Best Online Colleges in Your State
Find the top-ranked online college for every state this year from BestColleges. See our picks for the 50 best online schools by state and find the right match for you.

Published on March 3, 2022
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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As of 2019, about 42% of Americans over the age of 25 held a college degree. Many individuals invest in higher education to enter more lucrative fields and access more expansive career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that, when comparing median salaries, workers with bachelor's degrees earned 67% more per week than those with only high school diplomas.
While choosing an online college, prospective students may believe that a college's geographic location is irrelevant, but there are numerous advantages to attending an online college in your home state. In-state learners often pay more affordable tuition rates and can access resident-specific scholarships and financial aid options. As of the 2018-19 school year, out-of-state students at public colleges paid an average annual tuition of $26,382, while in-state students paid an average tuition of $9,036 per year. Some students also embrace the advantages of having physical access to their campus.
When ranking the best postsecondary institutions in each state, BestColleges only evaluates accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities. School rank depends on empirical indicators of academic excellence, such as full-time retention rate and graduation rate; indicators of affordability, such as net price and loan default rate; and the number of programs offered remotely.
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Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying at an Online College?
Advantages of Online College
Lower Cost of Tuition
For many students, pursuing an online degree can be more affordable. Learners attending colleges while living at home may avoid expenses related to room and board, transportation, dining services, and student activity fees. Their savings can be significant. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in-state students living on campus at a public school paid an average of $6,459 in housing costs and $4,927 in board fees in 2018-19.
Online programs may also charge on a per-credit basis, which may appeal to students interested in part-time options.
Higher Acceptance Rate
Online programs, particularly those affiliated with large state colleges, may have high acceptance rates. Remote learning, particularly asynchronous learning, can help faculty handle larger class sizes, so institutions may be able to accept more students. High acceptance rates can be advantageous for students looking for a more streamlined application process or who may be missing some of the qualifications needed to get into more selective schools.
Postgraduate Job Opportunities
Before the availability of remote learning, proximity dictated graduates' access to jobs and internships to a greater degree. Colleges in large metropolitan areas, such as New York or Los Angeles, often partner with prominent companies through alumni networks, career centers, or corporate recruitment infrastructures. Now, online students in even the most remote areas have access to well-connected institutions. Online learning can lead to job, co-op, and internship opportunities across the nation.
Disadvantages of Online College
Nontraditional College Experience
For many students, one of the most significant disadvantages of online college is the lack of a "traditional" college experience. Learners often view college as a time to build connections and engage in socio-emotional learning. Some virtual students might experience a sense of isolation or lack of community.
Remote learners who live within commuting distance can arrange to socialize with classmates through study groups or clubs. Those who live further away can connect with local college students who are also enrolled in online programs.
Self-Discipline
Online coursework may require a higher level of self-discipline. Students must attend lectures, read course materials, respond to forums, and complete writing assignments without the external structure and classroom setting of traditional courses. Learners can structure their coursework independently by setting weekly goals, adhering to a study schedule, using checklists, and reaching out to professors or classmates who can help hold them accountable.
Lack of Accreditation
Colleges and universities earn institutional or programmatic accreditation by undergoing a voluntary, standardized evaluation process. Accrediting bodies assess whether schools meet industry standards of academic excellence and deliver adequate learning outcomes.While all colleges appearing in BestColleges rankings are accredited, some online colleges may be unaccredited. It is important to verify accreditation to ensure the legitimacy of one's online education.
How to Choose an Online College
When choosing an online college, students should research program costs, including in-state and out-of-state tuition, additional fees, and whether they qualify for financial aid opportunities. Students should also consider program format and whether they would like to take synchronous or asynchronous courses. The best online colleges also offer student support infrastructures, such as tutoring centers and career services.
Best Accredited Online Colleges in Each State
Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team
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How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
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 is best for you.
The Best Online Colleges and Universities in Each State
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AlabamaLocation
University of Alabama,
The University of Alabama — the state's flagship university — blends online learning with the structure of a traditional classroom experience. Online learners complete the same coursework as their on-campus peers and use Blackboard to communicate in real time with professors and students.Students can pursue fully online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in fields like criminal justice, marketing, and journalism.
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AlaskaLocation
University of Alaska Southeast,
The University of Alaska Southeast is based in Juneau with additional campus locations in Ketchikan and Sitka.Online undergraduate learners can choose from bachelor degrees in fields like liberal arts, education, social science, and business administration. Additionally, online graduate programs give students the opportunity to earn master's degrees in education, teaching, and public administration.
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ArizonaLocation
University of Arizona,
The University of Arizona offers over 100 fully online programs with popular bachelor's degrees in business, computer engineering, and applied science.
Online students can communicate with student academic success specialists to access additional course tutoring and seek out library consultations for help with academic research.
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ArkansasLocation
Arkansas State University,
As the state's flagship university, Arkansas State University provides one of the most established online degree programs in the state.Currently enrolling over 5,000 distance learners, A-State online allows students to pursue more than 35 degrees and certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
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CaliforniaLocation
San Diego State University,
Established in 1897, San Diego State University offers eight fully online degrees and a hybrid program in rehabilitation counseling. Undergraduate students can pursue two majors: business administration and criminal justice. Graduate students can earn a master's degree in a variety of online programs, including educational leadership, hospitality and tourism management, and public administration.
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ColoradoLocation
Colorado State University Global Campus,
Based in Aurora, Colorado State University Global Campus is an online public university that offers bachelor's and master's degrees in fields such as criminal justice, finance, and human resource management.CSU-Global provides online learners with a variety of customized student success services, including specialized advisors, academic tutoring, and a 24/7 librarian chat service.
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ConnecticutLocation
Charter Oak State College,
Charter Oak State College, located in New Britain, is an online liberal arts college offering associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. While most BS and MS degrees are delivered through15-week terms, Charter Oak also offers accelerated programs in five- and eight-week formats. The college features online academic programs in healthcare administration, health information, and business administration.
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DelawareLocation
Wilmington University,
Based in New Castle, Wilmington University combines the quality academics of traditional on-campus curricula with a flexible online format. The university aims to prepare online students for leadership positions and career advancement.Students at WilmU can explore bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in over 125 programs in the arts and sciences, education, and technology fields.
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FloridaLocation
University of Florida,
The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, is a national leader in online education with over 200 programs and certificates. UF is also one of the few institutions in the country that claims the trifecta of land-, sea-, and space-grant status.UF Online students can access a wealth of support services such as pre-admission coaching, academic advising sessions, online workshops, and counseling services.
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GeorgiaLocation
University of Georgia,
As one of the oldest public universities in the country, the University of Georgia offers several of the best online business and education programs in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report.Graduate students can choose from about 20 fully online master's degrees in subjects like journalism, educational psychology, business and technology, and nutrition.
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HawaiiLocation
Chaminade University of Honolulu,
Designed to help students balance work, life, and education, Chaminade University of Honolulu delivers online courses through 10-week terms.Chaminade offers five BA and six BS degrees in fields like education, liberal arts, and business. Along with an academic advisor, online students can utilize professional and peer-to-peer tutoring.
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IdahoLocation
Brigham Young University-Idaho,
Through BYU-Pathway Worldwide, Brigham Young University-Idaho offers fully online courses at roughly half the cost of traditional universities. Courses are structured over 14-week academic terms and are designed to promote collaboration between peers and instructors.The university boasts nearly 40 online degree programs across five academic disciplines: business, technology, health, family, and professional studies.
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IllinoisLocation
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign,
The state's flagship institution of higher education, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a leading research university. The school offers more than 90 online degrees and certificates to learners around the world.U of I features popular online graduate programs in translation and interpreting and health communication, with the latter reporting an impressive 95% graduation rate.
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IndianaLocation
Ball State University,
Located in Muncie, Ball State University allows undergraduate and graduate students to explore more than 70 online programs taught by award-winning faculty.Ball State provides online students with the same success services as on-campus learners, including technology support, academic support services, and career planning services.
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IowaLocation
University of Iowa,
The University of Iowa provides distance and online education options by offering nearly 40 degrees and certificates. While most of these master's programs can be completed entirely online, two use a hybrid format: social work and strategic communication.
The university also hosts fully online undergraduate programs in areas such as social work, political science, and sport and recreation management.
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KansasLocation
Kansas State University,
With over 50 years of distance education experience, Kansas State University boasts an impressive 95% placement rate among its graduates. This public research university offers more than 100 programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.Online students at K-State have the same access as on-campus learners to academic and career resources, as well as technology services that help provide a seamless online experience.
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KentuckyLocation
Midway University,
Midway University is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The university offers accelerated online courses taught in eight-week intervals. Students can enroll in bachelor's and master's programs related to areas like business, education, and healthcare.Online undergraduate learners complete general education courses in writing, social sciences, and humanities and arts.
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LouisianaLocation
Louisiana Tech University,
Based in Ruston, Louisiana Tech University uses content and media to deliver highly interactive courses designed to facilitate a seamless online experience. The graduate catalog at Louisiana Tech contains six online master's degrees: industrial engineering, engineering and technology management, English, business administration, health informatics, and history. Undergraduate students can pursue an online bachelor's in health informatics and information management.
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MaineLocation
Saint Joseph's College of Maine,
Founded in 1912 as a Catholic institution for women, Saint Joseph's College of Maine has since become a coeducational college. About 2,500 students pursue online learning from SJC. This liberal arts school hosts online associate, bachelor's, and master's programs across more than 30 fields. Undergraduate students can also earn a certificate in Catholic theology, health administration, and long-term care administration.
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MarylandLocation
University of Maryland, Baltimore County,
Founded in 1966, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County offers academics in many areas, including natural and mathematical sciences, liberal arts, and humanities.This research university uses Blackboard to connect online students and enhance learning efforts. UMBC distance learners can enroll in master's programs like information and instructional systems, emergency health services, and teaching English to speakers of other languages.
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MassachusettsLocation
Northeastern University,
Located in Boston, Northeastern University hosts more than 80 online programs across nine colleges. While most of these degrees can be earned entirely online, some require in-class components.Students can explore programs at all levels, including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs. The university also recently launched a professional advancement program, which is designed to prepare students for the workplace.
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MichiganLocation
University of Michigan,
The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, is the oldest public university in the state and boasts one of the largest alumni bases in the world.This flagship school allows online students in some programs to self-pace their workload with 4-6-week courses. Led by world class faculty, graduate students can pursue online programs through U-M's schools of engineering, information, public health, and business.
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MinnesotaLocation
University of Minnesota Twin Cities,
Founded in 1951, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is a respected research university based in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The state's flagship institution allows students to earn fully online bachelor's degrees in areas such as management, English, and applied studies. The university also hosts partially online programs that may require learners to complete lab work on site.
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MississippiLocation
Mississippi College,
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the second-oldest Baptist college in the country and the largest private university in the state. This institution provides undergraduates with a foundation in liberal arts and sciences.MC offers bachelor's degrees across eight disciplines, as well as popular graduate programs in sociology and social work, nursing, and law.
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MissouriLocation
Webster University,
Webster University, based in Webster Groves, is a private university with multiple branches across the country. The university's student population is highly diverse, enrolling about 22,000 learners from over 140 countries.Online students can pursue over 50 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across a variety of disciplines, including business, education, healthcare, and technology.
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MontanaLocation
University of Providence,
Located in Great Falls, the University of Providence is a Roman Catholic university that hosts online programs in several areas.Graduate students can earn online master's degrees in a variety of fields, including nursing, criminal justice, accounting, and healthcare administration. UP also provides online certificate programs in applied health informatics and medical assisting.
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NebraskaLocation
University of Nebraska-Lincoln,
The state's oldest and largest university, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a land-grant research institution. Providing distance education for over a century, UNL offers online and hybrid formats, as well as traditional on-campus academics.Distance learners at UNL can choose from many online programs, including business administration, engineering management, education, and design.
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NevadaLocation
University of Nevada-Las Vegas,
Located in Paradise, the University of Nevada-Las Vegas is a land-grant research university. UNLV serves over 20,000 distance learners and features online programs in nursing, healthcare, social science studies, and urban studies.Online students at UNLV enjoy access to the same services available to on-campus learners, including technical support, academic advising, and a success center.
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New HampshireLocation
Rivier University,
Formerly known as Rivier College, Rivier University was founded in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. The Catholic liberal arts school became a four-year university in 2012 and enrolls about 2,500 students.Riv offers online programs to professional, master's , and doctoral students. Distance learners can pursue degrees in areas like education, nursing, criminal justice, and business.
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New JerseyLocation
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey,
A nationally ranked research institution, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey provides affordable and flexible degrees designed for career success. Online learners are taught by the same instructors and follow the same academic rigor as on-campus learners. Rutgers delivers more than a dozen online undergraduate and master's programs in business administration, nursing, education, and many more.
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New MexicoLocation
Eastern New Mexico University,
Based in Portales, Eastern New Mexico University is the newest university in the state. The university offers over 30 online bachelor's and master's degrees across its colleges of business, education and technology, and liberal arts and sciences. Online students at ENMU can access library and campus bookstore services to fulfill research needs and textbook requirements.
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New YorkLocation
Fashion Institute of Technology,
Based in Manhattan, the Fashion Institute of Technology offers about 600 online classes and two online programs. An associate program in fashion business management provides students with a foundation in merchandising, while a bachelor's program in international trade and marketing provides a global perspective.Online courses are delivered asynchronously, meaning students watch recorded lectures and complete assignments at their convenience.
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North CarolinaLocation
North Carolina State University,
Located in Raleigh, North Carolina State University is a land-grant research university enrolling over 35,000 students — one of the largest student bodies in the country.Online graduate learners can choose from dozens of master's programs and graduate certificates options. Additionally, students can earn a doctoral degree in design or education administration and supervision.
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North DakotaLocation
University of Mary,
Based in Bismarck, the University of Mary is a Catholic institution hosting more than 50 online programs. These offerings allow students to explore in-demand areas like business, education, and nursing.Students pursuing an online education at Mary can access a wealth of support, including counseling, library, and tutoring services.
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OhioLocation
The Ohio State University,
Based in Columbus, The Ohio State University is a top-ranked research university offering over 20 online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. As one of the largest public universities in the nation, OSU spans five campuses and serves over 68,000 students.Known for its academic rigor, the university ranks as one of the best schools for engineering, business, medicine, and dentistry, according to U.S. News & World Report.
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OklahomaLocation
Oklahoma State University,
Located in Stillwater, Oklahoma State University is a public school that provides more than 40 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs entirely online. This flagship university holds the top classification of "very high research activity" from the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education — a status that only 130 institutions can claim nationwide.OSU hosts popular online graduate programs in many fields, including engineering, agricultural sciences, and business administration.
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OregonLocation
Oregon State University,
As the state's largest university, Oregon State University serves over 24,000 students from around the world. OSU is one of the few institutions in the country that holds sun-, sea-, space-, and land-grant designations.
The university offers nearly 70 online undergraduate and graduate programs, covering subjects like engineering management, environmental sciences, and agricultural sciences.
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PennsylvaniaLocation
Villanova University,
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is a Catholic institution located in Radnor Township. While the university awards several bachelor's degrees to on-campus students, most of its online programs are at the master's and doctoral levels.Online learners can explore master's and doctoral programs across the school's colleges of engineering, liberal arts and sciences, nursing, and business.
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Rhode IslandLocation
University of Rhode Island,
The University of Rhode Island, based in Kingston, is a research university with land- and sea-grant status. The flagship institution of the state offers one online program: an RN-to-BS in nursing.The program requires students to complete 24 credits across eight courses. Participants can complete these requirements in 15 months.
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South CarolinaLocation
Columbia International University,
Columbia International University is a Christian university providing associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees through on-campus, fully online, and hybrid courses.CIU allows students to explore online graduate programs in organizational leadership, intercultural studies, ministry studies, and education. The university facilitates online education through the Canvas learning management system.
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South DakotaLocation
University of South Dakota,
Located in Vermillion, the University of South Dakota provides affordable and flexible online education, charging out-of-state distance learners the same tuition rate as in-state residents. The university hosts online programs in many areas, including business administration, health sciences, and education.USD is committed to providing comprehensive student success services, including technology resources, library services for online learners, and a writing center.
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TennesseeLocation
Milligan College,
Milligan College, located near Elizabethton, is a Christian liberal arts school serving more than 1,200 students. The majority of its online offerings are taught in a blended format.Prospective graduate learners can pursue hybrid master's degrees in topics like business administration, information systems, education, and Christian ministries.
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TexasLocation
LeTourneau University,
Based in Longview, LeTourneau University reaches students around the world through its online undergraduate and graduate programs. Fully online offerings allow students to explore a variety of majors, including arts and sciences, aviation and aeronautical science, business, and education.Online students can access tutoring services and tools designed to enhance time management, test-taking, and stress management skills.
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UtahLocation
University of Utah,
The flagship institution of the state, the University of Utah is located in Salt Lake City and serves more than 30,000 students. All online students at the U, regardless of their state residency, pay the same per-credit tuition.Online learners can explore bachelor's and master's degrees in disciplines such as economics, psychology, information systems, and business administration.
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VermontLocation
Norwich University,
Founded in 1819, Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the country. Providing distance education for more than 20 years, the university oversees bachelor's, master's, and graduate certificate programs.Online learners can choose from more than 25 degrees and five graduate certificates. Available areas of study include computer science, business administration, and nursing.
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VirginiaLocation
University of Virginia,
Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia ranks among the top public universities in the nation.This research university enrolls nearly 25,000 students and spans 12 schools and colleges. Online learners at UVA can explore a variety of fields, including business analytics, data science, and chemical engineering.
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WashingtonLocation
University of Washington,
The University of Washington is a public research university based in Seattle, with additional campuses in Bothell and Tacoma. The university offers two fully online bachelor's degrees in integrated social sciences and early care and education. At the master's level, online programs cover areas like pharmaceutical bioengineering, applied mathematics, and construction management.
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West VirginiaLocation
West Virginia University,
As the state's largest public university, West Virginia University serves nearly 27,000 students at its main campus in Morgantown. The state's flagship institution holds land-grant and space-grant status and hosts 32 online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels.Popular online graduate programs at WVU include business administration, economics, and software engineering.
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WisconsinLocation
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse,
As part of the University of Wisconsin System, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse serves more than 10,000 students.UW-La Crosse spans five schools and offers two bachelor's and eight master's programs online. Distance learners can access technical support and a variety of student support services.
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WyomingLocation
University of Wyoming,
Located in Laramie, the University of Wyoming is a leading research university with land-grant status. As the state's largest university, UW enrolls over 14,000 students from over 90 different countries.UW hosts online bachelor's programs in fields such as business administration, nursing (RN-to-BSN), and psychology. The university maintains a relatively low 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing ample student engagement and mentoring opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Each State
Many students who attend college in their home states benefit from less expensive in-state tuition, and certain states offer exceptionally low rates for in-state learners. NCES reports that residents attending four-year public schools in Florida and Wyoming paid an average of $4,443 and $4,596, respectively, in tuition and fees during the 2018-19 school year.
Students looking to attend public colleges outside of their state may not be able to access the subsidized tuition granted to residents. However, certain states still offer relatively inexpensive tuition for out-of-state learners. Non-resident learners at four-year public schools in the District of Columbia and South Dakota paid an average of $12,416 and $12,465, respectively, in tuition and fees during the 2018-19 school year.
When ranking the best online colleges, there are numerous metrics that can be used to assess the educational quality and learning outcomes. These include graduation and job placement rates, the median salary of graduates, and the typical return on investment. However, there is no "best" state or college — what's best for one learner is not necessarily best for another.
However, the New England and mid-Atlantic states are well-known for their many prestigious postsecondary institutions. Additionally, the California State University System is widely recognized for delivering exceptional public education.
According to IPEDS, California is home to more than 500 two- and four-year colleges, including 160 public institutions, 183 private nonprofit schools, and 171 for-profit colleges. Texas also contains many schools — more than 250 two- and four-year colleges. This includes 107 public institutions, 81 private nonprofit schools, and 78 for-profit colleges.
Both online and in-person options have their own advantages and may suit different individuals' learning needs. For example, in-person learning can be more engaging and lead to a stronger sense of community. Many students prefer forming face-to-face connections in traditional classroom settings.
Online learning, on the other hand, can offer more flexibility for students who hope to balance their coursework with family or employment obligations. Many remote learners take self-paced or asynchronous courses. Attending college online can also be less expensive. Remote learners can save on costs like on-campus room and board or commuting expenses.
Virtual learning can make higher education more accessible. In certain ways, it may feel like a less demanding commitment than in-person learning. For example, students may be able to learn at their own pace and watch lectures at their convenience.
However, although individuals may be tempted to assume that attending college online is a "shortcut," there are some challenging elements to virtual learning. Although students can enjoy increased flexibility, they must exercise more self-discipline and initiative while learning. More self-directed course formats require learners to absorb key concepts independently.
Feature Image: Drazen_ / E+ / Getty Images
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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