Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities 2023
Online degree programs have become an alternative way for high school graduates to earn college degrees. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced students across the country and worldwide to come home from college. Colleges that hadn’t yet gone online were forced to start offering online classes, many of which are still around.
Students now have more options than just going to campus to pursue their education. More and more potential students find that the traditional college or university education model does not fit into their lifestyle, so studying online is the place to be for the flexibility you may need.
If you think an online degree program is right for you, you can do a couple more things. One of them is to look through our list of best online colleges below.
Accredited Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.When you are ready to decide which online college or university you want to attend, you must make sure it is accredited. You can check any school’s status by searching the institution’s name on the Distance Education Accrediting Commission’s website here. When you get to the site, scroll down a bit to see the search menu. If the online school isn’t on the list of accredited schools, future employers won’t accept the degrees it gives, so look for another online college.
As the demand for online degree options has increased over the years, colleges and universities have created more online classes and degree programs to meet the need. You can pursue nearly every course of study. No matter why you want to go to college or university online, you can make it work with the other things you have to do. They can make it possible for you to reach all your educational and career goals.
A college education is one of the biggest expenses in most people’s lives. According to the College Board, tuition and fees for a four-year public university averaged $9,410 for in-state students and $24,061 for out-of-state students during the 2016–17 school year. For private nonprofit universities, it was an average of $33,480.
Rankings
The best online colleges listed below are all nationally accredited by DEAC, and the U.S. Department of Education recognizes their accreditation. Schools are ranked solely on affordability, according to tuition.
All data comes from school websites and the National Center for Education Statistics.
20 Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges 2023
1. University of the People
Tuition: $1,200
The University of the People offers free online courses accredited by the US Department of Education (DOE). These online classes give you credit for a bachelor’s degree from colleges worldwide, including Yale University and Brandeis University.
The University of the People is a private university that offers online courses that students can take at their own pace to learn and get training. This accredited school is ranked number one among our best online colleges. The University of the People was established in 2009, and its headquarters are in Pasadena, California. It is known that the University of the People was the first non-profit, tuition-free online university to get approval from a U.S. agency. This university wants to help everyone who wants to learn get an education, no matter what obstacles are in the way. The University of the People believes that higher education is a right for all. Students can get an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree or an MBA from the comfort of their own homes or from anywhere in the world where they can connect to the internet. The programs currently offered are an Associate of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, Associate of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Associate of Science in Health Science, Bachelor of Science in Health Science, a Master of Education, and more.
You can now earn your Bachelor’s Degree without paying any tuition fee through UOP’s partnership with top universities around the globe, such as Yale University and Brandeis International Business School. Their courses are taught by experienced academics who have been teaching at traditional institutions like Harvard or Stanford but decided to teach with UOP instead. On our list, the University of the People is the best online college with national accreditation.
Online tuition-free university degrees. (2019). University of the People. Retrieved from: https://www.uopeople.edu/programs/
University of the people. (2020). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/university-of-the-people/
2. William Howard Taft University – The Taft University System
Tuition: $3,740
The Taft University System (TUS) was started in 1976 and is near Denver, Colorado. It consists of two divisions: the Taft Law School and the William Howard Taft University. The university system’s goal is to give people from all over the world access to education and self-paced training. So, students at the William Howard Taft University division often have access to the course content and online programs. Some of the online programs currently offered at William Howard Taft University are the Doctor of Education with a concentration in technology and leadership, the Doctor of Education with a concentration in charter school administration, the Master of Science in Taxation, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master of Business Administration with a concentration in health care administration, Master of Business Administration with a concentration in private practice management, a Doctor of Business Administration, and more. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) has given William Howard Taft University, part of the Taft University System, an accreditation. TUS is also a member of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
William Howard Taft University provides a high-quality education that is affordable, convenient, and accessible for every student, regardless of their location or financial situation. We give our students a personalized approach that helps them reach their goals and sets them up for success as lawyers in the future.
Students who want to become lawyers can get degrees from the Taft University System either online or on campus. Our programs offer the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this competitive field.
Academic programs. (2020). The Taft University System. Retrieved from: https://www.taft.edu/academic-programs
The Taft University System. (2020). The Taft University System. Retrieved from: http://taftuniversitysystem.edu/
3. University of Arkansas System eVersity
Tuition: $4,200
The University of Arkansas System eVersity has been offering high-quality education to students for generations. The university aims to enrich individuals’ through high-quality education, accessibility, affordability, relevancy, and personalization. eVersity is the only 100% online university apart of the University of Arkansas system. There are five main areas of study for students to choose from: business, criminal justice, healthcare management, information technology, and university studies. Within all of these study areas, you can earn a certificate, associate’s, or a bachelor’s degree. The University of Arkansas System eVersity is proudly accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission.
Online universities are typically associated with low-quality education and high costs. But the University of Arkansas System eVersity can solve this problem by offering high-quality education at a lower cost than other universities while also providing students with flexibility in their learning schedule.
Students at the UASeV can take classes in traditional semesters or accelerated 8-week sessions, allowing them to get their degree faster than at most other schools. Unlike other online colleges, all classes are taught live by professors who have been awarded Best Professors in America by Princeton Review and received national recognition from the National Science Foundation for excellence in teaching science and math on a college level.
The University of Arkansas System eVersity has been offering high-quality education to students for generations. The university wants to improve people’s lives by making high-quality education easy to get, affordable, relevant, and tailored to each person.
Students can now sign up for classes at any time of day or night, and they don’t have to spend time commuting because all classes are now online. Classes start every eight weeks, so there’s always an upcoming class available if you miss one here and there because life gets busy sometimes. With affordable tuition rates starting at $220 per credit hour, it’s easy on your wallet and convenient for those who want quality education but don’t have the time or resources to attend a brick-and-mortar campus.
About us. (2021). The University of Arkansas System eVersity. Retrieved from: https://eversity.edu/about/about-eversity/
Areas of Study. (2021). The University of Arkansas System eVersity. Retrieved from:https://eversity.edu/academics/areas-of-study/
4. Martinsburg College
Tuition: $4,500
Martinsburg College was founded in 1980, when its first location opened in New York. It moved its location to Martinsburg, West Virginia, in 2006 and has remained there ever since. This college offers self-paced learning for all its programs, and the main goal is to give all distance learners a high-quality education. Martinsburg College has great academic programs and a lot of help for non-traditional learners. This has made students very happy and increased the number of people who finish their degrees. The following are the degree and certificate programs currently offered at this college: Associate of Science in Business Administration, Associate of Science in Integrated Technologies, Associate of Science in Healthcare Administration, Pharmacy Technician Certification, Homeland Security Certification, Smart Home Technology Certification, Healthcare Administrative Specialist Certification, Surgical Instrument Processing Certification, and more.
Many students can’t attend a traditional college because they have to work, care for their families, or do something else.
Martinsburg College is here to help those students who have been left out of the higher education system. They offer a wide variety of online learning programs that allow you to earn your degree anywhere in the world without restrictions on time and place.
Martinsburg College’s online degree options include bachelor’s degrees in business management, healthcare management, criminal justice administration, and nursing and associate degrees in computer science and information technology. All the courses can be done at your own pace, so you don’t have to worry about missing classes or deadlines. In addition, they also provide certificate programs for people who want a more specialized educational experience but do not need an official degree for their career path. Martinsburg’s courses are 100% online, so you don’t need to visit campus or commute between lectures – everything can be done from home.
About us. (2020). Martinsburg College. Retrieved from: https://martinsburgcollege.edu/about-us/
5. Aspen University
Tuition: $5,110
Aspen University is a private, for-profit, nationally accredited online college. This university was founded in 1987 and is located in the Denver, Colorado area. The goal of the university is to help make college tuition affordable through financial aid, in the United States and provide a high-quality course design and an online program opportunity to the online student interested in distance learning as a self-paced program. A few of the programs delivered to students through the online campus are the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master in Business Administration, Master of Science in Information Management, Master of Science in Information Systems, Doctor of Science in Computer Science, Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and more.
Aspen University offers an affordable solution for those who want to continue their education without taking out loans or going into debt. Industry leaders in business, technology, management, healthcare, and more design their online courses. They provide students with flexible study options that fit their busy lifestyle – from part-time programs you can take while working full-time jobs to self-paced learning opportunities that let you work around other commitments like family life or travel plans.
With Aspen Universities online degree program options available 24/7 through their virtual classroom platform, it’s never been easier for anyone interested in continuing their education, whether they’re already employed or looking for a career change.
Aspen University. (2020). Aspen University. Retrieved from: https://www.aspen.edu/
Aspen University. (2020). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/aspen-university/
6. Shiloh University
Tuition: $5,250
Shiloh University is a nationally accredited online college that was established in the year 2006. This university is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, which the Council acknowledges for Higher Education Accreditation. Shiloh is known for providing a Christian, online learning environment to individuals interested in becoming church leaders, Bible teachers, and pastors. Students who are accepted to the university can choose from a number of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Each self-paced online course and program is focused on giving students a faith-based education. The undergraduate and graduate degrees currently offered at this university are a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Pastoral Studies, Bachelor of Arts in New Testament Studies, Master of Arts in Theological Studies, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry in Relational Testament, and more.
About us. (2020). Shiloh University. Retrieved from: https://www.shilohuniversity.edu/about-us/
Academics. (2020). Shiloh University. Retrieved from: https://www.shilohuniversity.edu/academics/
7. Columbia Southern University
Tuition: $5,775
Columbia Southern University is a private, for-profit university dedicated to teaching online students. This university is located in Orange Beach, Alabama, and possesses an undergraduate population of 8,567. Students attending this online college may choose to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree with their individual self-paced course schedule. The university’s mission is to provide various academic programs that are affordable, flexible, and convenient to students around the world. The following are several of the degree program enrollment options students may choose from: Associate of Science in Business, Associate of Science in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services Administration, Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, Master of Public Administration, Doctor of Business Administration, and more.
About us. (2020). Columbia Southern University. Retrieved from: https://www.columbiasouthern.edu/about-csu
Columbia Southern University. (2020). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/columbia-southern-university/
8. City Vison University
Tuition: $6,000
City Vision University is a private university located in Kansas City, Missouri. It offers a variety of academic programs dedicated to student success around the world through an online setting. This university was established in1998 and is known for its readily accessible core courses for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree offerings. City Vision University is committed to providing a Christian educational atmosphere for each student enrolled in a college course or online class. The degrees currently available at this school are Associate in Christian Ministry and Leadership, Associate in Business, Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling, Bachelor’s in Nonprofit Management, Bachelor’s in Christian Ministry and Leadership, Bachelor’s in Business, and Masters in Business Administration.
About city vision university. (2020). City Vision University. Retrieved from: https://www.cityvision.edu/about/
City vision university. (2020). Niche. Retrieved from: https://www.niche.com/colleges/city-vision-university/
9. Abraham Lincoln University
Tuition: $6,400
Abraham Lincoln University is a private, for-profit university. It is an online university devoted to providing higher education to all students across the globe who desire to earn a degree without commuting to campus. This university is located in Los Angeles, California, where it was formed in 1996. It is one of the several nationally accredited online colleges in the United States that is known for providing academic programs at all degree levels. The university’s mission is to offer learning opportunities that are accessible and career-focused for undergraduate and graduate students. Individuals who are interested in this school may enroll in the following degree programs: Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, Associate of Science in Criminal Justice, Associate of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master of Science in Law, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Master of Business Administration, Doctorate of Business Administration, Juris Doctor, and more.
History of ALU. (2020). Abraham Lincoln University. Retrieved from: https://www.alu.edu/about/alu-history/
Mission & Vision. (2020). Abraham Lincoln University. Retrieved from: https://www.alu.edu/about/alu-mission/
10. Huntington University of Health Sciences
Tuition: $6,610
Before it became Huntington University of Health Sciences in 1985, it was called the American Academy of Nutrition. This university is located in Knoxville, Tennessee, and was created to provide online academic programs for individuals interested in earning an education in nutrition. In 2018, it changed its name as it began offering other academic programs. The university is one of the several nationally accredited online colleges by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission and a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Some of the various programs that are offered at Huntington University of Health Sciences are the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Master of Science in Nutrition, Associate of Science in Applied Nutrition, Doctor of Science in Integrative Healthcare, Diploma in Small Business Management, Diploma in Herbal Sciences, and more.
About Us. (2019). Huntington University of Health Science. Retrieved from: https://www.huhs.edu/about-us/
All programs & degrees. (2019). Huntington University of Health Sciences. Retrieved from: https://www.huhs.edu/nutrition-programs-degrees/
11. National Paralegal College
Tuition: $7,995
The National Paralegal College started in 2003 and has been known as an online college since 2006. The college has grown tremendously and offers seven academic programs and over 100 courses. This school wants to give busy people who want to become paralegals, business experts, or legal professionals the chance to learn from home. Students can get to their classes at any time of day or night from anywhere with an internet connection. The following academic programs are currently available to students attending this college: Associate of Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Business Administration, Master of Science in Legal Studies, Master of Science in Compliance Law, Master of Science in Taxation, and a certificate in Paralegal Studies.
National Paralegal College. Retrieved from: https://nationalparalegal.edu/Description.aspx
12. Grantham University
Tuition: $8,280
Grantham University was formed in 1951 as part of a traditional college in Southern California. It is now located in Lenexa, Kansas, and offers over 50 degree and certificate programs. The university is one of the several accredited online colleges in the United States. It has continuously received its accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. The commonly chosen programs by students at this university are the Associate of Arts in Business Management, Associate of Science in Computer Science, Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology, Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management, Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communications, Master of Business Administration, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Leadership, and more.
History. (2020). Grantham University. Retrieved from: https://www.grantham.edu/about-grantham/history/
13. Catholic Distance University
Tuition: $8,405
Catholic Distance University is a private college that was founded in 1983. It is located in Charles Town, West Virginia. This university is committed to providing a Catholic education through a digital platform. All courses and programs are delivered to students worldwide as long as they have an internet connection. Catholic Distance University has programs like Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Master of Arts in Theology, Master of Arts in Theology and Educational Ministry, Undergraduate Catechetical Coordinator certificate, Sacred Scripture certificate, Church History certificate, Catholic Educators certificate, and more. Individuals who choose this university come from many different circumstances. Some of them work full-time, have young children, are in the military, are deacons, or are religious and can’t drive to college campuses. The goal of this university is to help people with other responsibilities get the education they want.
About CDU. (2020). Catholic Distance University. Retrieved from: https://cdu.edu/about-cdu/
Mission and institutional principles. (2020). Catholic Distance University. Retrieved from: https://cdu.edu/mission-institutional-principles/
Why choose CDU? (2020) Catholic Distance University. Retrieved from: https://cdu.edu/why-choose-cdu/
14. University of Management and Technology
Tuition: $9,450
The University of Management and Technology opened in 1998. It is a private college that is run for profit. It is located in Arlington, Virginia, close to the Washington, D.C., area. Students who want to learn online can choose from several associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at this university. The focus of this college is the management and technology sectors, but it does offer a few academic programs in other career fields to fit the goals and needs of all individuals. The following are the most popular programs at the University of Management and Technology: Associate of Business Administration, Associate of Science in Criminal Justice, Associate of Science in Engineering Management, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Health Administration, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Master of Science in Homeland Security, Doctor of Business Administration, and more.
Academic programs. (2020). University of Management and Technology. Retrieved from: https://www.umtweb.edu/AcademicPrograms.aspx
General Information. (2020). University of Management and Technology. Retrieved from: https://www.umtweb.edu/GeneralInfo.aspx
History.(2020). University of Management and Technology. Retrieved from: https://www.umtweb.edu/GI.aspx?key=h
15. College of Court Reporting
Tuition: $9,950
The College of Court Reporting is located in Valparaiso, Indiana, and it is committed to helping students succeed in studying court reporting through its online academic offerings. This college was founded in 1984 and is known for its student-centered approach to education. Students attending this college have access to coaching, mentoring, and teaching from the comfort of their homes or anywhere in the world. Each program will focus on in-depth, hands-on learning that will prepare students for the duties of their prospective careers. Graduates of the programs will have gained the essential knowledge and skills to grow professionally and academically. In addition, they will be prepared with the adaptable tools to tackle the ever-changing field of court reporting. The three programs offered by this school are the Associate of Applied Science in Court Reporting, certification in Court Reporting, and certification in Voice Writing.
Our mission and objectives. (2020). College of Court Reporting. Retrieved from: http://www.ccr.edu/index.php/about/our-mission-and-objectives
Why consider college of court reporting. (2020). College of Court Reporting. Retrieved from: http://www.ccr.edu/index.php/about/why-consider-ccr
16. California Miramar University
Tuition: $9,994
California Miramar University provides excellent educational opportunities to individuals around the world. The main campus is in San Diego, California, but students who can’t get there by car can take their classes online or in a hybrid setting. The faculty and staff employed by this university are technology-driven, highly educated, and experienced professionals prepared to meet the student’s educational and professional needs. Admitted students may enroll in the following academic programs: Associate of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, Master of Science in Strategic Leadership, and Doctor of Business Administration. Regardless of which program students choose to pursue, each will focus on developing essential skills that will benefit their careers, such as knowledge, communication, technical skills, social and ethical skills, critical thinking, and program solving.
Mission, vision, and learning objectives. (2020). CMU. Retrieved from: https://www.calmu.edu/mission-and-pledge/
17. International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
Tuition: $10,107
The International Sports Sciences Association is an educational institution that was established in 1988. It gives certifications to people who want to become fitness trainers, personal trainers, nutrition trainers, aerobic trainers, and many other types of sports trainers. Some of the perks of earning a fitness certification at the International Sports Sciences Association are that the courses can be completed anytime, maximum support is always available, and students can learn from home or on the go. Students from all over the world take advantage of the academic opportunities at this institution, including certificates in DNA-Based Fitness Coaching, Bodybuilding, Corrective Exercise, Exercise Therapy, Group Fitness, Youth Fitness, Strength & Conditioning, and more.
Why over 300,000 students choose our certification courses. (2020). ISSA. Retrieved from: https://www.issaonline.com/
18. University of Fairfax
Tuition: $10,328
The mission of the University of Fairfax is to “offer flexible, in-demand distance education programs that meet the needs of employers in a changing global marketplace.” The University of Fairfax was made to meet the need for fast-paced, competitive careers in business, cybersecurity, and information technology. This prestigious institution does not offer any associate’s or bachelor degrees, only graduate-level degrees and certificates are achievable. A few of the degrees include Cybersecurity Best Practices Certificate, Masters in Cybersecurity Management, Doctorate of Software Development, Master of Computer Science and Engineering, Doctorate of Business Administration, Project Management and Quality Assurance Certificate, and Doctorate of Information Assurance. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits the University of Fairfax.
About us. (2021). The University of Fairfax. Retrieved from: https://ufairfax.edu/university/elearning/
Academic Programs. (2021). The University of Fairfax. Retrieved from: https://ufairfax.edu/academic-programs/
19. American Sentinel University
Tuition: $10,520
American Sentinel University was founded in 1890 with a goal to change the communities they work within. American Sentinel University has a mission to, “provide students with the knowledge, personal skills, and experiences required to become leaders in their chosen careers.” The university offers over 60 completely online degree programs including associates, bachelors, master’s doctorate, and a multitude of certificates. A few of the degree programs include Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management/Homeland Security, Master of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Project Management, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Nursing Practice-Executive Leadership, Graduate Certificate in Alcohol/Drug Counseling, Graduate Certificate in Professional Counseling and a multitude of other degrees and certificates. American Sentinel University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and licensed by the state through the Office of Higher Education.
About us. (2021). American Sentinel University. Retrieved from: https://post.edu/about/
Academics. (2021). American Sentinel University. Retrieved from: https://post.edu/academic
20. Sonoran Desert Institute
Tuition: $10,630
The Distance Education Accrediting Commission has given the Sonoran Desert Institute its seal of approval since 2004. The institute was started in 2000. The institute’s primary goal is to help people who want to work in the firearms industry get higher education. This is a small Tempe, Arizona, school with two online programs that students can only access online. The two programs are an Associate of Science in Firearms Technology and a certificate in Advanced Gunsmithing. Both programs teach students how to handle guns in a flexible online setting. All students are given the convenience of a high-quality education that fits their life obligations.
History of success. (2020). Sonoran Desert Institute. Retrieved from: https://sdi.edu/history/
Mission, vision, and purposes. (2020). Sonoran Desert Institute. Retrieved from: https://sdi.edu/mission-vision-and-purposes/
21. Sessions College for Professional Design
Tuition: $10,740
Sessions College for Professional Design has been around since 1997. It is a private college that is run for profit. This college is in Tempe, Arizona, and is known as one of the best online accredited colleges for artists and designers who want to learn more. Students at Sessions College for Professional Design come from over 90 countries, making it a unique place to study. The curriculum is delivered to these students through an online platform. All programs are affordable, including affordable online MBA programs readily accessible, and meet the educational standards for students to succeed. Each course is also based on a project and gives the student hands-on experience relevant to their career goals. A few of the degrees offered at this college are Associate of Science in Graphic Design, Associate of Science in Digital Media, Associate of Science in Advertising Design, Associate of Science in Web Design, Associate of Science in Digital Photography, and more. Students will have learned the skills and tools they need to be creative assets to clients and businesses by the time they graduate.
About sessions. (2020). Sessions College for Professional Design. Retrieved from: https://www.sessions.edu/about-sessions/
Top 28 Nationally Accredited Online Colleges List
| INSTITUTION NAME | CATEGORY | ACCREDITATION STATUS | CITY | STATE | TUITION & FEES |
| University of the People | Degree Granting | Accredited | Pasadena | CA | $1,200 |
| William Howard Taft University – The Taft University System | Degree Granting | Accredited | Lakewood | CO | $3,740 |
| University of Arkansas System eVersity | Degree Granting | Accredited | Little Rock | AR | $4,200 |
| Martinsburg College | Degree Granting | Accredited | Martinsburg | WV | $4,500 |
| Aspen University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Denver | CO | $5,110 |
| Shiloh University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Kalona | IA | $5,250 |
| Columbia Southern University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Orange Beach | AL | $5,775 |
| City Vision University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Kansas City | MO | $6,000 |
| Abraham Lincoln University | Degree Granting | Accreditation Deferred | Glendale | CA | $6,400 |
| Huntington University of Health Sciences | Degree Granting | Accredited | Knoxville | TN | $6,610 |
| National Paralegal College | Degree Granting | Accredited | Phoenix | AZ | $7,995 |
| Grantham University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Lenexa | KS | $8,280 |
| Catholic Distance University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Charles Town | WV | $8,405 |
| University of Management and Technology | Degree Granting | Accredited | Arlington | VA | $9,450 |
| College of Court Reporting | Degree Granting | Accredited | Valaparaiso | IN | $9,950 |
| California Miramar University | Degree Granting | Accredited | San Diego | CA | $9,994 |
| International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) | Degree Granting | Accredited | Carpinteria | CA | $10,107 |
| University of Fairfax | Degree Granting | Accredited | Salem | VA | $10,328 |
| American Sentinel University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Denver | CO | $10,520 |
| Sonoran Desert Institute | Degree Granting | Accredited | Tempe | AZ | $10,630 |
| Sessions College for Professional Design | Degree Granting | Accredited | Tempe | AZ | $10,740 |
| American National University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Salem | VA | $10,772 |
| California Intercontinental University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Irvine | CA | $10,805 |
| American College of Healthcare Sciences | Degree Granting | Accredited | Portland | OR | $11,640 |
| Westcliff University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Irvine | CA | $13,560 |
| American Business and Technology University | Degree Granting | Accredited | Saint Joseph | MO | $21,450 |
| California Institute of Advanced Management | Degree Granting | Accredited | Alhambra | CA | $24,000 |
| Laurus College | Degree Granting | Accredited | Santa Maria | CA | $36,100 |
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 |
2019 List of Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
1. California Coast University
Tuition: $4,725
Accreditation: DEAC
2. Western Governors University
Tuition: $6,070
Accreditation: NCATE
3. Grantham University
Tuition: $6,540
Accreditation: DEAC
4. Columbia Southern University
Tuition: $6,600
Accreditation: DEAC
5. American Public University System
Tuition: $6,880
Accreditation: DEAC
6. Abraham Lincoln University
Tuition: $7,500
Accreditation: DEAC
8. Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Tuition: $13,905
Accreditation: HLC, ABHES
9. American National University
Tuition: $14,886
Accreditation: DEAC
10. ECPI University Online
Tuition: $16,039
Accreditation: ABHES, ACCET, and ACCSC
See the full list of rankings below of 2023’s nationally accredited colleges with online programs, including Bible colleges. If you’re wondering which online colleges are nationally accredited, this will show you the best accredited online colleges.
Full List of the Top 41 Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
| Shiloh University | DEAC | $4,510 |
| California Coast University | DEAC | $4,725 |
| Western Governors University | DEAC | $6,070 |
| Grantham University | DEAC | $6,540 |
| Columbia Southern University | DEAC | $6,600 |
| American Public University System | DEAC | $6,880 |
| Abraham Lincoln University | DEAC | $7,500 |
| N/A | ABHES | $10,935 |
| Calvary University | ABHE | $11,152 |
| Liberty University | TRACS | $11,700 |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State University | ABHES | $13,905 |
| American National University | DEAC | $14,886 |
| Johnson University | ABHE | $14,920 |
| ECPI University Online | ABHES, ACCET, and ACCSC | $16,039 |
| Stratford University | ABHES | $15,135 |
| Independence University | ACCSC, CCNE, and CoARC | $16,968 |
| The Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Online Division | ACICS | $17,014 |
| Eastern Kentucky University | ACCET | $18,250 |
| Keiser University eCampus | ABHES | $18,488 |
| Southwestern Assemblies of God University | ABHE | $19,994 |
| California Institute of Advanced Management | ACICS | $20,000 |
| Ohio Christian University | ABHE | $20,240 |
| Toccoa Falls College | ABHE | $22,104 |
| Columbia International University | ABHE | $22,390 |
| Virginia College Online | ACICS | $22,600 |
| Full Sail University | ACCSC | $23,694 |
| Crown College | ABHE | $25,430 |
| Andrews University | DEAC | $28,436 |
| LA Film School – Online | ACCET and ACCSC | $29,500 |
| San Diego Christian College | TRACS | $30,438 |
| Miller-Motte College Online | ACICS |
$10,800 – $11,740
|
| Kaplan University | DEAC |
$11,581 – $16,246
|
| Purdue University Global | DEAC |
$11,581 – $16,246
|
| Carrington College | ABHES and ACCSC |
$13,975 – $54,125
|
| Brookline College Online | ABHES and ACICS |
$14,500 – $15,515
|
| Bryan University Online | ACCSC |
$15,400 – $15,447
|
| Ultimate Medical Academy | ABHES |
$15,500 – $15,550
|
| Pinnacle Career Institute Online | ACCSC and ACICS |
$15,765 – $20,465
|
| Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts Online | ACCET |
$23,900 – $23,982
|
| Kansas Christian College | ABHE | $5,460 – $7,640 |
| Miller-Motte Technical College Online | ACICS | $9,500 – $12,420 |
Thanks to technological advances like the internet, it is easier than ever to attend college. What once required four or more years of moving to a new city and living away from home can now be achieved from your computer, whether it be an undergraduate degree, an online bachelor’s degree, or an affordable online mba program, wherever you are in the world.
Quite a few schools have entered the online education arena, but some of them are much more reputable than others. Nationally accredited online colleges have official recognition as schools that provide a high-quality education for an affordable price with measurable career outcomes for their graduates.
Nationally Accredited Online Colleges & Universities FAQ
What is National Institutional Accreditation?
The purpose of national accreditation bodies is to accredit trade and vocational schools and technical (art & design, nursing, etc.) schools, as well as professional programs that provide certificates and degrees.
There are a variety of recognized national accreditation agencies, including:
- 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)
- Council on Occupational Education (COE)
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
- National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCS)
- Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
Nationally accredited online colleges may be less expensive than regionally-accredited schools. Admission standards are typically more relaxed at nationally accredited online colleges than regionally accredited. In general, nationally accredited online for-profit colleges primarily generate money by enrolling students or selling educational goods. They may also have investors to answer to. Generally, institutions with national accreditation will accept credits from both regionally and nationally accredited colleges. Credits from nationally accredited online schools are not transferable to a regionally accredited college. Employers will accept nationally accredited degrees but graduates are not always eligible for corporate tuition reimbursement programs.
What are the best accredited online colleges?
The best nationally accredited online colleges are
- 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?
Read this article on accreditation to help you decide.
Is SNHU Online Nationally Accredited?
No. SNHU is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc. (NECHE). See: 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.
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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fizkes // Shutterstock
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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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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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.
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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