Best Online Colleges & Universities 2025

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (UC) offers over 50 online associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across diverse subjects.

• Highly ranked programs with regional accreditation.
• Online students receive the same quality education as on-campus students.
• Flexible online courses ideal for working adults—complete coursework on your own time.
• Transfer credits accepted; partnerships with community colleges.
• Access to resources like advising, tutoring, writing center, and library.
• Build skills without interrupting your career; many see salary boosts.
• Join UC's extensive alumni network for career opportunities and perks.
• Respected degree from a top-ranked public research university.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Cost of Attendance: $27,473

In-state Tuition and Fees: $13,176

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $28,540

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,250

Median Earnings (10 years): $54,810

University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) offers over 100 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, many nationally ranked.

• Affordable in-state tuition with numerous scholarship opportunities.
• Emphasis on hands-on experiences, internships, and research to build career skills.
• Career center aids in job and internship placement.
• Average class sizes of 20-30 students for individualized attention.
• Diverse student population from varied backgrounds and life experiences.
• Join over 100 student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams.
• Suburban campus with easy access to St. Louis city resources and culture.
• Support services: advising, tutoring, counseling, disability access, veterans services, and more.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Cost of Attendance: $24,160

In-state Tuition and Fees: $11,693

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $29,960

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $53,037

Western Governors University (WGU) offers a self-paced, competency-based online education model.

• Accelerated learning: Complete courses as fast as you prove mastery.
• Flat-rate tuition: Pay a flat rate per 6-month term, regardless of course load.
• Accepts transfer credits: Reduce time and cost with previous college credits.
• Regionally accredited: Degrees are valid everywhere; many programs have specialty accreditations.
• High-demand fields: Programs in business, IT, teaching, healthcare, and more.
• Certification aligned: Many programs tie directly to certification exams.
• Personalized support: Access to a mentor, course instructors, and student advisors.
• Career advancement: Equip yourself with employer-desired skills; many graduates earn promotions or change careers.
• Fully online: No residency requirements; complete coursework remotely.
• Financial aid available: Apply for federal financial aid and military benefits.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Average Cost of Attendance: $14,042

In-state Tuition and Fees: $8,010

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $8,010

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $11,116

Median Earnings (10 years): $60,615

Trine University offers affordable online tuition, providing cost savings compared to on-campus rates.

• Over 30 online associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree programs in fields like business, education, and healthcare.
• Access to academic advising, tutoring, technical support, and library services.
• Small class sizes capped at 25 students for instructor engagement.
• Fully online; no campus attendance required.
• Some programs are self-paced, allowing accelerated course completion.
• Enhance skills without interrupting your career; many students receive promotions.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Cost of Attendance: $48,921

In-state Tuition and Fees: $34,890

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $34,890

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,000

Median Earnings (10 years): $57,165

BYU-Idaho, a private university sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers over 100 undergraduate degrees at very affordable tuition for LDS members.

• Spiritual Environment: Religion classes and weekly devotionals.
• Career-Oriented Programs: Hands-on experience and networking for job opportunities.
• Beautiful Campus: Located in Rexburg, Idaho, with opportunities for outdoor recreation.
• Strong Community: Common honor code and student clubs focused on service and volunteering.
• Support Services: Access to tutoring, counseling, and advising for student success.
• Small Class Sizes: Average of around 22 students for personalized attention.
• Affordable Education: Combines spiritual growth, rigorous career preparation, and a scenic environment.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Average Cost of Attendance: $12,807

In-state Tuition and Fees: $4,536

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $4,536

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $13,969

Median Earnings (10 years): $53,406

Valley City State University (VCSU) offers over 80 online bachelor's degree completion programs in fields like business, criminal justice, education, and healthcare.

• Online endorsement programs in Special Education and English Language Learner instruction.
• Affordable in-state tuition rates as part of North Dakota's university system.
• Flexible online format for working adults and out-of-state students.
• Expert faculty trained in online pedagogy for an engaging learning experience.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Cost of Attendance: $19,362

In-state Tuition and Fees: $8,458

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $13,422

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,369

Median Earnings (10 years): $52,725

Hallmark University offers fully online bachelor's and master's degrees in fields like business administration, cybersecurity, information technology, and nursing.

• Accredited Programs: Regionally accredited, ensuring credits and degrees are widely transferrable.
• Competitive Tuition: Approximately $400 per credit hour for undergraduates and $500 per credit for graduate programs.
• Accelerated Terms: 6-week terms allow students to complete degrees faster.
• 100% Online: No on-campus coursework or visits required.
• Flexible Scheduling: Online coursework and resources are accessible 24/7.
• Comprehensive Support: Access to academic advising, tutoring, technical support, library services, and career guidance.
• Small Class Sizes: Courses capped at 25 students for individualized attention and interaction.
• Military-Friendly: Benefits include tuition discounts and flexible credit transfer for military and veteran students.
• Affordable and Accredited: Provides cost-effective online degrees in professional fields with ample student support.

Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

Average Cost of Attendance: Data unavailable

In-state Tuition and Fees: Data unavailable

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: Data unavailable

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,438

Median Earnings (10 years): $40,183

Empire State University, part of the prestigious SUNY system, offers over 120 online associate's and bachelor's degree programs in diverse fields.

• Self-paced online courses: Accelerate degree completion year-round.
• Affordable in-state tuition rates for online learners.
• Generous transfer policy: Transfer up to 80 credits toward a bachelor's degree.
• Regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education; certain programs have specialty accreditations.
• Learn from dedicated faculty who are experts in online teaching.
• Join an engaged alumni community for networking and mentoring.
• Personalized guidance from dedicated advisors from enrollment to graduation.
• Access to tutoring, counseling, financial aid, library services, and more.
• Earn a degree from a renowned public college within the SUNY system.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Average Cost of Attendance: $17,645

In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,630

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $17,540

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $18,730

Median Earnings (10 years): $54,080

Columbia Southern University (CSU) offers a self-paced online education model.

• Flexible learning: Complete courses at your own pace year-round.
• Affordable tuition: Competitive rates compared to other online universities.
• Generous transfer policy: Accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward undergraduate degrees.
• Frequent start dates: New course sessions begin every 4 weeks.
• 24/7 access: Online resources and support available round-the-clock.
• Regionally accredited: Offers 98 accredited online degree programs.
• In-demand fields: Programs in business, criminal justice, IT, psychology, and public safety.
• Military-friendly: Accepts military credits and benefits like the GI Bill.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Cost of Attendance: $16,520

In-state Tuition and Fees: $6,015

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $6,015

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,339

Median Earnings (10 years): $63,534

American Public University (APU) offers affordable, flexible online programs starting monthly.

• No entrance exams required.
• No application fees for undergraduate and master's programs.
• Over 200 degree and certificate programs available.
• Transfer credits accepted from prior education or work experience.
• Learn at your own pace alongside working professionals.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Cost of Attendance: $16,779

In-state Tuition and Fees: $7,360

Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $7,360

Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,743

Median Earnings (10 years): $44,409