Best Accredited Online Colleges

Best Accredited Online Colleges and Universities in USA

In recent years, online education has experienced a significant surge in popularity. More students than ever before are turning to virtual classrooms for the flexibility, convenience, and wide range of programs they offer. However, not all online programs are created equal, and this is where accreditation becomes crucial.

Choosing a college ensures that the program meets established standards for quality, is recognized by employers and other institutions, and holds credibility in the eyes of the education community. Accreditation provides students with confidence that their hard-earned degree will be respected in the workforce and beyond. No matter if you're looking for a specialized program, flexibility for adult learners, or affordability, in this article, our college essay writing services will help you navigate through some of the best accredited online colleges in the U.S.!

Understanding Accreditation

Accreditation is a key factor to consider when choosing an online college. In simple terms, accreditation is a process that evaluates the quality and standards of an educational institution or program. It's essentially a stamp of approval, signaling that the school meets specific criteria set by an external accrediting body. Why is this important? Because an accredited college ensures that the education you're receiving is legitimate and respected—both by employers and other educational institutions.

Now, when it comes to types of accreditation, there are two main categories: regional and national.

  1. Regional accreditation is considered the gold standard. It's awarded to nonprofit institutions and tends to be more widely recognized, especially by other colleges and universities. If you're planning to transfer credits or pursue a graduate degree later on, attending a regionally accredited school is usually the best bet.
  2. On the other hand, national accreditation typically applies to for-profit schools or specialized programs, such as trade schools. While still legitimate, nationally accredited online colleges may have limitations when it comes to transferring credits or recognition from certain employers.

So, how do you know if a school is accredited—and by whom? This is where it gets practical. You can verify a college's accreditation status by checking databases from organizations like the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education. These agencies maintain up-to-date lists of accredited institutions, allowing you to confirm that the school meets recognized standards. It's a simple step but a crucial one in ensuring that your education will be valued and that you won't run into issues down the road.Don't miss out on our list of the best colleges for astrophysics undergraduate programs.

Keen Writer
4.8 (104 reviews)
official label
Degree:
Bachelor
official label
Total orders:
1584
Ready to elevate your essay game? Let our experts do the heavy lifting!
Get expert help now

Pros and Cons of Online Degrees

Online degrees offer a unique set of advantages and challenges, depending on your needs and situation. Here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide if an online program is right for you.

Pros Cons
Flexibility: Study on your own schedule, making it easier to balance work, family, and other commitments. Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: Limited direct contact with instructors and peers can make networking and communication more challenging.
Accessibility: Attend schools from anywhere in the country without having to relocate. Time Management: The freedom of online learning requires strong self-discipline to stay on track.
Wide Range of Programs: From specialized certificates to full degrees, you can find a program tailored to your goals. Perception by Employers: Some employers may still question the value of online degrees, especially from non-accredited institutions.
Cost-Effective: Often, online programs can be more affordable, with fewer fees and the option to continue working. Technical Issues: Reliable internet and technology are essential, which can be a hurdle if you're not tech-savvy or have access issues.
Self-Paced Learning: Many programs allow you to move through coursework at a speed that works best for you. Limited Campus Resources: Online students may miss out on the full range of campus amenities like libraries, counseling, and in-person tutoring.

List of Accredited Online Colleges in USA 

Some years ago, if you searched for online accredited colleges, you would mostly come across business-related online degrees. However, recent growth in online college enrollment resulted in a wide variety of online degree programs. Today, online learners can earn a degree in law, information technology, psychology, and more.

In times when every other university offers an online program, you need to be extra careful when selecting a school. Here is an honorable list of colleges based on their affordability, student satisfaction rate, and academic quality. 

University of Florida

University of Florida

Global Score
#215
Average Total Aid Awarded
$10,555
Students Receiving Financial Aid
94%
Net Price/Per Year
$11,740
SAT range
1300-1490
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Acceptance Rate
23%

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the University of Florida is considered one of the best accredited online colleges in the USA. It offers various online degrees in 25 majors, including anthropology, business administration, criminology, digital arts, and science, among others. In addition, UF online bachelor's degree programs are taught by the same faculty who teach in-class courses. And the best part is that it can be done on your terms.

UF online ranks as the number one most affordable online college. Additionally, they offer a variety of financial aid resources, such as scholarships, loans, and even student employment.

On top of its strong academic credentials, UF has been consistently recognized for its commitment to student success and flexibility, offering a variety of support services like career counseling, academic advising, and tutoring for online students. The university also provides access to virtual libraries, networking opportunities, and internship placements, all aimed at ensuring a comprehensive student experience. With a large, active alumni network, students not only gain a respected degree but also lifelong connections. The flexibility of UF’s online programs is especially attractive to working professionals, military personnel, and parents seeking to balance education with other responsibilities.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University

Global Score
#1201+
Average Total Aid Awarded
$8,806
Students Receiving Financial Aid
97%
Net Price/Per Year
$15,352
SAT range
980-1150
Overall Niche Grade
B
Acceptance Rate
89%

Accredited by the SACSCOC, Georgia Southern University has been active in the academic world for over a hundred years now. US News & World Report has named GSU one of the Top 20 most popular universities in the States. Every year, GSU becomes a home for around 25000 students from almost 100 different countries and offers them an exceptional range of online courses in healthcare, public administration, business, etc. 

If you are trying to get back to school, but a busy work schedule does not allow you to travel to campus, GSU offers one of the best online MBA programs in USA. GSU is a great option for both undergraduate and graduate students.   

In addition to its online MBA program, GSU provides diverse programs in fields such as education, IT, and nursing, ensuring a comprehensive curriculum for different career paths. The university is also recognized for its affordability, with several financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and grants. GSU’s robust online learning platform is designed to offer flexibility, allowing students to pursue their studies at their own pace while maintaining high academic standards. Its commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive environment attracts students from various walks of life.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University

Global Score
Average Total Aid Awarded
$9,875
Students Receiving Financial Aid
99%
Net Price/Per Year
$12,836
SAT range
950-1130
Overall Niche Grade
B-
Acceptance Rate
89%

Accredited by the SACSCOC, Valdosta State University has been known for its online bachelor's degree programs since 2011. In addition, their online degrees can be earned entirely outside the United States, accommodating online learners' personal and professional duties.

The university also offers degrees in interdisciplinary studies, general business, organizational leadership, business management, etc. The eLearning team puts great effort into enhancing the online learning environment, making it more comfortable and accessible for online students. 

Valdosta State’s online programs extend into graduate degrees, including a well-regarded Master of Library and Information Science program. It also offers flexible formats for those pursuing education in fields such as criminal justice, education, and communication. The university provides various support services, such as virtual tutoring, advising, and career services, to ensure student success in online learning. Furthermore, its online programs are designed to cater to both traditional students and adult learners seeking to balance education with work or family responsibilities. Being one of the best accredited online universities, Valdosta State has also garnered attention for its affordable tuition rates, making higher education accessible to a broader range of students.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Liberty University

Liberty University

Global Score
#1801
Average Total Aid Awarded
$12,471
Students Receiving Financial Aid
98%
Net Price/Per Year
$29,913
SAT range
1040-1250
Overall Niche Grade
B+
Acceptance Rate
99%

Liberty University has been ranked among the top 3 online schools in the States. Flexibility, affordability, student support services, and a simple admission process make Liberty University one of the most desired online university USA. 

Prospective students earning bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees can find many online programs at LU Online. The most popular ones are Communications and Arts, engineering, health science, behavioral science, criminal justice, etc. You can also add minors and increase your knowledge and career prospects. 

Liberty also offers military tuition discounts and scholarships for service members and their families. The online platform includes 24/7 access to digital resources and a dedicated academic advisor for each student. Liberty University’s online programs are built on a Christian foundation, aligning with the university’s mission to provide faith-based education. It offers one of the largest online programs in the world, with over 100,000 students enrolled in online courses. The flexibility extends to asynchronous learning, allowing students to complete coursework on their schedule, which is especially attractive to working professionals and military personnel.

Being one of the best accredited online schools by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Liberty University also offers a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, a writing center, and access to digital libraries, ensuring that online learners receive the same support as on-campus students. So, no need to stress yourself too much; when in trouble, you can always get help from a professional essay writer.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Strayer University

Strayer University

Global Score
#4505
Average Total Aid Awarded
$4,258
Students Receiving Financial Aid
67%
Net Price/Per Year
$19,727
SAT range
Overall Niche Grade
B+
Acceptance Rate
100%

Strayer University has been around for 130 years and is known for its high-quality, affordable, and flexible education, which helps students achieve their academic and career goals. 

As Strayer University's website states, this is not college as usual. In addition to a wide range of online programs in BA, Informational Technology, Accounting, and Education, the university offers scholarships and other forms of financial aid. In addition, they offer exceptional financial aid to active-duty service members and veterans. Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Strayer University offers help from admission officers and connects future students with the faculty. After enrolment, distance learners will get help from student service coaches and tutors. They offer a practical path to acquiring new skills, making Strayer University one of the most desired and best online university USA. 

Unlike other fully accredited online universities, Strayer University is known for its innovative Strayer Studios, where courses are developed using professional-grade video content to engage students more effectively. The university partners with leading corporations like Deloitte and TopCoder to offer students practical, career-focused programs. Strayer’s mobile app also makes it easier for students to manage assignments, class discussions, and academic progress on the go. The university prides itself on providing personal success coaches for every student, guiding them through academic, financial, and career planning, ensuring that learners receive tailored support throughout their educational journey.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Online University of Phoenix

Online University of Phoenix

Global Score
#3948
Average Total Aid Awarded
$7,864
Students Receiving Financial Aid
94%
Net Price/Per Year
$14,252
SAT range
Overall Niche Grade
Acceptance Rate
100%

Some of us give up on academia after receiving a high school diploma, but later on, to advance in our careers, we need to go back to school and earn an undergraduate degree. Suppose you cannot put work on hold to travel to the campus. In that case, the University of Phoenix, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), offers a variety of online bachelor's degrees. Undergraduate students can major in Cybersecurity, Data Science, Health Administration, Liberal Arts, and many more. 

Alongside bachelor's and associate degrees, UoP offers one of the greatest online MBA programs USA. You can learn any time you want, from any point in the world, and remember, scholarships are available for everyone. 

The University of Phoenix is designed for adult learners, offering flexibility through its four- to six-week courses, which allow students to focus on one subject at a time. It provides a Prior Learning Assessment, where students can earn credits for work experience, military service, or other professional achievements, potentially reducing the time and cost needed to complete a degree. The university also has a strong focus on career services, with resources like the PhoenixLink career portal, which connects students to job opportunities, internships, and networking events tailored to their accredited online degrees and professional goals.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global

Global Score
#89
Average Total Aid Awarded
$8,815
Students Receiving Financial Aid
60%
Net Price/Per Year
$6,785
SAT range
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Acceptance Rate
100%

Purdue University Global takes its well-deserved spot in US News & World Report's 2022 Top 10 'Most Innovative Schools.'

Purdue University offers a fascinating variety of programs that many online colleges don't. For example, you will find online degrees in Fire Science, Aviation, Special Military Programs, and Professional Studies. You can also find a selection of impressive graduate degrees.

While studying online, you can access all resources to help you complete coursework. Being an online student does not exclude you from a heavy academic workload, but you can always get help from report writers. In addition, Purdue Global allows you to become part of their community and form bonds with your peers.

Purdue Global offers prospective students loans and grants while accepting federal financial aid. Itl is tailored specifically for adult learners, with over 175 programs and concentrations, including healthcare, technology, and business administration. It provides an ExcelTrack™ option for certain degree programs, which allows students to move through coursework at their own pace based on competency. The university is particularly appealing to military personnel and veterans, offering military transfer credits, tuition reductions, and dedicated support for transitioning service members. Purdue Global also has partnerships with over 600 employers, offering corporate tuition assistance programs and opportunities for career advancement through company-sponsored education initiatives.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University

Global Score
#1201
Average Total Aid Awarded
$10,260
Students Receiving Financial Aid
99%
Net Price/Per Year
$12,625
SAT range
980-1170
Overall Niche Grade
B-
Acceptance Rate
97%

Western Kentucky University is one of the cheapest online university USA. It is among regionally accredited schools and offers more than 80 online programs in various academic fields. A high-quality learning experience is guaranteed by the faculty, who also delivers on-campus courses.  

You can find online degrees in Geography and Geology, Mathematics, Applied Sciences, Education and Behavioral Sciences, and Health and Human Services. 

WKU has designed a student resource portal that offers tools for online learners. In addition, it provides academic and financial support. 

WKU's online programs are designed with a focus on adult learners, and the university offers accelerated learning options, enabling students to complete degrees faster than traditional schedules allow. In addition to its wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, WKU offers unique online certificates in fields like Environmental Health Science and Lean Sigma. The university’s Distance Learning Library Services give students access to research assistance and digital resources. Additionally, among the fully accredited online universities, WKU has a proactive approach to supporting military students, offering in-state tuition for active-duty military and a dedicated Veterans Resource Center, ensuring smooth transitions to academic life.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Sam Houston State Online University

Sam Houston State Online University

Global Score
#1972
Average Total Aid Awarded
$10,499
Students Receiving Financial Aid
87%
Net Price/Per Year
$13,632
SAT range
960-1140
Overall Niche Grade
B
Acceptance Rate
85%

Sam Houston State Online University is another great accredited online school. Located in Huntsville, Texas, SHSU has an acceptance rate of 97%, making it accessible to almost everyone. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has granted SHSU its accreditation. 

SHSU takes pride in smaller class sizes, distinguished student support, and innovative faculty. They offer an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs and various certifications. Your degree will not state 'online' as credits earned in online classes equal those earned in in-person classes. 

The SHSU online Master of Business Administration program is one of the best online MBA programs USA. Online graduate students can also get a degree in Criminal Justice, Health Science, Arts, Media, etc.

In addition to its top-ranked online MBA and Criminal Justice programs, SHSU offers specialized programs like Homeland Security, Information Assurance and Security, and Digital Forensics, addressing today’s growing demand for cyber-related skills. SHSU also provides students with access to career services, a virtual writing center, and a wide range of academic resources, ensuring online learners receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey. With low tuition costs and flexible start dates, SHSU caters to working adults and professionals seeking to enhance their skills.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Old Dominion Online University

Old Dominion Online University

Global Score
#973
Average Total Aid Awarded
$9,058
Students Receiving Financial Aid
92%
Net Price/Per Year
$16,098
SAT range
1090-1250
Overall Niche Grade
B
Acceptance Rate
95%

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Old Dominion Online University is a great online university in USA.

Focusing on online students' needs, ODUGlobal has designed online degree programs that give people worldwide the luxury of quality education. Whether you are interested in Computer Engineering, Criminal Justice, or Dental Hygiene, ODUGlobal offers an extensive range of online programs for both undergraduate and graduate levels. If you are unsure where to start, ODUGlobal proposes help from their enrollment coordinators. 

As an accredited online college, ODUGlobal boasts a strong focus on technology-driven programs, such as its online degrees in Cybersecurity and Information Systems & Technology. With partnerships with various industries and government organizations, ODU ensures that students are exposed to practical experiences, preparing them for the workforce. The university also offers robust military support, including reduced tuition rates for service members and veterans. Its online platform includes interactive tools such as live sessions, virtual labs, and discussion boards to provide a dynamic learning environment, enhancing the student experience beyond traditional online education.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
University of the People

University of the People

Global Score
#7274
Average Total Aid Awarded
$857
Students Receiving Financial Aid
67%
Net Price/Per Year
$1,744
SAT range
Overall Niche Grade
C-
Acceptance Rate
100%

Recognized by the United States Department of Education, the University of the People is the first free accredited online university. UoPeople was founded in 2009 to make education accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial state. UoPeople offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in multiple fields, including health sciences, computer science, business, and education.

Even though it's tuition-free, you will be required to pay application and exam processing fees, roughly 500$ per semester. However, distance learners are welcome to apply for UoPeople scholarships. Their dedication to accommodating prospective students makes the University of the People one of the best online accredited university. 

UoPeople’s partnerships with prestigious institutions such as NYU, UC Berkeley, and Microsoft offer students unique opportunities for further education and internships. The university uses a peer-based learning model, encouraging collaboration among students from over 200 countries. UoPeople's accredited online courses are designed to meet global academic standards, making their degrees valuable across international borders. Additionally, UoPeople offers robust academic advising and mentoring services to ensure student success, along with flexible schedules to accommodate working professionals and international learners.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Columbia University

Columbia University

Global Score
#7
Average Total Aid Awarded
$61,061
Students Receiving Financial Aid
57%
Net Price/Per Year
$22,058
SAT range
1490-1580
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Acceptance Rate
4%

Believe it or not, Ivy League Columbia University offers free programs. Located in New York City, Columbia University is known for its research centers and is desired by many students worldwide. But the cost of in-person programs and living expenses in NY make the university unavailable to many of us.

Columbia University's online degrees solve all the problems. They still follow a rigorous curriculum, but world-class scholars teach all the subjects. In addition, Columbia's unique financial aid program makes it one of the cheapest university. Their financial aid packages include grants and reductions in tuition.

Columbia’s online offerings include innovative programs such as its Certificate in Sustainable Finance and its Master’s in Information and Knowledge Strategy, which focus on emerging fields with high demand in the job market. The online platform ColumbiaX provides access to massive open online courses (MOOCs) for free or at a low cost, making Ivy League education accessible to students worldwide. Columbia also offers extensive resources for online students, including virtual career services, networking events, and alumni mentoring, helping students maintain a strong connection to the university’s broader academic and professional communities.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University

Global Score
#154
Average Total Aid Awarded
$12,278
Students Receiving Financial Aid
74%
Net Price/Per Year
$20,375
SAT range
1150-1390
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Acceptance Rate
63%

Texas A&M University offers outstanding distance education and makes it affordable and accessible to those who cannot afford on-campus colleges. Distance learners can earn degrees in Agriculture and Life Sciences, Architecture, Nursing, Veterinary Medicine, etc.

Texas A&M Aggie Assurance program provides financial aid, such as grants and scholarships, to low-income students. This program encourages everyone not to give up their hopes of quality education.

Texas A&M University also offers specialized accredited online college degrees like its Master of Engineering in Aerospace and its Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The university’s distance education platform, Texas A&M Online, integrates advanced technologies like virtual labs, interactive simulations, and collaborative tools to enhance learning. Additionally, Texas A&M is known for its commitment to military students, offering various support services, including tuition assistance, military transfer credits, and veteran-specific career counseling. The university’s Aggie Network, one of the largest alumni networks in the world, provides students with lifelong connections that can boost their career opportunities.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site
University of Missouri

University of Missouri

Global Score
#641-650
Average Total Aid Awarded
$11,545
Students Receiving Financial Aid
91%
Net Price/Per Year
$19,889
SAT range
1140-1340
Overall Niche Grade
A-
Acceptance Rate
79%

The University of Missouri provides a wide array of online degrees. So whether you are interested in Liberal Arts, Human Development and Family Sciences, or Philosophy, MU has your back.

The MU Annual scholarship program makes the University of Missouri one of the cheapest university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The program offers financial assistance that covers tuition fees and related expenses.

The University of Missouri’s accredited online degree programs are also recognized for their focus on research-based learning, providing online students with access to MU’s renowned research centers and faculty. The university offers unique programs such as a Master of Public Affairs and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. MU Online emphasizes student engagement through platforms like MizzouOne, which centralizes access to academic support, library services, and digital tools. MU also extends resources like career counseling, internship placement assistance, and networking opportunities, ensuring that online learners receive holistic support throughout their educational journey.

Show more
Show less
Teachers

All teachers
Less
Visit site

Choosing the Right Online College

Selecting the best online college goes beyond just finding a reputable school. There are several factors to consider to ensure the program meets your specific needs and goals. Meanwhile, you always have an option to buy university coursework from our expert writers.

Program Offerings: Start by assessing the available majors and concentrations. Does the school offer the program you're passionate about? Some online colleges specialize in certain fields, while others offer a broader range of options. Make sure the program not only aligns with your career goals but also provides opportunities for specialization if needed. For example, if you're interested in business, does the school offer concentrations in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship? Tailoring your education to your interests will enhance your learning experience and future career prospects.

Flexibility and Format: Next, think about the flexibility of the program. Online colleges often provide options for part-time, full-time, or even accelerated programs. If you're juggling work or other responsibilities, part-time enrollment might be ideal. On the other hand, if you're eager to complete your degree faster, an accelerated format could be the perfect fit. Also, consider how the courses are delivered—are they self-paced, or do they follow a fixed schedule? Understanding these options will help you choose a program that fits your lifestyle.

Support Services: Lastly, don't overlook the importance of student support. Strong online programs offer services like academic advising, career counseling, and tech support to ensure students succeed. Look for schools that provide accessible resources, from tutoring to IT help desks, to ensure you're never left feeling isolated. The quality of these services can make a big difference in your academic journey, especially in an online environment.

The Bottom Line

Attending an accredited online college offers numerous benefits. It ensures that the education you receive is high-quality, widely recognized, and respected by employers and other institutions. Accredited programs provide the flexibility to balance life's demands while gaining the skills and credentials needed to advance your career. Plus, with strong support services and a wide range of program options, you can find a degree that fits your goals.

If you're considering an online degree, here are five top accredited online colleges to explore:

  • University of Florida – Known for a wide range of online bachelor's and graduate programs.
  • Strayer University – Offers flexible scheduling and numerous online degree options.
  • Old Dominion Online University – Strong reputation for business and engineering programs.
  • Texas A&M University – Popular for affordability and a wide variety of programs.
  • Liberty University – Offers extensive online programs with a focus on adult learners and flexibility.

FAQs

What Online Colleges are Nationally Accredited?

What are the Best Accredited Online Colleges?

What Online Courses are Accredited?

What was changed:
Sources:
Back to education picks