Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities 2025

Earning a degree from an accredited online college can provide flexibility and value for non-traditional students seeking to advance their careers.

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Nationally accredited schools offer affordable and accessible online programs focused on practical career preparation.

The accredited online colleges profiled excel in delivering affordable, career-focused online education for working professionals and adult learners. Discover top-ranked programs aligned with fast-growing fields.

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Our goal is to provide prospective students with the information needed to find the right accredited online program for their goals, learning style, and budget.

To help prospective students make informed choices, EDsmart has researched and ranked the top nationally accredited online colleges for 2025. Our methodology evaluates factors critical to online learners' success and satisfaction.

EDsmart provides a simple, reliable, and unbiased ranking of the Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges. To be considered for this ranking, schools must offer online courses. In our analysis of the Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges, we looked at several factors and ranked our list of schools accordingly.

  • Affordability (average net price)
  • Student Satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic Quality (4-year graduation rate)
  • Median Earnings (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school)

Each data point is ranked with equal weight. Schools received a weighted overall ranking score for each point mentioned above–100 being the highest score possible.

In the case of tie scoring, the average net price was the determining factor for which school received the higher rank–the lower the net price the higher the ranking. All data was gathered from College Scorecard and school websites.

Accredited Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges 2025

1

Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU), based in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a prominent online institution with 112,807 undergraduate students. WGU offers flexible learning options, catering to a diverse student body including working adults and non-traditional learners.

WGU prioritizes affordability with a $14,042 average cost of attendance and uniform tuition of $8,010 for both in-state and out-of-state students. The median total debt after graduation is $11,116, while graduates earn a median of $60,615 ten years after enrollment. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Traditional metrics like admission rates and SAT scores are unavailable, reflecting WGU's unique admission policies and competency-based education model. Prospective students should contact the university directly for specific admission requirements and academic expectations.

Average Net Price
$10,580
Retention Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
54%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$69,572
2

Andrews University

Located in Berrien Springs, Michigan, this institution offers a welcoming academic environment with a high admission rate of 91%. The university maintains a selective profile with an average SAT score of 1184 among its student body. With an undergraduate enrollment of 1,249, the campus provides a close-knit community for its students.

The institution's commitment to education is reflected in its academic standards and financial structure. Both in-state and out-of-state students face the same tuition and fees of $32,734, indicating a uniform approach to pricing regardless of residency. This policy may attract a diverse student population from various geographical backgrounds.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the university ensures quality education standards. The average cost of attendance is $42,774, which includes additional expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $26,000, and can expect median earnings of $53,187 ten years after enrollment, suggesting a positive return on educational investment.

Average Net Price
$23,876
Retention Rate
82%
Graduation Rate
60%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$43,254
3

Columbia Southern University

Situated in Orange Beach, Alabama, this institution boasts a significant undergraduate enrollment of 11,208 students. The university's coastal location may offer unique opportunities for students interested in marine-related studies or those who enjoy a beach environment.

The institution maintains a uniform tuition policy, with both in-state and out-of-state students paying $6,015 in tuition and fees. This approach to pricing makes the university an attractive option for students from various locations, potentially fostering a diverse student body.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $16,520, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $21,339, but can expect median earnings of $63,534 ten years after enrollment, suggesting a positive return on investment. It's worth noting that admission rate and average SAT score data are unavailable, which may indicate a unique admissions process or a focus on other criteria for student selection.

Average Net Price
$12,366
Retention Rate
42%
Graduation Rate
46%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$55,140
4

American Public University System

Located in Charles Town, West Virginia, this institution serves a substantial undergraduate population of 37,569 students. The large enrollment suggests a diverse academic environment with potentially varied program offerings to cater to a wide range of student interests and career goals.

The university maintains an equitable tuition policy, charging $7,360 for both in-state and out-of-state students. This approach to pricing makes the institution accessible to students from various geographical backgrounds, potentially fostering a diverse student community.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the institution ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $16,779, encompassing expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $21,743 and can expect median earnings of $44,409 ten years after enrollment. While admission rate and average SAT score data are unavailable, suggesting a potentially unique admissions process, the institution's focus appears to be on providing accessible higher education opportunities.

Average Net Price
$10,168
Retention Rate
90%
Graduation Rate
19%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$32,917
5

Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, this institution offers an accessible education with a 77% admission rate. The university maintains a moderate academic profile, with an average SAT score of 1050 among its student body. With an undergraduate enrollment of 3,596, the campus provides a manageable learning environment that can foster close interactions between students and faculty.

The institution's commitment to education is reflected in its tuition structure. In-state students benefit from a lower tuition rate of $8,130, while out-of-state students face a higher rate of $15,240. This differentiated pricing strategy may influence the composition of the student body, potentially favoring local residents.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the university ensures quality education standards. The average cost of attendance is $21,769, which includes additional expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $15,954, which is relatively modest. Ten years after enrollment, alumni report median earnings of $45,744, suggesting a positive return on educational investment. These figures indicate that the institution strives to balance affordability with career preparation.

Average Net Price
$13,215
Retention Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
46%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$42,896
6

Johnson University

Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, this institution offers a selective educational experience with a 63% admission rate. The university maintains a moderate academic profile, with an average SAT score of 1084 among its student body. With a small undergraduate enrollment of 668, the campus provides an intimate learning environment that can facilitate personalized attention and close-knit community interactions.

The institution's approach to education is reflected in its uniform tuition structure. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay $19,274 in tuition and fees, indicating a commitment to equal pricing regardless of residency. This policy may attract a diverse student population from various geographical backgrounds.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $30,442, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $21,500 and can expect median earnings of $40,596 ten years after enrollment. These figures suggest that while the institution provides a quality education, prospective students should carefully consider the financial implications of their investment.

Average Net Price
$20,947
Retention Rate
77%
Graduation Rate
57%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$35,649
7

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Located in Waxahachie, Texas, this institution offers an inclusive educational environment with an 86% admission rate. The university maintains a moderate academic profile, with an average SAT score of 1015 among its student body. With an undergraduate enrollment of 1,435, the campus provides a close-knit community that can foster meaningful connections between students and faculty.

The institution's approach to education is reflected in its uniform tuition structure. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay $17,782 in tuition and fees, demonstrating a commitment to equal pricing regardless of residency. This policy may attract a diverse student population from various geographical backgrounds.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $31,917, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $24,725 and can expect median earnings of $46,238 ten years after enrollment. These figures suggest that while the institution provides a quality education, prospective students should carefully consider the financial implications of their investment in relation to potential future earnings.

Average Net Price
$20,417
Retention Rate
77%
Graduation Rate
45%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$37,425
8

Columbia International University

Located in Columbia, South Carolina, this institution offers a competitive educational experience with a 48% admission rate. The university maintains a moderate academic profile, with an average SAT score of 1074 among its student body. With a small undergraduate enrollment of 775, the campus provides an intimate learning environment that can facilitate personalized attention and close interactions between students and faculty.

The institution's approach to education is reflected in its uniform tuition structure. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay $26,840 in tuition and fees, indicating a commitment to equal pricing regardless of residency. This policy may attract a diverse student population from various geographical backgrounds.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $38,781, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $20,000 and can expect median earnings of $38,951 ten years after enrollment. These figures suggest that while the institution provides a quality education, prospective students should carefully consider the financial implications of their investment in relation to potential future earnings.

Average Net Price
$20,035
Retention Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
59%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$33,929
9

Liberty University

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, this institution offers a highly accessible education with a 99% admission rate. With a substantial undergraduate enrollment of 48,408, the university provides a diverse and dynamic learning environment that can cater to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations.

The institution's approach to education is reflected in its uniform tuition structure. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay $22,511 in tuition and fees, demonstrating a commitment to equal pricing regardless of residency. This policy may contribute to the university's large and potentially diverse student body.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university ensures adherence to recognized academic standards. The average cost of attendance is $41,963, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $24,500 and can expect median earnings of $44,813 ten years after enrollment. While average SAT score data is unavailable, suggesting a potential focus on other admission criteria, the high admission rate indicates an inclusive approach to higher education. Prospective students should consider these factors when evaluating the potential return on their educational investment.

Average Net Price
$29,882
Retention Rate
80%
Graduation Rate
38%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$39,707
10

Aspen University

Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this institution serves an undergraduate population of 4,067 students. The moderate enrollment size suggests a balanced learning environment that can offer personalized attention while maintaining a diverse student body.

The university demonstrates a commitment to accessible education through its uniform tuition policy. Both in-state and out-of-state students pay $5,355 in tuition and fees, making it an affordable option for students regardless of their geographical background. This approach may attract a diverse range of students seeking cost-effective higher education opportunities.

Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, the institution likely offers online or distance learning programs. The average cost of attendance is $17,556, which includes expenses beyond tuition. Graduates leave with a median total debt of $15,756, suggesting a relatively manageable financial burden. While admission rate, average SAT score, and median earnings data are unavailable, the low tuition and moderate debt levels indicate a focus on affordability. Prospective students should contact the institution directly for more detailed information about admission requirements and potential career outcomes.

Average Net Price
$14,895
Retention Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
52%
Median Earnings (6 years)
$29,448

List of Nationally Accredited Online Colleges

INSTITUTION NAMECATEGORYACCREDITATION STATUSCITYSTATE
Abraham Lincoln University.Degree GrantingAccreditation DeferredGlendaleCA
Acacia UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditation DeferredTempeAZ
American Business and Technology UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedSaint JosephMO
American College of Healthcare SciencesDegree GrantingAccreditedPortlandOR
American Graduate UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedCovinaCA
American National UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedSalemVA
American Sentinel UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedDenverCO
Anaheim UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditation DeferredAnaheimCA
Antioch School of Church Planting and Leadership DevelopmentDegree GrantingAccreditedAmesIA
Apollos UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedGreat FallsMT
Ashworth CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedNorcrossGA
Aspen UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedDenverCO
Atlantic UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedVirginia BeachVA
Babel University Professional School of TranslationDegree GrantingAccreditedHonoluluHI
Brighton CollegeDegree GrantingShow Cause DirectiveScottsdaleAZ
California Coast UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedSanta AnaCA
California Institute of Advanced ManagementDegree GrantingAccreditedAlhambraCA
California Intercontinental UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedIrvineCA
California Miramar UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedSan DiegoCA
Catholic Distance UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedCharles TownWV
Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary MedicineDegree GrantingAccreditedReddickFL
City Vision UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedKansas CityMO
College of Court ReportingDegree GrantingAccreditedValaparaisoIN
Columbia Southern UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedOrange BeachAL
Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health StudiesDegree GrantingAccreditedPhoenixAZ
Doral CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedDoralFL
Dunlap-Stone UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedPhoenixAZ
EC-Council UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedAlbuquerqueNM
Genesis UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedMiami BeachFL
Grace Communion SeminaryDegree GrantingAccreditedCharlotteNC
Grantham UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedLenexaKS
Harrison Middleton UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedTempeAZ
Hawthorn UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedWhitethornCA
Holmes InstituteDegree GrantingAccreditedGoldenCO
Huntington University of Health SciencesDegree GrantingAccreditedKnoxvilleTN
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)Degree GrantingAccreditedCarpinteriaCA
Lakewood CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditation DeferredCleveland HeightsOH
Laurus CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedSanta MariaCA
Martinsburg CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedMartinsburgWV
McKinley CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedFort CollinsCO
Naaleh CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedNorth Miami BeachFL
National Juris UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedPhoenixAZ
National Paralegal CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedPhoenixAZ
NationsUniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedNew OrleansLA
New Charter UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditation DeferredSalt Lake CityUT
Paralegal Institute at Brighton CollegeDegree GrantingShow Cause DirectiveScottsdaleAZ
Penn Foster CollegeDegree GrantingAccreditedScottsdaleAZ
REALTOR® UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedChicagoIL
Rockbridge SeminaryDegree GrantingAccreditedSpringfieldMO
Sarasota UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedSarasotaFL
Sessions College for Professional DesignDegree GrantingAccreditedTempeAZ
Shiloh UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedKalonaIA
Sonoran Desert InstituteDegree GrantingAccreditedTempeAZ
Taft Law SchoolDegree GrantingAccreditedSanta AnaCA
The Art of Education UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedOsageIA
U.S. Career InstituteDegree GrantingAccreditedFort CollinsCO
Union University of CaliforniaDegree GrantingAccreditedWestminsterCA
University of Arkansas System eVersityDegree GrantingAccreditedLittle RockAR
University of FairfaxDegree GrantingAccreditedSalemVA
University of Management and TechnologyDegree GrantingAccreditedArlingtonVA
University of the PeopleDegree GrantingAccreditedPasadenaCA
Viridis Graduate InstituteDegree GrantingAccreditedOjaiCA
Westcliff UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedIrvineCA
William Howard Taft UniversityDegree GrantingAccreditedLakewoodCO

Nationally Accredited Online Colleges by Annual Tuition

School NameAccrediting AgencyAnnual Tuition
Aspen UniversityDEAC$5,355
California Coast UniversityDEAC$5,355
Columbia Southern UniversityDEAC$6,600
American Public University SystemDEAC$7,360
Kansas Christian CollegeABHE$7,760
Abraham Lincoln UniversityDEAC$7,980
Western Governors UniversityDEAC$8,010
University of Arkansas GranthamDEAC$8,280
California Intercontinental UniversityDEAC$9,305
American National UniversityABHES, DEAC$10,585
National American University OnlineABHES$11,370
Liberty UniversityTRACS$11,700
Bryan University OnlineACCSC$12,184
Purdue GlobalDEAC$14,445
Southwestern Oklahoma State UniversityABHES$15,240
Ultimate Medical AcademyABHES$15,525
Southwestern Assemblies of God UniversityABHE$17,782
ECPI University OnlineABHES, ACCET, ACCSC$18,484
Pinnacle Career Institute OnlineACCSC$18,115
Johnson UniversityABHE$19,274
Daymar CollegeACCSC$21,399
Toccoa Falls CollegeABHE$22,350
Ohio Christian UniversityABHE$23,050
Columbia International UniversityABHE$26,840
Full Sail UniversityACCSC$26,307
San Diego Christian CollegeTRACS$26,300
Crown CollegeABHE$29,230
Andrews UniversityDEAC$32,734
Carrington CollegeABHES, ACCSC$34,050

Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities FAQ

Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities offer specialized education pathways for students seeking flexible learning opportunities. These institutions focus on trade, vocational, and technical education, providing certificates and degrees in various fields.

Understanding the accreditation status and reputation of these institutions is crucial for prospective students. Let's explore some frequently asked questions about nationally accredited online colleges.

What is National Institutional Accreditation?

National Institutional Accreditation is a process that ensures quality standards in trade, vocational, and technical schools, as well as professional programs offering certificates and degrees. Recognized national accreditation agencies include:

  • Distance Education & Training Council (DETC)
  • Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
  • Council on Occupational Education (COE)
  • Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission (TRACS)
  • Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET)
  • Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
  • Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)
  • Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
  • National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCS)
  • Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)

Key features of nationally accredited online colleges include potentially lower costs, more relaxed admission standards, and a for-profit model focused on enrollment. While credits from these institutions may not easily transfer to regionally accredited colleges, employers generally accept nationally accredited degrees. However, graduates may face limitations on corporate tuition reimbursement eligibility.

What are the best accredited online colleges?

Some of the top nationally accredited online colleges include:

  • California Coast University
  • Western Governors University
  • Grantham University
  • Columbia Southern University
  • American Public University System
  • Abraham Lincoln University
  • Southwestern Oklahoma State University
  • American National University
  • ECPI University Online

How do I know if an online college is legitimate?

To determine the legitimacy of an online college, it's crucial to research its accreditation status. Prospective students are advised to read articles on accreditation to help make informed decisions about their educational choices.

Is SNHU Online Nationally Accredited?

No, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is not nationally accredited. It is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc. (NECHE). For more information, visit: https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/faqs

5 stats to know when comparing online-only colleges

Written by: Lauren Liebhaber

Technological difficulties. Difficulty engaging students. Professors struggling to adapt to online teaching formats. The COVID-19 pandemic wrought havoc on classrooms across the country and worldwide, introducing many people to online learning with mixed and often unsatisfactory results.

Not all schools were left scrambling to adapt to the times, however. For online-only colleges, the transition to virtual school was not a transition at all: It was already a well-functioning reality. At online colleges and universities, faculty are trained in specifically online instruction, lesson plans are created to fit the format, and students are equipped to succeed in a virtual environment.

Since the University of Phoenix offered the first-ever online college program in 1989, millions of students had enrolled in online college courses and degree programs before the onset of the pandemic. These schools gained popularity due to their flexibility around class times, geographical locale, and part- or full-time commitment.

EDsmart cited 2020 data from the Department of Education's College Scorecard to review five factors to consider when evaluating online post-secondary schools. Statistics in the analysis were calculated from the 53 schools the Department of Education identified as online-only. Other colleges offer online learning programs in addition to campus-based degrees, but those are not included in the analysis.

Online colleges and universities have often been confused with massive open online courses, or MOOCs, such as edX, which enroll hundreds of thousands of students but do not award degrees, souring public opinion for accredited, online-only colleges in the process. On the contrary, many online-only colleges offer specialized programs and even accept transferable credits. Selecting the right online college, including its enrollment size and types of degrees offered, is a process much like choosing any other traditional, in-person school.

Close up hand writing in notebook.

Jacob Lund // Shutterstock

School size

One common assumption about online-only colleges is that they have massive class sizes and impersonal learning experiences, often with little opportunity for interactivity comparable to traditional, in-person environments. While many online colleges do have huge student bodies—Western Governors University's enrollment exceeds 100,000 students, for example—most are relatively small or medium in size.

The average student population among all colleges in the U.S. ranges from 5,000 to 15,000, according to College Scorecard data, while the average enrollment for online colleges is just under 6,500 students. In fact, many online colleges have far fewer than 6,500 students: The average is swelled by much larger institutions, with the median online college enrollment of around 600 students.

Ultimately, the size of the student body is less important than another number if you're looking for a more personalized, interactive learning experience: the student-faculty ratio. Education research suggests the optimal class size for online learning is between 12 and 20 students, allowing everyone to participate and receive feedback from the professor. 2018 research from the National Center for Education Statistics found the national average student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1: a worthwhile factor to consider when comparing online colleges.

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Student reading course material on laptop.

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Degrees available

Another consideration when picking an online college is what types of degrees are awarded. Most online-only colleges and universities give out bachelor's degrees (66%) and graduate degrees (73.5%), while fewer colleges offer associate degrees and certificates (15% and 11.3%, respectively).

Choosing what kind of degree to pursue depends on your current degree standing, how much additional schooling you want to go through, and what type of job or career you plan to get post-college. The type of degree you have can also impact your overall earnings after school: Higher degrees often make for higher earning potential, with master's degree holders earning $20,000-plus on average annually than those with associate degrees.

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Student chatting with classmates remotely.

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Retention rates for full- and part-time students

A college's retention rate—or how many students choose to return to the same school year after year—can offer insights into students' satisfaction and how academically and personally supported they feel. Past research has found that retention rates are lower at online-only schools than in-person schools, often because online schooling can require more self-discipline and dedication to maintain engagement with the course material.

Retention rates can also vary between full- and part-time students. Retention among full-time students is typically much higher than for part-time students, according to a 2017 report from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, both for in-person and online-only institutions. At online schools, full-time students have an average retention rate of 58.7%, while part-timers return to their schools less than half the time (46.3%).

Part-time students on average make up more than half of undergraduates and certificate students who attend online-only schools. Many opt to attend school part-time while working full-time jobs, taking care of children or family, or because of its affordability, while online courses offer even more flexibility in terms of location and time.

All of these external factors can impede part-time students' retention rates and the likelihood of graduating, making these statistics particularly helpful indicators to be aware of.

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Student studying with textbooks and laptop at home.

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Cost

Online courses can be significantly more cost-effective than traditional, in-person programs. Students acquiring a four-year degree online save an average of $36,595 over their in-person counterparts, according to the Education Data Initiative. College Scorecard data indicates that the average cost of attending online-only college was about $21,000 per year but that students actually paid an average of $16,200 after aid. Factoring in other opportunities such as in-state tuition and scholarships, it could be even less expensive.

While online colleges represent a more affordable alternative to in-person school, it is important to consider that much of the high price tag of in-person school comes from living expenses such as room and board and other on-campus resources and amenities. Online students will certainly save on expensive dorm lodging and meal plans—but they'll also have to take care of these needs separately and factor them into their budgeting.

Student studying online at home.

Prostock-studio // Shutterstock

Nontraditional student population

Online colleges are particularly popular among nontraditional students, who make up roughly 80.8% of enrollment, according to College Scorecard data from 2019.

These students—which include military veterans and single parents—are defined as (mostly undergraduate) students who come back to education after a hiatus or a career pivot. They are typically older than the average college student, or have responsibilities outside of their schooling such as child care or demanding work schedules that can make pursuing a degree more difficult.

COVID-19 directly created a massive expansion in the number of nontraditional students by adding stressors such as caring for sick family members, decreasing financial security, and keeping more people living at home. Students of color, low-income students, and those without reliable internet access were hit hardest by the extra burdens introduced by the pandemic.

A 2021 study published in Adult Education Quarterly also found that existing, nontraditional students were disproportionately negatively affected by the pandemic, reporting poor mental health and increased stressors but demonstrating more resilience when dealing with difficult circumstances because of increased age and experience.

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Accredited Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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