Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Learn about the best online colleges in Texas, tuition rates, scholarships for Texans, and the highest-paying jobs in the state.
By
portrait of Nalea Ko
Nalea Ko
Read Full Bio

Writer

Nalea J. Ko has worked as a journalist in Hawaii, Los Angeles, and New York covering news and entertainment. She currently writes about tech, with a focus on coding. Nalea received her MFA degree in fiction from Brooklyn College and bachelor's in jou...
Updated on November 27, 2023
Edited by
portrait of Margaret Weinhold
Margaret Weinhold
Read Full Bio

Editor

Margaret Weinhold is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility around higher education. Margaret holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia....
Learn more about our editorial process

www.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.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

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 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. from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. 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.

  • Browse programs
  • Discover matches
  • Request info
#1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,520
Out-of-state
$30,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,618
Out-of-state
$18,618
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%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
3,150
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024 Best Value

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,744
Out-of-state
$16,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,958
Out-of-state
$13,428
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
87%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
38,742
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,423
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,900
Out-of-state
$13,496
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
79%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
39,336
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,128
Out-of-state
$25,128
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,870
Out-of-state
$12,870
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
79%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,536
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024 Best Value

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,740
Out-of-state
$19,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$17,568
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
80%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
9,082
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,790
Out-of-state
$17,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,630
Out-of-state
$11,232
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
63%
Admission Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
12,109
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024 Best Value

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,361
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
75%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
21,558
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,496
Out-of-state
$20,496
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,710
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
67%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
2,050
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,096
Out-of-state
$16,224
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,112
Out-of-state
$12,708
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
70%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
12,969
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,032
Out-of-state
$16,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,324
Out-of-state
$13,920
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
66%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
15,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

Chevron Down

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.

Cost of College in Texas (2020-21)
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
Source: NCES

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.

5 High-Paying Jobs in Texas
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
Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Texas

How many online colleges are in Texas?

Chevron Down

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?

Chevron Down

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?

Chevron Down

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.

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.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.