Online Colleges in Texas
Texas offers many options for students seeking an online degree. Here, we outline top careers and schools in Texas.
February 10, 2022 , Updated on April 29, 2022
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Online Texas Schools
In 2015, Texas set a goal for 60% of residents to hold a college certificate or degree by 2030. Online colleges in Texas can help the state meet its goal. Many Texas online colleges offer fully online programs. This format allows learners to complete coursework from anywhere.
Texas online degrees feature rigorous coursework and the same graduate outcomes as on-campus programs. Some programs require in-person experiences, such as labs or practicums.
This page provides information about online colleges in Texas. Read on to learn about popular degrees and Texas jobs for graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Texas
Many public and private Texas online colleges offer certificates, undergraduate degrees, and graduate degrees. Prospective enrollees can research offerings on schools' websites.
Top colleges offering online programs hold regional and national accreditation from different agencies. Students should avoid applying to unaccredited schools.
No. Many top online colleges accept out-of-state and international applicants. Programs leading to state-issued licenses may only accept in-state applicants.
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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.
Why Get an Online Degree?
Earning an online degree can help learners explore new careers and increase their salary potential. Professionals with a bachelor's degree earn over 50% more than those with only a high school diploma. Graduates with a master's or terminal degree make even more.
An asynchronous format helps online students develop time-management and organizational skills. Online enrollees can finish assignments and take tests when convenient.
Cost of Attending an Online College in Texas
As of Nov. 2021, Texas students attending in-state, public schools save nearly 9% on their education compared to average U.S. degree-seekers. These learners pay an average of $8,680 annually. Out-of-state students at the same public schools pay significantly more. Fortunately, most graduates in Texas earn a degree without debt.
Online students can lower their education expenses by exploring financial aid. Many online colleges in Texas offer grants and scholarships. The federal government awards grants and loans to learners whose FAFSA results show financial need. Online enrollees can also apply for private scholarships.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students should budget for extra expenses such as books and materials. Learners may need to buy new laptops or travel to in-person seminars or internships.
Some Texas jobs require professional certifications. Online students should budget for application and exam fees. These can cost hundreds of dollars. Some organizations awarding certifications offer member discounts. Most organizations charge students and recent graduates the most affordable membership rates.
Accreditation for Online Colleges in Texas
Accreditation ensures that colleges offer students the best educational experience. The top online colleges in Texas are regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This organization evaluates every college and university throughout the southern United States. Schools with online programs also need national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
Some online programs feature programmatic accreditation. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation lists programmatic accreditation agencies.
Popular Online Bachelor's Programs in Texas
Online colleges in Texas offer many bachelor's programs. These degrees prepare students for the workforce or graduate school. General education courses help learners hone transferable communication, research, and writing skills. Some schools use cohort learning models or accelerated curriculums.
See below for five majors that can lead to high-paying Texas jobs. Full-time learners can complete a bachelor's degree in four years. Keep in mind that courses and graduation requirements vary by program. Students can check their prospective schools' websites or student handbooks for more information.
Business
A bachelor's in business prepares students for entry-level careers or MBA programs. Applicants may need to complete undergraduate prerequisites. Learners take core courses in business strategy, data analysis, and statistics. Some programs feature specializations in areas such as finance or management. Learners choose up to four upper-division electives.Criminal Justice
Aspiring security managers, police officers, and loss prevention managers can pursue an online bachelor's in criminal justice. Coursework covers criminal law, criminological theory, and research methods. Many online colleges in Texas accept transfer credit. This benefit helps criminal justice students graduate sooner.Education
A 120-credit bachelor's in education trains enrollees to teach at K-12 public schools. Coursework covers content area instruction and foundations of reading. Curriculum requirements vary by license. A semester-long student teaching experience qualifies learners to apply for licensure.Liberal Arts
A liberal arts or general studies degree allows learners to customize their education. Students select an area of study, such as nutrition or personal finance. Degree-seekers must meet the same general education requirements as other students. Learners work with academic and career advisors when choosing courses.Nursing
Practicing registered nurses (RNs) with an associate degree can enroll in an online RN-to-BSN program. Learners can complete accelerated programs in 12 months. Online courses last seven weeks and cover topics such as pathophysiology and nursing leadership. Graduates may qualify for promotions or raises.
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Texas Employment Outlook
Students can research Texas' employment outlook before choosing a major, school, or career path. Texas reported a 5.4% unemployment rate in Oct. 2021, which is slightly higher than the national average. Projections indicate that the need for statisticians, actuaries, and information security analysts will grow 38% or more from 2018-2028. These jobs require a bachelor's or master's degree.
Geographic location affects employment outlook. College graduates can move to the state's largest cities to find the highest-paying jobs.
Five In-Demand Texas Job Industries
Projections indicate that the industries and professions below will add the most jobs from 2018-2028. Future economic events and trends may affect these projections. Learners can work with career advisors to research job market changes. This can help students adjust their major or career focus if necessary.
| Top Industries | Top Occupations Within the Industry |
|---|---|
| Construction |
|
| Manufacturing |
|
| Agriculture and Forestry |
|
| Healthcare and Social Assistance |
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| Educational Services |
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Top-Paying Texas Jobs by Degree Level
Online colleges in Texas train students for the state's top-paying jobs. Graduates may work as air traffic controllers, engineers, or surgeons. However, not all programs that lead to these careers run fully online.
Click the embedded links below for information about these and other high-paying jobs. Students can work with career advisors to create career plans, develop resumes, and prepare for interviews.
Air Traffic Controllers
Airports hire these professionals to manage runaways and ensure safety. Air traffic controllers approve landings and takeoffs, monitor aircrafts' progress, and direct ground traffic. Candidates need strong critical thinking skills and must complete an approved program. Applicants can stand out in the job market by earning the air traffic control operator certification.Petroleum Engineers
These engineers develop new technologies to extract oil and natural gas. Other workers monitor drill sites. Petroleum engineers analyze data and perform scientific tests. Professionals with a bachelor's or master's degree in petroleum engineering can further their careers by earning a certification.Physicians and Surgeons
Physicians and surgeons make some of the highest salaries in Texas. These professionals need an MD and must complete specialized residencies. Typical employers include hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Job duties vary by job title and employer.
| Occupation | 2020 Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controllers | $130,420 |
| Radiation Therapists | $86,850 |
| Nuclear Technicians | $84,190 |
| Nuclear Medicine Technologists | $79,590 |
| Dental Hygienists | $77,090 |
| Occupation | 2020 Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Chief Executives | $107,680 |
| Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers | $160,970 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $149,530 |
| Petroleum Engineers | $137,330 |
| Geoscientists | $93,580 |
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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| Occupation | 2020 Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Surgeons and Physicians | $208,000 |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $207,380 |
| General Internal Medicine Physicians | $208,000 |
| Psychiatrists | $208,000 |
Online Colleges in Texas
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University of North TexasLocation
Denton, TX
Tuition$12600
Graduation Rate53%
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.
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The University of Texas of the Permian BasinLocation
Odessa, TX
Tuition$9800
Graduation Rate41%
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.
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LeTourneau UniversityLocation
Longview, TX
Graduation Rate59%
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.
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Texas A & M University-CommerceLocation
Commerce, TX
Tuition$11796
Graduation Rate40%
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.
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Texas Tech UniversityLocation
Lubbock, TX
Tuition$15531
Graduation Rate59%
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.
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Sam Houston State UniversityLocation
Huntsville, TX
Tuition$12516
Graduation Rate52%
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.
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Stephen F Austin State UniversityLocation
Nacogdoches, TX
Tuition$11759
Graduation Rate48%
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.
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West Texas A & M UniversityLocation
Canyon, TX
Tuition$13325
Graduation Rate44%
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.
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Abilene Christian UniversityLocation
Abilene, TX
Graduation Rate67%
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.
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Tarleton State UniversityLocation
Stephenville, TX
Tuition$12352
Graduation Rate46%
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.
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Dallas Baptist UniversityLocation
Dallas, TX
Graduation Rate53%
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.
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University of Houston-DowntownLocation
Houston, TX
Tuition$7883
Graduation Rate20%
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.
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Lamar UniversityLocation
Beaumont, TX
Tuition$11510
Graduation Rate27%
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.
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Houston Baptist UniversityLocation
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate40%
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.
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Southwestern Adventist UniversityLocation
Keene, TX
Graduation Rate37%
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.
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