Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Learn about the best online colleges in Texas, tuition rates, scholarships for Texans, and the highest-paying jobs in the state.
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Updated on January 12, 2024
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Margaret Weinhold is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility around higher education. Margaret holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia....
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Best Online Colleges in Texas

The Lone Star State offers a cheaper higher education compared to other states. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in-state students at public four-year colleges in the U.S. paid an average of $9,596 in tuition and fees in 2021-2022, while those attending a public college in Texas paid roughly $1,400 less per year.

Texas boasts around 60 four-year public colleges and 75 private nonprofit colleges. Many Texas colleges offer fully online degrees and virtual courses. Here, we rank the best online colleges in Texas and go over how much they cost, scholarships you can get, and career prospects.

Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Top Online Texas Colleges Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Parker University
Dallas, TX
$23,760 $23,760 Not provided
#2 Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
$8,935 $21,204 68%
#3 LeTourneau University
Longview, TX
$32,690 $32,690 54%
#4 Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
$5,856 $15,648 97%
#5 University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TX
$31,800 $31,800 94%

Best Online Colleges in Texas

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Parker University

  • Dallas, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $710
Out-of-State | $710

Credits to Graduate: 120

Parker University offers several fully online programs in healthcare, healthcare administration and health sciences. You can choose from bachelor's degree programs in nutrition science, sport psychology, and health information management. The school also offers certificates, associate degrees, and a doctor of chiropractic program.

To apply to Parker's undergraduate programs, you'll need to submit high school transcripts or a GED diploma. You can also apply with a college transcript if you've completed at least 24 undergraduate credits. Individual programs may feature other specific admissions requirements.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,760
Out-of-state
$23,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,954
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024 Best Value

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Year:
In-State | $11,852
Out-of-State | $24,451

Credits to Graduate: 120

Consider Texas Tech University's online degrees if you want to earn a bachelor's in communication studies, criminology, or renewable energy. Programs that include biology require some coursework on TTU's Lubbock campus. The university uses Blackboard to deliver asynchronous class content. 

First-year undergraduate admission requirements include high school transcripts and the Common App or ApplyTexas Application. TTU recommends but does not require standardized test scores, essays, or recommendation letters. The university also uses a 2.25 undergraduate GPA cutoff for transfer credit. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,935
Out-of-state
$21,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,956
Out-of-state
$15,136
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
40,542
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

LeTourneau University

  • Longview, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $380-$410
Out-of-State | $380-$410

Credits to Graduate: 120-125

The online bachelor's degree programs at LeTourneau University feature many annual start dates and a Christ-centered academic experience. Program options include cybersecurity, criminal justice, and aviation management. LETU also offers master's degrees in business, counseling, psychology, and education.

LETU requires high school transcripts if you have fewer than 12 undergraduate credits. The university also awards credit for good Advanced Placement scores and professional experience. Maintaining full-time status and a minimum 3.25 GPA may qualify you for the Rhonda Brock Memorial Endowed Scholarship.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,690
Out-of-state
$32,690
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,875
Out-of-state
$16,875
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
3,209
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $637
Out-of-State | $1,045

Credits to Graduate: 120

Sam Houston State University features online bachelor's degrees in business, criminal justice, health science, the humanities, and integrated studies. Majors like psychology and Spanish require some coursework on SHSU's Huntsville campus. You can complement your education with an online minor in one of over two dozen areas. 

You need a high school or GED diploma to apply. SHSU offers guaranteed admission to applicants with excellent standardized test scores or high school grades. You can lower your out-of-pocket costs by applying for institutional scholarships on the Scholarship4Kats website.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,108
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
21,612
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

University of the Incarnate Word

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Semester:
In-State | $16,850
Out-of-State | $16,850

Credits to Graduate: 120

University of the Incarnate World offers nine online bachelor's degrees that include administration, criminal justice, and leadership studies. The health sciences program lets you concentrate in either administration or general studies. UIW stands apart from the other best online colleges in Texas, with its two master's degrees taught entirely in Spanish. 

UIW recommends but does not require a minimum 2.5 high school GPA. You may transfer up to 75 credits. First-year and transfer scholarships award up to $20,000 annually and require full-time status to remain eligible.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,800
Out-of-state
$31,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,540
Out-of-state
$18,540
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
7,508
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

How Much Does Online College Cost in Texas?

Texas has lower tuition rates than the national average. Attending a public four-year college in Texas as an in-state student cost an average of $8,185 in tuition and fees in 2021-2022. In comparison, private four-year colleges in Texas cost an average of $38,807 in tuition and fees.

Compared to a traditional degree, earning an online degree is usually less expensive. You don't have to pay on-campus housing fees, transportation, or on-campus fees. Colleges may also provide flat rates for online tuition.

And don't forget: You can apply for scholarships for Texas students to make college even more affordable.

Cost of College in Texas (2021-2022)
Institution Type Avg. Tuition & Required Fees
Public Four-Year (In-State) $8,185
Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) $25,419
Private Four-Year $38,807
Source: NCES

Scholarships for Texas Students

Texans can apply for state and institutional scholarships that offer gift money for college, meaning you don't need to repay it. Check out the scholarships for Texas students below:

  • License Plate Insignia Scholarship (Varies): Money raised from customized license plates fund scholarships for Texas residents who are attending the University of Houston. Candidates need a minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • Stokes Educational Scholarship Program (Up to $30,000 per year for tuition and salary): Eligible students must be majoring in computer science, computer engineering, Chinese, or Russian to become a National Security Agency worker and receive this scholarship. Preference goes to minority students.
  • Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program ($1,533-$3,979 per semester): Students enrolled at two-year colleges who have fewer than 30 credits can apply for this award if they have proof of Texas residency and can demonstrate financial need.
  • Texas Business and Professional Women's Scholarships (Varies): The Texas Business and Professional Women's Foundation supports women pursuing an education in medical research through five scholarships.
  • Good Neighbor Scholarship Program Scholarship (Provides tuition exemption for 12 months): Applicants must meet the academic and financial requirements to receive an exemption. They also need to be native-born citizens of eligible countries.

Highest-Paying Jobs in Texas

Many of the highest-paying jobs in Texas only require a bachelor's degree. That said, some occupations offer good wages in Texas despite paying less than the national average.

For example, computer and information systems managers in Texas earned a mean annual salary of $156,150 in 2022, while nationally they made an average of $164,070. Other positions offer better pay in Texas. Materials engineers make a mean wage of $115,330 in Texas compared to $100,140 nationally.

5 High-Paying Jobs in Texas
Career Mean Annual Salary (May 2022)
Computer and Information Systems Managers $156,150
Marketing Managers $138,530
Materials Engineers $115,330
Financial Risk Specialists $96,200
Registered Nurses $84,320
Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Texas

How many online colleges are in Texas?

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NCES reports one fully virtual nonprofit four-year college in Texas: Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online. That said, of the close to 200 nonprofit colleges in Texas, many offer fully online degrees and virtual courses for students who want a distance-learning model.

What is the cheapest online college in Texas?

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Some of the cheapest online colleges in Texas — especially for out-of-state students — are Texas Tech University and Texas State University. These universities offer low tuition rates for both online undergraduate and graduate students. In fact, these colleges offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country.

Is online college in Texas worth it?

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How you measure a degree's worth depends on what matters to you. If you want an academic challenge, a degree can be a worthwhile pursuit. And in Texas, where the cost of living is the 15th lowest in the nation, an affordable degree can offer a high return on investment.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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