We employed an objective methodology to formulate this ranking of the top online colleges. Our approach involved analyzing data from various reputable sources, including the National Center for Education Statistics, Peterson’s, and PayScale.
Additionally, we sought input from educators and industry experts to identify the key factors that distinguish exceptional online colleges. Our methodology incorporates considerations such as accreditation, reputation, affordability, and flexibility.
When searching for the ideal online college, it's crucial to assess your objectives, financial constraints, and availability. Ensuring that your chosen institution holds accreditation from a reputable agency is equally important. To begin your search, peruse our compilation of the nation's finest online colleges.
How to Find the Right Online
Know Your Time Commitment
Before you enroll in an online college, it’s important to consider your goals and your schedule. Do you want to earn a degree, or do you just want to take some classes? Are you looking for a part-time or full-time program?
Some online colleges offer flexible scheduling, which means you can take courses at your own pace and complete your degree on your own timeline. However, other schools require students to follow a more traditional semester schedule.
It’s also important to consider how long you want to spend in school. Some degrees can be earned in as little as two years, while others may take four years or more. Make sure you choose a school that offers a program that fits your timeline.
Consider Your Budget
Another important factor to consider is your budget. Tuition at online colleges can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars per semester to tens of thousands of dollars per year. It’s important to choose a school that fits your budget and offers financial aid options.
You should also consider the cost of living in the area where you’ll be attending school. Some cities are more expensive than others, and you don’t want your living expenses to outweigh your tuition costs.
Make Sure the School Is Accredited
When you’re choosing an online college, it’s important to make sure the school is accredited by a reputable agency. Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards of quality, and it can make a big difference in the rigor of your education.
There are many different accreditation agencies, but not all of them are created equal. The most important accreditation agency for online colleges is the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The DEAC is recognized by the US Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), so you can be sure that your degree will be respected by employers and other schools.
Another important accreditation agency to look for is the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). The ACCSC accredits schools that offer career-oriented programs, such as nursing, business, and information technology.
Check the School’s Reputation
When you’re choosing an online college, it’s important to check the school’s reputation. Make sure the school is respected by employers and other colleges. You can also look for reviews of the school online.
Be sure to check out our list of the best online colleges in the country. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
Choose a Program That Fits Your Career Goals
When selecting an online college, it's crucial to opt for a program that aligns with your career objectives. With a plethora of program options available from online institutions, it's imperative to ensure that your chosen program offers the necessary courses to propel you forward in your desired field.
For instance, aspiring registered nurses should verify that the chosen school provides a nursing program, while those aiming to pursue a teaching career should confirm the availability of a teaching program.
Furthermore, it's essential to ascertain that the chosen institution holds accreditation from a reputable agency. This accreditation guarantees that your degree will be recognized and valued by employers and other academic institutions.
Make Sure the School Offers Support Services
When you’re choosing an online college, it’s important to make sure the school offers support services. Many online colleges offer academic advising, tutoring, and career services. These services can help you succeed in your courses and prepare for your career.
Some schools also offer counseling services, which can be helpful if you’re struggling with the transition to college life. Make sure you choose a school that offers the support services you need to succeed.
Now that you know what to look for in an online college, you’re ready to start your search! Be sure to check out our list of the best online colleges in the country. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
Cost of an Online College Degree
The cost of an online college degree varies depending on the school you choose and the program you enroll in. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports average tuition and fees for online colleges as follows:
Undergraduate Degrees
Average tuition and fees per academic year for full-time undergraduate learners are as follows, according to the NCES.
- Public, four-year, in state: $9,375
- Public, four-year, out of state: $27,091
- Private, four-year: $32,825
- Public, two-year, in state: $3,501
- Public, two-year, out of state: $8,256
Graduate Degrees
The average graduate student pays the following tuition and fees per academic year, according to NCES data.
- Public: $12,410
- Private: $26,597
Methodology
We scored 16 of the largest online colleges in the U.S. using 17 data points across five categories. We looked at the cost of tuition, the average student debt load, graduation rates, retention rates and career placement services to identify schools that are doing the best job of preparing students for success after graduation.
We then applied our own ranking methodology to come up with a final list of the top online colleges in the country. This list is a great starting point for your search for the best online college for you. We chose the 10 best to display based on those scoring 61% or higher.
Student outcomes: 30%
Affordability: 25%
Student experience: 25%
Application process: 10%
Credibility: 10%
Ranking of Top Online Colleges
When searching for the optimal online college, it's vital to align your choice with your career aspirations, selecting a program that aligns with your goals. Equally essential is verifying the accreditation status of your chosen institution, along with ensuring it provides crucial support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and career guidance.
Keeping these criteria in focus, we've evaluated and ranked the 16 largest online colleges in the U.S. using our methodology. These institutions excel in equipping students for success post-graduation.
- Arizona State University
- Liberty University
- Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Walden University
- Kaplan University
- University of Florida
- Washington State University
- Trident University International
- Bellevue University
- Drexel University
- Grand Canyon University
- Regis University
- Strayer University
- Capella University
- South University-Online
- Liberty University Online Academy
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges
How long does it take to get an online bachelor’s degree?
As with on-campus programs, the length of time it takes to earn an online bachelor’s degree varies by school and by major. Generally, students can expect to complete their degrees in four years or less.
Is an online degree as good as a traditional degree?
There is no difference in the quality of an online degree and a traditional degree. In fact, many employers prefer candidates with online degrees because they are able to demonstrate mastery of digital tools and technologies.
Can I transfer my credits to an online degree program?
Most online colleges accept credits from regionally accredited schools. However, it’s important to check with the school you’re interested in to make sure they will accept your credits.
Do online degree programs have accreditation?
All of the schools on our list are accredited by agencies that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This means they have undergone a rigorous review process and are held to high standards of quality.
Conclusion
Earning an online degree from one of the schools listed is an excellent strategy for saving money on education and gearing up for a successful career. These institutions excel in preparing students for post-graduation success, boasting affordable tuition rates and impressive student outcomes. For those seeking the optimal online college experience, we suggest commencing with our curated top 10 list. These accredited schools provide essential support services such as academic advising and tutoring, ensuring robust student outcomes and a rewarding investment.
