Want to earn a degree online? Discover the best online colleges and universities, plus resources on choosing a school and applying for financial aid.
By
Editor & Writer
Meg Embry is a writer at BestColleges covering all things career and education related. An award-winning journalist and editor, she has lived and worked in Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States....
Updated on January 2, 2024
Edited by
Editor & Writer
Tyler Epps is an editor for BestColleges. He writes and edits content about higher education, specializing in degree planning and college rankings. He is passionate about helping students prepare for college and navigate their educational journey. He...
•
Reviewed by
Reviewer & Writer
Lonnie Woods III has over 10 years of professional higher education experience. As a student affairs administrator, professor, and professional development consultant, his work and research examine the career competencies of students pursuing the art...
Learn more about our editorial process
By
Editor & Writer
Meg Embry is a writer at BestColleges covering all things career and education related. An award-winning journalist and editor, she has lived and worked in Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States....
Edited by
Editor & Writer
Tyler Epps is an editor for BestColleges. He writes and edits content about higher education, specializing in degree planning and college rankings. He is passionate about helping students prepare for college and navigate their educational journey. He...
•
Reviewed by
Reviewer & Writer
Lonnie Woods III has over 10 years of professional higher education experience. As a student affairs administrator, professor, and professional development consultant, his work and research examine the career competencies of students pursuing the art...
Updated on January 2, 2024
Learn more about our editorial process
www.bestcolleges.com 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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Today, 60% of college students take online classes. That’s a huge change from 20 years ago, when just 16% of students enrolled online.
It’s easy to see why online colleges are so popular. The flexible format appeals to students with diverse needs, and online schools can save you money. Plus, an online bachelor’s degree can mean new job opportunities and a higher earning potential.
Want to know more? Check out our rankings of the best online colleges and universities.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Colleges and Universities of 2024
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com 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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#1 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $129
Out-of-State | $552
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Florida specializes in affordable online undergraduate and bachelor's degree completion programs. UFOnline's 24 majors include biology, criminology, nursing, and environmental management. Each curriculum requires general education credits and major coursework.
UF's BA in business administration offers 11 specializations so that you can tailor your degree to your career goals. You can also finish any degree faster by transferring up to 60 credits from an accredited two-year college.
First-year applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and SAT, ACT, and/or CLT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
55,781
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Accreditation
Yes
#2 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $575
Out-of-State | $1,582
Credits to Graduate: 120-126
George Mason University offers 50 online and hybrid programs with great flexibility for those seeking to learn from afar. Four-year degrees include health, engineering and technology, and business and management. The online RN-to-BSN at Mason ranks among the best in the nation.
You can finish a degree faster by transferring credits into one of five degree completion programs. The bachelor of individualized study is a degree completion option that allows you to tailor the curriculum to your career goals.
First-year applicants must submit official transcripts and optional SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students need a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,035
Out-of-state
$34,347
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
38,628
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Accreditation
Yes
#3 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $542-$692
Out-of-State | $659-$809
Credits to Graduate: 120
Missouri Online offers 375 online programs from Mizzou's four institutions. Bachelor's degree programs include business administration, information systems and technology, public health, and respiratory technology.
You can design your own degree plan with a BA in interdisciplinary studies or a bachelor of liberal studies. A bachelor of educational studies includes an emphasis in educational games and simulation design.
Some degrees offer a hybrid option or may require an on-campus component. Part of Mizzou's appeal is a seamless credit transfer system so you can finish a degree faster. First-year applicants submit optional SAT or ACT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,017
Out-of-state
$28,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,950
Out-of-state
$27,245
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
31,401
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Accreditation
Yes
#4 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Northeastern University Professional Programs
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $541
Out-of-State | $541
Credits to Graduate: 120
Northeastern University's undergraduate online program emphasizes bachelor's degree completion. You can earn degrees in in-demand fields such as analytics, information technology, and project management. The curriculum for each degree requires general education, major courses, and elective credits.
Transfer credits can satisfy general education and other requirements as stated. Graduate students have access to Northeastern's extensive catalog of online graduate degrees. Master's degrees include the fields of applied psychology, biotechnology, and energy systems.
Active U.S. service members and spouses receive a steep tuition discount. Transfer students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,984
Out-of-state
$12,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,866
Out-of-state
$22,866
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,918
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Accreditation
Yes
#5 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $404
Out-of-State | $817
Credits to Graduate: 120
Florida International University (FIU) has offered online education for 20 years. FIU Online has bachelor's degree programs in fields such as economics, psychology, nursing, and Spanish.
The notable BA in sustainability and the environment requires coursework on South Florida's ecology and applied field ecology. FIU's BS in hospitality management program offers eight online majors, including hospitality leadership and event management.
FIU pairs every online undergrad with a success coach. Other services include professional development programs and free online therapy sessions. First-year applicants must submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Accreditation
Yes
#6 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $459-$574
Out-of-State | $459-$574
Credits to Graduate: 180-192
Drexel University's online degree and certificate program is extensive, offering 15 online bachelor's programs in nine different fields of study. These areas include business, cybersecurity, education, and nursing.
Most programs run on a 10-week quarter system with an additional week for exams. Depending on the program, you can transfer credits earned at another accredited institution. Drexel will evaluate all possible transfer credits for accepted students.
Drexel provides a variety of online student support services, such as its writing center, a career development center, teletherapy services, and a 24-hour access to its library resources. Veterans and military service members applying for the first time can get up to a 40% discount on their tuition for online programs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Accreditation
Yes
#7 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Annual Tuition & Fees: $44,000
Credits to Graduate: Usually 120
Thomas Jefferson University has 10 bachelor of science degrees available from its East Falls and Center City campuses that can be both hybrid and online, depending on the program. It offers degrees in several areas such as business management, health sciences, information technology, and respiratory therapy degree advancement.
Around 95% of undergraduate students receive financial aid. Students can apply for employer tuition discounts, scholarships and grants provided at each of its campuses, and veteran benefit programs. As a Philadelphia employee, East Falls campus students can get a 25% discount on any accelerated bachelor of science degree program.
The university accepts a maximum of 87 transfer credits from previously attended college-level courses, military training, and certain exams, such as the CLEP and the DSST.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,900
Out-of-state
$41,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,068
Out-of-state
$22,068
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,270
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Accreditation
Yes
#8 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $710
Out-of-State | $710
Credits to Graduate: About 120
Parker University offers eight online bachelor's degree programs in the category of health science, as well as business and technology. Some of the programs they offer are healthcare management, computer information systems, nutrition science, and sport psychology.
The school has specific admission policies and requirements for its bachelor's programs in healthcare management, health information management, and computer information systems programs. Some programs are qualified for active military tuition assistance. Veterans can receive a 10% discount and can qualify for other benefits.
The university does not guarantee credit transfers; transfers are approved only after a thorough examination of the institution and the course program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,760
Out-of-state
$23,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,954
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Accreditation
Yes
#9 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $350-$409
Out-of-State | $350-$409
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits (180 quarter credits)
More than 12,000 students enroll in Oregon State's e-campus. Online students can choose from 46 undergraduate degrees with majors such as applied humanities, business analytics, and finance.
The school has a strong STEM catalog that includes biohealth sciences, mechanical engineering, and crop and soil science degrees. The customizable BA or BS in liberal studies program allows you to design your own liberal arts major.
Oregon State's comprehensive support services include success coaching, free tutoring, and access to library resources. First-year students must meet college preparatory requirements. Oregon State is test-optional.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,065
Out-of-state
$29,456
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,446
Out-of-state
$27,297
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
33,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Accreditation
Yes
#10 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525-$622
Out-of-State | $525-$622
Credits to Graduate: 128
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Maryville University educates about 10,000 students, most of whom study online. A catalog of 30 online degrees includes majors in business administration, data science, forensic psychology, and an RN-to-BSN program.
Many of Maryville's students transfer from other institutions and make use of the generous credit transfer policy. You pay the same per-credit tuition rate regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency status.
Maryville charges no application fee. First-year applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
10,596
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84%
Accreditation
Yes
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
Ranking Methodology Summary
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Is Online College Worth It?
Earning a degree online pays off. In our 2023 Online Education Trends Report, 96% of online students said they’re expecting or already experiencing a positive return on investment for their online degree. And 98% of current online students said they would recommend online education to others.
At accredited colleges, online programs meet the same academic standards as on-campus programs. Many colleges offer the same classes taught by the same faculty for both in-person and online programs. And online students typically earn an identical diploma to in-person graduates. In short, online college is worth it for many students.
How to Choose 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.
Read More
How to Choose an Online College
How to Apply to an Online College
Most online schools have similar admission requirements:
- An online application
- Official transcripts
- Standardized test scores (though some schools are test-optional)
- A personal essay
- 1-3 letters of recommendation
You may also need to meet additional requirements, such as sitting for an interview, submitting a portfolio, and submitting financial aid forms, application fees, or transcript evaluations.
Keep in mind: The average student applies to about six colleges, so budget enough time for the application process.
Read More
Explore School Profiles
Featured Online Schools
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Online Colleges and Schools Near Me
Why Choose an Online College Near You
-
Save Money: You can save money by researching in-state tuition discounts at local colleges. -
Visit Campus: Attend campus events, meet with faculty, and visit the career center in person. -
Networking: Your state’s online colleges have local connections with employers and alumni that can help you after graduation. -
Hybrid Learning: If you enjoy in-person learning, you can design a hybrid schedule that works for you.
Best Online Colleges in Each State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Types of Online Learning Formats
Distance education comes in many formats. Which is right for you? Learn more about the types of online learning formats you might encounter at online colleges.
Fully Online
Many programs are fully online, which means you don’t need to visit campus. You’ll take classes virtually with no in-person requirements. However, some fully online programs do require face-to-face components such as labs, practic*ms, or internships. Distance learners can complete these requirements in their local area.
When researching programs, check whether it’s 100% online or includes some in-person learning. These programs can be either synchronous or asynchronous.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
What’s the difference between synchronous and asynchronous classes? Synchronous classes take place at a set time. Students attend live lectures where they interact with faculty and classmates. In contrast, asynchronous classes use recorded lectures that students watch on their schedule.
Some prefer the live interaction of a synchronous format. Busy students, especially working adults, often prefer the flexibility of an asynchronous learning format.
Blended vs. Hybrid
You’ll encounter many different course structures at online colleges. For example, you’ve likely heard of a hybrid program. But what’s the difference between blended vs. hybrid programs?
Many students think “blended” and “hybrid” mean the same thing for online learning. But there’s an important difference. Hybrid programs use online and in-person classes. Blended programs use in-person classes with supplemental online content.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)
MOOCs let you take courses online, and you can often find free online classes. And many universities offer MOOCs in many subjects through their online learning platforms.
However, MOOCs typically do not count toward a degree as they do not grant credits. Instead, you’ll receive a certificate of completion.
Read More
What Are the Different Types of Online Learning?
Financial Aid for Online College
College isn't getting any cheaper, and most online students require some kind of financial aid. To qualify for federal aid, you have to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Make sure to look into scholarships, as well. You may be able to find online-specific scholarships just for distance learners.
Pro Tip
The FAFSA always opens on October 1 — make sure to get your application in as quickly as possible. If you wait too long, the money might run out.
More Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Explore Online Degree Programs
If there's a career you want, there's almost certainly an online degree program that can help you achieve your goals. Some of the most popular degrees for our readers are psychology, education, social work, business, and healthcare.
What are your career goals? Our rankings and program information page has everything you need to find the right course of study.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges
Is online college harder than on-campus college?
Both online and on-campus programs can be challenging. You’ll need to master the course material and demonstrate your knowledge. But, online college does pose some unique benefits and challenges.
Online programs give students greater flexibility compared to on-campus programs. That means they require strong organizational skills and determination. For some students, online college can be harder. It’s a good idea to take an online class before enrolling in an online college to see if the format matches your learning style and needs.
What can I do with an online degree?
You can do all the same things with an online degree that you can do with an in-person degree: expand your knowledge, master a subject area, become career-ready, qualify for higher-paying jobs, and apply to graduate school — the list of opportunities is endless.
How much does online college cost?
The cost of an online degree varies depending on the college and program. On average, online colleges cost $600 per credit. But some charge less than $200 per credit. Your transfer credits will also impact the total cost of an online degree.
You can save money by enrolling online if you choose an affordable college. For example, in-state public universities typically charge the lowest tuition rates. In addition to tuition, factor in fees, textbooks, and other expenses to calculate the total cost. Then, apply for financial aid to determine how much you’ll pay for your degree.
Are online colleges legitimate?
Yes! If you pick an accredited school with a good program, your online degree is just as legitimate as a traditional on-campus degree.
In the past, some employers may have been skeptical about the value of an online degree. But today, online college degrees have become very common: More than 50% of students have taken at least one online course and 40% of undergrads study fully online, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Once you have that degree, pretty much no one is going to ask you: Did you get this online?
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 20, 2023.
