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Online college is a great way to earn a degree. Learn more about the top online colleges and the costs of an online degree.

Best Online Colleges and Unversities

More than seven million college students took online classes in 2019, and nearly 3.5 million enrolled in fully online colleges. Online programs offer students a flexible, convenient way to further their education.

Online enrollees can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in many fields. Common areas include business, healthcare, and education. Some programs require students to attend virtual classes at set meeting times. Others allow learners to complete coursework at their convenience. Most programs allow online learners to complete any in-person requirements locally.

Our list ranks the best online colleges. Prospective students can use this list to find the right fit for their budget and goals.

View Our Rankings List Here

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Bachelors Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges

How much does online college cost?

Cost varies by program and school. Students enrolled at public, in-state schools usually pay the most affordable tuition. As of August 2021, in-state tuition for an online bachelor’s degree averages $38,500. Tuition averages $54,180 at out-of-state colleges.

Can I go to college online for free?

Eligible students can apply to tuition-free online colleges. Learners can also research financial aid such as scholarships and grants to lower out-of-pocket costs.

Is it cheaper to get a degree online?

Earning a degree online can help students save money since they do not need to commute to campus or relocate to attend the most affordable program. Many online programs run asynchronously. This delivery format allows students to continue working while earning their degrees.

Why Get a College Degree Online?

Earning a degree online offers flexibility. Learners can complete coursework from anywhere while managing work and family responsibilities.

An online learning format can also save students money. Many colleges offer tuition breaks for fully online students. They may charge a flat tuition rate regardless of learners’ residency.

How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?

Degree costs vary by program and school. Bachelor’s programs generally cost more than associate programs. Private schools usually charge more than public schools.

Students earning a bachelor’s degree online pay an average of $9,350 per year in tuition and fees at public, in-state colleges, according to 2019-20 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Learners at private colleges pay $32,770 in tuition and fees. Scholarships and grants can help enrollees pay for their degree.

Additional Online College Student Fees

Online learners should budget for additional fees, such as upgrading their internet or buying a new computer. Some online colleges charge distance-learning and graduation fees. Students also need to buy books and class materials, which cost an average of $1,240 per year.

Some online programs include on-campus components. Learners should reserve money for travel and lodging. Before choosing an online college, prospective students can ask advisors about a degree’s total cost.

Available Online College Degrees

Colleges and universities offer online programs in popular fields like business, healthcare, and education. Students can pursue degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Online programs help build strong critical thinking and analytical skills. They also hone problem-solving, research, writing, and communication skills.

Learners pursuing an online bachelor’s degree complete general education courses, major courses, and electives. Master’s programs include advanced coursework and specialization options. See below for information on three common online degrees.

• Business

  Online business programs train students in accounting, marketing, finance, and management. Many online programs offer specializations in areas like entrepreneurship, information systems, and international business. Online students may complete local internships or other projects to prepare for the workforce.

• Nursing

  Online nursing programs prepare learners for several nursing careers. Enrollees complete coursework, labs, and practicums. The major helps learners develop career-ready skills like taking health assessments and managing patient care. Online nursing programs work with students to arrange local clinical experiences.

• Education

  Many education careers require a degree, including teaching and administrative jobs. An online education degree prepares educators for roles in the classroom or education leadership. Distance learners study assessment methods, educational technology, and curriculum design. They also complete student teaching or in-person requirements locally.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online MBA Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

The Best Online Colleges 2022

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Nursing Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.