Want to earn a degree online? Discover the best online colleges and universities, plus resources on choosing a school and applying for financial aid.
By
Reporter, Business Education
Bennett Leckrone is a news writer for BestColleges. Before joining BestColleges, Leckrone reported on state politics with the nonprofit news outlet Maryland Matters as a Report for America fellow. He previously interned for The Chronicle of Higher Ed...
Updated on June 26, 2024
Edited by
Writer & Editor
Danika Miller is a senior writer at BestColleges and Accredited Schools Online. Her writing has also appeared in Grad School Hub, Best Value Schools, Affordable Colleges Online, and Her Campus. Her financial expertise has been featured in The Simple ...
Learn more about our editorial process
By
Reporter, Business Education
Bennett Leckrone is a news writer for BestColleges. Before joining BestColleges, Leckrone reported on state politics with the nonprofit news outlet Maryland Matters as a Report for America fellow. He previously interned for The Chronicle of Higher Ed...
Edited by
Writer & Editor
Danika Miller is a senior writer at BestColleges and Accredited Schools Online. Her writing has also appeared in Grad School Hub, Best Value Schools, Affordable Colleges Online, and Her Campus. Her financial expertise has been featured in The Simple ...
Updated on June 26, 2024
Learn more about our editorial process
www.bestcolleges.com 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.
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An online degree program is more than just a price tag. At BestColleges, we compare graduation rates, admissions rates, faculty-to-student ratios, net price, and more to create a holistic ranking of the best online schools.
The University of Florida is our top online university for 2024. With more schools rolling out online degree programs, Florida and others still managed to rise above the rest and stand out as top online schools in the country.
Featured Online College Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Colleges and Universities of 2024
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com 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.
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#1 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $129
Out-of-State | $552
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Florida specializes in affordable online undergraduate and bachelor's degree completion programs. UFOnline's 24 majors include biology, criminology, nursing, and environmental management. Each curriculum requires general education credits and major coursework.
UF's BA in business administration offers 11 specializations so that you can tailor your degree to your career goals. You can also finish any degree faster by transferring up to 60 credits from an accredited two-year college.
First-year applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and SAT, ACT, and/or CLT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
55,781
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Accreditation
Yes
#2 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $575
Out-of-State | $1,582
Credits to Graduate: 120-126
George Mason University offers 50 online and hybrid programs with great flexibility for those seeking to learn from afar. Four-year degrees include health, engineering and technology, and business and management. The online RN-to-BSN at Mason ranks among the best in the nation.
You can finish a degree faster by transferring credits into one of five degree completion programs. The bachelor of individualized study is a degree completion option that allows you to tailor the curriculum to your career goals.
First-year applicants must submit official transcripts and optional SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students need a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,035
Out-of-state
$34,347
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
38,628
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Accreditation
Yes
#3 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $542-$692
Out-of-State | $659-$809
Credits to Graduate: 120
Missouri Online offers 375 online programs from Mizzou's four institutions. Bachelor's degree programs include business administration, information systems and technology, public health, and respiratory technology.
You can design your own degree plan with a BA in interdisciplinary studies or a bachelor of liberal studies. A bachelor of educational studies includes an emphasis in educational games and simulation design.
Some degrees offer a hybrid option or may require an on-campus component. Part of Mizzou's appeal is a seamless credit transfer system so you can finish a degree faster. First-year applicants submit optional SAT or ACT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,017
Out-of-state
$28,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,950
Out-of-state
$27,245
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
31,401
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Accreditation
Yes
#4 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Northeastern University Professional Programs
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $541
Out-of-State | $541
Credits to Graduate: 120
Northeastern University's undergraduate online program emphasizes bachelor's degree completion. You can earn degrees in in-demand fields such as analytics, information technology, and project management. The curriculum for each degree requires general education, major courses, and elective credits.
Transfer credits can satisfy general education and other requirements as stated. Graduate students have access to Northeastern's extensive catalog of online graduate degrees. Master's degrees include the fields of applied psychology, biotechnology, and energy systems.
Active U.S. service members and spouses receive a steep tuition discount. Transfer students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,984
Out-of-state
$12,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,866
Out-of-state
$22,866
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,918
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Accreditation
Yes
#5 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $404
Out-of-State | $817
Credits to Graduate: 120
Florida International University (FIU) has offered online education for 20 years. FIU Online has bachelor's degree programs in fields such as economics, psychology, nursing, and Spanish.
The notable BA in sustainability and the environment requires coursework on South Florida's ecology and applied field ecology. FIU's BS in hospitality management program offers eight online majors, including hospitality leadership and event management.
FIU pairs every online undergrad with a success coach. Other services include professional development programs and free online therapy sessions. First-year applicants must submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Accreditation
Yes
#6 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $459-$574
Out-of-State | $459-$574
Credits to Graduate: 180-192
Drexel University's online degree and certificate program is extensive, offering 15 online bachelor's programs in nine different fields of study. These areas include business, cybersecurity, education, and nursing.
Most programs run on a 10-week quarter system with an additional week for exams. Depending on the program, you can transfer credits earned at another accredited institution. Drexel will evaluate all possible transfer credits for accepted students.
Drexel provides a variety of online student support services, such as its writing center, a career development center, teletherapy services, and a 24-hour access to its library resources. Veterans and military service members applying for the first time can get up to a 40% discount on their tuition for online programs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Accreditation
Yes
#7 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Annual Tuition & Fees: $44,000
Credits to Graduate: Usually 120
Thomas Jefferson University has 10 bachelor of science degrees available from its East Falls and Center City campuses that can be both hybrid and online, depending on the program. It offers degrees in several areas such as business management, health sciences, information technology, and respiratory therapy degree advancement.
Around 95% of undergraduate students receive financial aid. Students can apply for employer tuition discounts, scholarships and grants provided at each of its campuses, and veteran benefit programs. As a Philadelphia employee, East Falls campus students can get a 25% discount on any accelerated bachelor of science degree program.
The university accepts a maximum of 87 transfer credits from previously attended college-level courses, military training, and certain exams, such as the CLEP and the DSST.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,900
Out-of-state
$41,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,068
Out-of-state
$22,068
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,270
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Accreditation
Yes
#8 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $710
Out-of-State | $710
Credits to Graduate: About 120
Parker University offers eight online bachelor's degree programs in the category of health science, as well as business and technology. Some of the programs they offer are healthcare management, computer information systems, nutrition science, and sport psychology.
The school has specific admission policies and requirements for its bachelor's programs in healthcare management, health information management, and computer information systems programs. Some programs are qualified for active military tuition assistance. Veterans can receive a 10% discount and can qualify for other benefits.
The university does not guarantee credit transfers; transfers are approved only after a thorough examination of the institution and the course program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,760
Out-of-state
$23,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,954
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Accreditation
Yes
#9 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $350-$409
Out-of-State | $350-$409
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits (180 quarter credits)
More than 12,000 students enroll in Oregon State's e-campus. Online students can choose from 46 undergraduate degrees with majors such as applied humanities, business analytics, and finance.
The school has a strong STEM catalog that includes biohealth sciences, mechanical engineering, and crop and soil science degrees. The customizable BA or BS in liberal studies program allows you to design your own liberal arts major.
Oregon State's comprehensive support services include success coaching, free tutoring, and access to library resources. First-year students must meet college preparatory requirements. Oregon State is test-optional.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,065
Out-of-state
$29,456
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,446
Out-of-state
$27,297
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
33,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Accreditation
Yes
#10 Best Online Colleges, Universities, and Schools of 2024
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525-$622
Out-of-State | $525-$622
Credits to Graduate: 128
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Maryville University educates about 10,000 students, most of whom study online. A catalog of 30 online degrees includes majors in business administration, data science, forensic psychology, and an RN-to-BSN program.
Many of Maryville's students transfer from other institutions and make use of the generous credit transfer policy. You pay the same per-credit tuition rate regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency status.
Maryville charges no application fee. First-year applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
ROI Score
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
10,596
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84%
Accreditation
Yes
No. 1 Program: University of Florida
The University of Florida (UF) took the top spot for best online colleges and universities in 2024. With a high graduation rate and a low average net price of $3,679, UF offers both affordability and a path to successfully earning your degree.
UF hits all the marks for accessibility and student outcomes. Roughly 94% of UF students receive financial aid. You'll also have access to a large selection of degree programs at UF — the university offers 22 online bachelor's and 40 online master's degrees.
UF continues to roll out high-demand degrees, featuring career support for online students as they enter fast-growing fields. In fall 2024, UF plans to launch three new majors for online students: agricultural education and communication, early childhood education, and entomology and nematology.
At UF Online, we strive to provide students pursuing fully online bachelor's degrees with high levels of support and resources, as well as a strong sense of community,
Rhiannon Pollard, interim director of UF Online, told BestColleges. The
big why
of our work is ensuring that students receive a rigorous and enriching education that also connects them with their peer community of learners and the greater Gator Nation.
UF manages all of this while still being a relatively selective institution with high academic standards and a 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, combining the best of high academic performance with student outcomes and affordability.
No. 2 Program: George Mason University
George Mason University couples accessibility and affordability with a relatively high graduation rate, offering students both an avenue to higher education and a path to graduation. Good student outcomes and an affordable tuition rate landed GMU the number two spot on our best online colleges and universities list this year.
GMU has a relatively high admissions rate at 90% but also maintains an impressive 70% graduation rate. The university offers 13 online bachelor's degrees and 28 online master's degrees in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, technology, and information technology.
GMU also boasts a 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. It also includes a number of virtual services and resources for online students.
The average net price of an online degree at GMU is $18,581, and roughly 80% of students are awarded some form of financial aid.
Why George Mason University Ranked Second
George Mason University has a high graduation rate, a large amount of financial aid awarded to students, and a number of degree offerings — but it didn't quite stack up to UF when it comes to student outcomes and affordability.
The net cost at GMU is $18,581, compared to $3,679 at UF. That, coupled with a lower graduation rate, put GMU in second place.
No. 3 Program: University of Missouri
The University of Missouri comes in at third on our list of best online colleges and universities thanks to a high graduation rate, hefty student aid, and plenty of resources for students.
Mizzou boasts a 73% graduation rate against a 79% admission rate. That means that, like GMU, it offers an accessible pathway to higher education without sacrificing good student outcomes.
The University of Missouri system's Missouri Online combines resources from all of the system's schools into a convenient, centralized online portal for students. This digital-focused platform means that online degrees from different university campuses are available to students, alongside student support and flexible learning systems.
Heading to Missouri for online education means you're not just likely to get in, but also likely to graduate. You'll probably also see financial aid: Roughly 91% of students received some form of financial aid with a net cost of $17,899.
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
Ranking Methodology Summary
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Related Topics
Comparing the Costs of Online vs. On-Campus Programs Link
How to Judge the Quality of an Online Program Link
Should I Go to College Online or On Campus? Here’s How to Decide Link
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges
Is online college harder than on-campus college?
Both online and on-campus programs can be challenging. You'll need to master the course material and demonstrate your knowledge. But, online college does pose some unique benefits and challenges.
Online programs give students greater flexibility compared to on-campus programs. That means they require strong organizational skills and determination. For some students, online college can be harder. It's a good idea to take an online class before enrolling in an online college to see if the format matches your learning style and needs.
What can I do with an online degree?
You can do all the same things with an online degree that you can do with an in-person degree: expand your knowledge, master a subject area, become career-ready, qualify for higher-paying jobs, and apply to graduate school. The list of opportunities is endless.
How much does online college cost?
The cost of an online degree varies depending on the college and program. On average, online colleges cost $600 per credit. But some charge less than $200 per credit. Your transfer credits will also impact the total cost of an online degree.
You can save money by enrolling online if you choose an affordable college. For example, in-state public universities typically charge the lowest tuition rates. In addition to tuition, factor in fees, textbooks, and other expenses to calculate the total cost. Then, apply for financial aid to determine how much you'll pay for your degree.
Are online colleges legitimate?
Yes! If you pick an accredited school with a good program, your online degree is just as legitimate as a traditional on-campus degree.
In the past, some employers may have been skeptical about the value of an online degree. But today, online college degrees have become very common: More than 50% of students have taken at least one online course and 40% of undergrads study fully online, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Once you have that degree, pretty much no one is going to ask you: Did you get this online?
