Online Colleges in Texas
Calculate the affordability of an online degree and find the best online colleges in Texas for 2021.
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.
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Online Texas Schools
Online colleges in Texas are available to students nationwide. Texas residents who pursue an in-state online degree often enjoy tuition discounts, access to alumni networks, and the ability to attend campus for events and resources.
Out-of-state students who attend online colleges in Texas also enjoy benefits, such as the ability to attend top Texas institutions without relocating. Additionally, many online Texas colleges offer tuition discounts to all online learners regardless of residency.
This guide ranks the best online Texas colleges. It also covers information on common online bachelor's programs in Texas, the cost of attending online Texas colleges, and scholarships for Texas students.
The best online colleges in Texas offer a quality education at affordable prices. Our ranking of the top online colleges in Texas considers factors such as tuition costs, student-to-teacher ratios, and graduation rates. Availability of financial support, career counseling services, and job placement support also affect rankings. These factors contribute to the program’s overall accessibility and value.
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.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.
Explore these promoted online degree programs.
These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master’s or PhD programs.
Texas Online Colleges Frequently Asked Questions
In Texas, tuition for online and on-campus credits is often the same. However, some schools charge online students an additional technology fee per credit, while others offer tuition discounts to online students.
Midland College offers the lowest tuition among Texas institutions. However, several factors impact a school's overall affordability, including cost of living and financial aid opportunities.
To receive in-state tuition, students must live in Texas for at least one year prior to enrolling in a public institution.
Best Online Colleges in Texas 2021
Based in Denton, UNT Online offers several bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, with accelerated degree completion options available for many programs.
Bachelor's options include programs in criminal justice, information science, and integrative studies. Students can also pursue undergraduate certificates in areas such as data analytics and rehabilitation studies. The school also offers a bachelor of applied arts and sciences degree completion program online.
Master's programs include applied anthropology, data science, and digital content management. The school also offers one doctoral program online: a doctor of philosophy in learning technologies.
The school encourages first-year applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores but does not require them. Graduate applicants must follow the application guidelines outlined by their chosen department.
UNT is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
UT offers several online undergraduate and graduate programs through their Finish@UT option. Participating UT campuses include Arlington, El Paso, Permian Basin, and Rio Grande Valley. Students can choose from seven-week or 15-week terms, helping to accelerate program completion.
Available undergraduate degree completion programs include a bachelor of science in criminal justice, a bachelor of arts in humanities, a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing, and a bachelor of arts in sociology.
Online master's programs include a master of fine arts in creative writing, a master of science in nursing in nursing administration, and a master of arts in special education. Students can also pursue certificates in technology leadership in education, e-learning, and principal certification.
Students must first apply and gain acceptance to a participating UT campus for eligibility. Students can submit a registration request through Finish@UT to receive registration instructions.
UT is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A private Christian college located in Longview, LETU Online offers both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Students can choose from bachelor's programs in computer information systems, business administration, and several aviation and aeronautical science program options. The school also offers several options for theology students looking to explore ministry or biblical subjects.
Students can also build vital skills through academic minor programs online. Master's options include business administration, mental health counseling, and education.
Online and graduate students fill out a separate application from on-campus students. Transfer students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all previous college coursework. Graduate students begin with the graduate school application and then must follow the individual admission criteria for their chosen program. Advisors help students navigate through credit transfers and getting set up online.
LETU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Commerce, TAMUC Online offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can choose from 100% online or hybrid programs that require some face-to-face time per session.
Fully online bachelor's options include programs in applied arts and sciences, organizational leadership, and agribusiness. Students may also choose hybrid programs in the science and engineering, business, and humanities departments. Students can also pursue graduate work with master's and doctoral degrees offered in areas such as education, social sciences, and humanities.
First-year applicants must meet one of the following requirements: graduate in the top 30% of their high school class, possess a minimum ACT score of 21 or possess a minimum SAT score of 1060. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Graduate applicants must check the individual requirements of their chose department before applying.
TAMUC is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Located in Lubbock, Texas Tech Online offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs for students who need the flexibility of online delivery.
Bachelor's options include programs in applied arts and sciences in leadership, English, technical communication, and plant and soil science. Students may also pursue master's degrees in similar fields, as well as fields like interdisciplinary studies. Doctoral programs include several options in education, as well as hybrid programs in areas like technical communication and rhetoric.
The school also offers several certification choices online, including book history and digital humanities, deaf-blindness, and global food security. Texas Tech offers online students tutoring support (also online).
Students must contact department advisors for individual requirements and deadlines for each program. TTU offers generous transfer credit policies and evaluates each student's portfolio to determine eligibility.
Texas Tech is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Huntsville, SHSU Online offers several bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as professional certification programs.
Bachelor's options include programs in communication studies, general business administration, homeland security, and sociology. Students can also complete master's programs in banking and finance institutions, criminal justice leadership and management, and project management. Students can also complete several master's degree options in education specialties and leadership.
The school also offers two doctoral programs online: a doctor of education in developmental education administration and a doctor of education in instructional systems and design and technology. Students can enhance their studies with graduate or undergraduate certificate options, as well as continuing education choices designed for adult students.
SHSU maintains an online help desk specifically for their online students. First-year applicants may apply through a test-optional admissions process. Graduate application requirements vary. Students must check with each program to determine eligibility.
SHSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Located in Nacogdoches, SFA Online offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as certificate programs.
Bachelor's programs include a bachelor of applied arts and sciences degree completion program, a bachelor of science in interdisciplinary studies, a bachelor of business administration, and a bachelor of arts in sustainable community development. Students can further their knowledge and training with assorted online minors.
Master's programs include a master of arts in mass communication, seven masters of education programs, and a master of science in human sciences. The school also offers one doctoral program: a doctor of education in educational leadership. Students can also pursue several certificate options, including executive hospitality supervision, homeland security, and educational diagnostician.
First-year applicants graduating in the top 25% of their high school class do not need a minimum SAT or ACT score for eligibility. Transfer students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.0. Graduate applicants must check with their chosen department to determine admissions requirements.
SFA is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Canyon, WTAMU Online offers students the chance to pursue undergraduate and graduate programs in a 100% online format, an online format with 15% or fewer in-person hours, or a hybrid option.
Bachelor's programs include options such as emergency management administration, computer information systems, and economics. Students may advance to master's degrees in subject areas such as counseling, instructional design and technology, and school counseling.
Undergraduate applicants that graduate in the top 25% of their high school class do not need to meet any minimum ACT or SAT score requirements. The school grants automatic admission to students with a minimum ACT score of 18 English, 22 reading, 22 math, and 23 science — or a minimum SAT score of 480 EBRW and 530 math.
WTAMU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A private Christian university located in Abilene, ACU Online offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and online certificate programs.
Bachelor's options include programs in child and family services, health and human performance, and integrated studies. Master's programs include theological studies, organizational development, and marriage and family therapy.
The school also offers two doctoral programs: a doctor of education in organizational leadership and a doctor of nursing practice. Nursing students can also pursue a bachelor of science in nursing to doctor in nursing practice entirely online. Certificate programs include options in business analytics, conflict management, cybersecurity, and medical family therapy.
Students first apply to the college through a holistic admissions process or follow individual graduate school criteria. ACU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Stephenville and part of the Texas A&M University System,Tarleton Online offers students degree paths with flexibility and no need to set foot on campus.
The school offers 13 different bachelor's programs, including general business, information technology, or criminal justice, among several other fields. Students may advance to one of 15 master's programs in fields such as business administration, information systems, and human resource management. The school also offers several professional degree completion programs, allowing students with previous work and education experience to complete a bachelor's.
First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores — unless they rank in the top 25% of their graduating class in high school. Graduate applicants must follow individual department guidelines.
Tarleton is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A private Christian university based in Dallas, DBU Online offers students the chance to complete one of over 75 degrees online. Students can choose from associate, bachelor's, and master's programs, as well as several certificate programs.
Associate degree options include programs in biblical studies, teacher preparation, or business administration. Bachelor's programs include criminal justice, psychology, or interdisciplinary studies. Master's options include several programs in education, business, leadership, and ministry. The school also offers accelerated and dual-degree master's programs.
First-year applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores (waived through fall 2021). The school allows students to transfer up to 66 credits toward their undergraduate degree. Graduate applicants must check with individual departments for transfer credit and application requirements.
DBU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Houston, UHD Online offers 15 bachelor's and three master's degree completion programs to students that already completed core coursework at another university or community college.
Bachelor's options include programs in criminal justice, general business, technical communication, and supply chain management. Master's programs include criminal justice, security management, and nonprofit management.
Students may apply as transfer students, and the school encourages applications from any of its partner community colleges, including Wharton County Junior College and Lee College. Graduate students must follow the individual admissions criteria for their chosen degree.
UHD is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Beaumont, LU Online offers several bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as professional certificate programs. Students take courses fully online without residency requirements.
Bachelor's options include programs in computer science, sociology, engineering, and education. Master's programs include a master of science in nursing administration, a master of education in digital learning and leading, and several MBA programs. The school also offers one doctoral program: a doctor of education in educational leadership.
Available online certification programs include superintendent training, mental health counseling, and principle training. LU offers online tutoring and support for students in undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as proctoring services.
Prospective undergraduate students do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Students ranking in the top 50% of their graduating class can apply for guaranteed admission. Conditional admission considers class rank, test scores, and GPA. Transfer students need a cumulative 2.0 GPA to qualify for admission. Graduate applicants must check with their individual programs to determine admission requirements.
LU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Based in Houston, HBU Online offers several undergraduate and graduate programs perfect for students seeking a flexible, online education from a private Christian university. The school offers several bachelor's and master's programs, as well as two doctoral programs online. Students can also pursue undergraduate and graduate certificate programs and non-degree vocational certificate programs.
Bachelor's options include programs in general business, biblical studies, and psychology. The school also offers a registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing program. Master's options include a master of arts in apologetics, a master of arts in Christian leadership, and several master of education programs.
The doctoral programs include a doctor of education in executive educational leadership and a doctor of education in executive leadership in mental health and human services. Certificate options include entrepreneurship, instructional design, and philosophical apologetics.
First-year applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores to begin the admissions process (waived through fall 2021). Transfer students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 to qualify for admission but can apply without this requirement for review on a case-by-case basis. Graduate applicants must check with individual programs to determine admissions requirements.
HBU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A private Christian university located in Keene, SWAUonline offers several undergraduate and graduate programs, all taught through the lens of Christianity.
Bachelor's options include programs in education, history, psychology, and general studies. Graduate programs include a master of education in curriculum and instruction or a master of education in leadership.
Students take courses at 50% of the on-campus tuition and can take advantage of online tutoring services and writing support. Online students can also receive the same spiritual guidance as on-campus students.
First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores and possess a minimum GPA of 2.75 to qualify for admission. Transfer students need a cumulative 2.0 GPA on all previously earned college credits. Graduate students must check with the graduate education department for specific requirements.
SWAUonline is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Why Choose Texas for Online Higher Education?
With approximately 170 colleges and universities scattered throughout the state, Texas provides ample opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds to earn a college degree. The Texas economy boasts several strong industries that offer job opportunities for graduates, including transportation, utility, manufacturing, and construction.
Common Online Bachelor's Programs in Texas
Texas colleges and universities offer programs in diverse fields. The following five fields of study represent some of the most popular college majors in Texas institutions.
The National Center for Education Statistics names business as the most popular college major in the country. A versatile degree, business graduates can pursue careers in areas such as sales and marketing, human resources, and administration. Home to several international manufacturing and technology corporations, the Lone Star State offers business graduates employment opportunities in several in-demand industries.Business
Texas has one of the highest incarceration rates in the country, offering many job opportunities for criminal justice graduates. Criminal justice graduates can also pursue jobs such as forensic science technician, victim advocate, park ranger, and homeland security professional.Criminal Justice
With a 2019 college enrollment of almost 1.5 million students, Texas ranks second in the country in terms of higher education enrollees. This statistic indicates strong job opportunities for education graduates. Texas also maintains partial reciprocity agreements with some states, allowing licensed Texas teachers to teach outside of Texas and vice versa.Education
A liberal arts degree trains students to think critically and communicate effectively, preparing students for diverse career paths. Many of the best colleges in Texas offer liberal arts programs online and accept applications from freshmen and transfer students.Liberal Arts
The healthcare industry in Texas generates more than $145 billion in revenue and employs over 1.3 medical workers throughout the state. Therefore, nursing graduates enjoy ample professional opportunities in settings such as hospitals, physicians' clinics, and private homes.Nursing
Cost of Attending an Online College in Texas
Several factors impact the cost of attending an online Texas college, such as residency and enrollment status. The table below shows the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition in Texas. However, some Texas schools offer tuition discounts to online students regardless of residency.
| Location | Public Four-Year College | Private Four-Year College | Public Two-Year College |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-State | $8,678 | $34,476 | $2,259 |
| Out-of-State | $25,031 | N/A | $5,920 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Career and Salary Outlook for Students in Texas
Texas hosts several growth-oriented industries in areas such as manufacturing, information and technology, energy, and financial services. The five jobs below represent just a few of the career options available to Texas graduates.
Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineers help map out the most efficient means to extract oil and gas from onshore and offshore reserves. They often work in the field inspecting existing extraction sites to ensure their safe operation and develop ways to maximize production.Computer and Information Systems Managers
Businesses and organizations rely on computer and IT managers to install, maintain, and safeguard their computer systems. IT managers help clients choose appropriate hardware and software to run their operations, troubleshoot any problems with installation and use, and train personnel to maximize the features of their computer and IT systems.Geoscientists
Most geoscientists work in the mining industry, specifically in oil and gas extraction. Geoscientists investigate onshore and offshore sites to determine whether they contain enough materials for safe extraction. Some geoscientists work in laboratories conducting experiments on field samples and exploring ways to boost fuel efficiency.Chemical Engineers
Chemical engineers often work in laboratories conducting research on how to improve processes for various companies involved in the food, fuel, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. Chemical engineers also develop protocols for the proper and safe handling of dangerous materials.Marketing Managers
Large corporations often host marketing departments where managers oversee matters related to advertising, promotions, and sales. Marketing managers may also work for advertising agencies where they help clients identify and penetrate potential markets. Nearly all types of marketing managers study current and emerging trends in their industry to determine competitive pricing and develop marketing plans that are responsive and relevant to market conditions.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineers | $172,890 | 14.2% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $156,590 | 21.1% |
| Geoscientists | $154,330 | 9.5% |
| Chemical Engineers | $150,510 | 3% |
| Marketing Managers | $149,420 | 18.9% |
Source: BLS, ProjectionsCentral
Texas Scholarships
Texas students can take advantage of scholarships to help offset the cost of their education. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for Texas students.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Austin Alliance for Women in Media Scholarship |
$5,000 | This scholarship welcomes applications from college sophomores, juniors, and seniors pursuing a degree in media or a related field at a college within 40 miles of Austin. Students attending a college outside of Austin, but who are legal residents of the city, can also apply. |
Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Scholars Program |
Varies | Graduating seniors and undergraduate and graduate students of Hispanic/Latino descent can apply to this scholarship program. Applicants must show proof of Texas residency and hold a minimum 2.5 GPA. |
Stelos Alliance Leadership and Bill Hogue Memorial Scholarships |
Varies | These scholarships support students attending Texas State University. Eligibility requirements vary by scholarship, but all applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, and an essay. |
Rocky Mountain Coal Mining Engineering/Geology Scholarship |
$2,750 | Full-time students in their sophomore or junior year of college pursuing an engineering or mining-related degree can apply for this scholarship. The organization reserves the right to renew the scholarship for another year for recipients who remain in good academic standing. |
Dallas Jewish Community Foundation Scholarships |
Varies | The Dallas Jewish Community Foundation offers several scholarships for students from Dallas, Denton, and Collin counties. Requirements vary by scholarship but typically include transcripts. |
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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.
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