From early childhood, it is ingrained in our minds that we should plan on earning a college degree. For most, it’s just understood that after high school, college is the next step in achieving one’s career goals. However, it’s not that easy for many. Life happens and the exuberant expenses incurred while attending college is sometimes more than one can bear.
If on-campus attendance is not for you, what is the next logical step? Online distance learning is the relief you need to accomplish your educational goals! And… you are not alone. More and more students are turning to online learning for a variety of reasons!
With online learning, you are free to earn your college degree while working a full-time job, raising a family, or maintaining your busy social schedule. It’s perfect for high school students, busy moms, or someone who would like a career change. Get started today! What are you waiting for? Check out our choices for the 50 Best Online Colleges offering exceptional degrees in 2021!
Have you ever wondered, “Are there any reputable online colleges near me?” If you have, then you will find our list to be useful! We provide the links to the official website to each of the 50 schools where their on-campus locations are found. Be sure to browse the official websites so you will get reliable information on why a specific school may be the best online college for you.
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Check out our “Frequently Asked Questions” section below!
- Is there a good 100% online college degree program to meet every student’s needs?
- Should an online college be properly accredited?
- What is the easiest degree to earn through a top online college?
- Are online college degree programs cheaper than the traditional on-campus program?
- What are some of the cheapest online degrees?
- Can I receive financial aid when attending online degree programs?
- Are online degrees respected? Do employers frown upon them?
- Will everyone know my degree was earned online?
- What are the top majors to consider while earning a degree through an online program?
- Why are online degree programs so popular?
- How do I choose the “best” online school for me? What makes the “best” online school a cut above the rest?
- Are there any disadvantages to online learning?
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Methodology:
This list is a compilation of the top online schools in the US as of 2021. At any one of these fifty fantastic academic institutions, students will be provided with good online schools that are second to none. These schools were based on the following accolades, providing distance education students with:
- State-of-the-art technologies,
- Services through which they can complete challenging coursework,
- Gain a solid reputation before entering the workforce as a highly educated professional in whatever your area of study may be,
- Provide a 100% or Hybrid course format for flexibility and convenience,
- Are properly accredited for quality education,
- Offers support services, such as technical help centers, career placement services, and online research resources,
- Displays good and reputable reviews from online resources, as well as current and past students,
- Upholds strict standards of learning and is committed to your success as expected of top online schools,
- Instructed by top-notch faculty, experienced in teaching internet college degrees.
If you would like to learn more about our selection process, please see our Methodology page!
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Recommended Schools
50. LAMAR UNIVERSITY
Best Online Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Programs
Highlights:
Lamar University allows students to complete coursework at whatever pace suits them best, and are given all of the resources and services needed to achieve outstanding greatness in academia and achieve their professional goals. The school is dedicated to strict standards of excellence that make its classes both enriching and challenging.
Excellent graduate testimonials endorse the wonderful quality of the coursework at Lamar University. Hard-working adults with families and professional lives receive everything they need to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Its inclusion in the list of the most prestigious online colleges is also because of its distinguished alumni, its graduates getting the highest median entry-level and mid-career salaries among the four-university Texas University System, and its classification as a Doctoral Research University. Impressive, indeed!
Campus Location: Beaumont, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 77.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LAMAR UNIVERSITY‘s Best Online Degree Programs.
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49. THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY
Best Online School with Strong Healthcare and Nursing Degree Programs
Highlights:
This renowned American school is one of the oldest colleges in the country dedicated exclusively to adults, and the many different degree programs are designed with that in mind. TESU exceeds standards in numerous areas but has particularly strong healthcare and nursing programs.
The university provides flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning opportunities for older students through more than 100 disciplines. Leadership and management skills are the main areas of focus in every major, making graduates able to take on a large amount of responsibility in the workplace.
Don’t be misled by the online college 100 acceptance rate because it doesn’t mean that there’s no academic competition and distinction, far from it! The New York Times lauded the university as “the college that paved the way for adults”, and the university has received accolades for its innovative FlashTrack course delivery system and its CPA program.
Campus Location: Trenton, NJ
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Teacher Education Accreditation Council; Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology; Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
Acceptance Rate: 100%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY‘s top online distance learning degree programs.
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48. UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
One of the Top 50 Online Schools focusing on Many Areas of Study
Highlights:
This nationally recognized research university delivers excellent coursework through user-friendly learning platforms. Comprised of three distinct campuses that instill their own excellence within the web-based programs, the university excels in many different areas of study.
This online school is focused on developing and educating the worlds leaders, scholars, and dedicated citizens who improve the quality of life for local and global communities. Graduates have a diploma with a strong reputation.
Campus Location: Louisville, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 72%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE‘s best online degree programs.
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47. UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
Best Online School offering Corporate Partnerships and Internship Opportunities
Highlights:
World-class faculty members instruct high-quality educational opportunities at the University of Cincinnati—over 100 degrees, certificates, and courses online. Classes provide innovative curricula that give a student the knowledge and credentials needed to achieve their goals.
UC is a premier research and higher learning institution located in one of the largest cities in the United States, giving it sensational corporate partnerships and internship opportunities! This online school has been named one of the best in the nation for many consecutive years.
Campus Location: Cincinnati, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 76%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI‘s distance learning degree programs.
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46. UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY
One of the Top Online Undergraduate Schools offering Bachelor’s in Communicative Disorders & Deaf Education or Master’s in Horticulture Degree
Highlights:
Numerous awards and recognitions are genuine proof of the standards at which Utah State University holds itself. The online school also offers distinctive student resources such as e-tutoring, career services, the Center for Women and Gender, and more!
There are also highly unique degree options available, such as the Bachelor in Communicative Disorders & Deaf Education or the Master in Horticulture. Affordable tuition rates and great financial aid opportunities make this degree approachable and negotiable.
Campus Location: Logan, UT
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; State Authorization Reciprocity Acreement
Acceptance Rate: 97.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY‘s top online degree programs.
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45. UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
One of the Best Online Schools for Education Majors
Highlights:
The University of Alabama online, or Bama By Distance, represents all of the excellence of the renowned on-campus programs. There are a huge number of undergraduate and graduate programs that span many different areas of study. There is a particularly large collection of educational programs.
Upon exiting any one of these superb online degree programs, students will have the esteem of an internationally recognized university, as well as the skill and knowledge that comes with attending such a large and successful academic institution. The virtual community is just as supportive and exciting as campus classes—Roll Tide!
Campus Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 54%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA‘s Best of the bEst online degree programs.
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44. CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, SAINT PAUL
Best Online School with an Exceptional Job Placement Rate
Highlights:
One of many impressive details concerning Concordia University, Saint Paul, is it outstanding 92% job placement rate for students after graduation. Founded over 100 years ago as a Christian liberal arts university, CU now supports a diverse student body who grow academically, spiritually, and interpersonally in a supportive and enlightening dynamic learning community.
Coursework is specifically geared toward preparing students for success in the workplace. Highly advantageous corporate partnerships with a huge number of businesses and industries vastly expand the opportunities for graduates of Concordia University, Saint Paul.
Campus Location: St. Paul, MN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 53.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, SAINT PAUL‘s top online distance learning degree programs.
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43. AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM
One of the Top 50 Online Schools offering a Wide Variety of Undergraduate Degree Programs
Highlights:
Including both American Public University and American Military University, this online school provides coursework that his highly relevant to today’s marketplace. Curricula are kept constantly up-to-date to reflect only the best practices in every industry. Students have access to brilliant faculty members who are active professionals and practitioners.
There are numerous seminars and forums available that expand connections and experiences even further beyond the classroom. Facilities, such as the virtual library, represent award-winning standards of excellence, and students can build an incredibly fine education with the assistance of all that APU has to offer!
Campus Location: Charles Town, WV
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
LEARN MORE ABOUT AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM‘s online degrees.
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42. GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY
One of the Best Online Schools for Faith-Based Education
Highlights:
Grand Canyon is another of the country’s premier online Christian universities, and for more than 65 years has been nurturing and cultivating success for its students. Today, the school continues to grow and reach students further across the world, and now has tens of thousands of students attending the school internationally. Glowing student recommendations endorse the high quality of this education.
Graduates are critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible leaders within their industries due to the nature of their education. The university has outstanding opportunities for students to expand their knowledge and experience-base.
Campus Location: Phoenix, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
Acceptance Rate: 58%
LEARN MORE ABOUT GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY‘s e-learning degree options.
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41. CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
Best High-Tech & Interactive Christian-Based University
Highlights:
California Baptist University is an interactive, online community environment where there is more than just reading a syllabus and doing assignments—the Baptist Christian tenets extend to the coursework and the faculty themselves, 100% of whom are practicing Christians.
The curricula use the latest technologies and are designed to give all individuals easy access to the learning platforms, no matter their level of technological understanding. A highly ranked online school, CBU provides only the best opportunities for its students.
Campus Location: Riverside, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges; Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs; National Association of Schools of Musics; Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 79.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY‘s top-notch online school options.
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40. BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY
One of the Best Online Schools that provides a wide array of degree opportunities to every student
Highlights:
The educational focus at Brandman University has always been toward the nontraditional student, and, today, the school excels as an online school. A comfortable learning environment for working adults, the programs are flexible and rewarding and offer numerous benefits, services, and resources to all.
Classes are available 24/7, 365 days a year, giving individuals total control over their own schedules and learning pace. Operating under this “student-centric” philosophy, the curricula are based on real-world learning structures that give practical experience and understanding to new and existing workplaces.
Campus Location: Irvine, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 73.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY‘s best online degrees.
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39. LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY
Top Online nondenominational Christian University that focuses strongly in the areas of science and engineering
Highlights:
At LeTourneau University, online students learn from “some the finest full-time faculty in the world” as well as from individuals who have achieved monumental success in their fields. This school believes in a well-structured, hands-on education that endows its learners with practical skills alongside theoretical concepts in order to develop their ability to succeed.
Consistently receiving top honors for its academic success, LeTourneau is a nondenominational Christian University that excels in the areas of science and engineering. LeTourneau is a tight-knit community that provides students with an excellent foundation of knowledge and skill, as well as a diploma with international prestige.
Campus Location: Longview, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 49.4%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY‘s e-learning degree program options.
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38. INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
Best Online & affordable Christ-centered academics providing many online degree offerings
Highlights:
According to their strong mission statement, Indiana Wesleyan University online is committed to cultivating a Christ-centered academic virtual atmosphere to change the world by developing students’ character, scholarship, and leadership. Having appeared on a great many indexes of the finest programs, IWU is very popular among online students.
Individuals of Christian faith will find the coursework especially enlightening for this reason, and IWU also provides small and intimate class sizes to maximize the learning experience for adults. This online school is also devoted to making education more affordable through all of their 90+ online programs. Coursework is accessible and approachable, yet challenging enough to encourage real growth.
Campus Location: Marion, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 95%
LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY‘s distance learning degrees.
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37. KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
One of the Top Online Distance education programs known for academic excellence with a focus on Leaderships & management
Highlights:
Kennesaw State University’s online programs are particularly exciting, as they cater directly to the student experience. Having gained national notoriety for its academic excellence, KSU is a popular option for distance education students. There are more than 70 degree programs to choose from, many of which are highly concentrated on management and leadership.
Coursework has been designed using state-of-the-art technologies and tools, allowing students a direct connection to the knowledge and expertise of their professors. Graduates exiting this online school are a part of a network that reaches over 140 countries, giving the diploma global recognition.
Campus Location: Kennesaw, GA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 53.4%
LEARN MORE ABOUT KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY‘s online degrees.
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36. EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
Best online school for excellence in health, education, technology, and business degree programs
Highlights:
East Carolina University is a state and national leader in distance education and is extremely well-accredited. Offering over 90 online degree and certificate programs, the areas in which ECU particularly excels include those in health, education, technology, and business. The curricula are designed to suit the professional needs in future workplaces.
The faculty members utilize impressive tools and support services, all of which are available 24/7, to create an encouraging and favorable environment. Founded on the principles of national higher education standards, this online school gives students exactly what they need for success in the job market and in their careers.
Campus Location: Greenville, NC
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 77.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT EAST CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY‘s distance learning degree programs.
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35. MISSOURI SOUTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY
One of the top 50 online degree programs focused on affordability & each student’s personal success
Highlights:
What sets Missouri Southern State University’s online programs apart from other schools is the focus held on the achievement of personal goals, as well as providing services specially designed for distance students. Listed as one of the most affordable online schools, Missouri Southern is intent on providing the most accessible and convenient education possible.
Together, the faculty, staff, and students create a supportive academic environment that keeps individuals connected to the university no matter where they are. There are extensive resources, services, extracurricular activities, and more that keep students on the pursuit of success.
Campus Location: Joplin, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 96%
LEARN MORE ABOUT MISSOURI SOUTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY‘s best college degree programs.
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UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI
one of the top online schools in the us offering self-paced study or semester-based courses
Highlights:
The University of Missouri, or Mizzou Online offers more than 100 degrees and certificates with 1000+ courses designed to mimic the on-campus classes in every way and give distance education students access to the same award-winning faculty members. In this way, online students and their professors and peers form one strong academic community!
There are over 80 programs to choose from and multiple tracks through which one can earn a diploma: independent study or semester-based courses. Self-paced coursework over 8 or 16 weeks gives students total control over their program, both of which have their own unique benefits.
Campus Location: Columbia, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 77.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI‘s online degree options.
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33. COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
One of the best schools offering a Bachelor’s in Economics or Master’s in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change
Highlights:
At Colorado State University Online, students earn a highly-respected degree from a top tier university that consistently earns top rankings from Kiplinger and Forbes. The school actively cultivates a nurturing community of students, alumni, and faculty members who, together, form a coalition of brilliant professionals.
A fabulous selection of majors with concentration and specialization options available provides students with as diverse an education as one could get. Featured programs at CSU include Bachelor in Economics and Master in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change.
Campus Location: Fort Collins, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 81%
LEARN MORE ABOUT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY‘s online distance learning programs.
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32. BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
best Online university offering innovative and research-intensive academics
Highlights:
Founded on the principles set forth by the Quality Matters Academic Advisory Council, Ball State University’s curricula are incredibly efficient and far-reaching. Professors personalize the online classroom for individual classes, and are passionate mentors to all and form strong relationships with their students.
Through exciting coursework that is both interactive and individualized, and with a team of technology specialists and advisors, students embark on a life-changing academic adventure. Classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a qualified research university of high research activity, students are immersed in an endless sea of knowledge.
Campus Location: Muncie, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 59.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY‘s best distance learning degrees.
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31. REGIS UNIVERSITY
Nationally recognized as one of the top online schools in the us
Highlights:
Regis University is one of few schools in the United States grounded in the Jesuit Catholic tradition. In this way, the highly unique online coursework carries with it the mores and tenets of Christianity, however, the academic institution is open to students of all faiths and backgrounds! The dedicated and award-winning faculty bring real-world experience into the classroom where students are reached at a personalized level.
Alumni traditionally go on to work as competent, compassionate humanitarians who strive toward service to others. They become leaders who solve the world’s most pressing problems at a community-based level. Nationally recognized for nearly 20 years as one of the best schools in America, the academics at Regis University span across five distinct colleges.
Campus Location: Denver, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 66%
LEARN MORE ABOUT REGIS UNIVERSITY‘s top online degree options.
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30. WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY-GLOBAL CAMPUS
ONe of the Best ONline Schools offering strong academic degree programs
Highlights:
One of the most unique aspects of Washington State University-Global Campus is the Conference Management department that hosts a conference/webinar of over 30,000 peers and employers that offers customized training and invaluable networking opportunities. This kind of engaged community is what online students can look forward to—gaining notoriety as a student that has a strong reputation thanks to an internationally recognized diploma.
Students interact with one another in an interactive virtual space that nurtures independence and leadership, as well as competent team-building. WSU-Global has been included on dozens of lists of the strongest programs for online students and continues to foster a sense of academic excellence as it moves into the future.
Campus Location: Pullman, WA
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Acceptance Rate: 47%
LEARN MORE ABOUT WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY-GLOBAL CAMPUS’ online degree programs.
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29. UNIVERSITY OF DENVER
Best Online school for a wide array of academic excellence delivering a high standard of learning
Highlights:
One of the many fascinating aspects of the University of Denver online curriculum structure is the level at which students have manipulation over their major. Each specialization is customizable to suit individuals’ personal academic and career goals. The coursework is specifically designed to give students real-world connections within their new or improved line of work.
Faculty members are comprised of both practitioners and full-time professors, who create a practical combination of experience and knowledge-based education. Having been teaching students for over 150 years, the bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs have been critiqued and refined to deliver only the highest standard of excellence.
Campus Location: Denver, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 76.5%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF DENVER‘s best of the best online degree programs.
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28. DREXEL UNIVERSITY
ONe of the top online undergraduate schools known for excellence & for study-abroad opportunities
Highlights:
As a top-ranked and well-accredited institution that is “known for its interdisciplinary approach to applied education,” Drexel is frequently listed on indexes of the best online programs in the country. Faculty members are recognized experts and practitioners in their fields and nurture the classroom experience with their passionate leadership. The Digital Dragon community connects a diverse group of learners across the world that give students opportunities to form impressive networks of colleagues, contacts, and friends.
Drexel students also have access to award-winning resources such as the W.W. Hagerty Library and the Steinbright Career Center. All individuals have access to life-changing study abroad opportunities, some of which are built directly into the curricula!
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 75%
LEARN MORE ABOUT DREXEL UNIVERSITY‘s top online degree programs.
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27. INDIANA UNIVERSITY
Best university offering distance learning degrees in business, criminal justice, education, nursing, and psychology
Highlights:
Indiana University provides over 100 different and unique degree and certificate options for online students, whether they are looking for a career change or to just take a class or two! The online structure is based around Indiana University’s Faculty Academy on Excellence in Teaching, an organization dedicated to promoting advances in education.
In partnership with campus faculty and academic leadership, the Office of Online Education carries out a strategic approach to distance education that emphasizes collaboration with peers and industry experts. Some of the strongest degree programs at IU include business, criminal justice, education, nursing, and psychology.
Campus Location: Bloomington, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 78%
LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA UNIVERSITY‘s top-notch online degree programs.
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26. OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
Best Online opportunities for military personnel & veterans
Highlights:
One of the many benefits of Old Dominion University is its vast array of areas in which students can earn degrees: bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, endorsements, certificate, and education specialist programs are only some of what the school has to offer. The flexibility of the coursework is superlative, as it can be accessed even when at sea or anywhere else in the world, making it perfect for active duty military service members.
In fact, ODU has been awarded many times for its dedication to military and veterans. With over three decades of experience teaching students at a distance, ODU has perfected the types of curriculum structures required in this different mode of delivery, and has, since the beginning, been a fabulous purveyor of top-quality academia.
Campus Location: Norfolk, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 81.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY‘s best online degree programs.
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25. FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Best Online school for Business with a focus on Hospitality Management
Highlights:
Florida International University is a pioneer of online learning, having developed web-based programs in 1998. A relatively young university, this school has been at the forefront of the synthesis of learning and technology and is now one of the finest public research universities available at a distance.
A vibrant virtual environment, FIU Online is committed to learning, research, entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity so that students have a strong success rate in a global market. Ranked number one in many areas, FIU has a particularly well-founded Hispanic culture as well as outstanding degrees in business, such as Hospitality Management. Graduates join the ranks of over 200,000 alumni!
Campus Location: Miami, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 52.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY‘s awesome online distance learning degrees.
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24. BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Top online interactive university offering award-winning degree programs
Highlights:
Boston University is another of the country’s most outstanding schools that provide impeccable online coursework. For over a decade, BU has offered award-winning online learning programs that enable students to pursue their educational goals internationally. World-class faculty members lead and instruct highly motivated students in an exciting learning environment.
Interactive educational programs provide easy access to lectures, students services, industry experts, student services, and other resources any time of the day or night. According to their impressive website, “continuous innovation and rigorous quality control has earned BU a position on the vanguard of distance learning and has led to numerous accolades and awards.”
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 29%
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOSTON UNIVERSITY‘s best online college degrees.
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23. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
best Social Work, Public Administration, and GIS distance learning degree programs
Highlights:
The University of Southern California is a celebrated American school that provides over 80 superb online degree programs to students throughout the country and the world. Distance education also offers unique and recently developed executive student education programs. Classes involve connecting remote learners through the university’s dynamic curriculum and the use of immersive media technologies to enable all students access to the highest level of instruction.
Degree programs are designed to expand the options and opportunities in individual career paths, and students are provided with excellent resources upon which they can rely at any time throughout their academic and professional pursuits. Some programs that have achieved national recognition for their career prospects are: Social Work, Public Administration, and GIS.
Campus Location: Los Angeles, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 16.5%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA‘s top online school degree programs.
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22. WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
One of the top online schools for military veterans & active duty service members
Highlights:
Western Kentucky University supplies more than 1,700 web classes and over 100 degree and certificate programs each year. Students can start or continue their education at any time, with 24/7 access to coursework and resources. National recognized support services that number over 65 in variety, give individuals the tools needed to earn a stream-lined and well-recognized degree.
A strongly military friendly school, veterans and active duty service members will find a comfortable educational environment at WKU and programs that apply specifically to themselves. Quick yet challenging classes can be completed in as little as 7 weeks, getting students into lucrative positions of employment as soon as possible.
Campus Location: Bowling Green, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; view a complete list of extensive program accreditations
Acceptance Rate: 93.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY‘s top online college degree options.
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21. OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
ranked as one of the best schools for online education for the last seven years
Highlights:
Oregon State University is an international research university, and the virtual campus provides students across the world with access to top-quality coursework and resources. Utilizing innovative course delivery strategies, this school is ranked among the nation’s best providers of online education over the last seven consecutive years.
OSU has been included on over a dozen different lists and indexes of the best online schools. With over 60 different online options, students can explore the depths of numerous areas. There are several areas in which this online school excels, such as Engineering, Natural Resources, and Agricultural Sciences.
Campus Location: Corvallis, OR
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Acceptance Rate: 77.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY‘s top-notch online degree programs.
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20. NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY
Best Online school offering over 50 majors with high-quality coursework
Highlights:
Northern Arizona University has been upholding traditions of excellence for over a century. The school is built around a student-first foundation that provides all of the most enriching opportunities and resources possible. Over 50 unique majors and concentration areas are available for a wide range of students, all of which foster leadership characteristics and personal growth through rigorous, high-quality coursework.
Individuals have access to strong research resources and capabilities in a multicultural educational atmosphere. Faculty members are experts in their fields and provide personalized mentorship to nurture student success through an extremely well-accredited university.
Campus Location: Flagstaff, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 77%
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY‘s online degree programs.
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19. UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
One of the best online schools for networking opportunities
Highlights:
The University of Oklahoma keeps faculty and staff members consistently up-to-date in the best practices for delivering online coursework as opposed to traditional coursework, which makes the learning experience for students incredibly stream-lined and rich. Tools and resources are readily available inside and outside of classes to expand the virtual classroom and provide exciting opportunities for all.
OU has several locations across the world, which brings together a diverse collection of professors and students who become professional relationships and networking connections for future positions of employment worldwide.
Campus Location: Norman, OK
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; American Library Association; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Acceptance Rate: 81.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA‘s excellent online degree programs.
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18. UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA-CROOKSTON
ONe of the 50 best online colleges offering degrees focused on sharpening leadership and management skills
Highlights:
Are there any good online colleges in a small city like Crookston? Yes, of course, and it’s part of the five-campus University of Minnesota system! To paraphrase its slogan, it may be a small campus but it offers big degrees in accounting, agricultural business and applied studies, among others.
This online school prides itself on the personal attention given to individual students, as well as a strong team of exceptional faculty and staff. With over 20 years of experience in online education, UMC has built connections with community and international organizations, and provide high-quality educational services for nontraditional and continuing students in a great number of disciplines.
With a strong focus on management and leadership, students gain highly-sharpened skills in taking on a large amount of responsibility and working as a superior with teams of employees. In a university system that is comprised of 5 unique campuses, Crookston students have access to excellent resources.
Campus Location: Crookston, MN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 72%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA-CROOKSTON‘s best of the best online degrees.
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17. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS SYSTEM
One of the finest universities offering distance education degree programs
Highlights:
The University of Illinois System, which includes campuses in Chicago, Urbana-Champaign, and Springfield, is one of the finest distance education institutions in the country. Students of all levels have access to bountiful resources and world-class faculty members who are trained in the delivery of online coursework.
Students form networking connections with global partnerships, professionals, and alumni that put them on the map, no matter their discipline. Illinois utilizes high-tech systems and resources to provide their students with all of the most superb advantages possible.
Campus Location: Chicago; Springfield; and Urbana-Champaign, IL
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 66%
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS SYSTEM‘s online degree programs.
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16. CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
Top online school for associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs
Highlights:
Another school praised by U.S. News and World Report as well as other journalistic resources, as it offers rich online learning opportunities in highly specialized fields. Students learn from internationally renowned faculty members and practitioners, as well as industry and education partners.
Many of the programs center around personal growth, job mobility, greater civic participation, and new ways to advance knowledge. The school continues to grow in popularity and enrollment and uses emerging education technologies and interactive formats to deliver challenging, yet rewarding, coursework in bachelor’s, master’s, and associate programs.
Campus Location: New York, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education; Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant; Council on Social Work Education; National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education; National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Acceptance Rate: 34.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK‘s awesome online degrees.
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15. NEW ENGLAND INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
one of the best online schools for over 50 exceptional degree programs offered
Highlights:
The New England Institute of Technology offers online students over 50 unique programs for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Curricula are carefully designed by faculty members and industry experts to give students the most relevant and in-depth training in their major as possible.
Students form close relationships with the award-winning professors who bring an incredibly diverse world of experience and knowledge to the online classroom, and who are “the heart and soul of the programs.” Graduates have a high success rate in the job market and exit this fine institution with the skill to achieve their goals.
Campus Location: East Greenwich, RI
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: unavailable
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW ENGLAND TECH‘s best online degree program options.
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14. UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
One of the best online undergraduate schools with over 60 degree options
Highlights:
The University of Central Florida is a popular online school that has been educating students over the internet for more than two decades! Offering 60+ programs at a distance, students have access to the same expert faculty members and state-of-the-art resources as on-campus students. UCF has several opportunities for individuals to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree simultaneously in their 2 + 2 programs.
Highly regarded by Forbes, Kiplinger, and U.S. News and World Report, this school provides outstanding distance education. Students are a part of a diverse and inclusive virtual environment, and UCF is in contact with 98 institutions in 36 countries.
Campus Location: Orlando, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 49%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA‘s top-notch distance learning degree programs.
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13. TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
One of the most famous and top online schools in the us
Highlights:
Temple University is one of the most famous and prestigious schools in America and the world and offers online degree programs that represent the same high-quality, flexible, accredited coursework as on-campus classes. World-class faculty instruct these challenging, yet highly rewarding, undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs.
Academic support services provide focused expertise to all students and alumni who are seeking additional assistance and/or opportunities to take advantage of. Upon exiting this renowned academic institution, graduates have the knowledge, training, and diploma to land impressive positions of employment that require large amounts of capability and resourcefulness.
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 55.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT TEMPLE UNIVERSITY‘s online distance learning degrees.
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12. UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS ONLINE
One of the top 50 online universities for a college degree
Highlights:
UMassOnline is one of the consistently high-ranked distance education universities in the world and receives unending recognition for their continuing achievements as an academic institution. Through the online school, students have access to all five of the campuses within the University of Massachusetts System, as well as the Medical School.
In certificate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, UMass employs internationally recognized faculty members, including winners of the world’s most prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize and the Pulitzer Prize. This online school is a global educational environment, connecting students to peers, alumni, and employers across the world.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 58.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS ONLINE‘s distance learning degree options.
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11. WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
Best online degree programs in Business
Highlights:
This online school is a favorite of U.S. News and World Report, who has recognized West Texas A&M University as one of the finest purveyors of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly the MBA, and as one of the best options for veterans. Excelling especially in areas of business, the curricula is in-depth and has the support of the second largest university system in the world and all of its fabulous resources and amenities—the Texas A&M University System.
Nearly 100% of graduates recommend this online school as one that provides a nurturing and exciting virtual educational community. Students are supported by caring faculty members and advisors in a system that encourages the success of all kinds, each of whom contributes their own uniqueness and brilliance to the academic environment.
If you’re looking for the best IT online schools, you must include West Texas A&M in your shortlist! Its BBA Computer Information Systems program prepares students for leadership roles in the IT sector.
Campus Location: Canyon, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 67.4%
LEARN MORE ABOUT WEST TEXAS A & M UNIVERSITY‘s online degrees.
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10. SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
One of the top online schools offering affordable tuition
Highlights:
Southern New Hampshire University is another of the most popular and well-ranked schools in the country that additionally offers some of the most affordable tuition rates available! Students can explore over 200 career-focused online college degree programs that provide exclusive internship opportunities with thriving organizations and companies.
SNHU instructors bring decades of real-world experience to the online classroom, all of which drastically expands the scope of the coursework and training opportunities. Graduates can take advantage of the numerous partnerships associated with the university and join a network of over 75,000 alumni. Curricula operate within the school’s inventive system designed for students with busy personal and professional lives that require flexibility without sacrificing the quality of education.
SNHU is also among the best online IT colleges in the country, thanks to its topnotch bachelor’s degree programs in information technology. Students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) in Information Technologies; BS students choose from concentrations in Business Management for IT, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, Software Development, and Project Management for IT.
Campus Location: Hooksett, NH
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration; Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Acceptance Rate: 84.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY‘s online degree options.
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9. PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS
Best online school offering distance learning degree programs with outstanding graduate reviews
Highlights:
Penn State World Campus is another of the country’s most popular and renowned online schools that have appeared on dozens of indexes of the finest distance education institutions and programs. U.S. News and World Report is one singular resource that has ranked PSWC in the top 10 for its undergraduate and graduate programs among hundreds of U.S. Schools. 94% of graduates recommend this outstanding university that provides over 125 unique degrees and certificates!
Students have access to fantastic scholarship opportunities, as well as fascinating internships and hands-on learning experiences that sharpen their skills as current and future professionals. A pioneer in distance education, PSWC was among the first schools in the nation to offer excellent coursework over the internet.
Campus Location: University Park, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 58.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS’ online degree programs.
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8. FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
Top university for diversity representing over 20 countries
Highlights:
Fort Hays State University provides a diverse learning environment that is made up of students that represent over 20 countries from around the world! Students build strong relationships with personal academic advisors and highly qualified faculty members that support their education through any and all issues and successes that arise along the way.
FSHU particularly excels in the areas of business management and organizational leadership but offers exceptional degree programs in a wide variety of areas as well. There are over 50 degree program specialties that are designed specifically for associates, bachelors, and masters adult learners all of which additionally offer affordable tuition rates. Fort Hays also offers a humongous list of student resources that are tailored directly to online students and are accessible both as students and alumni.
Campus Location: Hays, KS
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 87.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY‘s e-learning degree programs.
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7. REGENT UNIVERSITY
One of the 50 best online colleges committed to faith-based leadership
Highlights:
A committed and high-quality Christian school, Regent University is one of 25 universities in the country to receive an “A” rating by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, an organization dedicated to the support of liberal arts education. Offering 128 different undergraduate and graduate degree programs, coursework is vast and experiential at RU, giving students access to hands-on learning opportunities that drastically enhance their professional capabilities. All online students have access to the same resources, programs, and faculty members as on-campus students, but have the ability to complete their degree on a personalized basis.
Above most things, Regent University is devoted to the attainment of leadership. All students are involved in leadership training and development throughout their degree program, making them viable for high-paying positions of employment upon graduation and beyond. Operating under a vision to be the most influential, Christian, Transformational university in the world, Regent fulfills its promises.
Campus Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; The American Bar Association; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs; Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools
Acceptance Rate: 79.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT REGENT UNIVERSITY‘s online distance learning degrees.
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6. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
ONe of the best & largest christian universities in the world
Highlights:
Liberty University is a highly-reputed, well-decorated, and generally superb online school that is the largest private, nonprofit university in the nation and the largest Christian university in the world. Incredibly supportive of each student’s goals, Liberty is also known for its benefits for and dedication to members of the military and veterans. Made up of 17 different schools, LU provides a diverse layout of majors that are housed in departments instructed by an excellent team of faculty members.
88% of Liberty graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation, and 72% obtain their first job in a field related to their area of study. Nearly every single alumni recommends an education at Liberty University as it connects them with top tier training and impeccable networking and employment opportunities. All students, particularly those of strong faith, will find an encouraging online environment at Liberty University.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 20.2%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY‘s best of the best online degree programs.
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5. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Top online school with a wide array of specializations within 19 majors
Highlights:
The University of Florida has educated and trained nearly half-a-million alumni around the world! Students in this school have access to an incredibly diverse and exciting network of students, faculty, and graduates who will connect them with thrilling opportunities and advantages throughout their careers. Individuals have absolute control over their curriculum and can decide exactly how quickly they would like to graduate as well as how heavy their course load will be.
Students choose from 19 unique majors, each of which offers specialization opportunities therein. Demanding and vigorous courses lead to a next level ability to utilize newly developed skills due to a high-level of hands-on experiences leading to a career path. Through state-of-the-art online resources and classwork, UF Online students are a part of an integrated and supportive virtual environment that nurtures all of their pursuits. Programs, resources, and the university system as a whole have been recognized by Bloomberg, U.S. News, Times Higher Education, and Entrepreneur magazine as one of the most prestigious schools in the country.
Campus Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 38%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA‘s top-notch online degree programs.
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4. COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY – GLOBAL CAMPUS
ONe of the best & first entirely online universities in the US
Highlights:
Colorado State University-Global Campus has one of the most extensive arrays of programs and academic concentrations compared to any school in the nation. The virtual classroom is a diverse and dynamic academic environment that includes interactive learning platforms and extensive mastery exercises that ensure the acquisition of knowledge for each individual student. Curricula are founded on the 3 P Model: Purposeful, Participatory, and Project-based and in this way, each degree program facilitates both theory and practice in an approachable way.
According to their impressive website, “CSU-Global was the first independent, fully-accredited, 100% online state university in the country,” and as such is deeply committed to nontraditional student success! Subject to regular review by industry experts, all of the online programs provide the most relevant data and best practices to date.
CSU Global is also on our top five online colleges because of its exceptional degree completion programs, too! These accept college credits earned from other colleges as well as life and work experiences, military credits and CLEP credits. Students pursue either the gold track or the burgundy track, and complete eight-week courses and a Portfolio Project.
Campus Location: Greenwood Village, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 96%
LEARN MORE ABOUT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY – GLOBAL CAMPUS’ awesome distance learning degree options.
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3. NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Best online school for experiential learning and research
Highlights:
Founded in 1898, Northeastern University has been educating students for over a century and has since made lasting ties with institutions and organizations internationally, which gives online students access to a global, experiential, research university built on a tradition of engagement with the world.
This exceptional American university offers a massive range of programs at undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and certificate levels that give students all of the best educational and professional opportunities they could ask for! Glowing student recommendations illustrate the challenging, yet highly rewarding, nature of this academic institution, all of which can be found on their website (link below).
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education; National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
Acceptance Rate:
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY‘s best online college degree programs.
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2. EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY – WORLDWIDE
One of the top institutions for aeronautic science and engineering, business and computer technology
Highlights:
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide and Online have been recognized on numerous catalogs and higher education reviews as one of the finest online schools for many consecutive years. According to their website, “in 1971, Embry-Riddle became one of the first to offer distance learning.” ERAU allows students to personalize their own academic plan and curriculum in programs that have been ranked #1 in the nation.
Through cutting edge technologies and with brilliant faculty members at the helm of their education, students receive the most in-depth training possible in their individual pursuits. Of course, Embry-Riddle excels in the areas of aeronautical science and engineering, but there are magnificent programs in business and computer technology as well!
Campus Location: Daytona Beach, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Aviation Accreditation Board International; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
Acceptance Rate: 73.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY – WORLDWIDE‘s distance learning degree programs.
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1. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Best online school offering over 150 distance learning degree programs
Highlights:
When people ask us, “What is the most prestigious online university?”, we answer: It’s the Arizona State University, of course!”
This distance education institution has been recognized innumerable times by some of the most prestigious journalistic resources (Times Higher Education and U.S. News and World Report) for outstanding levels of greatness in academia, faculty, innovation, and resources. With 150+ online degree program options for undergraduate and graduate students, all of which are instructed by world-class professors, individuals have access to entire worlds of knowledge and training at ASU, no matter what their educational pursuits might be.
6 start dates throughout the academic year make the curricula flexible and manageable for those with limited options in their personal schedules. Academic and career resources support students throughout their educational and professional careers, and partnerships with schools and businesses across the globe connect graduates with fabulous employment opportunities.
Arizona State University also tops our list of the most prestigious online universities because of its innovative digital platform that makes the new normal work for students. Its also among the more affordable online universities in the country, thanks to its wide range of financial aid programs.
Campus Location: Tempe, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 83%
LEARN MORE ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY‘s best online degree programs.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there a good 100% online college degree program to meet every student’s needs?
Yes, in most cases; however, depending on your degree program, you may be required to attend some classes, such as clinical labs, on an actual college campus. If this is true in your case, you will want to live in close proximity to the school that offers your online program. Now, even vo-tech school occupations can do most of their classwork online.
Should an online college be properly accredited?
Absolutely, and please do extensive research about the online program you are interested in before signing on. Regional accreditation is preferred to ensure that your credits are transferable in the future. In addition, most online schools are accredited by DEAC, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
What is the easiest degree to earn through a top online college?
Business degree options are one of the most popular selections to consider when looking for any easy program; however, perhaps the easiest does not always mean the best!
For additional information, see: 30 Easiest Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Are online college degree programs cheaper than the traditional on-campus program?
You would think that online learning would be cheaper than the traditional brick and mortar option, and in some cases it is. But, be aware that that’s not always the case. It often depends on the specific program you are attending.
In regards to additional expenses, like the daily commute, meals, and boarding, you can come out ahead with an online program by taking advantage of online classes from your home.
Most of the top 100 online schools offer financial aid so whatever unexpected costs related to online education will be reduced. For example, the costs of a computer setup can be offset with a private grant.
What are some of the cheapest online degrees?
Some of the lower cost degree programs include those focused on business, hospitality, healthcare, and computer-related careers. Also, education and general studies top the list.
For a list of the best online schools offering affordable degrees, see: 29 Cheap Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Can I receive financial aid when attending online degree programs?
Yes, you may. They also accept grants and scholarships and also often offer discounts to active duty military and veterans.
Need some helpful info? Check this out: 20 Free Tools for Managing Your Financial Aid and Student Loans and an interesting infographic entitled Financial Aid and Online Education.
Are online degrees respected? Do employers frown upon them?
Online degrees no longer carry the negative stigma that they used to have years ago. In fact, employers today look favorably upon them and often consider the dedication, determination, and discipline needed to succeed in an online degree program an attribute that they are looking for in a prospective employee.
The key here is also being a graduate of one of the top online colleges in the US! Employers and recruiters understandably consider the applicants’ education, particularly their university identity. The more well-known the online college or university, the better your chances of landing a job will be.
Will everyone know my degree was earned online?
Typically, your degree will not reflect the fact that your degree was earned through an online format. Your diploma will look like everyone’s elses who graduated from an on-campus program.
What are the top majors to consider while earning a degree through an online program?
According to Nich.com, the top five majors are:
- Business and Management
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Biology
- Engineering
- Most of the best schools for online degrees offer these five majors, too, so it’s possible to get multiple degrees from a single online university. Take, for example, the highest rated online university – Arizona State University offers bachelor’s degree programs in all five areas.
Why are online degree programs so popular?
There are many reasons why someone would be interested in online learning. Although it is not for everyone, most students find that learning from the comfort of their own home is the way to go, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Online programs provide:
- Flexible school hours
- Convenience
- Diverse learning experiences
- Affordability
- Interactive learning
- Innovative technology
- And much, much more!
Furthermore, the most famous online schools attract the best students because the online education and training provided match those at brick-and-mortar schools. As previously mentioned, there’s no difference between the two venues in terms of quality of education and rigorous training, not even in the diploma’s wording.
How do I choose the “best” online school for me? What makes the “best” online school a cut above the rest?
Respected online schools typically have the following attributes that contribute to the acceptability of their diplomas during employment.
A good online school is:
- properly accredited,
- diverse with a wide variety of degree options, along with many specializations,
- affordable and offers financial aid opportunities,
- willing and available for technical help or career counseling advice,
- convenient with various learning formats to fit your needs,
- recommended through positive reviews,
- supportive in your career aspirations.
Are there any disadvantages to online learning?
Although online learning is ideal for most, there are a couple of disadvantages worth mentioning. To ensure your success, ask yourself these two questions:
- Am I self-motivated?
- Can I manage my time wisely?
If you answered a resounding “NO!” to either of those questions, online learning is probably not for you. Both qualities, motivation and time management, are a must-have for online learning success!
Keep in mind that even the best online distance learning college can only do so much for your education and career. You must do your share in acquiring the knowledge and skills while in an online degree program and then using your degree to your best advantage. Your teachers will provide the topnotch instruction – the rest is up to you!