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Top10.com
Last Updated: Dec 2024

Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges of 2024
Earn a degree at your own pace

Compare the best online colleges & universities below to find the online degree program that best fits your needs.

Our Top 3 Online Colleges & Universities
We Recommend
SNHU
SNHU
Dedicated career advisors
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Purdue Global
Purdue Global
Terms start monthly
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UMG
UMG
Take courses 100% online
Visit Site
No Application Fees
1
SNHU -Accredited university with online bachelor's and master's programsRead Review
  • One of the lowest tuition rates in the nation
  • 200+ career focused online degree programs
  • Flexible schedule with no assigned login times or lectures
  • Transfer in up to 90 credits from previous college courses
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    Classes start on 01/06/2025
View Programs
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100% Online
2
Purdue Global -Earn a degree backed by the power of Purdue, one of the nation’s most respected and innovative public universitiesRead Review
  • Access online resources 24 hours a day
  • Offers comprehensive career counseling services
  • New terms start monthly, with open enrollment
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    Classes start on 02/28/2025
3
UMG -UMass Global offers online degree programs for working adults with big goals and busy schedulesRead Review
  • Take courses 100% online
  • Transfer credits from eligible college coursework
  • Choose from six start dates for maximum flexibility
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    Classes start on 01/05/2025
4
Liberty University -Move toward fulfilling your career goals with a degree designed for your future, online or on campusRead Review
  • More than 600 online degree programs
  • Pioneer in distance education since 1985
  • Training Champions for Christ since 1971
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    Classes start on 01/13/2025
5
Lynn University -Affordable and personalized higher education designed to let you balance life and workRead Review
  • No SAT or ACT tests required
  • 8-week courses available 100% online
  • 18 degree programs
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    Classes start on 01/05/2025
6
Arizona State University -Interactive online courses built to prepare students for the professional landscapeRead Review
  • More than 300 online degrees and certificates
  • Most courses have no set log-in times
  • Exams are exclusively online, never in-person
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    Classes start on 01/13/2025
7
Campbellsville University -University featuring an array of online degrees that promotes Christian values of growth and integrityRead Review
  • 50+ degrees available fully online
  • Military friendly schedule
  • Easily transfer credits
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    Accredited by the SACSCOC
8
Fisher College -Non-profit, accredited institution serving students since 1903, with many fully online degree programs availableRead Review
  • Pick a program & track your application via mobile app
  • Online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees
  • Access to academic advising & career services
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    Classes start on 01/13/2025
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Our Overall Top Choice for 2024
Our Most Popular
1
SNHU -Accredited university with online bachelor's and master's programsRead Review
  • One of the lowest tuition rates in the nation
  • 200+ career focused online degree programs
  • Flexible schedule with no assigned login times or lectures
  • Transfer in up to 90 credits from previous college courses
  • Bullet_Cap.20240314071538
    Classes start on 01/06/2025
View Programs
badge-star-icon
100% Online

What are Online Universities?

Online universities offer a modern twist on the traditional college experience, utilizing digital platforms to deliver courses and online degrees. Unlike their brick-and-mortar counterparts, these universities operate primarily through the internet, allowing students from all over the world to access educational resources, participate in virtual classrooms, and interact with faculty and peers digitally. This shift not only broadens accessibility but also introduces a flexible learning environment tailored to fit the diverse needs of its students. As we move forward, online universities continue to evolve, harnessing new technologies to enhance the learning experience and make education more inclusive.

Why Should You Attend University Online?

Flexibility and Convenience

One of the standout reasons to attend an online university is the unparalleled flexibility it offers. Whether you're balancing a full-time job, family commitments, or other personal responsibilities, online colleges allow you to fit your studies around your schedule. This convenience means you can pursue online degrees at your own pace, attending lectures and completing assignments whenever and wherever it suits you best.

Affordability

Cost is a significant factor in education, and online universities often present a more affordable option than traditional colleges. With lower tuition fees, minimal travel costs, and the ability to maintain employment while studying, you can manage your finances more effectively while gaining a quality education through online degrees.

Broad Range of Programs

Online universities offer an extensive range of programs, from associates degrees online to the best online universities for bachelors, catering to almost every academic interest and career aspiration. The flexibility to choose from top online college programs worldwide allows students to pursue specialized fields that might not be available locally.

Learning Technology

Online education leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver interactive and engaging courses. This not only makes learning more accessible but also equips students with digital skills that are increasingly important in today’s job market. The use of multimedia, virtual simulations, and real-time interactions enriches the educational experience and prepares students for a digital world.

How to Choose the Right Online University for Your Needs

Accreditation

When choosing an online university, accreditation is crucial. This ensures the institution meets certain quality standards and that employers and other educational institutions will recognize your online degrees. Always check whether the university has proper accreditation before enrolling.

Cost

While online education can be more cost-effective, prices can vary widely between programs. Consider not only tuition but also the cost of textbooks, software, and other necessary materials. Some of the best online colleges offer comprehensive financial aid packages that can help manage these costs.

Support Services

The level of support offered can make a big difference in your educational experience and success. Look for online universities that provide robust student services, including tutoring, career counseling, and tech support. These resources can be invaluable, especially when navigating the challenges of online learning.

Student Outcomes

Check the success rate of the university's graduates. This includes employment rates, graduate school admissions, and student satisfaction scores. These metrics can give you a good idea of how well the university supports its students and prepares them for post-graduation success.

How Do You Apply to Online Colleges?

Applying to online colleges is typically straightforward. Most require a basic application form, transcripts from previous schools, and sometimes a fee. It’s important to understand each program’s specific requirements, which may include a statement of purpose or letters of recommendation. Qualifications like a high school diploma or GED are generally necessary, but some programs may have additional requirements. Start by visiting the college online’s website to find detailed application instructions.

Find the Best College Online

Studying at an online university is a pragmatic decision for those juggling work and personal life but still aiming to advance their education. With the flexibility to create a personal class schedule, the convenience of multiple start dates throughout the year, and the ability to transfer credits, online education is designed to accommodate your life. As you look for the best online college, consider what matters most for your career goals and personal growth. Remember, the best online universities are those that not only provide excellent education but also support you every step of the way.

FAQs

Can I really create my own class schedule?

Yes, one of the major benefits of online education is the ability to create a class schedule that fits your lifestyle. Most online courses are designed to give you the freedom to choose when you study and complete assignments.

When can I get started?

Many online universities offer rolling admissions and multiple start dates throughout the year—some even offer monthly start dates. This flexibility allows you to begin your studies at a time that best fits

This content was generated with AI.

Our Top 3 Picks

  • 1
    SNHU
    Affordable online education
    View Programs
    • Best for - User-friendly online platform
    • Popular programs - Business Administration, Psychology, and Nursing
    • Amount of accredited degree programs - 200+
    • Financial aid packages - Yes
    • Tech support - Yes
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    100% Online
    Affordable online education
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    100% Online
    View Programs

    SNHU (Southern New Hampshire University) offers affordable and flexible online education. They also have a wide range of financing options—such as the Stephen F. Knapp and Martha Van Hyland Scholarships—to ensure students can pursue their education without worrying about expensive tuition.

    To positively impact a constantly changing society, they create unique courses and support students to produce meaningful answers for their assessments. They also actively participate in local and worldwide activities like the HR Management Collegiate Association, allowing their students to connect with their peers.

    Many students have reported their appreciation of SNHU's online learning platform—Brightspace—for its design and user-friendliness. It also enhanced their online learning experience by providing a straightforward and enjoyable interface.

    Why we chose Southern New Hampshire University: SNHU transforms the lives of undergraduates, focusing on their success by constantly updating their curriculum. This aims to consistently challenge the status quo and ensure the best educational experience for their students.

    Read SNHU Review

    SNHU Pros & Cons

    PROS

    No application fee
    User-friendly online learning platform
    Affordable tuition

    CONS

    Low graduation and student retention rate
    Less academic programs than some more prominent universities
    snhu logo
    SNHU
    View Programs
  • 2
    Purdue Global
    Expand Your Career With Purdue Global Degrees
    • Best for - Networking opportunities
    • Popular programs - Business Administration, Computer Science, and Engineering
    • Amount of accredited degree programs - 300+
    • Financial aid packages - Yes
    • Tech support - Yes
    Expand Your Career With Purdue Global Degrees

    Purdue Global is an excellent option for working adults looking to earn a degree and make a difference in their professional lives. There are 119 degree programs with accreditation from renowned bodies. 

    The degree levels on offer are associate's, bachelor's, master's, doctorate, and certificate programs. The application process is relatively straightforward, and many student support options are available, including student clubs, an online library, extensive blogs, and career support. 

    Why we chose Purdue Global - We chose Purdue Global because we liked that students can gain credits through work experience. The student support is solid, too, providing students with career guidance and prompt assistance from advisors.

    Our experience - We were delighted with the website's easy navigation and user-friendly interface. We also liked that it presents students with two ways to earn the same degree based on their learning preferences. 

    Read Purdue Global Review

    Purdue Global Pros & Cons

    PROS

    Earn credits through work experience
    Three-week trial period for undergraduate programs
    Tuition rate calculator for transparent pricing

    CONS

    High cost of tuition
    No after-hours service
  • 3
    UMG
    Flexible and self-paced learning
    • Best for - Working adults seeking to change their careers and their lives
    • Popular programs - Bachelor’s in Business Administration
    • Amount of accredited degree programs - 55+
    • Financial aid packages - Yes
    • Tech support - Yes
    Flexible and self-paced learning

    UMass Global is a top-quality online university with 55+ certificate courses and undergraduate and graduate degrees. Programs are offered in online instructor-led, session-based format or through UMass Global MyPath, a completely self-paced online format. Either way, you’ll have options to connect with tutors, career mentors, academic advisors, and more. While it doesn’t offer as many courses as its rivals, UMass Global stands out for its employer-friendly curricula. 

    • Why we chose UMass Global - We chose UMass Global because of its self-paced learning programs and student-centric support.
    • Our experience - We were impressed by UMassGlobal’s financial aid options and pricing transparency.
    Read UMG Review

    UMG Pros & Cons

    PROS

    Flexible learning options
    Multiple student support resources
    Financial aid available

    CONS

    Fewer online programs than other schools
    Not all courses are self-paced