Top 50 Most Reputable Online Colleges

Does completing a bachelor’s degree at one of the most respected online colleges sound like a dream come true?

Online degrees have become a reality for many students who value the opportunity to have both a high-quality academic experience and a flexible schedule.

Now that dream can become a reality with the increasing popularity of online degree programs. If you previously felt that attending college was impossible because of a career or family obligations, online schools may be the answer you have been seeking. Choosing a most respected online college may be the first step to achieving your academic goals.

Reputable Colleges Offering Online Degrees

Finding the right school is at the heart of having the best possible college experience. To do so, you can begin evaluating your needs and preferences and looking for reputable online universities.

There are many factors at play, but these are some of the key points to consider when researching these types of colleges.

• Accreditation
• Professional Reputation
• Faculty Credentials
• Student Services
• Student to Faculty Ratio

In addition to the below factors, be sure to also consider the following important points:

• Addresses: Check to see if the school lists an official campus or business address and if the website ends in .edu, both of which suggest that it is an actual academic institution rather than an online scam.
• Accuracy: While everyone makes errors, a college that has a website riddled with grammar or spelling mistakes is unlikely to be reputable.
• Unrealistic promises: A university that says that you can receive a bachelor’s degree in a matter of months or at a minimal cost may be a diploma mill that awards credentials with little to no actual value.
• Cost: College tuition is generally expensive, but an exorbitant price for an online school may be a red flag.

Doing research, contacting the admissions office, and reading online reviews of the most credible online colleges can help identify whether you’ll be attending a school or falling for a scam.

Accreditation

You may be wondering what are the best accredited online colleges and that is a great question. Accreditation is an essential component of a reputable online education.

When a school is accredited, it means that they have gone through a voluntary review process by a recognized accrediting agency to ensure that its curriculum meets high-quality standards.

A few of the top accrediting agencies across the country include the following:

• Regional accrediting agencies
• Distance Education Accrediting Commission
• Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

Different degrees often have specific accrediting agencies that review curricula for that particular field. The United States Department of Education’s website is an excellent starting point for researching which agencies are nationally recognized.

Professional Reputation

Knowing that your college has an accredited, quality curriculum is a major step toward selecting a reputable online college. However, it is also important to research the peer and professional reputation of the university that you are considering.

Steps you can take to research the academic reputation of your online university include:

• Checking reputation rankings through quality resources such as the Times Higher Education World Reputations Rankings.
• Considering data from reputable research, such as the rankings found in S. News and World Report
• Looking into student and alumni reviews through various websites
• Listening to opinions and first-hand experience from professionals and colleagues within your field of interest

Attending a college with a solid academic reputation will likely provide you with a greater potential to land a professional position after graduation. Employers often consider the background of the education you have received, and a degree from a reputable university can go a long way in the competitive job market.

Faculty Credentials

A quality curriculum is only as good as the instructors that are teaching the material, and knowing the background of your future professors is an important step in determining which college you would like to attend.

Factors that you can consider when looking into the qualifications of your school’s faculty include:

• Professional experience
• Educational background
• Academic achievements
• Prior teaching history

Most colleges have a “Faculty” section on their school’s website that can be a useful tool for prospective students. Here you are typically able to look at the biographies of the faculty, as well as see their professional qualifications, history, and achievements.

Student Services

The purpose of attending college is to gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a professional career, and having the support of your school can make a big impact on your educational success.

Many of the top accredited universities offer a variety of student services to their distance education students that may include the following:

• Virtual academic advisement services
• 24/7 technology support teams
• Online mentoring and tutoring with peers or instructors
• Advanced technological platforms that allow students to interact throughout their courses
• Options for flexible scheduling of any in-person degree requirements
• Access to extensive online research and library resources

When comparing online colleges vs. traditional ones, it’s important to keep in mind that online college courses can be as highly challenging as traditional ones, and many students find that they need to reach out for additional support at some point during their educational journey. The availability of online-focused student services is a way for reputable universities to help ensure their students reach their full potential.

Student to Faculty Ratio

Most students prefer the personalized attention of a small, traditional college class, but having a low student to faculty ratio is just as important in online learning.

When a college is committed to keeping class sizes small, the instructors are able to give students the individualized support they deserve to succeed in the class. In small online classes, professors can connect with their students through a variety of means, including:

• Live lectures through a virtual classroom
• Online discussion boards
• Email and phone calls
• Online classroom platforms

These smaller online classrooms nurture the cooperative atmosphere needed for students to push themselves to their highest potential. Some colleges publish information regarding student to faculty ratio their websites, and statistics can also be found by speaking with your school’s academic advisor

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Education

When choosing an online education, it’s important to consider all pros and cons to ensure it is the right choice for you.

Advantages of an Online Education

Pursuing your degree through online education is a personal decision, and there are many things to consider when choosing a school that will provide you with a reputable education and degree.

There are several advantages to earning a degree through an online program, and these benefits include:

• Potential for lower tuition costs
• Flexible scheduling that allows you to log on to classes anytime and anywhere
• Ability to accelerate your degree program
• Access to the same quality curriculum as traditional students
• Online resources and services to support you throughout your education

The flexible nature of online learning is one of the biggest draws for adult students looking for a way to balance their busy schedules with pursuing their degrees. In many cases, students also have the opportunity to take accelerated classes or a heavier course load to graduate in a much shorter timeframe than traditional on-campus students.

Disadvantages of an Online Education

Online education can be more accessible, flexible, and affordable for students, but that doesn’t mean that it’s right for everyone. There are some disadvantages to online degrees.

• In order to take online courses, you will need to have a higher level of proficiency with technology as well as access to the necessary devices and a stable internet connection.
• Online courses may feel more isolating, which can be problematic if you thrive in a social environment.
• Although the number of online schooling programs grows every day, there are still some degrees and disciplines that must be completed in a face-to-face environment.
• Online classes often require a higher level of self-motivation and time management.
• Opportunities for direct interactions with your instructors may be more limited in an online class.

As you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of online education, think about your past classroom experiences and how they might relate to the skills that you will need to succeed online.

How to Choose an Online School

No matter whether you are attending online or in-person, choosing a college can be stressful and overwhelming. Higher education is a financial, emotional, and intellectual investment, so it is important that you get a valuable and rewarding experience in return.

When evaluating possible schools, these are some areas that deserve your attention.

• Degree programs: If you have chosen a major, or if you have one in mind, it’s important to verify whether the college offers that particular program and whether it aligns with your interests and goals.
• Curriculum: Comparing two or more schools in terms of curriculum can help determine how challenging and engaging a program will be.
• Faculty: Your course instructors will be your key point of contact throughout your college experience. Researching the qualifications of the faculty for your degree program can help determine whether the school is a good match.
• Student services: There may be occasions when you need to seek support outside of your instructors. It is worthwhile to see what services each college has available, such as tutoring, success coaching, and career counseling.
• Accessibility: Many students require accommodations while attending college, so checking to see if the school has an accessibility resource center and how they respond to students with disabilities is an important step.
• Tuition and fees: Some schools are much more expensive than others, and many students are operating under a budget. It’s crucial to compare the tuition and fees for every school that you consider.
• Delivery format: Many online courses are asynchronous, meaning that there is no specific meeting time, and you complete the work whenever is best for you. Others are synchronous and less flexible in terms of scheduling. Review the delivery format of your desired program to determine which best meets your needs.
• Financial aid: Tuition assistance may also factor into your decision. Once you have been accepted, one college may offer you a better financial aid package than another.

Choosing a college is a highly personal decision, so do not hesitate to take your time, ask a lot of questions, and seek outside input on these aspects of your potential schools.

Online College Programs Accreditation

There are many legitimate and reputable online universities to choose from, but some schools meet higher standards than others.

Accreditation status is a good indicator to consider when researching the quality of a college. Schools that are regionally accredited have gone through an extensive evaluation process to determine whether they are offering high-quality academic programs.

Attending an accredited school is also beneficial because most courses will transfer to other colleges should you need to change programs in the future. If a university states that it is accredited, you can confirm the accreditation status by searching through an official database.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

College can be expensive, and many students do not have the means to pay for tuition, textbooks, housing, and other fees out of pocket. Fortunately, there are many available opportunities for financial aid.

• Federal aid: You will need to complete a FAFSA, which requires information like your household income, to determine your eligibility for federal loans.
• State aid: There are many state programs that offer aid based on student need and academic achievements.
• Employer assistance: If you are already employed in the field, your employer may be willing to pay part of your tuition costs.
• Scholarships: There are thousands of scholarship opportunities for students based on defining criteria, such as your major, racial background, and whether you are a first-generation college student.

Contacting the school’s financial aid department is a good first step. The representatives there can often give you information about possible aid opportunities, deadlines, and requirements. It is also generally good practice to do your own research into other options that may be available.

How to Apply to an Online University

These are some of the steps that are frequently required to apply to an online degree program.

1. Complete an online application with your personal information and education history. Some schools may also request SAT or ACT scores.
2. Write a statement of purpose or personal essay explaining your future goals and interests.
3. Request references from former teachers or employers who are familiar with your abilities.
4. Submit transcripts from any prior high school or undergraduate coursework.
5. Pay an application fee.

While these steps are standard, it’s important to pay close attention to the school’s instructions as some colleges and programs have additional requirements.

Are Online Colleges Legit?

Online colleges are no different from other schools or businesses in that it is important to research the legitimacy before enrolling. There are online colleges that are little more than degree mills, offering credentials with very little effort on your part as long as you pay.

There are also online schools that are just as reputable as traditional ones. To evaluate the quality of a school, it is helpful to research whether it is accredited, whether there are student services available, and when it was founded.

Many of today’s online degree programs are offered by schools that also have physical campuses. This is another potential signal of whether the program is legitimate.

Are Online Degrees Respected by Employers?

In the past, some students have been reluctant to enroll in online degree programs because they fear that employers will not regard the degree as high as one completed in a traditional program.

The reality is that most employers do not have a strong preference for degrees that are earned in traditional formats. They are more likely to consider the reputation and quality of the school, whether you graduated with honors, and what courses you took during your program.

If you attend a school with both traditional and online programs, potential employers may not even be aware of how you completed the degree.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree Online?

There are many variables that go into determining how long your bachelor’s degree program will take. For example, if you completed dual enrollment courses while in high school, you may be able to complete your degree more quickly.

As a general rule, a student who attends full-time and follows a traditional schedule with 16-week semesters can complete a bachelor’s degree in four years. Students who are enrolled part-time may need a longer completion period. Others who enroll in summer courses or accelerated programs may be able to complete their degrees more quickly.

What Are Some of the Highest Paying Online Degrees?

While there are many online degree program options to choose from, some have the potential to help you prepare for more lucrative careers. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), these are some of the degrees that are associated with high-paying positions.

In addition to paying well, many of these positions are also expected to have significant growth over the next several years. This includes financial managers (17%), pilots (13%), and computer and information systems managers (11%).

How Much Does a Bachelor’s Degree Cost Online?

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree depends on a number of factors, including the academic institution you are attending, the degree you are seeking, whether the school is private or public, and if you are classified as an in-state or out-of-state student.

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 per credit hour when completing an online degree. In most cases, public colleges charge lower tuition rates while private schools are considerably more expensive.

Is an Online Degree Program the Right Choice for me?

Choosing whether an online degree program is right for you is a highly personal decision, and research into the advantages and disadvantages of online education is essential to make the choice that meets your needs.

Regardless of why you feel an online degree is the best choice for you, enrolling in a college with a strong professional reputation and quality curriculum is imperative to your success after graduation. Luckily, top universities across the country are continuing to expand their online degree offerings every year – giving working adult students the ability to pursue their dreams while juggling the demands of daily life.

What’s the Difference Between an Online Degree vs. Traditional Degree?

Your goal in pursuing a bachelor’s degree is likely the same regardless of whether you choose an online or traditional format, but there are differences between these options to keep in mind.

• Flexibility: Online degrees are generally much more flexible in terms of scheduling.
• Feedback: Although there are no face-to-face interactions with instructors, online students typically receive more extensive written feedback.
• Resources: Traditional programs sometimes offer more resources to students, but there is a growing trend to offer online students access to tutoring, success coaching, and advising.
• Cost: Tuition for online programs is sometimes more expensive, but students often save money in other areas, including housing, parking, and activity fees.

Although these differences exist, the merit of your degree program is largely determined by the quality of the school rather than whether you are attending online or in person.

What’s the Difference Between Regional vs. National Accreditation?

Both regional and national accreditation involves an assessment by an outside organization, but there are some noteworthy variations between them.

• Credit transfers: Credits earned from regionally accredited colleges are usually easier to transfer than those from nationally accredited schools.
• Geographic coverage: Regional accreditation agencies often work only in one area of the country, while national agencies assess programs from all over the United States.
• Standards of quality: Regional quality standards are typically more rigorous.
• Ownership: All nationally accredited colleges and universities are private, but regionally accredited schools may be private or public.

Because of these distinctions, regional accreditation is widely regarded as more desirable and beneficial to students.

Is an Online Degree Worth It?

Yes, an online degree is worth it for many students. Online degrees allow students to structure their schedules around their other responsibilities while also receiving the education necessary to prepare them for their future careers.

There is still some skepticism about online colleges, but there are many legitimate and reputable programs available. You can take online courses in a wide array of disciplines, and some of the country’s best universities have begun to offer online degrees.

Some of the best online degree programs may help you to qualify for a career with the potential for advancement and growth, including management and executive positions.

Top 50 Most Reputable Online Colleges

Methodology: The following list includes some of the most reputable online universities and colleges offering online degrees in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. Other criteria include student engagement, faculty credentials and training, student services and technology, and peer reputation.

Arizona State University offers more than 300 different degrees and certificates that can be earned completely online.  Fields of study include mechanical engineering, software engineering, marketing, information technology, astronomical and planetary sciences, political science, history, and more. Undergraduate students also have the option to choose a minor.

Location: Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ball State University has over a 100 different degree programs that are available 100% online. Bachelor’s degrees are offered in fields like social work, logistics and supply chain management, economics, information technology, business administration, and more. All of Ball State’s online classes are taught by the same faculty members that teach on campus.

Location: Muncie, IN

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Baptist University offers online bachelor’s degree programs in accounting, Christian ministries, cybersecurity, information technology, public administration, and more. CBU’s distance learning programs are currently available in 37 states.

Location: Riverside, CA

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Central Michigan University offers online courses in 8, 12, and 16 week formats and has a wide range of support services for online students. Online degree programs are available in information systems, political science, public and nonprofit administration, fashion merchandising and design, business administration, and more.

Location: Mount Pleasant, MI

Central Michigan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Charleston Southern University’s fully online degree programs are designed to be highly flexible to help meet the needs of parents and working adults. Each course is 7 weeks long and has no set login times. Charleston Southern offers bachelor’s degree programs in business analytics, cybersecurity, healthcare management, computer science, clinical counseling, ministry, and more.

Location: Charleston, SC

Charleston Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado State University’s online degree programs are designed to provide busy adults with the same quality education they would receive on campus. CSU offers bachelor’s degrees in political science, journalism, human development and family studies, environment and natural resource economics, agricultural business, and more.

Location: Greenwood Village, CO

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University—Chicago offers a variety of online programs taught by top-quality instructors that are designed to help students earn their degrees work-life balance. Online students take one 8 week class at a time. Bachelor’s degree programs are offered in kinesiology, health care management, human resource management, and more.

Location: River Forest, IL

Concordia University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Creighton University is a Jesuit school that offers a Bachelor of Science in Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine that can be earned online. Creighton provides lots of options for students to choose their own courses, even within the core curriculum. Creighton students can also enjoy small class sizes and a variety of internship and study abroad opportunities.

Location: Omaha, NE

Creighton University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The CUNY School of Professional Studies offers online bachelor’s degree programs in communications and media, psychology, business, health information management, and more. All of CUNY’s online programs are designed to meet the needs of working adults.

Location: New York, NY

CUNY School of Professional Studies is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Daytona State College offers many different bachelor’s degrees that can be earned online. Fields of study include accounting, supervision and management, engineering technology, information technology, and more. Degree programs are also available in a hybrid online and on-campus format, and there are multiple campus locations for students to choose from.

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

Daytona State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s online degree programs feature multiple start dates every year and are designed to allow students to learn on their own schedule. The programs utilize online tools to provide students with opportunities to participate in virtual labs and have discussions with teachers and classmates. Degree programs are available in business analytics, engineering, homeland security, and more.

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Florida State University offers online bachelor’s degree programs in financial planning, computer science, criminology, public safety and security, and interdisciplinary social science. FSU provides online students with access to career services, mental health resources, library services, and other forms of support. Coursework is designed to be flexible and convenient.

Location: Tallahassee, FL

Florida State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

George Washington University is a leading research university that offers bachelor’s degrees that can be earned online or in a hybrid format. It offers degree programs in homeland security, business analytics, business and information systems technology, cognitive science of language, and more. GWU also has dual degree programs that allow students to start working on a master’s degree while earning a bachelor’s degree.

Location: Washington, DC

George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Illinois State University offers an RN-to-BSN program and a Bachelor’s in Health Informatics and Management that can be completed fully online. A variety of other degree programs are available partially online. Illinois State has a student-to-faculty ratio of just 19-to-1.

Location: Normal, IL

Illinois State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University—Bloomington has 35 bachelor’s degree programs that are mostly or completely online. It offers completely online options in business administration, political science, accounting, informatics, communication studies, applied health science, psychology, and more. Online courses are taught by the same faculty members that teach on campus.

Location: Bloomington, IN

Indiana University – Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Loyola University—Chicago is a Jesuit school that offers online education. Its online courses are learner-centered and taught by faculty who have been specially trained in online pedagogy.

Loyola currently offers eight different degree completion programs designed for working adults. Options include RN-to-BSN, Applied Psychology, Information Technology, Management, Paralegal Studies, Strategic Digital Communication, Applied Studies, and Web Technologies.

Location: Chicago, IL

Loyola University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Michigan State University currently offers many graduate degrees that can be earned online. Offered fields of study include education technology, global health, integrative pharmacology, marketing research, mechanical engineering, criminal justice, and more. All programs are designed with working professionals in mind.

Location: East Lansing, MI

Michigan State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

North Carolina State University’s online degree programs are designed to provide maximum flexibility and allow students to earn a degree from anywhere with an Internet connection. For undergraduate students, there is a fully online program for a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership in the Public Sector. For graduate students, master’s degrees are available in accounting, engineering, computer science, and more.

Location: Raleigh, NC

North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Ohio State University’s online offerings include an RN-to-BSN program, a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. For graduate students, there are master’s degree programs in nursing, engineering management, public administration and leadership, and more. Many of OSU’s online programs feature rolling admissions, so prospective students can apply at any time.

Location: Columbus, OH

Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Oregon State University offers over 100 different degree programs that can be earned online or in a hybrid format. Bachelor’s degrees are offered in computer science, environmental sciences, finance, supply chain and logistics management, kinesiology, and more. Oregon State University aims to provide online students with the same quality education as those on campus.

Location: Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Pace University has offered online programs for over twenty years, seeking to provide students with flexibility without compromising the quality of their education.

Online students have access to career services, library resources, tutoring, and technical support. Fully online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in business studies, professional technology studies, and professional communication studies. A fully online RN-to-BSN program is also offered.

Location: New York, NY

Pace University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Pennsylvania State University offers 38 different bachelor’s degree programs that are 100% online. Offered fields of study include energy and sustainability policy, digital journalism and media, cybersecurity analytics and operations, software engineering, and more. Most courses do not have set meeting times, but the online platform still allows students to have discussions with classmates.

Location: University Park, PA

Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Purdue University offers more than 200 online and hybrid degree programs that are designed to allow students to earn their degrees on their own schedule. Bachelor’s degrees are offered in sociology, accounting, communication, health care administration, criminal justice, fire and emergency management, psychology, and more. Some of Purdue’s online courses are asynchronous, while others include real-time components.

Location: Lafayette, IN

Purdue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Regent University offers faith-based, online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as communication studies, history, Christian ministry, information systems technology, and more. Online students may receive faculty mentorship. Online classes are offered in convenient 8 week blocks. Regent’s generous transfer policy allows students to potentially receive credit for up to 90 credit hours of prior coursework.

Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Saint Leo University’s online degree programs feature 8 week classes and offer a Catholic, liberal arts education. Fields of study offered include political science, business administration, computer science, history, communication, biology, and more. Saint Leo also has a variety of student clubs and organizations that meet virtually.

Location: Saint Leo, FL

St. Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Siena Heights University offers degree programs for adult learners that feature accelerated, 7 week classes. Students can choose between online or face-to-face instruction. Bachelor’s degree programs are available in professional communications, nursing, multidisciplinary studies, and more.

Location: Adrian, MI

Siena Heights University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Texas Tech University offers classes online and at eight different campus locations. Online classes run concurrently with those on campus. Online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in early childhood, communication studies, English, political science, architecture, and more. Some online programs may have face-to-face components required during the summer.

Location: Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Arizona’s online degree programs use the same curriculum as those on campus. Bachelor’s degrees are offered in electrical and computer engineering, communication, accounting, environmental science, nutritional sciences, and more. Each course is 7.5 weeks long. There are six start dates for new students every year.

Location: Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Arkansas offers online bachelor’s degree programs in English, interdisciplinary studies, human development and family sciences, accounting, management, and more. U of A’s online courses are designed to provide more flexibility than traditional classroom learning while still providing the same quality education.

Location: Fayetteville, AR

The University of Arkansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Central Florida offers 20 fully online bachelor’s degree programs that are designed for working adults. Popular majors include Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Anthropology. Online students may choose a minor from 35 possible options. UCF’s online courses provide flexible scheduling options and are taught by tenure-track faculty.

Location: Orlando, FL

The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Denver offers asynchronous courses that are 100% online and hybrid courses that have some meetings on campus and others online. It also offers on-campus classes that allow students to log in virtually or attend in person at their convenience. Online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in communication arts, healthcare administration, information technology, and more.

Location: Denver, CO

The University of Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Florida offers fully online bachelor’s degree programs that provide the same education as their counterparts on campus. Available majors include Business Administration, Anthropology, Microbiology and Cell Science, Public Relations, Geology, Computer Science, and more. Most of UF’s online courses have no set meeting times and can be completed entirely according to a student’s own schedule.

Location: Gainesville, FL

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Georgia currently offers a Bachelor of Science in Education – Special Education that can be earned fully online. It also has numerous online and low-residency graduate degree programs. These include a Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication, a Master of Business and Technology, and a Master of Music Education.

Location: Athens, GA

The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

At the University of Illinois—Chicago, online courses are taught by the same faculty members that teach on campus. Online undergraduate degree programs are offered in early childhood professional education, social work, and earth, society, and environmental sustainability. Courses are taught in 8 or 16 week blocks and are designed to be flexible for working professionals.

Location: Chicago, IL

The University of Illinois – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Illinois—Springfield has been providing instruction online for 20 years. Online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in history, computer science, psychology, teacher education, business administration, and more. Most online courses at UIS are asynchronous, but a few do feature interactive meetings over Zoom. Classes may have anywhere from 15 to 40 students.

Location: Springfield, IL

UIS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Maryland—College Park offers a Master of Health Administration and a Master of Public Health that can be earned online. The MPH may be earned with a concentration in Behavioral and Community Health, Physical Activity, or Public Health Practice and Policy. Online students are provided with internship opportunities and may take some classes in person.

The University of Maryland – College Park is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Massachusetts—Amherst offers online bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, interdisciplinary studies, nursing, sociology, and more. Online courses at UMass do not usually have set login times, but they do provide opportunities for discussion and collaboration with classmates through the online learning platform.

Location: Amherst, MA

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of Massachusetts—Lowell offers fully online bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice and security, English, information technology, liberal arts, and psychology. Even more options are available in a blended online and on-campus format. Online courses include weekly live chats that are not mandatory but are highly encouraged.

Location: Lowell, MA

The University of Massachusetts – Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of Missouri offers almost 50 online bachelor’s degree programs. Fields of study offered include criminal justice, cybersecurity, philosophy, human development and family science, psychology, information technology, political science, and more. Courses are designed to prioritize flexibility so that students won’t need to change their schedules.

Location: Columbia, MO

The University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Nebraska—Omaha offers online bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, political science, sociology, management information systems, and more. Online courses are taught by the same faculty members that teach on campus and follow the same curriculums as their counterparts. There are no set login times, but students are still able to have discussions with their classmates through online forums.

Location: Omaha, NE

UNO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of North Carolina—Charlotte offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs that are tailored to busy adults. Fields of study offered include elementary education, nursing, fire safety, respiratory therapy, engineering technology, political science, sociology, and more.

Location: Charlotte, NC

UNC Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of North Carolina—Wilmington offers fully online classes in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. It also offers hybrid online and on-campus classes. Online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in clinical research, respiratory therapy, education, international studies, criminology, interdisciplinary studies, and nursing (RN to BS).

Location: Wilmington, NC

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Oklahoma offers online graduate degree programs in fields such as supply chain management, accounting, organizational leadership, civil engineering, and more. Online programs are designed to provide the same education as their on-campus counterparts. Prospective students can apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.

Location: Norman, OK

The University of Oklahoma is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of the Incarnate Word offers bachelor’s degrees that can be earned 100% online. Possible majors include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Human Resources, Psychology, Health Sciences, and more. All UIW’s online courses are tailored to adults. UIW’s student-to-faculty ratio is just 12-to-1.

Location: San Antonio, TX

The University of the Incarnate Word is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee offers more than 850 online courses taught by the same faculty members who teach on campus. The school offers fully online degree programs in communication, information science and technology, history, applied computing, and more. All undergraduates may complete general education requirements completely online.

Location: Milwaukee, WI

UWM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wisconsin—Whitewater offers online bachelor’s degree programs in history, marketing, finance, special education, information and communication technologies, and more. The programs are designed to be flexible and convenient while still meeting high academic standards. Some of UW’s online courses are self-paced.

Location: Whitewater, WI

UW – Whitewater is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Utah State University offers online bachelor’s degree programs in marketing, agribusiness, human development and family studies, technology systems, anthropology, and more. Classes are designed to be convenient and to provide flexible scheduling for adults. Faculty members at Utah State University have real-world experience and keep their industry knowledge up to date.

Location: Logan, UT

Utah State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Washington State University offers a variety of bachelor’s degrees that can be earned 100% online. Students can choose from 21 different majors, including Biology, Data Analytics, Sociology, Integrated Strategic Communication, Political Science, Accounting, and more. Online students can receive the same education and diplomas as on-campus students.

Location: Pullman, WA

WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

West Texas A&M University offers numerous high-quality online and hybrid degree programs. Possible undergraduate majors include Finance, Marketing, Computer Information Systems, Electrical Engineering, Nursing RN-to-BSN, and more.

Online classes come in two formats: Education on Demand (flexible) and semester-based. Some online programs feature occasional face-to-face sessions on campus, which may be mandatory.

Location: Canyon, TX

West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Western Kentucky University offers over 80 online degree programs, all taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. Online undergraduate programs are offered in organizational leadership, child and family services, management, engineering technology management, criminology, and more. Students can choose from on-demand classes or semester-based classes.

Location: Bowling Green, KY

Western Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your Bachelors Degree Online

For many students, getting a bachelor’s degree online is a practical, flexible, and affordable option. It allows them to get a high-quality education while also meeting the needs of their families and careers.

If attending one of the best online universities sounds appealing, you can get started by researching accredited online colleges and reviewing their degree programs. Research the cost, quality, and duration of the program before you enroll.

Once you find a legitimate and respected online college and submit your application, you may be on your way to achieving your academic goals and earning your bachelor’s degree online.