Best Online Colleges in Arizona

An online degree program can provide an affordable, flexible path to a meaningful career. Learn more about online colleges in Arizona.
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Updated on October 25, 2023
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Tyler Epps is an editor for BestColleges. He writes and edits content about higher education, specializing in degree planning and college rankings. He is passionate about helping students prepare for college and navigate their educational journey. He...
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An online degree from an Arizona college or university can be a significant step to a lucrative career or advanced education. But why earn your degree online? An online degree from an accredited institution holds the same value as a traditional degree but allows you to complete your education from anywhere — on your own terms.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the mean annual salary in Arizona is $58,620. Graduates from online colleges in Arizona conducting their job searches in healthcare, finance, logistics, engineering, and other sectors may find expanding employment prospects.

The Best Online Colleges in Arizona

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 Arizona

University of Arizona

  • Tucson, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Arizona boasts online undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as online graduate certificates. Bachelor's programs such as cyber operations, environmental science, and network operations prepare learners for in-demand careers. All courses last 7.5 weeks, and most students take one course at a time. However, the school suggests degree-seekers without additional responsibilities take two courses simultaneously.

Online learners can reach professors through email, text, and one-on-one conferencing through Skype. Degree-seekers use the same methods to work with academic advisors and counselors. As students approach graduation, they can network with alumni mentors to explore job opportunities and gain valuable career advice.

Prospective students complete a four-step application process that involves creating an account and submitting transcripts. All incoming learners must provide FAFSA results by the fall or spring deadline. UArizona does not charge out-of-state tuition, and transfer students may qualify for up to $500 per semester in merit-based scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
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
85%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in Arizona Best Value

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

  • Scottsdale, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online

Award-winning faculty and a generous transfer credit policy make Arizona State University one of the best online colleges in Arizona. ASU hosts over 30,000 learners across more than 200 entirely online programs, including degrees and certificates in 18 academic areas such as business, liberal studies, or technology. ASU features six start dates each year.

ASU provides 11 valuable support services to help online learners succeed in the virtual classroom and find a fulfilling career. Students do not pay an additional fee to access online tutors and can speak with success coaches to receive personalized advice. ASU's online Career and Professional Development Service provides all the same benefits that on-campus degree-seekers enjoy.

Prospective freshmen must possess either a high school diploma or GED certificate. Transfer credit should reflect a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA, and applicants to graduate programs should have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Each program charges a different per-credit tuition rate, and ASU helps incoming learners explore and apply to outside scholarship opportunities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,820
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,516
Out-of-state
$6,516
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
73%
Students Enrolled
53,993
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in Arizona

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

One of the best online universities in Arizona, Northern Arizona University offers online programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Unlike other online institutions on this ranking, NAU offers coursework in both a traditional semester format and a competency-based learning structure. The latter requires students to choose a unique start date and pay a flat subscription rate. This can benefit degree-seekers who want to apply outside education -- such as military training -- toward their degree.

Online learners at NAU use Blackboard virtual learning software to communicate with professors and peers, and the university's online library and tutoring resources provide the same excellent services that on-campus students receive. The university also boasts 24/7 IT support. Additionally, online degree-seekers can visit a local NAU campus to use any campus services they need.

NAU accepts both high school transcripts and GED scores. All online students pay the same per-credit tuition rate and fees. Freshmen, transfer, and graduate learners may qualify for merit-based scholarships or need-based grants.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
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
76%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in Arizona Best Value

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

  • Prescott, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Campus

A world-class university with campuses in Arizona and Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees -- as well as certificates -- in areas such as aerospace engineering aviation and aerospace sustainability. Unlike other online colleges on this ranking, ERAU offers free online courses for prospective degree-seekers. Courses last 9-12 weeks, and new students can start a program at one of many points throughout the year.

ERAU attracts students from all over the world; learners study alongside and collaborate with a truly international student body. Advisors provide personalized advice to help degree-seekers create a bespoke program that matches their academic and career goals. Learners can also access technical support at any time of day.

Application requirements vary for undergraduate and graduate programs. Transfer credit must reflect a minimum C grade, and ERAU does not factor in transfer GPA when making financial aid decisions. Freshmen and transfer students may qualify for merit-based scholarships, and awards renew automatically as long as learners maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,456
Out-of-state
$36,456
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,228
Out-of-state
$18,228
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
82%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,004
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Colleges in Arizona

Arizona Christian University

  • Glendale, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The only Christian college on this list, Arizona Christian University offers six online bachelor's programs, including business administration, biblical and theological studies, and secondary education. Online programs use the same professors and curriculum as on-campus programs, and new courses start every eight weeks. All professors integrate the Christian worldview into their courses.

Outside of class, online learners can access multiple student services that promote spiritual growth and academic success. The ACU library boasts the latest research tools at no additional cost, and the Academic Center provides both one-on-one and small group tutoring sessions. Additionally, ACU invites online learners living in the Glendale area to attend Tuesday and Thursday religious services.

ACU accepts GED certificates, and applicants with high school transcripts should possess a minimum 2.0 GPA. As a private university, ACU charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all degree-seekers. Incoming students apply for merit-based scholarships and need-based grants by submitting FAFSA results.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,500
Out-of-state
$27,500
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
47%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
925
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How Much Is Online College in Arizona?

Cost of College in Arizona (2020-21)
Institution Type Average Tuition & Required Fees
Public, Four-Year (In-state) $11,410
Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) $25,426
Private, Four-Year $13,108
Source: NCES

College costs depend on many factors, such as your state residency and where you attend a public or private institution. As the table above shows, Arizona residents enrolling in a four-year public school pay less on average than individuals attending an Arizona private college or a public school from out of state.

Enrolling in one of the online colleges in Arizona might reduce your tuition costs. If you add up the credit hours, an online degree can be significantly less expensive than one from a traditional on-campus.

Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Arizona Scholarships

Whether you're fresh out of high school or attending college as a working adult, you can apply for scholarships to fund your education. Check out the following funding opportunities:

Leaving It Better Than You Found It - Hero In The Community

This scholarship is for students who've been accepted as first-year students or are currently enrolled at Arizona State University. You must submit a 250-500 essay on the way you've given back to your community and how you benefited from that experience.

To be eligible for the $1,500 award, you must submit proof of enrollment and the essay by December 31.

Keep Your Chin Up Scholarship Fund

Arizona residents can apply for this scholarship by completing an online application by October 15, which includes an essay of up to 750 words. To be eligible, you also must be at least 25 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

You also need to show financial need and be an undergraduate. Past recipients have received up to $5,000.

Pinpoint Leak Detection's Innovation Scholarship

This $1,000 scholarship is designed for students demonstrating innovative thinking, hard work, and a commitment to furthering their education.

Eligibility requirements include Arizona residency, enrollment at an accredited Arizona school, and a minimum GPA of 2.5. The application deadline is December 19, 2023.

Rose Garreau American Indian Scholarship

Indigenous Americans attending Arizona State University can apply for this $1,000 scholarship, which is based on financial need. To apply, you need to complete the FAFSA, be enrolled at least half-time, and have proof of tribal membership. The application deadline is October 6.

Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

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

Graduates from online colleges in Arizona can find promising job prospects without leaving the state. According to the BLS, Arizona has a fairly low 4% unemployment rate as of September 2023.

Arizona ranks among the top one-third of states in the U.S. in the number of job openings. You can find some of the state's fastest-growing careers in healthcare, information technology and security, finance, engineering, research analysis, athletics, and interpretation and translation.

Note: This table only includes occupations that require a bachelor's degree and had employment numbers of at least 1,500 positions in 2021.

Fastest-Growing Careers in Arizona 2021-2031
Job Annual Percent Change Median Annual Wage (2022)
Medical and Health Service Managers 4.2% $104,830
Information Security Analysts 3.9% $112,000
Logisticians 3.9% $77,520
Interpreters and Translators 3.6% $53,640
Financial Examiners 3.6% $82,210
Substance Abuse Counselors 3.3% $49,710
Operations Research Analyst 3.3% $85,720
Market Research Analyst 3.1% $68,230
Industrial Engineers 2.9% $96,350
Financial Managers 2.8% $139,790
Coaches and Scouts 2.6% $44,890
Source: Arizona Commerce Authority
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Arizona

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

With an acceptance rate of almost 90%, Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the easiest online colleges to get accepted into. This relatively high acceptance rate has helped make ASU one of the 10 largest universities in the U.S.

Many schools, like Diné College in Tsaile, Arizona, have an open admissions policy for their online programs, meaning they accept all applicants with a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Open admissions policies help reduce the cost of college, increase student diversity, and make college more accessible to low-income and nontraditional students.

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

No. Online colleges in Arizona typically accept students from anywhere in the world. However, the ability to pay in-state tuition may depend on the program and how you show residency status.

For example, if you have lived in Arizona for fewer than 12 months, there may be another pathway to residency, such as military service, being married to a resident, tribal membership, or other conditions.

What is the cheapest online college in Arizona?

Arizona State University-Scottsdale offers the most affordable online education in the state, which is under $9,000 a year for in-state students. Other campuses in the ASU system, such as Tempe, also have relatively low tuition rates for their online programs.

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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