Best Online Colleges in Washington

Want to earn your degree online? Learn about the best online colleges in Washington, including the most popular majors and fastest-growing careers.
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Updated on October 19, 2023
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The Evergreen State is home to tech giants, a rainforest, and the Emerald City. And the state is also known for its colleges and universities.

Want to earn your degree online? You can choose from top-ranked Seattle colleges or schools located in more rural areas. Not only are the best online colleges in Washington affordable, but they can also help you launch a career in a high-paying, in-demand field.

The Best Online Colleges in Washington

How We Rank Schools

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Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that's best for you.

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 Washington Best Value

University of Washington

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Washington was established in 1861 -- about a decade after Seattle's founding -- to aid with the city's economic development. Today, UW is a renowned public research institution that serves over 47,000 students annually. Learners access online degrees through the Canvas platform, and undergraduate candidates can earn fully remote bachelor's credentials in early care and education and integrated social sciences. The latter track allows students to tailor the curriculum to match their interests and goals.

At the graduate level, online programs cover areas like aerospace engineering, construction management, applied mathematics, and computational linguistics. Distance learners can also enroll in a master of sustainable transportation program. Totaling 43 quarter credits, this degree plan includes classes that cover livable communities and design as well as climate change and energy. Candidates round out their program with a research-focused capstone project.

To enroll in a bachelor's degree completion pathway, applicants need to transfer in 75 quarter credits earned with a 2.0 GPA or higher. Prospective graduate students must display a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Distance learners pay per-credit tuition rates based on their program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,629
Out-of-state
$37,998
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,278
Out-of-state
$29,178
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
93%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
48,149
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Colleges in Washington Best Value

Western Washington University

  • Bellingham, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Bellingham, Western Washington University was founded in 1894 as a teacher training school. The institution now oversees comprehensive academic programs, enrolling more than 16,000 students each year. Western facilitates distance education through Canvas, offering individual online classes in synchronous and self-paced formats.

Students who want to earn fully online credentials can choose from three options. Western offers a 30-credit TESOL certificate program that prepares candidates for English language teaching positions at home and abroad. For learners who reside on the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, the university delivers a bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies. Here, students design their own major with the guidance of a personal advisor.

Western also facilitates a remote bachelor of human services program that helps students critically analyze social justice issues in their communities and abroad. Graduates are well-prepared to work as social services coordinators and nonprofit managers. Applicants need a minimum 2.75 GPA. As part of their application packet, prospective students must submit three response essays.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,377
Out-of-state
$24,135
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,061
Out-of-state
$22,974
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
79%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
15,197
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Online Colleges in Washington Best Value

Washington State University

  • Pullman, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Washington State University was established in 1890, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the state. Over 30,000 students currently attend WSU, many of whom engage in online learning facilitated by Blackboard.

Online baccalaureate offerings include sociology, integrated strategic communication, anthropology, and hospitality business management. Distance learners can also enroll in a fully online bachelor of data analytics program. Through a curriculum that synthesizes statistics and computer science, candidates develop the skills needed to evaluate complex data sets and apply findings to drive business decision-making.

The school's graduate catalog contains online master's programs in software engineering, molecular biosciences, and health communication and promotion. WSU also offers a master of science in agriculture. Here, candidates can pursue a generalist track, delving into plant pathology, horticulture, and crop and soil sciences. Alternatively, they may choose the food science and management concentration, which prepares them for leadership positions in the food processing and distribution sector. Applicants who want to enroll in the agriculture program should possess a bachelor of science earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,202
Out-of-state
$25,145
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,781
Out-of-state
$25,879
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
81%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
31,159
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Colleges in Washington Best Value

City University of Seattle

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

City University of Seattle is a private school that operates within the National University System. Students can access individual asynchronous classes and fully online degrees through Blackboard.

CityU delivers remote bachelor's programs in project management, information technology, and healthcare administration. Distance learners can also obtain a bachelor of science in cybersecurity and information assurance. The curriculum for this program totals 180 quarter credits and covers crucial competencies like applied criminology and enterprise risk assessment.

Graduate students can pick from 12 online master's programs, like computer science, educational leadership, and professional accounting. CityU also facilitates a master of business administration program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. On top of core competencies, MBA candidates complete coursework in one of 10 emphasis areas. They may even design their own specialization to meet distinct career objectives.

CityU does not maintain GPA requirements for incoming first-year students. However, transfer applicants need at least a 2.0 GPA. Graduate admission criteria differ by program, but typically require a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,658
Out-of-state
$13,658
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,812
Out-of-state
$11,812
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
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,052
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Best Online Colleges in Washington

Gonzaga University

  • Spokane, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Spokane, Gonzaga University enrolls about 7,500 students in its seven colleges. The institution powers distance education through Blackboard, providing seven entirely online master's programs. Options include organizational leadership, nursing, sport and athletic administration, and educational leadership. Learners can also enroll in a communication and leadership studies program, which prepares graduates for careers in public relations, digital marketing, and nonprofit management. Communication candidates can pick from six concentrations and can take their studies abroad to locations like Belgium and Italy.

Additionally, Gonzaga delivers an online master's program in transmission and distribution engineering. Through a 36-credit curriculum, students learn to replace aging energy infrastructure and oversee large-scale solar and wind projects. Candidates typically earn their credentials in 2.5 years. To enroll, applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit official school transcripts, two professional references, a current resume, and a 1-2-page letter of intent. Gonzaga charges tuition based on program type.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,060
Out-of-state
$46,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,296
Out-of-state
$17,296
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
92%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
7,295
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#6 Best Online Colleges in Washington

Eastern Washington University

  • Cheney, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Cheney, Eastern Washington University is a public research institution that offers undergraduate and graduate programs across six colleges. Students can access remote learning opportunities through Canvas, including bachelor's degree completion tracks in interdisciplinary studies, dental hygiene, children's studies, and health sciences.

Candidates can also earn bachelor's credentials in addiction studies, preparing for careers as prevention and detox specialists. The curriculum of this program is recognized by NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals; graduates are qualified to pursue professional certification.

EWU offers online graduate programs in fields like education, social work, and business administration. The university also delivers a remote master of public health that teaches students to examine health determinants in relation to external influences (e.g., social and physical environment) and internal factors (e.g., genetic makeup). The 48-credit curriculum contains classes like health policy and law, combating health inequalities, and foundations in epidemiology.

Candidates gain hands-on experience through internships and an applied research project. To enroll in the public health program, applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit a resume or CV, three references, and three essay responses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,707
Out-of-state
$24,676
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,015
Out-of-state
$27,895
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
71%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
12,349
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 Best Online Colleges in Washington

Peninsula College

  • Port Angeles, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Peninsula College is a public community college headquartered in Port Angeles. The school serves about 2,000 students and offers online undergraduate programs through Canvas. Distance learners can prepare for baccalaureate transfer by earning an associate of arts in general studies. The college also delivers career-focused technical degrees in fields like administrative office systems, multimedia communication, and homeland security/emergency management.

Additionally, students can earn an associate of applied science in hospitality and ecotourism. The curriculum features 91-95 quarter credits and includes classes like event planning, accounting principles, and social media marketing. Learners round out their education by completing an internship with a company in their area. In addition to careers in tourism, graduates can pursue occupations related to general customer service and hotel management. Most students earn their degree in six quarters.

PC also offers an online bachelor's degree completion track in applied management that covers foundational topics like legal environments of business and managerial accounting. Students also gain the research competencies needed to pursue graduate-level training. Applicants need an associate degree earned with a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,727
Out-of-state
$4,180
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
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
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,727
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Best Online Colleges in Washington

Northwest Indian College

  • Bellingham, WA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Founded in 1973, Northwest Indian College is the only accredited tribal higher education institution to serve reservation communities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Over 2,300 students attend NWIC, many of whom pursue distance education powered by Canvas.

Through telecourses and videoconferencing, distance learners can engage with their peers and instructors in real time at six satellite locations. Canvas also lets students access asynchronous coursework, prioritizing independent learning. Self-paced classes enable candidates to maintain full-time work schedules and take care of their families while pursuing their degree. NWIC students can earn undergraduate degrees through a hybrid program structure.

Associate credentials cover technical fields like information technology and public/tribal administration. The college also offers bachelor's programs in native studies leadership, business management, and native environmental science. In the environmental track, coursework centers on marine sciences, ethnobotany, community education, and environmental policy. Candidates engage in experiential learning by completing place-based research projects and internships. NWIC charges per-credit tuition based on residency status.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,382
Out-of-state
$6,382
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
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
46%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
555
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#9 Best Online Colleges in Washington

Northwest University

  • Kirkland, WA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Northwest University is a private liberal arts institution located in Kirkland. The school supports about 1,700 students annually and facilitates distance education through Moodle. At the undergraduate level, online programs include bachelor's tracks in ministry leadership, organizational management, and psychology. Licensed RNs can enroll in a degree completion pathway to earn their BSN in 18 months. Applicants need an active, unencumbered RN license in Washington. They must also possess at least 18 months of clinical nursing experience related to direct client care.

NU provides fully remote master's degrees in clinical mental health counseling, international community development, and Bible and theology. The university also delivers a master of business administration program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This 39-credit curriculum allows learners to pick a project management or public safety administration concentration. Prospective MBA candidates who possess a 3.2 GPA or higher do not need to submit GMAT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,500
Out-of-state
$33,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,401
Out-of-state
$18,401
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
93%
Students Enrolled
1,184
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Best Online Colleges in Washington Best Value

Central Washington University

  • Ellensburg, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Ellensburg, Central Washington University was established as a teacher training school in 1890. Today, the institution serves almost 12,000 students across four colleges. Learners can access remote learning opportunities through Blackboard. Baccalaureate offerings include supply chain management, professional and creative writing, and information technology. CWU also facilitates a bachelor of arts in law and justice that retains the humanistic aspects of a liberal arts curriculum, while also preparing learners for careers in law enforcement and corrections.

Online graduate programs cover fields like athletic administration, special education, and school psychology. Students can enroll in a master's program in information technology and administrative management. Through a 46-credit degree plan, candidates develop skills in managerial communication and global project management. This track lets learners choose one of four specializations, like cybersecurity management or data analytics. Graduate admission requirements differ by program, but usually include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. CWU offers over 320 institutional scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,475
Out-of-state
$22,551
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,822
Out-of-state
$23,007
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
70%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
11,174
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How Much Is Online College in Washington?

College students in Washington can pay as little as $7,500 per year in tuition and fees or as much as $40,000, depending on the school. Since college costs vary widely, it’s important to understand the cost of online college before enrolling.

Online college is usually cheaper than on-campus programs. And Washington residents may also benefit from in-state tuition discounts. Make sure to check the per-credit cost of online colleges, particularly if you’re an out-of-state student, to find options that fit your budget.

Cost of College in Washington (2020-21)
Institution Type Average Tuition & Required Fees
Public, Four-Year (In-state) $7,485
Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) $30,891
Private, Four-Year $40,830
Source: NCES
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Top 5 Most Popular Bachelor's Degrees in Washington

What are the most popular majors in Washington? According to the National Center for Education Statistics, business, STEM, and healthcare majors make the list — and so do the humanities and social sciences.

Note: We excluded "Other Fields" from consideration as NCES reports more than 25 different degrees and fields within this category.

1. Business

The field of business includes business management, marketing and related support services, and personal and culinary services. Nearly 6,000 Washingtonians graduated with a business degree in 2021.

With a business degree, you can work in accounting, finance, HR, or management roles. It’s also a great way to launch a career in data science or data analytics. Business graduates can also go on to study at top MBA programs, which can boost their earning potential.

2. Humanities

The humanities is a broad field that encompasses many different types of degrees, including gender studies, English, liberal arts and sciences, general studies, and religious studies. A humanities degree strengthens critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. It’s also a great way to hone your writing.

In 2021, Washington colleges awarded 5,161 humanities degrees. These graduates pursued opportunities in education, the nonprofit sector, and business. A humanities degree is also great preparation for graduate programs.

3. Natural Sciences and Mathematics

The field of natural sciences and mathematics includes physical sciences, biological and biomedical sciences, science technologies, and statistics. These STEM fields are in high demand in Washington. Over 4,000 people earned a natural sciences or mathematics degree in 2021.

With a science or math degree, you can work in tech, data analytics, business, or research. These majors are also a great path to med school or other graduate programs.

4. Social Sciences and History

History and the social sciences — which includes sociology, economics, political science, and anthropology — rank among the most popular majors in Washington. These majors had 3,684 graduates in 2021.

With a social sciences degree, you’ll strengthen your analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Graduates pursue careers in business, education, social services, and other fields. The social sciences are also a common major for law school.

5. Health and Healthcare Professions

Health and healthcare degrees prepare graduates for careers in healthcare, which are in high demand in Washington. Nurses and allied health professionals are among the 3,047 healthcare graduates in 2021.

Other health sciences degrees are a great way to prepare for healthcare-related graduate programs, including med school.

10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in Washington That Require a Bachelor's Degree

The Evergreen State has a strong economy, and many of the fastest-growing careers require a bachelor’s degree. In fact, Washington is one of the best states to start a career.

Earning your degree online can help you pursue careers in high-demand fields like information security, HR, and management. Even better, many of these roles pay six-figure median salaries. And choosing an in-demand major can help jump-start your career search. Learn more about the fastest-growing careers below.

Note: For this table, we only included occupations that require a bachelor's degree and had estimated employment numbers of at least 1,000 positions in 2021.

Fastest-Growing Careers in Washington
Job Projected Growth Rate (2021-2031) Median Annual Wage (2022)
Information Security Analysts 40.4% $112,000
Directors, Religious Activities and Education 35% $49,380
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists 34.2% $131,280
Religious Workers 34.1% $39,370
Music Directors and Composers 33.8% $62,940
Clergy 33.3% $55,550
Chief Executives 32.1% $100,090
Computer and Information Systems Managers 30% $164,070
Computer Systems Analysts 29.8% $102,240
Management Analysts 28.9% $95,290
Sources: Washington Employment Security Department, BLS
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Washington

What is the easiest online college to get into in Washington?

When it comes to acceptance rate, the easiest online college to get into is Eastern Washington University. The online college reports a 96% acceptance rate, which means that most applicants get into the school.

Through Eastern Online, you can earn a bachelor’s degree in communication studies, health psychology, public relations, or health sciences. The college also offers an interdisciplinary studies major.

Do I need to live in Washington to attend an online college in Washington?

No, you don’t need to live in Washington to enroll at one of the state’s online colleges. You can attend online colleges in Washington as an out-of-state student. Make sure to check tuition rates before applying. Some colleges charge a higher tuition rate for out-of-state distance learners.

What is the cheapest online college in Washington?

The cheapest online colleges in Washington include WSU’s Global Campus and Eastern Washington. WSU-Global costs $5,675 for Washington residents and $6,326 for non-residents. Eastern Washington offers a larger in-state discount, with residents paying around $7,290 per year and non-residents paying over $25,000.

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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