Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities 2025

by EDsmart Staff

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

Find Your School in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 NAME	CATEGORY	ACCREDITATION STATUS	CITY	STATE
Abraham Lincoln University.	Degree Granting	Accreditation Deferred	Glendale	CA
Acacia University	Degree Granting	Accreditation Deferred	Tempe	AZ
American Business and Technology University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Saint Joseph	MO
American College of Healthcare Sciences	Degree Granting	Accredited	Portland	OR
American Graduate University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Covina	CA
American National University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Salem	VA
American Sentinel University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Denver	CO
Anaheim University	Degree Granting	Accreditation Deferred	Anaheim	CA
Antioch School of Church Planting and Leadership Development	Degree Granting	Accredited	Ames	IA
Apollos University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Great Falls	MT
Ashworth College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Norcross	GA
Aspen University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Denver	CO
Atlantic University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Virginia Beach	VA
Babel University Professional School of Translation	Degree Granting	Accredited	Honolulu	HI
Brighton College	Degree Granting	Show Cause Directive	Scottsdale	AZ
California Coast University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Santa Ana	CA
California Institute of Advanced Management	Degree Granting	Accredited	Alhambra	CA
California Intercontinental University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Irvine	CA
California Miramar University	Degree Granting	Accredited	San Diego	CA
Catholic Distance University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Charles Town	WV
Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine	Degree Granting	Accredited	Reddick	FL
City Vision University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Kansas City	MO
College of Court Reporting	Degree Granting	Accredited	Valaparaiso	IN
Columbia Southern University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Orange Beach	AL
Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies	Degree Granting	Accredited	Phoenix	AZ
Doral College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Doral	FL
Dunlap-Stone University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Phoenix	AZ
EC-Council University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Albuquerque	NM
Genesis University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Miami Beach	FL
Grace Communion Seminary	Degree Granting	Accredited	Charlotte	NC
Grantham University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Lenexa	KS
Harrison Middleton University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Tempe	AZ
Hawthorn University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Whitethorn	CA
Holmes Institute	Degree Granting	Accredited	Golden	CO
Huntington University of Health Sciences	Degree Granting	Accredited	Knoxville	TN
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)	Degree Granting	Accredited	Carpinteria	CA
Lakewood College	Degree Granting	Accreditation Deferred	Cleveland Heights	OH
Laurus College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Santa Maria	CA
Martinsburg College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Martinsburg	WV
McKinley College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Fort Collins	CO
Naaleh College	Degree Granting	Accredited	North Miami Beach	FL
National Juris University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Phoenix	AZ
National Paralegal College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Phoenix	AZ
NationsUniversity	Degree Granting	Accredited	New Orleans	LA
New Charter University	Degree Granting	Accreditation Deferred	Salt Lake City	UT
Paralegal Institute at Brighton College	Degree Granting	Show Cause Directive	Scottsdale	AZ
Penn Foster College	Degree Granting	Accredited	Scottsdale	AZ
REALTOR® University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Chicago	IL
Rockbridge Seminary	Degree Granting	Accredited	Springfield	MO
Sarasota University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Sarasota	FL
Sessions College for Professional Design	Degree Granting	Accredited	Tempe	AZ
Shiloh University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Kalona	IA
Sonoran Desert Institute	Degree Granting	Accredited	Tempe	AZ
Taft Law School	Degree Granting	Accredited	Santa Ana	CA
The Art of Education University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Osage	IA
U.S. Career Institute	Degree Granting	Accredited	Fort Collins	CO
Union University of California	Degree Granting	Accredited	Westminster	CA
University of Arkansas System eVersity	Degree Granting	Accredited	Little Rock	AR
University of Fairfax	Degree Granting	Accredited	Salem	VA
University of Management and Technology	Degree Granting	Accredited	Arlington	VA
University of the People	Degree Granting	Accredited	Pasadena	CA
Viridis Graduate Institute	Degree Granting	Accredited	Ojai	CA
Westcliff University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Irvine	CA
William Howard Taft University	Degree Granting	Accredited	Lakewood	CO

Nationally Accredited Online Colleges by Annual Tuition

School Name	Accrediting Agency	Annual Tuition
Aspen University	DEAC	$5,355
California Coast University	DEAC	$5,355
Columbia Southern University	DEAC	$6,600
American Public University System	DEAC	$7,360
Kansas Christian College	ABHE	$7,760
Abraham Lincoln University	DEAC	$7,980
Western Governors University	DEAC	$8,010
University of Arkansas Grantham	DEAC	$8,280
California Intercontinental University	DEAC	$9,305
American National University	ABHES, DEAC	$10,585
National American University Online	ABHES	$11,370
Liberty University	TRACS	$11,700
Bryan University Online	ACCSC	$12,184
Purdue Global	DEAC	$14,445
Southwestern Oklahoma State University	ABHES	$15,240
Ultimate Medical Academy	ABHES	$15,525
Southwestern Assemblies of God University	ABHE	$17,782
ECPI University Online	ABHES, ACCET, ACCSC	$18,484
Pinnacle Career Institute Online	ACCSC	$18,115
Johnson University	ABHE	$19,274
Daymar College	ACCSC	$21,399
Toccoa Falls College	ABHE	$22,350
Ohio Christian University	ABHE	$23,050
Columbia International University	ABHE	$26,840
Full Sail University	ACCSC	$26,307
San Diego Christian College	TRACS	$26,300
Crown College	ABHE	$29,230
Andrews University	DEAC	$32,734
Carrington College	ABHES, ACCSC	$34,050

The rise of online education has opened doors to higher learning for countless individuals. But with so many online colleges vying for your attention, how do you ensure you're investing in a reputable and valuable program? The key lies in national accreditation.

This guide provides a deep dive into nationally accredited online colleges, covering everything from why accreditation matters to how to choose the right program for your unique needs and goals.

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Understanding the Importance of National Accreditation

National accreditation is a rigorous process where an external, nationally recognized agency evaluates an online college (or any college) against established standards of quality. Think of it as a seal of approval, indicating that the institution meets specific criteria for academic excellence, student support, and overall institutional effectiveness.

Why does accreditation matter to YOU?

Federal Financial Aid Eligibility: To be eligible for federal student aid (like Pell Grants and federal student loans), the college must be nationally accredited. This is non-negotiable.
Transferability of Credits: Accredited institutions are more likely to accept transfer credits from other accredited colleges. If you plan to continue your education later, this is crucial.
Employer Recognition: Many employers, especially those less familiar with the nuances of online learning, prioritize degrees from accredited institutions. They trust that an accredited program has met certain standards.
Licensure and Certification: Certain professions (like nursing, social work, and law) require graduation from an accredited program for licensure or certification.
Quality Assurance: Accreditation ensures the college is committed to quality assurance, actively striving to improve programs and outcomes. It's not just a one-time check; accredited colleges undergo regular reviews.

What Accreditation Means (And Doesn't Mean)

It's essential to understand what accreditation doesn't mean:

Prestige is not guaranteed: While accreditation signals quality, it doesn't automatically make one college "better" than another. Look beyond accreditation to find a program that aligns with your specific goals.
Accreditation doesn't equal automatic job placement: Accreditation ensures the program meets specific standards, but your success depends on your hard work, skills, and networking efforts.
Not a Guarantee for Graduation: Retention rates are generally lower in online programs, and it takes self-discipline to stay engaged.

Types of Accreditation: Institutional vs. Programmatic

There are two main types of accreditation:

Institutional Accreditation: This applies to the entire college or university. It shows that the institution as a whole meets specific standards for overall operations, academics, and student support.
Programmatic Accreditation (also called Specialized Accreditation): This focuses on specific degree programs within the college. For example, a nursing program might hold separate accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Why does this matter?

Look for both when applicable: Ideally, your online college should have institutional accreditation, and your chosen program should have programmatic accreditation (if it's a field where programmatic accreditation is common, like nursing, business, or engineering).

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Finding Accredited Online Colleges: How to Verify

Start with the College's Website: Most accredited online colleges proudly display their accreditation status on their website. Look for a dedicated "Accreditation" page or information in the "About Us" section.
Use the "Accreditation" Keyword Search: Enter the colleges name followed by the word "accreditation" into the search bar of your favorite web browser.
Check Reputable Accreditation Directories: The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) maintain lists of recognized accrediting agencies and the institutions they accredit. These are the definitive resources.
- U.S. Department of Education: College Accreditation in the United States | U.S. Department of Education
- Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA): Home | Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Beware of Accreditation Mills: Be wary of unvetted accreditations. Accreditation information should lead to a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
Ask Admissions Counselors: Don't hesitate to ask the college's admissions counselors about accreditation. They should be able to provide you with detailed information.
Placement Rate for Clinicals or Practicums: If you are in a specialized program, ensure that the college does not have placement issues in these areas.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of colleges that pressure you into enrolling quickly.
Guaranteed Job Placement: No college can guarantee job placement after graduation.
Unclear Accreditation Information: If the college is vague about its accreditation or the accrediting agency is unknown, proceed with caution.
Extremely Low Tuition Rates: Unusually low tuition rates may signal a lack of resources or compromised quality.
Negative Reviews: Check sites that offer student and graduate reviews of universities.

Finding the Best Accredited Online College for You

Choosing the right online college is a personal decision. Consider these factors:

Define Your Goals: What do you hope to achieve with an online degree? What are your career aspirations? Knowing your goals will help you narrow your focus.
Choose Your Major: Research programs in your chosen field and compare course offerings, program structure, and faculty expertise.
Consider Learning Style: Do you prefer synchronous (real-time) learning or asynchronous (self-paced) learning?
Evaluate Student Support Services: What resources are available to online students (e.g., tutoring, career services, technical support)?
Consider Programmatic Accreditation (When Applicable): Some fields of study require it.
Assess Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition rates, fees, and financial aid opportunities. The average online bachelor's degree ranges from $40,536 at public in-state programs to $63,185 at private schools in total program tuition cost, according to U.S. News data.
Balance and Commitments: Part-time students generally make up most of the undergraduate student body, but are often subject to lower retention rates. Be sure that your work/life balance is in place prior to committing.
Nontraditional Students: Make sure to have all support systems available when returning to school after a hiatus or career pivot.

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Is Online College Right for You? Consider the Pros and Cons

Potential Benefits:

Flexibility: Study at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Accessibility: Learn from anywhere with an internet connection.
Cost-Effectiveness: Online programs can often be more affordable than traditional on-campus programs, primarily due to savings on housing and commuting.
Variety of Programs: A vast array of degree programs are available online, from associate's to doctoral degrees.
Networking opportunities: Online learning may give you the opportunity to work with people all around the world.

Potential Drawbacks:

Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: Some students thrive on in-person interaction with faculty and classmates.
Self-Discipline Required: Online learning requires strong self-motivation and time management skills.
Technology Dependence: You'll need reliable internet access and computer skills.
Limited Hands-on Experience: Certain fields (like lab-based sciences) may be more challenging to study online.

Paying for Your Online Education

Accredited online colleges offer the same financial aid opportunities as traditional colleges, including:

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Scholarships and Grants: Explore scholarships and grants from various organizations and foundations.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement programs.
Private Loans: Consider private student loans if you need additional funding.

Finding the Right Online Degree

Here are some top online college programs:

Certificate in Medical Assisting:

A Certificate in Medical Assisting is a short-term educational program that trains students for entry-level positions in the medical field as medical assistants. Medical assistants perform both administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and doctors' offices.