Composed of 23 colleges and universities, Vermont’s higher education system is not without its challenges. Although it has the most colleges per capita, the high school population is rapidly declining. The 21 private and public colleges are a lot for a state with just over half a million residents.
Some colleges and universities offer degree programs that are 100% online. Online education liberates students from the trappings of brick-and-mortar degree programs, eliminating the need to drive to school, plan schedules around their classes, and being physically present for every class.
Vermont has continued to innovate and develop new ways to provide high-quality education to its residents. Since a college degree serves as a strong foundation for a promising future career, the people of Vermont are spoiled for choices when it comes to educational institutions. Aside from the traditional offerings on-campus, students also have the option to enroll in classes online.
A degree earned online does not fundamentally differ from its on-campus counterpart. The only difference is the method with which it is delivered. Most of the online degree programs are designed and taught by the same acclaimed faculty as found in traditional classes.
With an online degree, students can efficiently juggle their personal and professional responsibilities while pursuing their education. It works perfectly for adult learners and students who need to work, as well as earn a living. The flexible format of most online programs means that they can take their coursework at their own pace.
METHODOLOGY
It is the goal of our researchers and staff at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com to help students in Vermont find the most suitable online school that meets their requirements. As such, we have put together the best options for you through our list of the 3 Top Online Schools in Vermont. These academic institutions meet ideal academic standards through these features:
- Rigorous coursework and comprehensive curricula designed to produce the most competent graduates.
- Online professors and faculty who are considered industry experts,
- Excellent student-to-teacher ratio to promote a more focused instruction,
- An online learning platform that makes for an indispensable tool for accessing students’ coursework,
- Accreditation from academic agencies that ensure the delivery of excellent education and training.
See our Methodology Page to learn about our comprehensive ranking process.
University of Vermont
Founded in 1791, the University of Vermont has worked to move humankind forward. It is an Ivy school and a top 100 research university that offers a breadth of resources, ideas, and opportunities while promoting close mentorship between faculty and students.
The university offers over 100 majors in 7 undergraduate schools and colleges. To date, there are a total of 53 master’s degree programs, 25 doctoral programs, 30 accelerated master’s programs, as well as four pre-professional advising options.
As part of their initiative to bring quality education to those beyond Burlington and even Vermont, the university started a continuing and distance education program with the added benefit of flexibility and convenience. Students can choose among numerous online and hybrid courses offered in a variety of durations, ranging from two weeks to six weeks in length. The areas of study are varied, from healthcare and business and leadership to education and social services. These online programs let adult learners balance the demands of their busy lifestyle with convenient courses and programs designed with their success in mind.
Just like traditional classes, online coursework has due dates and expected regular participation; however, your contributions do not require on-campus or face-to-face meetings. Online students are encouraged to log in daily to the Learning Management System. They are also expected to spend at least 5-20 hours a week on course-related readings, assignments, and discussions.
Location: Burlington, Vermont
Admission Requirements:
- Accomplished online application for admission
- Application fee of $55 (non-refundable)
- Official high school/college transcript
- SAT or ACT Score results
- Letter of recommendation
- Application essay
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Accreditation Council for Education and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Network of Schools of Public Affairs, and Administration – NASPAA
- American Chemical Society
- American Psychological Association
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Council on Social Work Education
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation; Vermont Standards Board for Professional Educators
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
- The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
- National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education
- Council for Academic Accreditation
Castleton University
Castleton University, found in Castleton, Vermont, has been in existence since 1787 and has been dedicated to educating future leaders of Vermont and beyond. Its cutting-edge education is highly personalized, offering a diverse and challenging curriculum. At present, the university offers more than 75 programs of study in liberal arts and sciences and in professional and career preparation.
It is notable that small class sizes allow students the benefit of individual attention from faculty. In 2018, the university also extended its commitment to providing higher education to distance learners. They are now on course to offer full programs in an online format. Two of the programs offered are Master of Science in Accounting and Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
The current programs serve unique populations of professionals. The fully online delivery provides them with the flexibility necessary to focus on their careers while pursuing an advanced degree.
Part of the benefits of online education is the considerable savings from additional on-campus fees, housing, and transportation. The university has also announced lower graduate tuition and fees that have resulted in a 25% reduction in the overall cost of attendance.
Location: Castleton, Vermont
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application form and fee
- Essay (minimum of 250 words)
- Official high school transcripts/GED equivalent
- SAT/CT Scores
- Letter of Recommendation
Accreditations:
- New England Commission on Higher Education
- Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training (CAATE)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Vermont Board of Nursing
Norwich University
Located in Northfield, Vermont, Norwich University has a demonstrated history of providing an excellent education for nearly 200 years since its founding. As the nation’s oldest private military college and the birthplace of ROTC, it has served a diverse student body. Students are constantly challenged to push themselves academically and socially to reach their highest potential.
Their academic offerings are diverse, ranging from accounting, architecture, biochemistry, and biology to business management, communications, criminal justice, and education. Aside from its on-campus programs, Norwich University also offers online programs and certificates. They are designed for adult learners to help them achieve their career goals by completing their bachelor’s degree and master’s degree or advancing their skillset through continuing education. These can all be done while maintaining their daily demands from work and home.
The online programs have been in operation since 1998, providing academic programs and personalized educational experiences through a dynamic learning environment. It has empowered adult learners by encouraging positive change in their lives and their communities where they live for more than 20 years.
The online education at Norwich University is delivered through a state-of-the-art, online learning platform that allows students to access program content, contribute to class discussions, and engage with faculty and other online students wherever they are and whenever it is convenient for them. There are due dates for assignments that are often fixed and spread out over the weeks of the course. Students also have access to help desk support 24/7.
The online programs include Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Leadership, and Master of Arts in Military History.
Location: Northfield, Vermont
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Secondary school transcripts.
- Academic Preparedness (completed four years of English, four years of math, 3-4 years of laboratory science, three years of social science, etc.)
- Admissions Essay
- Letters of recommendation
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- National Architecture Accreditation Board (NAAB)
- National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC)
- Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE)
Most students consider a higher education degree as a stepping stone to success. However, many challenges hinder them from pursuing a college education, from rising tuition and cost of living to accessible degree programs. But as the world moves forward with advances in technology, education also undergoes innovations.
Today, most students can earn their degrees from the comforts of their homes at their own pace. The flexibility and convenience that online education affords cannot be taken for granted. Online students receive the quality of education that is on par with its on-campus counterpart. They have access to the same learning resources and faculty support. The only difference is the way it is delivered.
Online education eliminates the need to attend on-campus classes, slashing the additional costs of fuel and lodging. Most online programs have lower tuition rates, and no other fees as well, making it ideal for many who cannot afford to send themselves to school. Through distance learning programs, students can take care of their careers and earn money all while pursuing their dream degrees.
METHODOLOGY
The State of Vermont is home to online academic institutions that provide good value for money, but very few stand out because of the superior delivery of degree programs with low tuition rates. Our list of the 2 Best Value Online Schools in Vermont highlights the leading cheap online colleges that also partners with agencies to provide financial aid opportunities through scholarships and grants.
Champlain College
Established in 1878, Champlain College is a private, nonprofit college located in Burlington, Vermont. It is rooted in traditional New England educational values with a reputation for innovation. With career-minded students as their primary focus, this college carefully chose their selection of degree programs that met the requirements of the changing job market.
In consideration of a growing student population that struggles to find the time to attend on-campus programs, Champlain College found a way to give an alternative to the traditional format of education. It established some of the country’s first online academic degree and certificate programs that are well-suited for working adults. Today, it offers more than 60 nationally acclaimed programs in a flexible online format. It currently serves over 3,000 online students from all 50 states and around the globe.
Just like the traditional programs, the online learning programs of Champlain College allow professors and students to bring their unique experiences, world travels, and diverse perspectives to their global classrooms.
Online students are highly engaged in their courses. Learning materials and support are easily accessible anywhere, as long as there is an internet connection. Students can also expect a high standard of education where industry experts are part of the faculty. The online programs are also accredited and continuously evaluated to ensure the best possible online student experience.
The college has one of the most affordable tuition rates in the state with $318 per credit. For those who are in active military duty, national guard, and reserve, tuition rates only amount to $250 per credit. A one-time graduation fee is required but is only applicable in the last term before graduation.
Notable degree programs that are offered fully online include Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information System, Bachelor of Science in Economic Crime Investigation, and Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Communication.
Location: Burlington, Vermont
Admission Requirements:
- Filled out application for admission form
- Official copy of high school transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- SAT/ACT Test Scores
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Northern Vermont University
A two-campus institution of higher education, Northern Vermont University combines the best of their campuses’ nationally recognized liberal arts and professional programs. It is their mission to guide curious, motivated, and engaged students to find their paths to success and their places in the world. The two campuses are located in Johnson and Lyndon. Northern Vermont University offers expanded access to a faculty with a broader and deeper depth of expertise and experience.
For adult learners and those who are outside the state and country, the university’s online education programs allow aspiring students to earn their degrees and further their education no matter where they are. At NVU Online, learners who want to earn a bachelor’s degree can take advantage of their flexible, affordable and high-quality degree program options. If they wish to enhance their credentials, chart a course for a new career, or explore their interests, the online programs have a way that works with busy lifestyle schedules.
Currently, the Northern Vermont University offers seven 100% online undergraduate programs and one 90% online undergraduate program. All of their courses are taught by expert faculty, providing individualized attention to their students. The online programs will guarantee a high level of support throughout their studies.
Aside from the flexibility and convenience it affords, online education at VNU also enjoys additional benefits, mainly through tuition reduction. Online students can earn their degrees at $350 per credit and without extra fees. According to the university, the massive discount on tuition for students who choose 100% online programs is designed to help them meet their educational and career goals at a time when the rising cost of education can be a real challenge.
Some notable degree programs include Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies, and Bachelor of Science in Wellness and Alternative Medicine.
Location: Johnson, Vermont
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application form
- High school transcript
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- $50 tuition deposit
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
