Best Accredited Online Colleges of 2025
Want to earn a degree online? Discover the best online colleges and universities, plus resources on choosing a school and applying for financial aid.
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
Learn more about our Editorial Policy and Standards and Advertising Disclosure.
Interest in online education has surged over the last decade, causing schools to increase investment in online degrees. As of fall 2022, there were more than 4.9 million exclusively online learners in higher education, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Despite past stigmas about the worth and value of an online degree, 97% of online students in 2024 told BestColleges they would recommend online education to others.
Key Benefits of Online Learning, According to Students
- 73% of graduates say their online education prepared them well for their first job after graduation.
- 89% of graduates report their online degree has had a positive return on investment (ROI).
- 81% of online students agree that online education is better than or equal to on-campus education.
We compared graduation rates, admission rates, net price, and more to create a holistic ranking of the best online schools.
But first, if you’re wondering whether online education or in-person instruction better fits your needs, let’s cover some of the top reasons for pursuing an online degree.
Best Online Colleges and Universities of 2025
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.
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.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Florida specializes in affordable online degree programs. UF Online's 26 bachelor's degree programs include biology, criminology, nursing, and environmental management.
Be sure to check out UF's BA in business administration, which offers 11 specializations, allowing you to tailor your degree to your career goals.
Or maybe UF's BADAS degree is more your style — the BA in digital arts and sciences combines studies in art, communication, and technology.
No matter the degree program you choose, you can transfer up to 60 credits from an accredited two-year college in order to graduate faster.
Highlights
- Lowest net price of any school on our list
- Flexible learning options
- Reputable programs
Know Before You Apply
- Highly selective — just 23% of applicants are admitted
- Large student population
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
$4,477
$25,694
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,477
$25,694
24%
57%
$10,770
$27,335
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Florida specializes in affordable online degree programs. UF Online's 26 bachelor's degree programs include biology, criminology, nursing, and environmental management.
Be sure to check out UF's BA in business administration, which offers 11 specializations, allowing you to tailor your degree to your career goals.
Or maybe UF's BADAS degree is more your style — the BA in digital arts and sciences combines studies in art, communication, and technology.
No matter the degree program you choose, you can transfer up to 60 credits from an accredited two-year college in order to graduate faster.
Highlights
- Lowest net price of any school on our list
- Flexible learning options
- Reputable programs
Know Before You Apply
- Highly selective — just 23% of applicants are admitted
- Large student population
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN4 yearCampus + Online
$14,496
$34,410
77%
37%
Why We Chose This School
One of the country's top research universities, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers more than 100 online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.
Students can choose from 21 fully online bachelor's degree programs in fields such as health management, marketing, psychology, international business, and software engineering.
Many of UMN's online programs charge in-state tuition, even though you can earn your degree from anywhere.
We also love that UMN boasts several student support services for online students, including disability resources, technology help, and career counseling.
Highlights
- 91% retention rate, meaning students who enroll are likely to stay enrolled
- High graduation rate
- 77% admission rate — easier to get in
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price
- 66% completion rate for low-income students
$18,468
$28,578
91%
54,890
Public
Yes
$14,496
$34,410
Minneapolis, MN4 yearCampus + Online
$14,496
$34,410
77%
37%
$18,468
$28,578
91%
54,890
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
One of the country's top research universities, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers more than 100 online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.
Students can choose from 21 fully online bachelor's degree programs in fields such as health management, marketing, psychology, international business, and software engineering.
Many of UMN's online programs charge in-state tuition, even though you can earn your degree from anywhere.
We also love that UMN boasts several student support services for online students, including disability resources, technology help, and career counseling.
Highlights
- 91% retention rate, meaning students who enroll are likely to stay enrolled
- High graduation rate
- 77% admission rate — easier to get in
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price
- 66% completion rate for low-income students
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
Florida International University is a longstanding powerhouse in online learning. The institution has offered online degree programs in popular subjects like economics, psychology, nursing, and Spanish for more than 20 years.
Its most notable online bachelor's programs include a BA in sustainability and a BS in hospitality management. Within the hospitality management program, FIU Online offers eight online majors, including hospitality leadership and event management.
FIU stands out for its unique online learning resources. For example, the school pairs every online undergrad with a success coach. Students even have access to professional development programs and free online therapy.
Highlights
- Relatively low tuition
- 92% retention rate
- Reputable programming
Know Before You Apply
- 59% acceptance rate — may be harder to get into than other schools on our list
- 51% completion rate for low-income students
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$6,168
$18,566
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Florida International University is a longstanding powerhouse in online learning. The institution has offered online degree programs in popular subjects like economics, psychology, nursing, and Spanish for more than 20 years.
Its most notable online bachelor's programs include a BA in sustainability and a BS in hospitality management. Within the hospitality management program, FIU Online offers eight online majors, including hospitality leadership and event management.
FIU stands out for its unique online learning resources. For example, the school pairs every online undergrad with a success coach. Students even have access to professional development programs and free online therapy.
Highlights
- Relatively low tuition
- 92% retention rate
- Reputable programming
Know Before You Apply
- 59% acceptance rate — may be harder to get into than other schools on our list
- 51% completion rate for low-income students
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,092
$34,260
89%
71%
Why We Chose This School
George Mason University offers more than 50 flexible online and hybrid programs in health, engineering, technology, business, and more. One of the institution's most notable programs is its online RN-to-BSN program, which can be completed in as few as two semesters.
You can earn your online degree fast at GMU by transferring previous educational and professional credentials into one of five degree programs targeted at nontraditional students. Pursuing a bachelor of individualized study, for example, allows you to tailor your program curriculum to your specific career goals.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- 87% retention rate
- Reputable programming
Know Before You Apply
- One of the pricier programs on our list
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
$10,092
$34,260
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,092
$34,260
89%
71%
$13,426
$35,377
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
George Mason University offers more than 50 flexible online and hybrid programs in health, engineering, technology, business, and more. One of the institution's most notable programs is its online RN-to-BSN program, which can be completed in as few as two semesters.
You can earn your online degree fast at GMU by transferring previous educational and professional credentials into one of five degree programs targeted at nontraditional students. Pursuing a bachelor of individualized study, for example, allows you to tailor your program curriculum to your specific career goals.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- 87% retention rate
- Reputable programming
Know Before You Apply
- One of the pricier programs on our list
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$11,210
$35,628
86%
60%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Arizona offers over 150 online undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs.
Regardless of where you live, Arizona Online does not charge out-of-state tuition, making it easier to get a degree at a relatively low price.
Prospective students can also benefit from the school's flexibility: You can choose from among six online start dates throughout the year. Each course is 7.5 weeks long to maximize your ability to balance courses with a career and other responsibilities.
Highlights
- Comparatively low tuition
- High admission rate
- Short course lengths
Know Before You Apply
- 66% graduation rate — lower than that of other schools on our list
- Lower completion rate for low-income students
$12,348
$32,290
88%
53,187
Public
Yes
$11,210
$35,628
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$11,210
$35,628
86%
60%
$12,348
$32,290
88%
53,187
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Arizona offers over 150 online undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs.
Regardless of where you live, Arizona Online does not charge out-of-state tuition, making it easier to get a degree at a relatively low price.
Prospective students can also benefit from the school's flexibility: You can choose from among six online start dates throughout the year. Each course is 7.5 weeks long to maximize your ability to balance courses with a career and other responsibilities.
Highlights
- Comparatively low tuition
- High admission rate
- Short course lengths
Know Before You Apply
- 66% graduation rate — lower than that of other schools on our list
- Lower completion rate for low-income students
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
Why We Chose This School
Appalachian State University offers over 15 online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, along with 17 online certificate programs in business, communication, education, and health.
This university is known for creating the country's first fully online BS in veterinary technology. Students can pursue this four-year degree part or full time. Regardless of their courseload, they must complete in-person clinicals to earn hours toward the degree.
One thing we love about App State is its high graduation rate: 3 in 4 students graduate within six years of starting their degree program.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- 7 in 10 students awarded financial aid
- High completion rate for low-income students
Know Before You Apply
- Graduates earn less than those from other schools on our list
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
$4,242
$21,238
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Appalachian State University offers over 15 online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, along with 17 online certificate programs in business, communication, education, and health.
This university is known for creating the country's first fully online BS in veterinary technology. Students can pursue this four-year degree part or full time. Regardless of their courseload, they must complete in-person clinicals to earn hours toward the degree.
One thing we love about App State is its high graduation rate: 3 in 4 students graduate within six years of starting their degree program.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- 7 in 10 students awarded financial aid
- High completion rate for low-income students
Know Before You Apply
- Graduates earn less than those from other schools on our list
University of Missouri Columbia
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,000
$33,200
77%
54%
Why We Chose This School
Missouri Online offers nearly 400 online programs from Mizzou's four institutions. These include programs in business administration, information systems and technology, public health, and respiratory technology.
You can design your own degree plan with a BA in interdisciplinary studies or liberal studies. But if those options are still a little more traditional than what you're looking for, you can pursue a bachelor of educational studies, which emphasizes educational games and simulation design.
One of Mizzou's standout features is its seamless credit transfer system, allowing you to earn your degree faster.
Highlights
- High retention and graduation rates
- Massive breadth of programs
- Unique program options
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price
$10,447
$28,605
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
$13,000
$33,200
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$13,000
$33,200
77%
54%
$10,447
$28,605
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Missouri Online offers nearly 400 online programs from Mizzou's four institutions. These include programs in business administration, information systems and technology, public health, and respiratory technology.
You can design your own degree plan with a BA in interdisciplinary studies or liberal studies. But if those options are still a little more traditional than what you're looking for, you can pursue a bachelor of educational studies, which emphasizes educational games and simulation design.
One of Mizzou's standout features is its seamless credit transfer system, allowing you to earn your degree faster.
Highlights
- High retention and graduation rates
- Massive breadth of programs
- Unique program options
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$16,591
$38,527
58%
21%
Why We Chose This School
One of the top public universities in its state, UMass Online offers students certificates and associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. It is one of the few schools on our list to offer a fully online associate degree program. The program is centered on general education and covers a broad range of subjects, from science and math to history and liberal arts.
Some of the university's most popular online offerings are its bachelor's and master's programs in data science, engineering, and sociology.
In the school's University Without Walls program, you can pursue a degree in interdisciplinary studies and receive credit for previous work you began at another school. You'll also get access to courses from over 40 departments in this program and can create an individualized degree concentration that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Highlights
- High graduation rate
- 91% retention rate
- Unique program options
Know Before You Apply
- 58% admission rate — may be harder to get accepted
- Higher net price than most schools in our top 10
$14,364
$31,489
91%
31,810
Public
Yes
$16,591
$38,527
Amherst, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$16,591
$38,527
58%
21%
$14,364
$31,489
91%
31,810
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
One of the top public universities in its state, UMass Online offers students certificates and associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. It is one of the few schools on our list to offer a fully online associate degree program. The program is centered on general education and covers a broad range of subjects, from science and math to history and liberal arts.
Some of the university's most popular online offerings are its bachelor's and master's programs in data science, engineering, and sociology.
In the school's University Without Walls program, you can pursue a degree in interdisciplinary studies and receive credit for previous work you began at another school. You'll also get access to courses from over 40 departments in this program and can create an individualized degree concentration that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Highlights
- High graduation rate
- 91% retention rate
- Unique program options
Know Before You Apply
- 58% admission rate — may be harder to get accepted
- Higher net price than most schools in our top 10
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,038
$24,731
74%
48%
Why We Chose This School
Louisiana State University offers more than 150 flexible online programs, with six start dates each year. Seeking flexibility? Many of these programs run asynchronously and don't require campus visits.
LSU Online boasts stellar student support services. From application to graduation, each online learner receives a support coach, ensuring someone is dedicated to helping them successfully complete their program.
Some of LSU Online's most popular offerings are its master's programs in education, engineering, and business administration.
Highlights
- No out-of-state fees
- 71% graduation rate
- 74% admission rate
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price than most schools in our top 10
- Lower year-over-year student retention rate
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
$8,038
$24,731
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,038
$24,731
74%
48%
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Louisiana State University offers more than 150 flexible online programs, with six start dates each year. Seeking flexibility? Many of these programs run asynchronously and don't require campus visits.
LSU Online boasts stellar student support services. From application to graduation, each online learner receives a support coach, ensuring someone is dedicated to helping them successfully complete their program.
Some of LSU Online's most popular offerings are its master's programs in education, engineering, and business administration.
Highlights
- No out-of-state fees
- 71% graduation rate
- 74% admission rate
Know Before You Apply
- Higher net price than most schools in our top 10
- Lower year-over-year student retention rate
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,964
$26,838
80%
49%
Why We Chose This School
Kansas State University features more than 70 fully online and accredited programs in which distance learners can earn certificates and bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Popular fields of study include animal science, electrical and computer engineering, personal financial planning, and youth development.
Through its Global Campus Scholarships program, K-State offers scholarships specific to students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree fully online. The school awards scholarships based on financial need and academic merit, with additional funding available to military service members, teachers, and women.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- High graduation rate
- Scholarships available specifically for fully online students
Know Before You Apply
- Low completion rate for low-income students
- Higher net price
$10,294
$23,018
87%
19,745
Public
Yes
$9,964
$26,838
Manhattan, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,964
$26,838
80%
49%
$10,294
$23,018
87%
19,745
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Kansas State University features more than 70 fully online and accredited programs in which distance learners can earn certificates and bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Popular fields of study include animal science, electrical and computer engineering, personal financial planning, and youth development.
Through its Global Campus Scholarships program, K-State offers scholarships specific to students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree fully online. The school awards scholarships based on financial need and academic merit, with additional funding available to military service members, teachers, and women.
Highlights
- High admission rate
- High graduation rate
- Scholarships available specifically for fully online students
Know Before You Apply
- Low completion rate for low-income students
- Higher net price
Why Choose an Online School vs. In-Person?
Flexibility
In 2024, 39% of online students told BestColleges that balancing family and work obligations was their top reason for choosing an online program. If you work full or part time, are a caregiver, or maintain other commitments, an online learning format may give you the flexibility you need.
Accessibility
Attending college online allows you to study from anywhere. So you’re not limited by where you live or forced to commute to a campus.
Reputable Colleges
Thanks to the increasing popularity of online programs, a growing number of regional public universities and elite private colleges now offer fully online instruction. As of 2022, 1 in 4 students took classes exclusively online. Employers are likelier than ever before to see online degrees as legitimate.
Employer Incentive
More than 50 Fortune 500 companies partner with accredited institutions to offer employees full or partial tuition discounts if they enroll in eligible online courses.
Potential Cost Savings
While tuition for fully online programs typically mirrors costs for in-person instruction, you may save money on commuting or relocation costs, room and board, and other fees. Learning on your schedule also may free you up to continue working while enrolled.
How to Choose the Best Online College for You
Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing an online college.
Cost and Financial Aid
It’s easy to assume getting an online degree costs less than pursuing a degree on campus. While this may occasionally be true, it’s important to thoroughly research total costs.
In fact, 27% of online learners in BestColleges 2024 Online Education Trends Report say they wish they had done more research about cost and financial aid when choosing an online program.
How much does online college cost? The cost can vary greatly by institution type and number of credits. According to data from the NCES College Navigator database of 41 distance-learning-only institutions, the average net price of fully online education in 2022-2023 was $17,410 a year. However, public colleges cost less than private institutions.
Average Annual Net Price of Fully Online Online Colleges
Two-Year Private
$23,600 per year
$790 per credit
Four-Year Public
$11,920 per year
$400 per credit
Four-Year Private
$17,350 per year
$580 per credit
Source: NCES College Navigator
Note: Figures rounded to the nearest $10
The average net price per credit for online colleges was about $580; however, the least expensive online colleges can cost less than $100 per credit.
In-State vs. Out-of-State
Even fully online students can expect to see some price variation for in-state vs. out-of-state tuition.
In-state tuition is typically much lower than out-of-state tuition. During the 2022-2023 academic year, the average in-state tuition at public universities was $10,490, compared to $24,000 for out-of-state students, according to Peterson’s Data.
Fully online schools may not have this distinction, however, so be sure to do your research.
Below are some of the top online schools by state and the average tuition costs you can expect.
Top Online Schools by State With Cost per Credit Hour, 2024-2025
| State⇅ | School⇅ | In-State Cost per Credit Hour⇅ | Out-of-State Cost Per Credit Hour⇅ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | The University of Alabama | $385 | $385 |
| Alaska | University of Alaska Southeast | $234 | $800 |
| Arizona | University of Arizona | $525 | $525 |
| Arkansas | Arkansas State University | $282 | $282 |
| California | San Diego State University | $431-$531 | $431-$531 |
| Colorado | Colorado State University | $476 | $476 |
| Connecticut | Charter Oak State College | $329 | $329 |
| Delaware | Wilmington University | $419 | $419 |
| Florida | University of Florida | $129 | $553 |
| Georgia | Mercer University | $544 | $544 |
Degree Level
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to the types of online credentials you can earn. Follow the links below to find more detailed information about the different types of online education, from non-degree certificates to advanced degrees.
Did You Know?
In a 2023 IBM and Morning Consult report, 88% of job-seekers who earned a digital credential said these credentials were somewhat or very helpful in achieving career goals.
Major or Field of Study
Students in all fields can pursue their studies online. Below are some of the most popular online programs by degree level.
Popular Online Programs by Major / Field of Study
Nursing and Healthcare
Associate in Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Psychology, Counseling, and Social Work
What If My Field Requires In-Person Learning?
Some mostly online programs may still require an in-person component, called a practicum, so that students get the hands-on experience they need in the jobs they’re studying for.
33%
1 in 3 online students and graduates say their online classes included practicums or field experience requirements. Among online healthcare and nursing students and graduates, 38% report having a required practicum as part of their degree program.
According to certified career coach and online learning expert Melissa Venable, Ph.D., finding an online program that includes practical opportunities such as internships can help students be more competitive in the job market.
Accreditation
Institutional accreditation is awarded to U.S. colleges and universities by independent agencies that periodically examine schools’ offerings. These agencies confirm the institutions are providing students with a quality education. Schools can receive regional and/or national accreditation, but generally, it is known as institutional accreditation.
Some professional pathways like nursing, teaching, business, and law rely on programmatic accreditation for licensure. This means that a specific program of study within an institution is accredited to meet certain standards.
If you see that your program is accredited by an agency with an unfamiliar name, you can check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s directory of programmatic accrediting agencies.
Program Length
If you’re choosing an online college, the length of your program may not follow a traditional timeline. Understanding how long the program will take to complete can help you prepare for the time commitment.
Want to complete your program at a faster pace? Here are some resources to help:
- Accelerated Online Associate Degrees
- Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees
- Accelerated Online Master’s Degrees
20%
One in five online students and program graduates report wishing they had known more about how long their program would take to complete.
Online Course Formats
The different course formats for online learning may be new to you. These formats include synchronous and asynchronous learning.
Comparing Online Course Formats
Synchronous
- Classes are attended virtually at a scheduled time.
- Students work collaboratively outside of class time.
- Classes include real-time discussions, live lectures, and student presentations.
- Assignments are completed outside of class ahead of scheduled discussions.
Asynchronous
- Assigned work is completed at your own pace.
- Recorded lectures, readings, and homework can be accessed at any time.
- Homework and quizzes may be graded automatically.
- Communication with instructors and students happens through online forums and email.
Hybrid
- Classes include some real-time lectures and discussions but also recorded lectures you can access on your own time.
- One of the most common formats.
If you struggle with the rigid schedules of real-time lectures and need more flexibility with your learning format, asynchronous programs might be a better fit. But if you tend to struggle with self-directed learning, a synchronous style of learning is probably a better option.
Ask an Expert: Frequently Asked Questions About Online Education
Melissa Venable, Ph.D., is a college instructor and certified career coach with more than 15 years of experience in online education. She consults multiple organizations on issues related to online curricula, continuing education, and professional development. Find Melissa’s advice for future online students below.
Remove the word “online” and ask yourself if pursuing a degree will be worth it — and if it will be worth it to you. To answer these questions you must begin by identifying your goals for pursuing higher education.
If you are just starting your career, a degree may be required for entry-level jobs. You may need a degree to be more competitive for promotion in your current workplace or industry. Or maybe you are exploring a career change into a completely new field. Some students choose to pursue a degree based on their interest in a field and desire to learn more in a formal, academic setting.
Explore More College Resources
Best HBCU Online Degree Programs 2024
Enrolling in an online program at an HBCU may save you money on a degree. Learn more about HBCU online degree programs.
Updated August 6, 2024
Your Guide to Researching Online Programs
This guide breaks down the research methods students should use when choosing an online degree program.
Updated May 24, 2023
Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2025
Want to earn a degree without breaking the bank? Learn about 10 of the cheapest online colleges that offer low prices and premier academics.
Updated April 18, 2025
Other Online College Resources
General
careers