High school was a challenging time for everyone. If you were the kid that neglected to live up to your potential within those four formative years, you might have despaired of ever going to college.

For many, academics aren’t a strong point, but career success often lies locked on the other side of a daunting four-year degree. If this sounds like your situation, you may be able to benefit from open enrollment.

When you apply for college, the admissions department looks at a 2.5-3 year segment of your life to determine whether you’re qualified to attend. Those three years may not paint the best picture of how determined and prepared you are to achieve your goals in a college setting. That’s where open admissions come in.

If you want to attend school without worrying about a commute, the online aspect of these institutions is where you’ll want to focus. These virtual platforms allow students more flexibility in their schedules, allowing higher education to fit easily into everyday life.

To help you achieve your future career, the school you earn your degree from must be recognized by an accrediting agency. After you narrow down your list of schools, be sure to research their accreditation at the site for CHEA and USDE Recognized accrediting organizations.

Open enrollment or open admissions colleges reduce their admission criteria to just a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Additional requirements are more streamlined: placement tests, application forms and fees, proof of high school graduation, and additional English proficiency testing for international students.

Generally speaking, community colleges retain open admissions, as their main goal is to make associate-level education accessible to all students. A few universities follow this same philosophy as well, in addition to some veteran-friendly schools that waive strict requirements.

If there are more applicants than there are seats, some schools may have limited space.

Online Programs That Might Interest You

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

Benefits of Open Enrollment

There are a lot of benefits to entering an open enrollment program. These schools are typically more affordable than those with more restrictive admissions policies. With open enrollment, the competitive component of the admissions process is practically nonexistent. In a sense, you don’t have to “pay” to compete before you even get to the classroom.  When you don’t have to worry about which schools are going to reject or accept you based on your test scores, a lot of the anxiety involved in the application process goes away.

However, because the selection process is much more open, in-class competition isn’t as stiff either. That can be both a good and a bad thing, depending on where you sit on the need for competition spectrum. Since open enrollment lacks the stringent academic requirements of other programs, your classmates may not be the most highly motivated individuals.

Many students in open-enrollment schools find that they actually thrive in a non-competitive environment where rivalry doesn’t exist between peers. A degree earned online from an accredited school is just as effective as a degree earned through traditional methods. Ultimately, it isn’t how long it takes for you to earn the degree, but what you get out of the experience that counts.

Without further ado, here are the top online colleges with open enrollment. These schools are ranked based on our own proprietary formulas and statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics.

Best Online Colleges with Open Admissions 2024

1. Parker University

• Average Net Price: $10,873
• Graduation Rate: 70.21%
• Retention Rate: 78.87%
• Median Earnings: $45,604

Parker University is a regionally accredited private university located in Dallas, Texas. The university offers a range of certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degree programs in healthcare and business-related fields. These programs are delivered through various formats and learning environments to cater to different student needs.

Programs Offered: Parker University provides programs in the following areas:

Doctor of Chiropractic
Health Sciences
Business & Technology

Events: The university hosts various events, including the "Parker Power Weekend" and "Health Profession For a Day," which offer insights and opportunities related to careers in chiropractic and the medical field.

Parker Prepared: The university emphasizes that its students are ambitious, compassionate, and well-prepared for their careers. They gain practical knowledge and experience to become industry leaders.

Financial Aid: Parker University offers numerous scholarships for its programs to help students achieve their academic goals without compromising their financial objectives.

Average Student Population: The student population at Parker University comprises approximately 53% female, 45% male, and a diverse mix of ethnicities.

Accessibility: Parker University strives to maintain compliance with ADA Accessibility standards and regularly updates to meet Section 508 and WCAG2.0 A qualifications.

2. Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

• Average Net Price: $21,077
• Graduation Rate: 70.19%
• Retention Rate: 80.01%
• Median Earnings: $55,759

Study Options: IWU offers diverse study options to accommodate a range of student needs. You can study at IWU in the following ways:

On-campus at the Marion, Indiana residential campus.
Online, providing flexibility for remote learning.
At one of their regional education centers, which are located in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio.
Mission and Values: IWU is dedicated to creating a disciple-making culture that emphasizes academic excellence and encourages individuals to become more Christlike in character and actions.

Wesley Seminary: IWU houses an innovative seminary that provides graduate education centered around the local church ministry in action.

History: Originally founded in 1920 as Marion College, IWU has grown into a comprehensive Christian university affiliated with The Wesleyan Church. It serves a diverse student body of nearly 13,000 students across its various programs.

Accreditation: IWU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring the quality and credibility of its programs.

Military-Friendly: IWU welcomes military service personnel, veterans, and their families, providing various support services and benefits tailored to their unique needs.

Recent Developments: IWU has acquired the key assets of the Eleven Fifty Academy, allowing for the continued provision of technical skills training for future careers in the tech sector.

Notable Achievements: IWU has achieved a higher-than-national-median pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam, indicating the quality of its nursing programs.

Non-Discrimination: IWU is committed to equal opportunity in employment and education, admitting students and employees without discrimination based on various factors, including race, sex, disability, and age.

3. Metropolitan State University

• Average Net Price: $17,718
• Graduation Rate: 58.02%
• Retention Rate: 65.59%
• Median Earnings: $60,744

Metropolitan State University is an urban public university that's committed to serving the Twin Cities and the metropolitan area. The school provides quality education with a focus on creativity, critical thinking, and computational thinking. The U.S. News and World Report ranked MSU #8 in Top Performers on Social Mobility and #31 in Top Public Schools.

The Metropolitan State University of Minnesota offers a wide range of academic programs. The university has an undergraduate student population of about 7,500 and the campus spans four campuses in the Twin Cities area. Metropolitan State University of Denver's programs is designed to help students succeed in the real world.

They offer a variety of majors and minors that cover a wide range of interests, with all classes taught by professors who are experts in their fields. MSU offers over 50 undergraduate programs, over 25 graduate programs, and individualized degrees. Ideal for those who want to tailor their education according to personal interests.

4. Northwest University

• Average Net Price: $23,046
• Graduation Rate: 57.79%
• Retention Rate: 80.23%
• Median Earnings: $52,311

Location: Northwest University is located near Seattle, Washington, offering students the opportunity to study in a vibrant and dynamic region.

New Academic Programs: Northwest University continually expands its academic offerings to meet the evolving needs of students.

Anatomage Table: Northwest University utilizes cutting-edge technology for education, including the Anatomage Table, which is an advanced 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection tool.

Recognition: Northwest University has received recognition for its excellence, including being ranked as one of the "Best Regional Universities" by U.S. News & World Report and being recognized as one of the "Top 50 Christian Colleges in the U.S." by Niche.com. The university also offers highly ranked online master's programs in nursing.

Eagle Store: The university has an Eagle Store that offers quality brand name products featuring customizable NU logos and phrases.

Diversity and Inclusion: Northwest University admits students of all races, colors, national and ethnic origins, and does not discriminate based on factors such as sex, race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

5. Utah Valley University

• Average Net Price: $9,464
• Graduation Rate: 40.97%
• Retention Rate: 66.54%
• Median Earnings: $54,882

Utah Valley University is the largest public university in the state of Utah and was established to provide a rigorous, good-quality education while being open to all. They combine the rigor and academic quality that is expected from a prestigious teaching university with openness and vocational programs. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 41, 728 and admissions are selective. It offers 91 bachelor's degrees, has an average graduation rate, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 24:1.

UVU offers over 200 degrees to fit your career goals. And with options that range from certificates to graduate school, there’s something for everyone. Utah Valley University provides students with a wide range of undergraduate and graduates degrees. Some of these include business and management, nursing, education, criminology, and psychology.

The University of Utah Valley strives to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students. The university offers many different types of hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, fieldwork, and research.

6. Bellevue University

• Average Net Price: $15,794
• Graduation Rate: 50.50%
• Retention Rate: 62.32%
• Median Earnings: $60,600

Located in the very heart of Nebraska, Bellevue University operates as a top-tier institution of post-secondary education, offering online curricula in over 80 different degree programs and a high post-graduate salary average. Its courses enable students to work full-time while pursuing their education, featuring flexible hours and 24/7 online technical support. Bellevue is also a non-profit university, which means that all tuition is put toward maintaining high-quality education.

Bellevue’s generous transfer policy is one of its more remarkable features, allowing students who are unable to finish school due to extraneous circumstances to apply their existing credits to their Bellevue education. Bellevue professors are known to be friendly and helpful, and the majority of BU students report that class workloads are entirely manageable.

7. Wayne State College

• Average Net Price: $14,469
• Graduation Rate: 50.51%
• Retention Rate: 73.16%
• Median Earnings: $46,143

Wayne State College has been committed to the success of its students and local service for over 100 years. They’re best known for our friendly atmosphere, excellent academic records, successful graduates, and affordable tuition. Wayne State College has a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 4,500 students. With a small student body, you can expect personalized attention from professors.

Wayne State University has four academic schools: Arts and Humanities, Business and Technology, Education and Behavioral Sciences, and Science, Health, and Criminal Justice. The university’s academic schools offer more than 130 programs of study and 55 minors, at different levels. You can choose between bachelor’s, master's, and education specialist degrees which all cover a variety of topics. The most popular undergraduate programs are in business administration, elementary education, pre-professional programs, criminal justice, and industrial technology.

8. University of Maryland Global Campus

• Average Net Price: $15,635
• Graduation Rate: 30.45%
• Retention Rate: 53.17%
• Median Earnings: $59,823

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a variety of online options to help working adults pursue their education while managing everyday responsibilities. UMGC operates through 140 different campus locations around the world, offering more than 90 certificates and degrees, as well as a plethora of scholarship opportunities. Notably, the college’s free digital class materials cut down the cost of textbooks significantly.

Overall, the school has a reputation for administering stimulating programs that equip students with marketable, real-world skills. The majority of students rate their education as very good, with roughly equal portions describing their experience as either excellent or average. Among graduates, the consensus seems to be that UMGC holds its students to a higher standard than some other online colleges, but for those willing to put in the effort, the rewards are well worth it.

9. Chadron State College

• Average Net Price: $15,260
• Graduation Rate: 44.61%
• Retention Rate: 68.37%
• Median Earnings: $45,041

Chadron State University offers over 50 majors and minors across three schools:

School of Business, Social Sciences, and Security Studies: Offers programs in business administration, criminal justice, social sciences, national security, and more.

School of Education, Human Performance, Counseling, Psychology and Social Work: Offers teaching programs, exercise science, counseling, psychology, and social work programs.

School of Arts and Sciences: Offers programs in arts, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences, and computer science.
Popular undergraduate programs include business administration, criminal justice, elementary education, and rangeland management. At the graduate level, Chadron State offers master's programs in business, counseling, curriculum and instruction, and more.

Benefits of Attending

Small class sizes with an average 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows for personalized attention and mentoring relationships. The scenic location in rural northwest Nebraska provides access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing nearby.

As part of the Nebraska State College System, Chadron State offers affordable in-state tuition rates and financial aid options. Career-focused academic programs incorporate hands-on learning, internships, and research opportunities.

Chadron State prepares students for employment with over 90% of graduates finding jobs or continuing education. Extensive student life programming, clubs, athletics, and activities create a vibrant campus community. Overall, Chadron State provides career-oriented academic programs in a small-town setting noted for its affordability, natural beauty, and tight-knit campus environment.

10. Granite State College

• Average Net Price: $11,615
• Graduation Rate: 42.37%
• Retention Rate: 46.16%
• Median Earnings: $48,686

Granite State College offers a 100% online option for learning and offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in fields like business, healthcare, public safety, communications, technology, liberal arts, and education. The U.S. News and World Report named it among the Best Online Bachelor’s programs in 2022. The school also merited a CCNE accreditation for nursing. Aside from nursing and teaching, GSC’s online certificate programs are available in all fifty states.

Niche.com awarded Granite State College an overall grade rating of ‘C+‘, with its lowest ratings in the categories of campus and student life (neither of which are likely to affect an online student’s experience). Statistically, the majority of students described their GSC experience as good, with excellent coming in a close second.  Notably, GSC is marketed toward adult learners, as it is specifically equipped to aid them in balancing school with everyday responsibilities.

11. Colorado Christian University

• Average Net Price: $25,681
• Graduation Rate: 31.17%
• Retention Rate: 82.33%
• Median Earnings: $48,890

Colorado Christian University is comprised of two colleges offering over 100 programs: College of Undergraduate Studies and College of Adult and Graduate Studies Popular majors include nursing, business administration, and youth ministry.

Graduate programs offered include Master's in Business Administration, Counseling, Education, and Theology. Adult education degrees cater to working professionals. CCU has a traditional campus in Lakewood, CO along with a thriving online program serving students worldwide.

As a Christian university, CCU integrates faith and learning in all programs to develop students intellectually and spiritually. Small class sizes foster a tight-knit campus community and allows for mentorship from renowned faculty. CCU is regionally accredited and dedicated to delivering affordable, high-quality Christian higher education.

12. Park University

• Average Net Price: $16,069
• Graduation Rate: 29.53%
• Retention Rate: 61.09%
• Median Earnings: $53,977

Park University offers very affordable tuition rates and fees, especially for in-state students. This makes higher education very accessible. Park has campus-based and online class options with multiple start dates per year and accelerated courses. This accommodates students who work. Park is military friendly and accepts many transfer credits from community colleges or military training to advance degrees.

With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, class sizes are smaller which allows for more individualized attention. There are many on-campus clubs, organizations, athletics, events, and recreation options available for student involvement. Programs incorporate internships, research projects, and practical experiences to help boost career-readiness.

Park has diverse students from around the world. Students can participate in study abroad opportunities. Services like the Student Success Center, Writing Center, and career advising promote student achievement. Faculty have excellent academic credentials and expertise in their fields of study.

13. New Mexico Highlands University

• Average Net Price: $12,305
• Graduation Rate: 41.73%
• Retention Rate: 59.09%
• Median Earnings: $40,872

New Mexico Highlands University is a unique public university that can be found in Las Vegas, NM. They have a small undergraduate population, with 2,787 students enrolled in total. The admission process is selectively making this a more competitive institution to get into. The mission of NSMU is to create an environment in which creativity, critical thinking, and research can flourish. They do this by bringing together a diverse group of learners from all backgrounds.

New Mexico Highlands University offers a wide range of degrees including 38 bachelor's degrees. The school holds a graduation rate of 22% and a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio. NMHU has a wide variety of programs for every level of student- beginner or long-time learner. Whether you like to take on academic challenges and meet new people, or if you want to get hands-on in the workforce, NMHU has an option for you. You can also customize your education depending on what subjects are most important to you.

14. Cameron University

• Average Net Price: $8,919
• Graduation Rate: 23.76%
• Retention Rate: 63.47%
• Median Earnings: $39,357

Affordable tuition - As part of the Oklahoma state university system, Cameron offers very affordable in-state tuition and fees. This makes higher education accessible.

Small class sizes - Cameron has an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, which allows for more personalized attention and interaction with professors.

Variety of academic programs - Cameron offers associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees across over 50 majors, providing students diverse academic choices.

Hands-on learning - Many programs emphasize practical experience through clinicals, simulations, internships, and undergraduate research. This prepares students for careers.

Transfer friendly - Cameron has transfer partnerships with community colleges and accepts credits from other schools. This makes transferring very smooth.

Student support services - Programs like TRIO and Campus Compact help provide academic support and tutoring to promote student success.

Veterans services - Cameron has staff dedicated to helping veterans transition to college and uses military benefits.

Campus life - There are over 50 student clubs and organizations that allow students to get involved and build connections.

Location - Cameron's proximity to Fort Sill and Lawton offers access to city resources along with a diverse student body.

15. Liberty University

• Average Net Price: $28,561
• Graduation Rate: 35.83%
• Retention Rate: 79.67%
• Median Earnings: $45,115

Liberty University is an accredited online Christian institution that offers a variety of online degrees in addition to its divinity and theology programs. Their virtual format supports everything from associate’s to doctoral degrees and supports 71% of the student body. Liberty takes pride in having been a “leader in distance learning for over 30 years.” The school operates several accelerated eight-week programs that allow students to enroll at a time most convenient for them.

Niche.com awarded the school an overall grade rating of ‘A-‘ for diversity, student life, and academics. It is also the 3rd most conservative college in America, an aspect that is likely to be noticed primarily on the physical campus. Students give Liberty professors a grade rating of four stars overall with three-quarters of their reviews being 'very good and 'excellent'.

16. Utah Tech University

• Average Net Price: $15,298
• Graduation Rate: 41.12%
• Retention Rate: 59.15%
• Median Earnings: $43,180

Utah Tech University is a highly reputable public university, located in the St. George area of Utah. The school is home to 12,000 students but keeps an average student-faculty ratio of 25:1. UT students learn in a variety of ways, both inside and outside the classroom. They get to try out new things, explore different disciplines and forge connections with faculty members and players in their future careers. The UT experience has your back as you go on to lead a meaningful life.

Utah Tech University is proud to have an acceptance rate of 100% because they understand the importance of all individuals gaining a stellar education. Utah Tech offers 77 undergraduate degrees, four masters, and 56 certificates and endorsements. UT's instructors come from all around the world and are experts in their respective fields. They offer students exceptional learning opportunities and great success rates. Students can earn a degree in subjects like dental hygiene, family studies, healthcare diagnostics, biological sciences, and so much more!

17. Western New Mexico University

• Average Net Price: $14,023
• Graduation Rate: 34.54%
• Retention Rate: 66.58%
• Median Earnings: $36,398

Western New Mexico University is a public institution in Silver City, NM. Today WNMU is home to more than 3,500 students with an average class size of 18 students. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the university #102 in Top Performers on Social Mobility and tied in Top Public Schools.

Western New Mexico University is committed to building your knowledge and skills for the future, and has a selection of programs that are suited for all sorts of people. From foundation degrees for those looking to get their foot in the door, to highly regarded professional qualifications, WNMU is where success starts. The school has received accreditation from Higher Learning Commission. Graduates are well-prepared for any challenges they may face in the workforce as they finish their courses. The courses provide an academically rigorous experience at an affordable price.

18. Columbia College

• Average Net Price: $21,098
• Graduation Rate: 59.71%
• Retention Rate: 56.80%
• Median Earnings: $39,714

Columbia College has an 11:1 student-faculty ratio which allows for personal attention and mentorship. Professors are easy to meet with outside of class. Students can take courses on the main campus, online, or at one of the nationwide locations. This flexibility benefits all types of students.

As a private college, Columbia offers competitive tuition rates and lots of scholarship opportunities to make attendance affordable. Many majors incorporate internships, clinical experiences, or practicums to give students hands-on learning for workforce readiness. A liberal arts foundation develops critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Students can hold leadership roles in the 50+ campus clubs and organizations. These experiences build skills. Graduates have access to an extensive alumni network for mentoring, networking, and job opportunities. Programs like TRIO Student Support Services provide tutoring, advising, and other assistance to promote student success. The beautiful main campus has a classic collegiate quad in a historic district with modern amenities.

19. Mid-America Christian University

• Average Net Price: $17,694
• Graduation Rate: 33.52%
• Retention Rate: 61.70%
• Median Earnings: $45,508

An 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows for close relationships with professors and individualized attention. As a private non-profit, MCAU offers competitive tuition rates and extensive scholarship opportunities. Over 90% of students receive financial aid. Accelerated evening and online classes accommodate working adult students. Multiple start dates per year allow flexibility.

MCAU accepts credits from other schools and has transfer partnerships with community colleges to facilitate transfers. MCAU offers over 40 associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees ranging from business to ministry to psychology. There are over 20 student clubs and organizations for getting involved on campus and building community. The OKC campus provides access to internships, jobs, ministry work, and city resources to supplement education.

20. Montana State University Billings

• Average Net Price: $14,676
• Graduation Rate: 35.08%
• Retention Rate: 57.59%
• Median Earnings: $41,907

Academic Programs

MSU Billings offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations and pre-professional programs through its 5 Colleges.
Undergraduate programs available in fields such as business, education, health/medicine, arts and humanities, social sciences, and hard sciences.
Popular undergraduate majors include Nursing, Business Administration, and Elementary Education.
Graduate degrees offered include Master's programs in Public Relations, School Counseling, Business Administration and more.
MSU Billings has robust online degree options at undergraduate and graduate level.

Benefits

As part of the Montana University System, MSU Billings provides an affordable education with in-state tuition rates.
Small student-to-teacher ratios allow for close mentorship and research opportunities with faculty.
Hands-on learning is emphasized through clinicals, student teaching, field experiences, internships, etc.
Extensive student support services and academic assistance programs facilitate student success.
The campus location in Billings provides access to city resources and partnerships.
A vibrant campus life includes NCAA Division II athletics, student clubs/groups, activities and events.

21. Grand Canyon University

• Average Net Price: $21,176
• Graduation Rate: 41.95%
• Retention Rate: 71.96%
• Median Earnings: $38,385

Grand Canyon University is a Christian institution that aims to provide flexible, affordable education to everyone who seeks it. The university’s wide variety of degrees and certificate programs include studies in theology and ministry, as well as health care, communications, and more. GCU fosters connections with employers and businesses around the country, working with them to provide scholarships and grant opportunities to online students. As an institution, GCU is also widely known to accommodate military service members.

Niche.com ranks Grand Canyon University at #33 among the best online colleges in America. The university received an overall grade rating of ‘B-,’ with diversity being one of its highest-ranking categories. 74% of their nearly 20,000 students attends online classes. Across the board, students rate professor effort very highly, with 18% of their student reviews being average, 36% being very good, and 42% being excellent.

22. Ottawa University-Ottawa

• Average Net Price: $26,214
• Graduation Rate: 47.37%
• Retention Rate: 57.53%
• Median Earnings: $48,846

Here are some of the key benefits of attending Ottawa University:

Supportive Christian community: Ottawa is founded on Baptist principles and integrates faith into academics and student life.

Flexible learning options: Ottawa offers a variety of flexible learning options to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. Students can choose from on-campus, online, evening, and accelerated programs.

Affordable education: Ottawa is committed to making education accessible to all students.

Small class sizes: Ottawa has a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, which means that classes are smaller, allowing for more individual attention and mentorship.

Career focus: Ottawa's programs are designed to prepare students for success in the workplace. Programs incorporate internships, field experiences, and practical projects to boost career-readiness.

Global campuses: Students can study abroad or at one of Ottawa's seven campuses in the U.S. and internationally.

Adult-friendly: Ottawa specifically accommodates adult learners with evening, online and accelerated programs tailored to their needs.

Renowned faculty: Instructors are leaders in their fields, with nearly 75% holding terminal degrees.

23. Baker College

• Average Net Price: $14,160
• Graduation Rate: 22.22%
• Retention Rate: 61.51%
• Median Earnings: $33,440

Baker College offers more than 50 degree and certificate programs, all 100% online. As a not-for-profit university, it offers a lower price than many of its competitors, earning a place among the most affordable online colleges with open admissions in the country. Baker prides itself on accessibility. Students are able to access course material with any internet-capable smart device purchased in the past two years. It also aims to help students find lasting careers after they graduate. So if your goal is to be employed immediately after graduation, Baker College may be a good option for you.

Niche.com awards Baker College an overall grade rating of ‘C-,’ with some of its lowest points falling under campus quality, party scene, location, and student life, all of which are unlikely to impact online learners. With some of its strongest points under the categories of professors and diversity, it’s no surprise that the majority of students reviewed their experience as very good.

24. Franklin University

• Average Net Price: $29,773
• Graduation Rate: 40.85%
• Retention Rate: 8.86%
• Median Earnings: $52,358

Franklin University was founded in 1902 as the YMCA School of Commerce and was later renamed Franklin University in 1933. Franklin specializes in adult and transfer education, with an emphasis on making higher education accessible for working students.

Franklin offers over 40 majors and degrees in fields such as business, healthcare, technology, and public safety. Popular programs include nursing, computer science, and accounting. The university operates on a trimester schedule with three semesters per year, each 15 weeks long. Courses are offered online, in the evenings, on weekends, and in accelerated formats.

Franklin has an open admission policy for students with a high school diploma or GED. Transfer credits are widely accepted as well. Franklin is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It also holds program-specific accreditations for fields like nursing. The university has a main campus in downtown Columbus as well as learning centers across Ohio and in Indiana. Franklin is considered a military and veteran-friendly university and participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.

Franklin prioritizes transfer credit acceptance and accelerated courses to advance degrees quickly. Courses are delivered online, in-person, or in a blended format with multiple start dates annually. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from expert faculty. Students also receive support services like academic advising, tutoring, career coaching, and access to vast alumni network connections.

25. Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

• Average Net Price: $17,576
• Graduation Rate: 21.89%
• Retention Rate: 45.97%
• Median Earnings: $36,791

Colorado Technical University prioritizes putting you on your desired degree track without putting your whole life on hold. The school’s credit transfer policy helps students obtain fast certifications, and their credit-earning preliminary tests gauge what students already know, regardless of where they learned it. This CTU fast track saves students up to 30% of the time and money that might have been spent on unnecessary classes.

According to Niche.com, CTU earns an overall grade rating of ‘C+.’ All of their students study entirely online, and 77% are employed within two years of graduation. The majority of students describe their CTU experience as excellent, with very good coming in second.

26. Hodges University

• Average Net Price: $19,624
• Graduation Rate: 31.21%
• Retention Rate: 48.53%
• Median Earnings: $34,585

It was founded in 1990 as International College and became Hodges University in 2007. Hodges utilizes a semester-based calendar with three main semesters per year. Most classes are offered in accelerated or online formats.

The university has an open admissions policy for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs require a bachelor's degree and additional entry requirements. Hodges has regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Several programs hold specialty accreditations as well.

The main campus is located in Naples, Florida with additional locations in Fort Myers, Marco Island, and online. Hodges is considered a military/veteran-friendly school and supports active duty service members.

27. Strayer University-Virginia

• Average Net Price: $22,544
• Graduation Rate: 28.41%
• Retention Rate: 35.94%
• Median Earnings: $42,990

Strayer University emphasizes affordability and student-driven learning. Most attendees are able to enroll in at least five free classes, and bachelor’s students are provided with Microsoft laptops to help them make the most of their coursework. Strayer offers everything from associate’s degrees all the way up to master’s-level programs. To make education more affordable, the Strayer Graduation Fund enables students to take one free class in their final year for every three classes they’ve passed up to that point.

Student reviews for Strayer University aren’t as plentiful as those for some of the other institutions on this list, but of the few available, the majority report high satisfaction with their Strayer experience. Reviews reflect the responsiveness of the school’s staff, especially lauding Strayer professors for being good motivators and going the extra mile to help students succeed.

Popular OnlinePrograms That Might Interest You

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