Online Schools In Delaware
About one-third of all jobs in Delaware will require at least a bachelor’s degree from 2022-2032, according to long-term projections from the state’s Department of Labor. In 2022, bachelor’s degree holders in the state earned a wage of $98,748, second only to doctoral degree holders.
While earning a degree is a major investment, online programs are often more affordable, and financial aid can help reduce costs. This guide covers the top online colleges in Delaware, tuition costs, fast-growing careers, and scholarships for Delaware students.
Top Affordable Online Colleges in Delaware
University of Delaware
- Newark, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Delaware offers 235 undergraduate and graduate online programs on campus in Newark. The flexibility of online schools attracts many working students. At the school, learners receive a rigorous education through top-ranked programs. Transfer credits allow students to complete a bachelor’s in less than four years. Graduate students can earn master’s degrees in various subjects. Graduate programs may require learners to complete a practicum or field experience in the community.
Nontraditional learners receive an affordable education at the school. The admissions department requires school transcripts. Distance learners earn respected degrees at the University of Delaware, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of Delaware Facts:
- Total Programs: 235
- Total Bachelor’s Programs Online: 1
- Total Master’s Degrees Available Online: 10
41%
$14,040
90%
$37,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 23,568
- Institution Type
- Public
Wilmington University
- New Castle, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Wilmington University ranks among the best U.S. online colleges. The accredited institution's distance learners have 26 online bachelor's programs to choose from. The online school's academic offerings also include 35 online master's programs. The school currently enrolls a total of 10,989 remote learners.
An average of 2,634 degree-seekers enroll on campus at the private school located in New Castle, Delaware. Virtual learners complete courses online from wherever they live in the United States. Some of the institution's student services are designed just for online enrollees. Learners receive access to academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services at the online school.
Degree-seekers wanting to pursue a degree in a top-choice major get their needs met at the online college. Distance learners earn an accredited degree that qualifies them for many different career paths. Offering a low-cost education is one of the institution's top priorities.
85%
$12,270
54%
$12,270
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 14,678
- Institution Type
- Private
Price Check
Average tuition and fees at two of Delaware’s private universities, $12,154, are about three times cheaper than the national average of $35,248, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
5 Fast-Growing Jobs in Delaware
Delaware’s fastest-growing jobs are in healthcare and technology. Nurse practitioners are growing the fastest, with 55% projected growth from 2022-2032, and median annual salaries of $127,810.
Nurse practitioners are in demand in Delaware due to a shortage of primary care doctors and an aging population, with 20% of residents aged 65 years or older in 2020—one of the highest rates in the nation. The careers below are five fast-growing jobs in Delaware that require a bachelor’s degree or higher.
| Job | Projected Growth, Delaware (2022-2032) | Median Annual Wage, Delaware, May 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | 55% | $127,810 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 37% | $125,150 |
| Software Developers | 20% | $135,160 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 20% | $49,680 |
| Registered Nurses | 19% | $92,610 |
Degrees to Consider to Prepare for Delaware’s Job Market
Nursing, healthcare administration, and computer science are three degree paths leading to some of Delaware’s fastest-growing jobs.
Nursing
Nursing degrees prepare you for roles as a registered nurse (RN) and advanced positions like nurse practitioners (NPs). You can start with an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing to become an RN, then pursue a master’s degree to qualify for NP roles.
Healthcare Administration
Degrees in healthcare administration or health services management prepare students for medical and health services manager careers. Many employers prefer a master’s degree, such as an MHA or healthcare-focused MBA. Others may accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree.
Computer Science or Software Engineering
Most technology roles require a bachelor’s degree, including software development. Computer science and software engineering are the most direct paths to software development, teaching core coding skills, algorithms, and operating system design.
What Is the Cost of College in Delaware?
Delaware has two public and two private four-year colleges. Public tuition is slightly above average, at about $11,922 for in-state and $33,812 for out-of-state students, NCES data shows. Private schools are much cheaper, with average tuition around $12,154, which is about 60% below the national average.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees in Delaware (adjusted to 2026 dollars) | Average Tuition & Required Fees in the U.S. (adjusted to 2026 dollars) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $11,922 | $10,443 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $33,812 | $30,307 |
| Private Four-Year | $12,154 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Delaware
Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship
The Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship awards a renewable $1,250 scholarship to high school seniors. Eligibility includes a 3.0 GPA or higher, and a combined score of at least 1290 on the SAT or the equivalent score on the ACT, and full-time enrollment in an undergraduate degree program. Applications are due in late February.
Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation
The Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to women who have taken time off from college. Application requirements include being a Delaware resident, at least 20 years old, and a two-year education gap. Financial need is also a factor. Apply by mid-May.
Delaware Community Foundation
The Delaware Community Foundation offers over 70 scholarships ranging from $500-$23,000. Eligibility requirements vary based on the type of scholarship. Students are eligible to apply for multiple scholarships. Apply by mid-March.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Delaware
Delaware has no fully online-only colleges, but all four colleges and universities offer online programs. Wilmington University has the most online students, with 79% of undergraduates and 66% of graduate students fully online. The others are Delaware State University, Goldey-Beacom College, University of Delaware, and Delaware Technical Community College-Terry.
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