiving Student Loans: 53%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,482
Out-of-state
$26,470
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,328
Out-of-state
$25,542
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
21,597
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can pursue affordable degrees at University of Arkansas. The school’s catalog offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Online learners can enroll and prepare for careers on a full- or part-time basis. The school's asynchronous online programs provide learners flexibility. Hybrid programs offer the best of both worlds with in-person and online sessions. In all programs, faculty take advantage of small classes to provide personalized learning.
For graduate students, the University of Arkansas offers 24 online master’s and seven doctoral programs. The school’s competitive tuition and average $7,593 financial aid package make degrees more affordable.
University of Arkansas Fast Facts:
School Status: Public
Total Online Students Enrolled: 26,599
Online Degrees Available: 59
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 14
Percentage of Degree-Seekers Receiving Aid: 87%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Online Schools 2023
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
On a campus located in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University administers 270 programs. Degree-seekers can learn flexibly with the school's 21 online master's programs and 10 bachelor's programs. The flexibility of online schools attracts working students, and learners with transfer credits can finish four-year degrees faster. The school ranks among the best schools in the nation for top-ranked degrees. Working professionals can earn master’s degrees in various fields. Learners develop expertise during community field experiences in some graduate degrees.
The college offers affordable education. Degree-seekers submit school transcripts for admission. Regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ensures strong academics at George Mason University.
George Mason University at a Glance:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 270
Bachelor’s Available Online: 10
Online Master’s Programs: 21
Average Per-Credit Price: $862
Price of In-State Tuition for Undergraduates: $9,510
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,594
Out-of-state
$33,906
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
38,541
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Best Online Schools 2023
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ
4 years
Online
Located in Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University offers 72 total programs. The public institution delivers programs using both in-person and online formats. A 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible format benefit degree-seekers in the online programs. The top-ranking programs at the school suit busy students and working professionals.
Online learners interact with their peers and teachers through a virtual learning environment during their online degree. They learn foundational skills and knowledge for their future profession. In general education classes, students learn critical thinking and problem-solving, both in-demand skills in today's workforce. The online school's distance learners receive support through academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. Enrollees graduate with an accredited degree.
Thomas Edison State University Facts:
Number of Associate Degrees Available Online: 12
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Online Master's Programs Available: 9
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,182
Out-of-state
$9,342
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,024
Out-of-state
$12,024
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,495
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#16 Best Online Schools 2023
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can pursue affordable degrees at Kennesaw State University. The school, located in Georgia, offers a comprehensive catalog of programs for career preparation. Online students can enroll full or part time and benefit from the online program's flexible course schedules. Some programs blend in-person and online sessions. Online learners still enjoy small classes for individualized instruction.
Graduate students can explore the school’s catalog of 21 online master’s and four doctoral programs. Students pay affordable tuition and receive an average $6,110 financial aid package.
Kennesaw State University Fast Facts:
Status of School: Public
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 38,860
Total Online Programs: 62
Total Bachelor’s Programs Online: 12
Percentage of Enrollees Receiving Aid: 92%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
41,181
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Best Online Schools 2023
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
Temple University offers a total of 479 programs from its Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, campus. The public institution features both on-campus and online programs. A 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible format make the online programs appealing to many degree-seekers. Working professionals and busy students choose from the school's many top-ranking programs created with their needs in mind.
Learners in online programs interact with each other and their teachers in a remote classroom space. They learn important skills and information for their chosen field. Students get the chance to develop in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving through their general education classes. The online school's academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling all support distance learners. Degrees from the institution meet accreditation standards.
Temple University Facts:
Total Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Number of Available Online Master's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 71%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$28,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,956
Out-of-state
$23,346
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
37,236
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#18 Best Online Schools 2023
Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, WI
4 years
Online + Campus
One of top online schools, Maranatha Baptist University offers some of the best online programs available. Distance learners can enroll in the private institution's programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social sciences. Many programs offer a fully online route to a college degree. Instead of having to commute to the Watertown, Wisconsin, campus, virtual enrollees earn their degree from the comfort of home.
The school supports online learners with services like academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling. Remote classroom spaces let distance learners interact with teachers and peers in their online programs. The institution also offers several experiential learning opportunities to help participants transition into the workforce.
Diverse students have their different needs met by the accredited online institution's undergraduate- and graduate-level program offerings. Degree-seekers meet graduation requirements more easily because of the flexible format.
Maranatha Baptist University at a Glance:
Total Number of e-Learners Enrolled: 526
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Percentage of Learners Awarded Aid: 98%
Students Awarded Loans: 32%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,400
Out-of-state
$16,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,800
Out-of-state
$6,800
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
916
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Online Schools 2023
Excelsior College
Albany, NY
4 years
Online
A private New York institution, Excelsior College offers degrees online and on campus in Albany. The school's online programs enroll students from all across the country. Graduates of the online college reach their professional goals with in-demand degrees in STEM, business, and healthcare.
The school's virtual learners choose from many undergraduate and graduate programs. Degree-seekers in undergraduate programs complete foundation courses and general education requirements. Additionally, enrollees take higher-level classes in their chosen major. Online classes and seminars help graduate learners build higher-level skills.
Prospective students can reach out to the school to learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. Enrollees can work with the accredited institution to find opportunities for financial aid.
Excelsior College Statistics:
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 61
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
21,974
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 Best Online Schools 2023
University of Denver
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
A solid choice for online learning, the University of Denver's online programs are top-ranked. The private institution offers programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social sciences. Students can earn college degree 100% remotely through many programs. Virtual enrollees complete class assignments from home or wherever they are, saving them from commuting to campus.
Remote learners use an online classroom setting to communicate with teachers and peers during an online program. Programs offer hands-on learning experience so participants can practice skills needed for their future careers. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling are available to the school's distance learners to support their academic career.
The accredited online institution's undergraduate and graduate program offerings meet the different needs of a diverse group of students. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible format, which lets them complete the requirements for graduation more easily.
University of Denver Fast Facts:
Price per Credit: $1,098
Total Online Students Enrolled: 12,279
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Number of Online Master's Programs: 20
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 90%
Percentage of Learners Receiving Student Loans: 35%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,596
Out-of-state
$52,596
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,596
Out-of-state
$52,596
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
13,856
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?
Degree costs vary by program and school. Bachelor's programs generally cost more than associate programs. Private schools usually charge more than public schools.
Students earning a bachelor's degree online pay an average of $9,375 per year in tuition and fees at public, in-state colleges, according to 2020-21 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Learners at private colleges pay $32,825 in tuition and fees. Scholarships and grants can help enrollees pay for their degree.
Additional Online College Student Fees
Online learners should budget for additional fees, such as upgrading their internet or buying a new computer. Some online colleges charge distance-learning and graduation fees. Students also need to buy books and class materials, which cost an average of $1,240 per year.
Some online programs include on-campus components. Learners should reserve money for travel and lodging. Before choosing an online college, prospective students can ask advisors about a degree's total cost.
Colleges and universities offer online programs in popular fields like business, healthcare, and education. Students can pursue degrees at the associate, bachelor's, doctoral levels. Online programs help build strong critical thinking and analytical skills. They also hone problem-solving, research, writing, and communication skills.
Learners pursuing an online bachelor's degree complete general education courses, major courses, and electives. Master's programs include advanced coursework and specialization options. See below for information on three common online degrees.
Business
Online business programs train students in accounting, marketing, finance, and management. Many online programs offer specializations in areas like entrepreneurship, information systems, and international business. Online students may complete local internships or other projects to prepare for the workforce.
Nursing
Online nursing programs prepare learners for several nursing careers. Enrollees complete coursework, labs, and practicums. The major helps learners develop career-ready skills like taking health assessments and managing patient care. Online nursing programs work with students to arrange local clinical experiences.
Education
Many education careers require a degree, including teaching and administrative jobs. An online education degree prepares educators for roles in the classroom or education leadership. Distance learners study assessment methods, educational technology, and curriculum design. They also complete student teaching or in-person requirements locally.
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