Looking to get a degree online?

Find the top online colleges and universities, and get help picking a school and applying for financial aid.

Nowadays, 75% of college students attend classes online. This is a big shift from 20 years ago when only 18% choose online courses.

Online colleges are well-liked because they offer flexibility for students with different needs, and they can also be cost-effective. Getting a bachelor’s degree online can open up new job options and the chance to earn more money.

Curious to learn more?

Look at our list of the best online colleges and universities.

Nowadays, 75% of college students attend classes online. This is a big shift from 20 years ago when only 18% choose online courses.

Online colleges are well-liked because they offer flexibility for students with different needs, and they can also be cost-effective. Getting a bachelor’s degree online can open up new job options and the chance to earn more money.

Best Online Colleges, Universities and Schools in USA 2024

1. University of Florida

• Location: Gainesville, FL
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $129
  • Out-of-State: $552
• Credits to Graduate: 120
• Majors: 24 options, including biology, criminology, nursing, and environmental management.
• BA in Business Administration: 11 specializations
• Transfer Credits: Up to 60 credits from accredited two-year colleges.
• Admission: Minimum 2.5 GPA, SAT/ACT/CLT scores for first-year applicants.

2. George Mason University

• Location: Fairfax, VA
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $575
  • Out-of-State: $1,582
• Credits to Graduate: 120-126
• Programs: 50 online and hybrid options, including health, engineering, technology, and business.
• RN-to-BSN Program: Highly ranked nationally.
• Admission: Official transcripts, optional SAT/ACT scores for first-year applicants.

3. University of Missouri

• Location: Columbia, MO
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $542-$692
  • Out-of-State: $659-$809
• Credits to Graduate: 120
• Programs: 375 online options, including business administration, information systems, and technology.
• Special Programs: BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Bachelor of Liberal Studies.
• Admission: Optional SAT/ACT scores for first-year applicants.

4. Northeastern University Professional Programs

• Location: Boston, MA
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $541
  • Out-of-State: $541
• Credits to Graduate: 120
• Programs: Emphasis on bachelor’s degree completion in analytics, information technology, and project management.
• Tuition Discount: Significant discount for active U.S. service members and spouses.
• Admission: Minimum 2.0 GPA for transfer students.

5. Florida International University

• Location: Miami, FL
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $404
  • Out-of-State: $817
• Credits to Graduate: 120
• Programs: Offered for 20 years, including economics, psychology, nursing, and Spanish.
• Support: Every online student paired with a success coach.
• Admission: High school transcripts and SAT/ACT scores for first-year applicants.

6. Drexel University

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $459-$574
  • Out-of-State: $459-$574
• Credits to Graduate: 180-192
• Programs: 15 online bachelor’s programs in business, cybersecurity, education, and nursing.
• Quarter System: Most programs run on a 10-week quarter system.
• Support Services: Writing center, career development, teletherapy services available.
• Tuition Discount: Up to 40% for veterans and military service members.

7. Thomas Jefferson University

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Avg. Annual Tuition & Fees: $44,000
• Credits to Graduate: Usually 120
• Degrees: 10 Bachelor of Science degrees in business management, health sciences, information technology, and respiratory therapy.
• Financial Aid: Around 95% of undergrads receive financial aid.
• Transfer Credits: Maximum of 87 credits accepted from various sources.
• Discount: 25% discount for East Falls campus students employed in Philadelphia.

8. Parker University

• Location: Dallas, TX
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $710
  • Out-of-State: $710
• Credits to Graduate: About 120
• Programs: Eight online bachelor’s programs in health science, business, and technology.
• Admission: Specific policies for certain programs.
• Discounts: Active military tuition assistance and 10% discount for veterans.

9. Oregon State University

• Location: Corvallis, OR
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $350-$409
  • Out-of-State: $350-$409
• Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits (180 quarter credits)
• Programs: 46 undergraduate degrees, strong STEM catalog.
• Support: Comprehensive services, including success coaching and free tutoring.
• Admission: College preparatory requirements, test-optional.

10. Maryville University of Saint Louis

• Location: Saint Louis, MO
• Program Duration: 4 years
• Format: Online + Campus
• Cost per Credit:
  • In-State: $525-$622
  • Out-of-State: $525-$622
• Credits to Graduate: 128
• Programs: 30 online degrees, majors in business administration, data science, forensic psychology.
• Transfer Policy: Generous credit transfer policy.
• Admission: No application fee, minimum 2.5 GPA for first-year applicants.

Is pursuing an online college degree is worth it?

Yes, pursuing an online college degree is often worth it. According to our 2024 Online Education Trends Report:

• Positive Return on Investment (ROI): 96% of online students expect or are already experiencing a positive return on investment for their online degree.

• Recommendation: 98% of current online students would recommend online education to others.

Additionally:

• Academic Standards: Online programs at accredited colleges adhere to the same academic standards as on-campus programs. They offer the same classes taught by the same faculty for both in-person and online students.

• Equivalent Diploma: Online students typically receive an identical diploma to that of in-person graduates.

In summary, online college is considered worthwhile for many students due to its positive ROI, high recommendation rates, and the assurance of meeting academic standards comparable to traditional on-campus programs.

How to Choose an Online College?

Choosing the right online college is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your education and future career. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Cost:
   • Consider not only tuition but also additional costs like tech requirements, books, supplies, and fees. Create a budget to understand the full financial commitment.
2. Financial Aid:
   • Research the financial aid options offered by each school. Some institutions provide better aid packages, including grants and scholarships, which can help reduce your overall costs.
3. Accreditation:
   • Ensure the school is accredited. Accreditation is essential for the recognition of your degree, eligibility for professional licenses, certifications, and access to federal financial aid. Don’t compromise on accreditation.
4. Learning Format:
   • Assess your preferred learning format. Some programs may have in-person requirements, while others are fully online. Consider whether you can attend full-time or part-time. Also, think about your preference for synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous (flexible) courses.
5. Student Resources:
   • Look for schools with comprehensive student support systems, including:
     • Academic advisors: Guidance for course selection and career planning.
     • Tutors: Access to additional help when needed.
     • Library resources: Online libraries and research tools.
     • Career services: Assistance with job placement, resume building, and internships.
     • Mentorship opportunities: Connecting with experienced professionals in your field.

Remember to thoroughly research each aspect and consider your individual needs and preferences. Visiting the school’s official website, reaching out to current students, and attending virtual information sessions can provide valuable insights into the college’s culture and offerings.

How to Apply to an Online College?

Choosing the right school will shape your education and future career.

Here are the main factors you need to consider before enrolling:

Cost: On top of tuition, you need to budget for additional tech costs, books, supplies, and fees.

Financial aid: Some schools offer better financial aid packages than others. Grant-based aid and scholarships can help lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation: Don’t waste your time and money on a school that isn’t properly accredited. This is especially true if you want to qualify for a professional license, certifications, or federal financial aid.

Learning format: Can you handle some in-person requirements, or do you need a fully online program? Will you attend on a full-time or part-time basis? Do you prefer synchronous or asynchronous courses?

Student resources: The best online colleges have robust systems and resources to help students succeed, including advisors, tutors, library access, career services, internship programs, and mentorship opportunities.