Best Online Colleges in New York City
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Editor & Writer
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Editor & Writer
Attending one of the many online colleges in New York City makes sense for a variety of students at every academic level. With so many options to select from, learners can find a school offering the major they want at the price they can afford. Additionally, many of the top online schools in the state call NYC home, making it a great location for both studying and launching — or expanding — careers.
In some cases, online colleges provide in-state tuition rates to distance learners. When looking at top online schools in NYC, prospective degree-seekers should consider how their offerings align with academic, financial, and professional goals. Some New York residents may also qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship and receive tuition-free educations.
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Top Online Degree Programs in New York City
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Colleges in New York City
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
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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New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | Varies
Undergrad, out of state | Varies
Graduate, in state | $2,020
Graduate, out of state | $2,020
Founded in 1831, New York University (NYU) offers over 270 study areas for more than 29,000 undergraduate students. The school's online learning system features many courses and degrees, including online undergraduate programs in social science and leadership and management.
Classes begin in the fall, winter, and spring semesters, with summer classes offered as well. Prospective first-year students need a high school diploma or the equivalent for admission. NYU offers online student services via StudentLink, which provides access to counseling, academic support, and financial aid services.
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.
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,948+
Undergrad, out of state | $1,948+
Graduate, in state | $1,950+
Graduate, out of state | $1,950+
Columbia University has seven schools offering online programs, including its law school, medical center, business school, and school of social work. Online students can take individual courses, or earn a certificate or a fully online MSW or MA in statistics.
Classes run through the fall, spring, and summer, with both synchronous and asynchronous deliveries available. Online learners connect with an online facilitator and learning coach to assist them with any program, learning, or technical issues. Columbia considers all first-year applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent, evaluating candidates by their academic strength and potential.
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.
Yeshiva University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,625
Undergrad, out of state | $1,625
Graduate, in state | Varies
Graduate, out of state | Varies
Yeshiva University (YU) features four New York campuses and 11 schools offering undergraduate and graduate programs, including more than 65 bachelor's majors and minors. The school offers online programs in Jewish education, law, accounting, real estate, and cybersecurity.
Online courses at YU run asynchronously throughout the fall and spring semesters. Students benefit from academic support and advising, writing centers, and professional development services. First-year applicants need a high school diploma with a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
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.
Fordham University
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,897
Undergrad, out of state | $1,897
Graduate, in state | $1,546+
Graduate, out of state | $1,546+
Enrolling more than 16,000 students, Fordham University features nine schools, three campuses, and an online learning system. Online learners can choose from many courses, several certificates, and six fully online degrees. Example programs include a master of social work and an MA in Christian spirituality.
Fordham's online system provides asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid study options. The school also offers counseling and disability services for online learners, plus career, technical, and academic support. For admission, prospective first-year applicants need a high school diploma or its equivalent.
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.
CUNY Lehman College
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $305
Undergrad, out of state | $620
Graduate, in state | $470
Graduate, out of state | $855
Lehman College offers more than 50 majors and certificate programs, including an online BS in nursing. Lehman also provides more than 500 online courses that students can add to their training.
Online training at Lehman runs asynchronously or synchronously. Online learners pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where they live. The available student services include professional development, academic and wellness services, and student engagement support. Prospective first-year students need a high school or GED diploma for admission.
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.
St John's University-New York
Queens, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,541
Undergrad, out of state | $1,541
Graduate, in state | $1,400+
Graduate, out of state | $1,400+
With more than 160 majors available across seven campuses, St. John's University offers its over 21,000 students a choice of bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs. In addition to online courses, distance learners can earn fully online graduate degrees in library and information science and literacy.
The online courses at St. John's run asynchronously and have no on-campus residency requirements. Online students have access to career services, tutoring, a writing center, and library support services. For admission, prospective undergraduate students need a high school diploma or its equivalent.
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.
Touro College
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | Varies
Undergrad, out of state | Varies
Graduate, in state | Varies
Graduate, out of state | Varies
Since being established in 1970, Touro College has grown to enroll more than 19,000 students and offer nearly 250 programs. In addition to courses and programs at multiple campus locations, Touro students can pursue online degrees in education, school leadership, and instructional technology.
Students take asynchronous courses online in the spring, fall, and summer. They do not need to complete on-campus residency requirements and can access wellness and counseling services. Admission requirements vary by program. First-year applicants typically need a high school or GED diploma and SAT or ACT scores.
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.
The New School
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,245+
Undergrad, out of state | $1,245+
Graduate, in state | $1,687+
Graduate, out of state | $1,687+
The New School offers more than 125 degree and diploma programs, including six online bachelor's and master's programs. Undergraduate online students can pursue food studies and liberal arts degrees, while graduate students can pursue fashion management and media management degrees.
The online training is mostly asynchronous, though synchronous sessions may be available. The New School provides students with access to health and wellness resources, community activities and organizations, and academic support. Admission requirements vary. Prospective first-year students typically need a high school or GED diploma for entry.
ROI Value Score: Low
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.
Pace University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $1,381
Undergrad, out of state | $1,381
Graduate, in state | $820+
Graduate, out of state | $820+
Founded in 1906, Pace University enrolls more than 13,000 students in over 200 programs. Since 1999, the school has offered online programs, including degrees in law, business, and education. Online classes typically run asynchronously to accommodate busy students and working professionals.
Online students have access to one-on-one advising, career support, and tutoring services. Programs start in the spring, summer, and fall, and prospective students need a high school diploma and ACT or SAT scores for admission.
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.
CUNY Brooklyn College
Brooklyn, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $305
Undergrad, out of state | $620
Graduate, in state | $470
Graduate, out of state | $855
Home to more than 15,000 students, Brooklyn College offers over 175 bachelor's, graduate, and certificate programs. The school features online courses and programs, including an online advanced certificate in early intervention and parenting. Programs start in the spring, fall, and summer.
Brooklyn College's online courses may run in asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid formats. Prospective first-year students need a high school or GED diploma. Candidates are evaluated by their GPA and transcripts.
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.
New York City Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 8.6 million individuals work in the Greater New York Area and earn annual mean wages of $74,150. The New York State Department of Labor projects a 10.4% growth of new positions throughout the state between 2018-2028, with many of those openings occurring in New York City. All told, more than 1.3 million new jobs will become available during these years.
Individuals who want to study and work in New York City can find a variety of job openings and professional opportunities, but must also consider the higher cost of living than other locations.
5 In-Demand New York City Jobs for 2022
Below, we list some of the most in-demand jobs in New York City according to the New York State Department of Labor.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Annual Median Salary: $58,670
Job Outlook: +71% (2018-2028)
Also known as PV installers, these professionals install and maintain systems that take sunlight and turn it into energy. They assemble the structures required to hold photovoltaic panels and follow all safety protocols during the entire entire assembly and installation processes. They also provide maintenance as needed.
Physician Assistants
Annual Median Salary: $130,550
Job Outlook: +41% (2018-2028)
Physician assistants work directly alongside doctors and other healthcare workers to provide examinations, diagnoses, and treatment plans. They can perform many of the same responsibilities as physicians, including reviewing diagnostic tests, making diagnoses, and prescribing medicines as needed.
Nurse Practitioners
Annual Median Salary: $135,910
Job Outlook: +39% (2018-2028)
Nurse practitioners possess at least a master's degree and perform managerial and advanced healthcare tasks. In addition to taking care of patients, making diagnoses, and prescribing medicines and treatments, they also oversee registered nurses and other healthcare providers. They may also conduct research and make presentations.
Information Security Analysts
Annual Median Salary: $134,390 (according to the BLS)
Job Outlook: +32% (2018-2028)
Information security analysts spend their days helping keep organizations safe from cyberattacks on their networks and systems. In addition to conducting tests to identify security breaches or hacks, these professionals also install new software and hardware to protect against vulnerabilities and strengthen protocols.
Marriage and Family Therapists
Annual Median Salary: $57,040
Job Outlook: +33% (2018-2028)
Marriage and family therapists provide individual and group counseling sessions to couples and families to help them manage their emotions and communicate effectively. They help their clients develop coping strategies as well as skill in decision-making. They may also make referrals for additional services as needed.
Popular Career Paths in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in New York City
Does New York City have good online colleges?
New York City is home to a large number of public and private colleges, many of which provide online coursework to help maximize flexibility for busy learners. Whether attending a CUNY or SUNY institute or Columbia University, students can choose from a variety of price points and subject areas to fit their financial and academic needs.
Students must consider all of these factors and more when making a decision, as they have no shortage of options in the Big Apple. Students should also make sure that any college or university they attend holds proper institutional accreditation, as this can affect them negatively if they fail to do so.
How much does it cost to go to college online in New York City?
Costs can vary substantially when it comes to online tuition for colleges in New York City, making it important that prospective degree-seekers understand the true program cost before enrolling in any school. Costs can also vary based on the type of school a learner attends (e.g., public or private) and their chosen degree level (e.g., bachelor's, master's, or doctorate).
Within the City University of New York system, part-time in-state learners pay $210 per credit for community colleges and $305 per credit for four-year institutions. Meanwhile, out-of-state learners pay $320 and $620, respectively. Learners looking to save as much money as possible should look into the cheapest online colleges in the city.
What is the cheapest online college in New York City?
Students looking to pay the lowest tuition rates possible for online colleges in New York City typically opt for public colleges that offer in-state tuition rates. Options such as SUNY (State University of New York) and CUNY (City University of New York) provide low rates while also offering a wide variety of online courses and degrees.
In general, private universities and colleges in New York City have the highest rates for online college courses in the city. Students typically avoid these institutions if budget ranks highest in their considerations.
Who qualifies for free college in New York City?
Under the Excelsior Scholarship, students from middle-class families making $125,000 or less per year can attend a CUNY or SUNY college tuition-free. To qualify for this program, students must qualify for residency status in New York State and complete at least 30 credits per year.
They must also plan to work and live in the state after graduating for the same amount of time as they received the scholarship. For instance, someone who attends a four-year program must stay in the state four years after graduating.
Students looking to take advantage of the Excelsior Scholarship must meet eligibility requirements and complete an application. This award does not apply to private colleges or those outside the CUNY or SUNY systems.
Feature Image: ANDREY DENISYUK / Moment / Getty Images
