Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
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The Lone Star State offers a cheaper higher education compared to other states. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students at public, four-year colleges in the U.S. paid an average of $9,375 for tuition and fees in 2020-2021. Students attending public, four-year schools in Texas paid $8,016.
Texas boasts roughly 102 public and 88 private four-year colleges. Many Texas colleges offer fully online degrees and virtual courses. Discover more about the best online colleges in Texas, how much they cost, available scholarships, and career prospects.
Featured Online Bachelor's Programs
Best Online Colleges in Texas
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
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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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LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
LeTourneau University offers 19 online bachelor's programs, featuring popular options like computer information systems, cybersecurity, criminal justice, and business. The school also has 13 online master's programs, including healthcare administration, business administration, and psychology.
Many course options are offered asynchronously, and some classes follow accelerated five-week terms. Students can access academic support services, including an online writing center and tutoring services.
Although LeTourneau University is test-optional, first-time undergraduates should have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA, while prospective engineering majors should have a 3.2 GPA or higher.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $ 380-$410
Graduate | $ 625-$800
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.
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Texas Tech University, students can choose from 17 online bachelor's degrees, more than 40 online master's degrees, and a handful of doctoral and certificate programs.
Texas Tech provides remote learners with supplementary resources like graduate and undergraduate writing centers and a virtual career center.
Applicants to master's programs must submit transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA over their last 90 credits of coursework. Texas Tech is a test-optional institution.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $399
Undergrad, out of state | $461
Graduate, in state | $461
Graduate, out of state | $869
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.
University of North Texas
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
In 2020, the University of North Texas offered almost 90 online program options and more than 1,500 online courses. It served roughly 138,000 remote learners.
The university supports virtual students through infrastructures like academic coaching services, a peer-led supplemental instruction program, and an online writing center.
Undergraduate applicants should submit SAT or ACT scores and academic transcripts. Though the University of North Texas takes a holistic approach to graduate admissions, most admitted students had a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $374
Undergrad, out of state | $460
Graduate, in state | $462
Graduate, out of state | $541
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.
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Parker University offers online associate and bachelor's programs, as well as an online MBA. Options for distance learners relate primarily to healthcare, business, and technology fields. Virtual students can pursue disciplines like computer information systems, healthcare management, and public health.
Students can access services like the Parker Success Academy, which is a networking platform that allows users to connect with industry leaders and resources. Admission requirements vary by program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $660
Graduate | $740
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.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers three online undergraduate programs in anthropology, business, and public service leadership and 11 online master's programs in areas like human resource management and business administration.
In fully remote courses, students must complete course materials according to a set schedule and adhere to deadlines, although there are no specific meeting times. Learners may also attend "web-enhanced" hybrid courses.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $326
Undergrad, out of state | $905
Graduate, in state | $528
Graduate, out of state | $1,050
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.
Texas A & M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers dozens of certificates, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees in fully remote learning formats. Students can also enroll in hybrid bachelor's and master's programs.
Virtual courses consist of recorded lectures and supplementary materials, and they do not have set meeting times. Learners can access library resources, career services, and financial aid counseling.
Texas A&M University is a test-optional institution, though applicants must submit academic transcripts. Supplementary requirements vary by program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $384
Undergrad, out of state | $792
Graduate, in state | $480
Graduate, out of state | $888
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.
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Sam Houston State University offers 22 online undergraduate degrees and 31 online graduate degrees. Popular options include computer science, health science, criminal justice, and education. Distance learners can begin their classes in the fall, spring, or summer.
Although many programs can be completed through a 100% online, asynchronous format, select courses may require some in-person classes or labs. Remote learners can also access an academic and mentoring center, student money management center, writing center, and career services.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $451
Undergrad, out of state | $859
Graduate, in state | $552
Graduate, out of state | $960
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.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Southwestern Assemblies of God University, approximately 70% of students are enrolled virtually. Learners can pursue 28 online bachelor's programs and 16 online graduate programs in areas like theology, social work, criminal justice, and business. Students can also earn up to 45 credits based on experiential learning and demonstrated work experience.
Undergraduate applicants should have at least a 2.0 high school GPA. Graduate applicants should have a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA and may be asked to submit supplementary essays and references.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $399
Graduate | $350-$545
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.
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Stephen F. Austin State University, learners can choose from more than 30 fully remote certificate and degree programs and over 400 online courses in fields like nursing, sustainability, education, and music. Distance learners can access academic and support services like academic advising and a career center.
Undergraduate applicants who graduate in the top 25% of their high school class do not need to submit standardized test scores. Graduate applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and certain programs require GRE or GMAT scores.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $353
Undergrad, out of state | $762
Graduate, in state | $446
Graduate, out of state | $855
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.
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lamar University offers 18 online undergraduate degrees in fields like marketing, electrical engineering, and nursing. The university also offers more than 30 online graduate programs. Popular options include clinical mental health counseling and special education.
Learners can enroll at numerous start dates throughout the year. Courses may be available in standard 15-week sessions or accelerated eight-week sessions. Lamar University supports virtual students with online tutoring and virtual exam proctoring services.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $374
Undergrad, out of state | $782
Graduate, in state | $483
Graduate, out of state | $891
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.
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 Does Online College Cost in Texas?
Texas has lower tuition rates than the national average. Attending a public four-year college in-state costs an average of $8,016 in tuition and fees, while private students pay $37,450.
Compared to a traditional degree, earning an online college degree is usually less expensive. You don't have to pay on-campus housing fees, transportation, and on-campus fees. Colleges may also provide flat rates for online tuition. Plus, you can apply for scholarships for Texas students to make college even more affordable.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public, Four-Year (In-State) | $8,016 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $25,471 |
| Private, Four-Year | $37,450 |
Scholarships for Texas Students
Texans can apply for state and institutional scholarships that offer gift money for college, meaning you don't need to repay it. Check out the scholarships for Texas students below:
- License Plate Insignia Scholarship (Varies): Money raised from customized license plates fund scholarships for Texas residents who are attending the University of Houston. Candidates need a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Stokes Educational Scholarship Program (Up to $30,000 per year for tuition and salary): Eligible students must be majoring in computer science, computer engineering, Chinese, or Russian to become a National Security Agency worker and receive this scholarship. Preference goes to minority students.
- Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program ($1,786-$3,940 per semester): Students enrolled at two-year colleges who have less than 30 credits can apply for this award if they have proof of Texas residency and can demonstrate a financial need.
- Texas Business and Professional Women's Scholarships (Varies): The Texas Business and Professional Women's Foundation supports women pursuing an education in medical research through five scholarships.
- Good Neighbor Scholarship Program Scholarship (Provides tuition exemption for 12 months): Applicants must meet the academic and financial requirements to receive an exemption. They also need to be native-born citizens of eligible countries.
Highest-Paying Jobs in Texas
Many of the highest-paying jobs in Texas only require a bachelor's degree. That said, some occupations offer good wages in Texas despite paying less than the national average.
For example, computer and information systems managers in Texas earn a mean annual salary of $156,150 as of 2022, while nationally, they make an average of $164,070. Other positions offer better pay in Texas. Materials engineers make a mean wage of $115,330 in Texas, compared to $100,140 nationally.
| Career | Mean Annual Salary (May 2022) |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $156,150 |
| Marketing Managers | $138,530 |
| Materials Engineers | $115,330 |
| Financial Risk Specialists | $96,200 |
| Registered Nurses | $84,320 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Texas
How many online colleges are in Texas?
The NCES reported nine fully virtual colleges in Texas as of the 2019-2020 school year. Texas features some 218 four-year and two-year private and public colleges and universities. Colleges in Texas offer fully online degrees and virtual courses for students who want a hybrid model.
What is the cheapest online college in Texas?
Some of the cheapest online colleges in Texas — especially for out-of-state students — are Texas Tech University and Texas State University. These universities offer low tuition rates for both online undergraduate and graduate students. In fact, these colleges offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country.
Is online college in Texas worth it?
How you measure a degree's worth depends on what matters to you. If you want an academic challenge, a degree can be a worthwhile pursuit. And in Texas, where the cost of living is the 15th lowest in the nation, an affordable degree can offer a high return on investment.
