Best Online Colleges in New York 2024
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Editor & Writer
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New York has one of the most expansive state economies in the United States, in addition to boasting a growing job market and higher-than-average wages. It's no surprise, then, that online college is a popular option in the Empire State.
Whether you're looking for an online college in New York City or curious about the best colleges in New York, we've got you covered. In this article, we spotlight the best online colleges in New York while touching on some essential job market data and student resources that will come in handy once you graduate.
Featured Online Programs
Best Online Colleges in New York
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 | $1,583-$1,683
Graduate | $1,934-$2,934
NYU, located in New York City, offers online programs that award professional degrees and certificates and offer study abroad options. Fields of study span the schools of arts and science; public health; professional studies; public service; culture, education, and human development; and business, law, and engineering.
NYU libraries feature virtual librarian services, subject and technical specialists to help with research, and electronic materials. Applicants submit an online application and self-reported academic record. Some programs also require portfolios.
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.
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $295
Undergrad, out of state | $353
Graduate, in state | $471
Graduate, out of state | $565-$750
Stony Brook offers more than 20 online degrees and certificates, including master's and bachelor's degrees in nursing and a bachelor's in electrical engineering. Additional master's degrees include applied health informatics, business administration, higher education administration, human resource management, and liberal studies.
Stony Brook primarily features asynchronous learning. This is supported by academic advising, online bookstore and library materials, technology help, and a writing center. Remote learners apply online and should submit transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.8 GPA.
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.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost
Undergrad | $695/credit (part time), $55,920/year (full time)
Graduate | $31,212/year (in person), $10,404/quarter (online), $6,504/semester (online)
At Syracuse, remote learners can earn degrees from the schools of citizenship and public affairs, education, information studies, law, management, and public communications. The colleges of arts and sciences, engineering and computer science, professional studies, and sport and human dynamics also offer distance learning options.
Most courses are fully online. Some programs have brief on-campus residencies or experiential instruction. Online students can connect with alumni mentors and access advising and IT help. Application requirements and procedures are program-specific.
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.
Marist College
Poughkeepsie, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $750
Graduate | $870
Marist, based in Poughkeepsie, focuses on liberal arts and includes programs for remote learners who want to finish their bachelor's degrees, obtain professional certification, or pursue executive-level training.
Undergraduates can complete online degrees in management or professional studies. Graduate-level topics include business administration, business analytics, public administration, information systems, and integrated marketing communications.
Learners can order textbooks online and contact instructors through virtual office hours and discussion boards. Applicants submit an online application, transcripts, and a personal essay.
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.
SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $295
Undergrad, out of state | $353
Graduate, in state | $471-$625
Graduate, out of state | $565-$750
Part of a statewide systems of colleges in New York, ESC delivers more than 110 online degree programs for undergraduates, graduate students, and nursing and allied health enrollees. Fields of study include arts and humanities, business, education, human services, and science, math, and technology.
ESC offers electronic library materials and technology resources. Online workshops teach students academic skills and how to balance school, work, and family. Prospective learners must complete an online application and a personal essay and provide 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.
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $513-$1,163
Graduate, in state | $1,286
RIT, based in Rochester, provides mostly asynchronous learning opportunities, including success coaching. RIT serves working professionals pursuing their master's and students who are interested in finishing their undergraduate degrees.
Degree areas include applied statistics, architecture, arts and science, business and leadership, health systems, construction management, and technology and computer science.
Depending on the program, admission may require transcripts, personal statements, writing samples, and test scores. Graduate entry requires a bachelor's degree. Credits for work experience and certifications may count toward a degree.
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. Joseph's College-Long Island
Patchogue, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $655
Graduate | $712
Located in Brooklyn and Long Island, SJCNY offers online degrees and certificates. Enrollees can complete bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, general studies, health administration, human resources, human services, or organizational management. Graduate programs award MBAs and MS degrees in business and healthcare management.
SJCNY provides online career services, advising, tutoring, and technology support. Undergraduate applicants submit transcripts and evidence of a minimum 2.0 college GPA. Graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA.
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 | $1,482
Graduate | $1,345-$1,360
A Catholic university established in 1870, St. John's is headquartered in Jamaica, New York. Online programs at the university confer bachelor's degrees in business, doctorates in homeland security and literacy, and master's degrees in a variety of fields, including accounting and theology.
Students access advising, technical support, video courses with tips for distance learning, and an orientation to the virtual instructional platform. Prospective learners must complete online applications and submit transcripts. Admission is a test-optional process requesting personal essays, recommendations, and resumes.
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
Undergrad | $1,619/credit
Graduate | $1,962/credit
Certificates | $100-$6,760/program
The New School, a college in New York City, offers self-paced, online certificates in areas like digital marketing, English language teaching, fashion design, human-centered healthcare, and web design. Learners can also pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctorates, in a variety of subject areas.
For certificate students, hybrid executive education programs lead to credentials in global leadership, fashion and social media, and luxury market management. Certificates primarily serve students with professional experience, with some suitable for motivated career changers. Executive education programs look for applicants with mid- to senior-level executive experience.
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.
How We Rank Schools
In order to create this rankings list, 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 2023 College Choice and Admissions Survey.
To qualify for our ranking list, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring affordability (30%), student outcomes (30%), reputation (20%), and diversity and social mobility (20%). In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges. Read more about our rankings methodology.
How Much Is Online College in New York?
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public, Four-Year (In-State) | $8,416 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $20,113 |
| Private, Four-Year | $42,631 |
New York is home to a long list of public and private institutions, many of which offer relatively affordable online programs that can fit your budget. Earning your degree online at a public college in New York is often more cost-effective than campus-based and private options.
In addition to being more cost-effective, online programs offer enhanced flexibility, making them ideal academic options if you're juggling personal and professional obligations. Many programs also waive out-of-state charges for online learners.
New York Scholarships
There's no doubt that college can get expensive. Thankfully, you'll have numerous scholarship options as a student in New York. Check out the New York scholarships below to get you started as you try to find scholarships for college.
New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence
Award Amount: Up to $1,500
The state of New York offers an annual scholarship that provides financial assistance to thousands of students annually, specifically those with strong academic performance.
You must have graduated from a New York State high school and enrolled in an approved program at an approved college or university in the state to qualify.
NYS Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Incentive Program
Award Amount: In-state tuition at SUNY school
Another state-backed scholarship, this award is a solid option if you're pursuing a two- or four-year degree in an approved STEM field. You must be a high school senior or recent graduate from a New York State high school and graduating in the top 10% of your class.
With this scholarship, you must agree to work a STEM job in the state for five years after graduation.
Peter F. Vallone Academic Scholarship
Award Amount: Up to $700 per year
The Peter F. Vallone Academic Scholarship is reserved for New York City residents. You must demonstrate strong academic performance in high school and enroll as a full-time student at a SUNY school. Award winners must also maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship
Award Amount: Up to $13,045 per semester
The State of New York's World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship offers generous funding at approved colleges and universities in the state.
This scholarship is available to 9/11 survivors, families of victims, and those who directly worked in the recovery and rescue operations following the attack.
10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in New York
Maybe you're considering moving to the Empire State after earning your degree. Or maybe you're choosing your major based on occupations that are expected to see major growth in the state. Whatever the case, you can find a variety of high-paying jobs across many different fields in New York.
Some in-demand career opportunities include arts management, fundraising, clergy, logistics, and healthcare management.
Check out the chart below to see the fastest-growing careers in New York. We've only included careers that require a bachelor's degree and had at least 2,500 professionals in 2020.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate | Median Annual Wage (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | 87.3% | $82,997 |
| Religious Activity or Education Directors | 66.6% | $51,483 |
| Fundraisers | 60.3% | $77,434 |
| Clergy | 59.9% | $58,773 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | 53.9% | $66,159 |
| Music Directors and Composers | 52.1% | N/A |
| Coaches and Scouts | 49.9% | $51,945 |
| Logisticians | 49.2% | $81,744 |
| Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations | 42.6% | N/A |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 42.1% | $140,752 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in New York
What is the easiest online college to get into in New York?
While the easiest online college to get into in New York might not be your dream school, it's always good to have a backup plan. According to the NCES, the SUNY College of Technology at Canton has a 95% acceptance rate.
When searching for the right program for you, be sure to prioritize programs that align with your academic and career goals. Additionally, other factors like cost, reputation, student services, and location can also impact whether or not you decide to enroll.
Do I need to live in New York to attend an online college in New York?
In most cases, you do not need to live in New York to attend a New York-based online college. However, some schools offer different tuition rates to in-state versus out-of-state students. Additionally, some online programs do require periodic in-person requirements. Be sure to check out any in-person requirements before enrolling.
What is the cheapest online college in New York?
Tuition is often a significant factor when choosing a school that's right for you. As a general rule, resident students attending public colleges and universities pay the least. The most inexpensive online college in New York is CUNY Hunter College, with an average annual net price of under $5,000.
But even if you attend a relatively inexpensive school, tuition and fees can add up quickly over the semesters. Thankfully, you have access to a long list of state, federal, and private financial aid options. Work-study programs, loans, scholarships, and grants can help cut the cost of college, allowing you to focus on school without stressing too much about your investment.
