Higher education is becoming a necessity in an ever-evolving world, but not all want to attend classes on campus. To address this dilemma, many universities all over the country develop online degree programs that students can take anytime and anywhere. This affords them the flexibility that they need to pursue their dreams while fulfilling the demand of their personal and professional life.
In Colorado, there are dozens of universities and colleges offering online education. Some are fully online while others require a hybrid format, meaning students might be required to attend some classes on campus. With distance education, students can earn their degrees at their terms and pace. Most of these programs are designed to be as rigorous and high-quality as their traditional counterparts.
Online classes require an internet connection. Students are provided with lectures and are also given a chance to interact with their instructors and peers via digital means. Whether students want to earn an undergraduate degree, graduate degree, or certificate, there are always options.
METHODOLOGY
OnlineSchoolsCenter.com delivers a list of the 5 Top Online Schools in Colorado to help you get the best web-based education and obtain a college degree. With distance education now an option for Colorado students, we present the five academic institutions that are in a league of their own based on these factors:
- Rigorous program coursework with top-rated courses that create a highly skilled workforce,
- Competent and industry-expert online professors who believe in shaping future professionals through high-quality online education,
- A top-rated online learning platform that provides easy online coursework access with technical support,
- Full accreditation demonstrating students’ acquisition of quality college degrees.
See our Methodology Page to learn more about our ranking process.
University of Colorado-Colorado Springs
The University of Colorado is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This educational institution is consistently and highly ranked for its undergraduate, graduate, and online programs. It is also a financially friendly school with half of the undergraduate students receiving financial aid packages.
They also give working adults and other students the opportunity to benefit from distance education by offering comprehensive online programs. It is most valuable for those who have demanding work and personal schedules, as the online curriculum provides the flexibility that they need to meet their education and career goals. Aside from their online undergraduate and graduate degrees, they also allow students who want a fast and affordable way to expand their knowledge and skills, the option of earning a graduate certificate.
Some of their most notable degree programs offered online include Bachelors of Arts in Communication and Sociology and Master of Public Administration.
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- Online application form
- Official transcript
- Other pertinent documents as the degree may require
Accreditation: North Central Association of the Higher Learning Commission
University of Northern Colorado
The University of Northern Colorado is a four-year doctoral-granting university that aims to advance knowledge through discovery. They have expert faculty, a tradition of research, and hands-on learning that distinguishes them from other educational institutions. In this university, academic integrity is valued and expected. Students are encouraged to strive for excellence.
Aside from their on-campus offerings, the University of Northern Colorado is also known for its quality online education. Their affordable and accessible online programs are designed to help students prepare themselves for future career opportunities and quicker advancements. They are designed to meet the needs of working professionals by offering them flexibility in their busy schedules. Their accelerated, 7-week courses are accessible whenever and wherever they want.
The school makes it possible for students to acquire the same caliber of education as those earned from traditional classrooms. Their online faculty includes top professors and practicing professionals who thrive on interactive instruction.
At the University of Northern Colorado, students have the option to choose among dozens of individual courses and more than a hundred degrees, licensure, and certificate programs that work with their schedules and let them attend where they live. Their most prominent is the online business programs, Master of Business Administration, with emphasis either in healthcare administration or human resources management.
Location: Greeley, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- Application Fee
- Transcripts
- GPA of at least 2.5
- Official GRE Scores
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Adams State University
Adams State University makes quality education accessible to students of varied backgrounds and prepares them to achieve lifelong dreams and ambitions.
Aside from their rigorous degree programs offered in the traditional format, the university also provides the opportunity for students to avail of distance learning through their online program. Their online program has the exact course content as the accredited programs offered on-campus. The coursework leads to degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling.
Their online degree completion program offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. This is perfect for teacher candidates living in small towns and rural communities.
Location: Alamosa, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application for admission online.
- Non-refundable $30 application fee.
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT and SAT scores
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Colorado Christian University
Known as Colorado’s flagship Christian University, Colorado Christian University is located in Lakewood, Colorado. It was founded in 1914 and has been delivering world-class education to thousands of students. It has also been named as a top Colorado University and one of the top Christian colleges in Colorado and the nation.
For students who do not have the time to attend class during the week, the university’s College of Adult and Graduate Studies offer degree programs 100% online. This scheme lets students log in from any location to access their instructor’s presentations, participate in discussions with their classmates, and submit their weekly assignments. Whether students need to focus on one class at a time or have a flexible schedule that fits their life, their needs are well-provided.
The beauty of online degree programs at Colorado Christian University is the fact that students can earn the same degree as in-seat class attendees. They will get to enjoy the control appropriate for adult students while appreciating the benefits of 21st-century learning. Some of the degree programs offered include Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and many others.
The university has affordable tuition rates. They are also very supportive of students and adults who want to save money on tuition by offering financial aid. They also have an option to avail of the locked-in tuition that spans six years, removing the financial uncertainty that comes with annual tuition increases.
Location: Lakewood, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- GPA of 2.8 or higher
- Strong spiritual recommendation
- Admission essay
- Proof of high school
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
The University of Denver
The University of Denver is located where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountain. It is a private institution built on exploration through research and collaboration among educators, students, local and global communities. They have nationally recognized academic programs, both on campus and online.
At the University of Denver, students are offered a holistic approach to education that helps them transform into leaders. Like the on-campus programs, their online offerings require students to work closely with faculty to shape academic pathways that will lead them to intellectual fulfillment and career achievement.
The programs are offered 100% online, and with the utmost respect to the student’s commitment of time, resources, and energy, these online programs are flexible enough to meet every student’s needs. They are just as convenient and rigorous as traditional delivery methods. The online programs also have 24/7 access to course content, allowing students to log on anytime from anywhere in the world.
The university has extensive options for degree programs, from undergraduates, graduates, and certificates.
Location: Denver, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- Official transcript
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume and career goal statement
- Nonrefundable Application Fee
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Attaining a degree is the key for a better future. However, it can be challenging for those who cannot afford it. Fortunately, for the people of Colorado, many universities and colleges offer a cheaper option.
There are public and non-profit schools that offer more affordable tuition rates and fees. While the average in-state tuition for most public schools in Colorado is around $11,140, some education institutions offer it for less.
METHODOLOGY
To help you find the most affordable online college schools and programs in Colorado, our research team at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com presents the 5 Best Value Online Schools in Colorado. Our list highlights the top-rated online schools that let you get the most out of your money with affordable tuition and fees.
While featuring low-cost degree programs, these top-notch online universities and colleges in Colorado maintain excellent instruction and superior quality of college education.
Colorado State University Global
Headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, Colorado State University-Global is the first statutorily-defined, non-profit, online state university in the country. It was first launched in 2007, starting with 200 students and now has a current student population of 18,000.
Recognizing the growing needs of nontraditional learners, the university strove hard to innovate and refine digital education practices. This is to ensure that online students can receive the same rigorous academic standards as their on-campus counterparts. Their online degrees and certificate programs are designed to help working adults build a career-driven future while making sure they keep up with the fast-changing industry trends.
At CSU Global, tuition rates are affordable and attainable. They offer low tuition rates, starting from $350 for undergraduate degrees. Annual tuition is around $8,400, depending on credit. What sets this university apart is the fact that they do not charge student fees, unlike 85% of 4-year accredited universities.
Some of the bachelor’s degree programs at the university include Business Management, Criminal Justice, and Information Technology.
Location: Aurora, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- GED
- High school diploma
- A formal, written statement of purpose.
- If applicants do not qualify for standard admission, CSU Global may admit an applicant under provisional status if the applicant meets the minimum Provisional Admissions Rubric requirements and/or is recommended for admission by the Admissions Committee or Provost.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Aims Community College
Aims Community College has more than 200 degree and certificate programs. They offer one of the most affordable tuitions in the Front Range. Their extensive online offerings make it easier for students who have work and family obligations to attend classes regularly.
The online courses are conducted over the internet with the use of web-based course sites published in Aims online. The online programs are also designed to provide quality distance education and equal opportunities to on-campus resources. Students can plan their educational goals on a schedule that is convenient and flexible. Most of the online courses are semester based. Their most known online program is the Associate of Arts degree.
Location: Greeley, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- Aims Community admission account
- Program-based requirements
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lamar Community College
Lamar Community College emphasizes the education needs of Prowers, Baca, Kiowa, and Cheyenne Counties. The university is a learner-centered, open enrollment, two-year post-secondary institution that seeks to provide the highest quality education and service excellence to help students reach their goals and prepare for their future.
In line with the growing need for greater flexibility, the school extends learning opportunities to students who want to earn their degrees without being required to attend on-campus classes. This format allows them to fit their schedules from anywhere they choose. They have direct access to online courses, certificates, and associate degree programs. There is also a golden chance for full-time students to be granted with scholarships up to $1,000.
Just like their on-campus counterparts, online students can also access resources such as one-on-one tutoring, professional advising, career and transfer advising, and even the school library and learning resource center.
The tuition rate is lower than other colleges and universities, but it may differ based on one’s residency.
Location: Lamar, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- 17 years old and older
- Online application form
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Metropolitan State University of Denver
The Metropolitan State University of Denver offers affordable degree programs, innovative private partnerships, and a commitment to diversity to the people of Denver and Colorado.
The university has the lowest tuition and fees among the state’s largest colleges, with the tuition and fees for 15 credit hours averaging $3,832.95 per semester for residents and $10,423.35 for non-residents.
The university offers more undergraduate and graduate programs as well as certificates. Students who are considering earning their degree online can find several online degrees, from Accounting, Criminal Justice and Corrections, and Nursing, among many others.
Location: Denver, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- High school transcripts
- Standardized test scores
- Personal statement or letter of recommendation (optional)
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Found in the southern part of the state near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado State University-Pueblo spans more than 275 acres. It has a long history of serving the community and responding to the growing needs of higher education in the region. The university offers 26 baccalaureate and six master degree programs, serving nearly 5,000 students from all 50 states and 23 countries.
Beyond their traditional degree programs on campus, they also offer quality higher education instruction to students across the nation via online classes. Just like their classroom counterparts, online degree programs help their students develop the resilience, agility, and problem-solving abilities to navigate a rapidly changing world. They have several undergraduate and graduate programs available entirely online.
As a public, non-profit, state university, Colorado State University in Pueblo makes online education affordable, regardless of one’s residency. Tuition rate per credit hour is only around $350 for undergraduate programs while some master’s degrees can reach only about $550.
Some of their most notable online programs include Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Education.
Location: Pueblo, Colorado
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
- Official transcripts
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission