Accredited Online Colleges in Connecticut

Online education has gained significant popularity in Connecticut, offering students flexibility and convenience in pursuing their academic goals.

Accredited Online Colleges in Connecticut - A picturesque campus with modern buildings and lush greenery, surrounded by rolling hills and a serene lake in the background

In 2020, a large portion of Connecticut undergraduates embraced distance learning, with over 44% enrolled exclusively in online courses. This trend reflects the growing acceptance of digital education platforms and their ability to meet diverse student needs.

The rise of online learning has opened doors for various types of students, including first-year college entrants, those with existing community college credits, and individuals returning to education after a break or for career advancement.

Connecticut's online colleges provide a range of options, catering to those balancing work, family commitments, or simply preferring the distance learning format.

Related Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Key Takeaways

  • Online education in Connecticut offers flexibility for diverse student needs
  • A significant percentage of Connecticut students participate in distance learning
  • Online colleges in Connecticut provide various program options for different educational goals

Best Online Colleges in Connecticut

1

Charter Oak State College

Location: New Britain, CT

Admission Rate: Data unavailable

Average SAT Score: Data unavailable

Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,426

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $18,386

In-state Tuition and Fees: $8,254

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $10,796

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $18,683

Median Earnings (10 years): $64,209

Average Net Price
$14,288
Retention Rate
100%
Graduation Rate
56%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$53,779
2

Fairfield University

Location: Fairfield, CT

Admission Rate: 52%

Average SAT Score: 1325

Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,706

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $71,215

In-state Tuition and Fees: $54,455

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $54,455

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $26,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $88,794

Average Net Price
$45,701
Retention Rate
91%
Graduation Rate
81%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$73,693
3

Quinnipiac University

Location: Hamden, CT

Admission Rate: 84%

Average SAT Score: 1216

Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,021

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $68,761

In-state Tuition and Fees: $51,790

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $51,790

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $26,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $83,759

Average Net Price
$39,682
Retention Rate
88%
Graduation Rate
77%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$65,744
4

Eastern Connecticut State University

Location: Willimantic, CT

Admission Rate: 74%

Average SAT Score: 1079

Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,534

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $28,648

In-state Tuition and Fees: $12,910

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $16,146

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $24,250

Median Earnings (10 years): $56,469

Average Net Price
$18,092
Retention Rate
83%
Graduation Rate
60%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$47,289
5

Sacred Heart University

Location: Fairfield, CT

Admission Rate: 66%

Average SAT Score: Data unavailable

Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,729

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $64,621

In-state Tuition and Fees: $46,580

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $46,580

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $75,059

Average Net Price
$44,554
Retention Rate
85%
Graduation Rate
70%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$63,925
6

University of Saint Joseph

Location: West Hartford, CT

Admission Rate: 75%

Average SAT Score: 1170

Undergraduate Enrollment: 821

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $54,432

In-state Tuition and Fees: $44,366

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $44,366

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $27,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $59,908

Average Net Price
$25,127
Retention Rate
78%
Graduation Rate
64%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$52,053
7

University of New Haven

Location: West Haven, CT

Admission Rate: 91%

Average SAT Score: 1180

Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,765

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $60,918

In-state Tuition and Fees: $44,184

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $44,184

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $27,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $60,126

Average Net Price
$33,170
Retention Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
63%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$49,829
8

Albertus Magnus College

Location: New Haven, CT

Admission Rate: 81%

Average SAT Score: Data unavailable

Undergraduate Enrollment: 978

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $53,621

In-state Tuition and Fees: $37,682

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $37,682

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $30,964

Median Earnings (10 years): $60,144

Average Net Price
$26,735
Retention Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
62%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$47,153
9

University of Hartford

Location: West Hartford, CT

Admission Rate: 83%

Average SAT Score: 1201

Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,876

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $60,887

In-state Tuition and Fees: $46,148

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $46,148

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $27,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $60,823

Average Net Price
$30,886
Retention Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
59%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$42,581
10

University of Bridgeport

Location: Bridgeport, CT

Admission Rate: 82%

Average SAT Score: 1090

Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,604

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $53,749

In-state Tuition and Fees: $35,760

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $35,760

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,750

Median Earnings (10 years): $50,323

Average Net Price
$26,331
Retention Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
53%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$38,575
11

Southern New Hampshire University

Location: Manchester, NH

Admission Rate: 96%

Average SAT Score: Data unavailable

Undergraduate Enrollment: 138,138

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $36,121

In-state Tuition and Fees: $15,380

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $15,380

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,082

Median Earnings (10 years): $50,318

Average Net Price
$32,678
Retention Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
35%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$41,945
12

Post University

Location: Waterbury, CT

Admission Rate: Data unavailable

Average SAT Score: Data unavailable

Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,297

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $27,054

In-state Tuition and Fees: $16,610

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $16,610

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $30,157

Median Earnings (10 years): $38,696

Average Net Price
$18,729
Retention Rate
35%
Graduation Rate
16%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$31,401

Can You Get a Degree Online from a Connecticut College?

Yes, students can earn college degrees online from Connecticut schools. These programs are open to both in-state and out-of-state learners. Online degrees often have the same curriculum as on-campus programs, leading to identical qualifications.

When choosing an online program, it's crucial to check for accreditation. This ensures the school meets quality standards set by recognized organizations. Students can find accreditation info on school websites or official accreditation databases.

There are several benefits to choosing a Connecticut online school:

  • Familiarity: Local students may already know the school's reputation
  • Recognition: Nearby employers might be more familiar with the institution
  • Networking: Potential connections with local alumni and businesses

It's important to note that most employers value the degree itself, not whether it was earned online or in-person. Online degrees can even showcase valuable skills:

  • Time management
  • Self-discipline
  • Technology proficiency

Students shouldn't hesitate to include their online degree on resumes or job applications. It demonstrates adaptability and commitment to education, traits many employers appreciate.

Connecticut offers many educational options for distance learners. With 36 colleges to choose from, students have a wide range of programs available, despite the state's small size.

Online Learning Options in Connecticut

Connecticut offers a wide range of online education opportunities. Many students in the state take at least some classes online. In 2020, dozens of schools had students enrolled in fully online or mixed online and on-campus programs.

Students can choose between public and private schools for their online education. Public schools get money from the government and often have many different programs. Private schools rely on tuition and donations. They can be non-profit or for-profit.

Large public schools often have well-established online programs with lots of students. Smaller private schools may be newer to online teaching. Both can offer good education, but their approaches may differ.

Here are some key points about online education in Connecticut:

  • Many schools offer fully online or hybrid programs
  • Students can earn bachelor's degrees and other qualifications online
  • Public and private schools have different funding sources
  • Larger schools may have more developed online systems

One example of a private school with online programs is Sacred Heart University. They've been teaching online for over 10 years. In the 2020-2021 school year, about 150 students were in their online bachelor's programs.

When picking an online school, students should think about:

  • Program quality
  • Cost
  • Support services
  • Technology used
  • Accreditation

Accreditation is important for online programs. It shows that a school meets certain standards. In Connecticut, the New England Commission of Higher Education is a key accrediting body.

Online education can be a good choice for many students. It offers flexibility and can be less expensive than on-campus learning. As more schools offer online options, students in Connecticut have more choices for their education.

Popular Online Degrees in Connecticut

Connecticut offers a variety of online degree programs to fit different career goals and interests. Psychology stands out as a top choice, with three schools providing online options. Graduates in this field can expect competitive salaries, with psychologists earning around $81,000 yearly.

Business administration and management degrees are also in demand. Two Connecticut schools offer these programs online. Graduates often move into executive roles, where top earners can make nearly $99,000 annually.

Communication and media studies degrees are equally popular, with two schools offering online programs. While the median salary for media workers is about $50,000, this field offers diverse career paths.

Finance degrees, available online from two schools, can lead to lucrative careers. Financial managers, for example, earn a median salary of $131,710 per year.

General studies degrees, offered online by two schools, provide a flexible education option. While specific salary data isn't available, these programs often allow students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Here's a quick look at the top online degrees in Connecticut:

DegreeSchools Offering OnlineMedian Annual Salary
Psychology3$81,040
Business Administration2$98,980
Communication2$49,900
Finance2$131,710
General Studies2N/A

These online programs give students the chance to earn degrees from respected Connecticut institutions while balancing work and personal commitments. As the job market evolves, these fields continue to offer promising career prospects for graduates.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Digital Education

Is Web-Based Learning a Good Fit for You?

Online learning offers flexibility for students to study from any location. This can be great for those with busy schedules or who want to attend a top program far from home. Digital courses let students work at their own pace.

But web-based education has its challenges too. It requires strong self-discipline and time management skills. Students miss out on face-to-face interactions with teachers and classmates. This can make networking harder.

To decide if online learning suits you, consider these factors:

  • Your schedule and commitments
  • Your learning style preferences
  • Your self-motivation level
  • Your need for in-person social interaction

A table comparing key aspects:

AspectTraditionalOnline
FlexibilityFixed scheduleStudy anytime
LocationOn campusAnywhere
InteractionIn-personVirtual
Discipline neededModerateHigh

Online programs work well for:

  • Working adults
  • Parents with family duties
  • Those seeking career advancement
  • Students who learn best independently

But they may not suit those who:

  • Thrive on classroom discussions
  • Need strict deadlines
  • Want the full campus experience

Online colleges offer many options. Some have live video classes. Others let you complete work on your own time. Many schools now offer hybrid programs that blend online and on-campus learning.

The key is knowing yourself as a learner. Think about how you study best. Be honest about your habits and needs. You might try one online course to see how it feels before committing to a full program.

Is Online College in Connecticut Cheaper Than Campus-Based Options?

Online college in Connecticut can offer cost savings compared to traditional on-campus programs, but the most budget-friendly choice often depends on the specific school and program.

Public colleges in Connecticut typically provide the lowest rates for in-state students. For the 2021-2022 school year, credits at public institutions averaged around $395 per credit hour. This makes public schools an attractive option for many Connecticut residents.

Private colleges generally come with higher price tags. Online programs at private schools in Connecticut cost about $571 per credit on average. In contrast, on-campus programs at private colleges in the state averaged $954 per credit hour.

While online programs may have lower tuition, they often involve extra fees. These can include:

  • Technology fees
  • Distance learning fees
  • Financial aid processing fees

However, online students can avoid some typical campus-based expenses:

  • Parking fees
  • Sports center charges
  • Activity fees
  • Transportation costs

Working professionals pursuing online degrees may benefit from employer tuition assistance programs. These can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for students.

For out-of-state students considering Connecticut online colleges, it's important to check state reciprocity agreements. These agreements can lead to lower tuition rates for distance learners from participating states. Students should verify if their home state is part of the New England Board of Higher Education compact, which could result in reduced fees.

It's worth noting that not all schools offer regional discounts for their online programs. Prospective students should contact the admissions office of their chosen school to get accurate information about tuition rates and potential discounts.

When weighing costs, students should also consider financial aid offerings and scholarships. These can make a big difference in the overall affordability of both online and on-campus programs. Many schools offer similar aid packages to online and on-campus students, but it's always best to check with each institution for specifics.

Ultimately, the cheapest option will vary based on individual circumstances. Factors like residency status, program type, and available aid all play a role in determining the most cost-effective choice for each student.

Selecting the Right Online College in Connecticut

Choosing an online college in Connecticut requires careful thought. Think about the cost, the school's standing, and what they offer for distance learning. Make sure the college fits your needs as a student.

Look into which schools have strong programs in your chosen field. The U.S. News rankings of top online programs can be a good starting point.

Consider the type of online learning that suits you best. Some students need more structure, while others prefer to study at their own pace. There are different formats:

  • Synchronous classes: Real-time video sessions with set schedules
  • Asynchronous classes: Flexible timing for lectures and discussions
  • Hybrid courses: Mostly online with some in-person meetings

Think about these questions:

  • Do you work well independently?
  • How much interaction do you want with teachers and classmates?
  • Can you stick to deadlines without in-person reminders?

Your answers will help you pick the right format.

Remember to check if the school is accredited. This ensures your degree will be recognized by employers.

For affordable online degrees, look at public schools like the University of Connecticut. They often have lower tuition for state residents.

Take your time to research and compare options. Your education is important, so choose a school that will help you reach your goals.

Related Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
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