The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Get started with your search for top-ranked schools in Massachusetts. Discover which colleges offer programs that fit your needs.
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Updated October 10, 2023

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Massachusetts's online colleges offer degree programs that suit the needs and goals of learners of all backgrounds.

Massachusetts is an especially fruitful place to pursue education and professional training. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates a strong correlation between education and employment opportunities, and the Bay State consistently outperforms other states in these areas.

As virtual learning continues to grow in popularity, many schools in Massachusetts have expanded online offerings that allow students to earn degrees in a flexible, convenient format. This guide explores common questions related to earning an online degree in Massachusetts, including a ranked list of the best options for prospective degree-seekers. We consider prominent degree types offered by these schools, along with their delivery methods.

Read on to learn more about the best online colleges in Massachusetts and how they can help you pursue your dream career.

The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

#1 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Amherst

  • Amherst, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The public institution's 45 online degree options include offerings at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the school's campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. Graduates of the school's programs obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

University of Massachusetts Amherst at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 4,643

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Online Master's Programs: 8

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 15%

Admission Rate: 64%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,014
Out-of-state
$29,529
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Northeastern University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Boston, Massachusetts, campus. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completion of their program.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Northeastern University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,324

Admission Rate: 18%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,420
Out-of-state
$52,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,793
Out-of-state
$24,793
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
22,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Boston University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 33 online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.

From its Massachusetts campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Boston University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,205

Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Online Master's Programs: 24

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%

Admission Rate: 19%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Harvard University

  • Cambridge, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Harvard University ranks among the best online colleges. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.

From its Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. Upon completing their program, graduates receive an accredited degree.

Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.

Harvard University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,815

Admission Rate: 5%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$47,730
Out-of-state
$47,730
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,008
Out-of-state
$48,008
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
31,655
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Lowell

  • Lowell, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Tcampus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefit many students. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

The school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

University of Massachusetts Lowell at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,831

Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Online Master's Programs: 11

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 26%

Admission Rate: 73%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,078
Out-of-state
$33,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,590
Out-of-state
$26,370
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
18,352
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Bay Path University

  • Longmeadow, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bay Path University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. The private institution makes 31 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Longmeadow, Massachusetts, campus, whom online learners can contact. Online support from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.

Bay Path University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,057

Online Bachelor's Programs: 18

Online Master's Programs: 8

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 48%

Admission Rate: 72%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,081
Out-of-state
$35,081
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,670
Out-of-state
$14,670
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
3,324
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

  • North Dartmouth, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For many online degree-seekers, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is an attractive choice. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Massachusetts campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Completing their academic program grants graduates an accredited degree.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,618

Online Bachelor's Programs: 17

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 25%

Admission Rate: 75%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,833
Out-of-state
$29,578
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,390
Out-of-state
$29,578
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
8,154
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Boston

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Boston is a leader in online education. A total of 16 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.

The school supports online learners with academic and career services. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their program, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare learners for success after graduation. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

University of Massachusetts Boston at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,202

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 7

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%

Admission Rate: 76%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,187
Out-of-state
$34,649
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,433
Out-of-state
$35,980
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
15,989
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Lesley University

  • Cambridge, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For many online degree-seekers, Lesley University is an attractive choice. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from 24 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Graduates of the program obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Lesley University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 922

Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 24%

Admission Rate: 75%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,540
Out-of-state
$18,540
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
4,510
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Bentley University

  • Waltham, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bentley University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The three online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Waltham, Massachusetts, campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.

Bentley University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 88

Online Master's Programs: 3

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%

Admission Rate: 47%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,060
Out-of-state
$50,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,400
Out-of-state
$38,400
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
5,314
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#11 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Endicott College

  • Beverly, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For many online degree-seekers, Endicott College is an attractive choice. The 21 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

The physical campus in Beverly, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers also have the option to connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Endicott College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,949

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 8

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 30%

Admission Rate: 69%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,304
Out-of-state
$33,304
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,555
Out-of-state
$12,555
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,741
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#12 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Fisher College

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Online degree-seekers should consider Fisher College. The private institution offers 31 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.

From its Boston, Massachusetts, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Fisher College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 997

Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Online Master's Programs: 1

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 86%

Admission Rate: 69%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,997
Out-of-state
$30,997
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,872
Out-of-state
$25,872
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
1,628
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#13 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Westfield State University

  • Westfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Westfield State University offers a high-quality online college experience. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners benefit from support from academic and career services offices at the school's Massachusetts campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Westfield State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,396

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%

Admission Rate: 87%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,890
Out-of-state
$1,890
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
5,795
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#14 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Lasell University

  • Newton, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A quality online college education is available at Lasell University. The private institution offers eight online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

The physical campus in Newton, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.

Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.

Lasell University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 640

Online Master's Programs: 8

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 84%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,700
Out-of-state
$35,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$10,800
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
2,041
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#15 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Assumption College

  • Worcester, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Assumption College. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this private institution. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the Worcester, Massachusetts, campus are available to help online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Assumption College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 216

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 1

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 17%

Admission Rate: 81%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,516
Out-of-state
$41,516
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,690
Out-of-state
$12,690
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
2,443
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#16 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Fitchburg State University

  • Fitchburg, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fitchburg State University is a leader in online education. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 11 options through this public institution. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.

Career and academic service associates located at the Massachusetts campus also assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. The programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Fitchburg State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,683

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%

Admission Rate: 88%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,186
Out-of-state
$3,186
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
7,251
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#17 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Framingham State University

  • Framingham, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Framingham State University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Students who enroll at the public institution can choose From five online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.

Online learners not located near the Massachusetts campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Framingham State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,932

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 7%

Admission Rate: 74%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,680
Out-of-state
$7,050
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
5,456
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#18 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Brandeis University

  • Waltham, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Brandeis University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. The school, a private institution, hosts eight programs for remote learners at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

The physical campus in Waltham, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.

Brandeis University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 380

Online Master's Programs: 7

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 7%

Admission Rate: 30%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,340
Out-of-state
$55,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,940
Out-of-state
$51,940
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
5,825
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#19 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

  • Worcester, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 19 online degree opportunities to choose from at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

The academic and career advisors located at the Massachusetts campus are also available to assist online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Upon completing their program, graduates receive an accredited degree.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 998

Online Master's Programs: 11

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 49%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,604
Out-of-state
$51,604
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$28,188
Out-of-state
$28,188
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
6,894
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#20 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Nichols College

  • Dudley, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Nichols College is a fantastic choice for online learners. A total of nine online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.

Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Dudley, Massachusetts, campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completion of their program.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

Nichols College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 470

Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 39%

Admission Rate: 80%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,615
Out-of-state
$34,615
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$738
Out-of-state
$738
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,560
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
Best Online Colleges

Online Colleges in Massachusetts Ranking Guidelines

We selected the online schools in Massachusetts based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.

Employment in Massachusetts

The overall unemployment rate in Massachusetts rests at 9.6% as of September 2020. According to BLS data, the annual mean wage for all workers in the state is $65,680. Meanwhile, the cost of living index is 127.2, compared to the U.S. average for all states, which is 100. This means Massachusetts residents have higher living expenses than residents of most states.

To help you identify good career options, we've curated the fastest-growing, highest-paying roles employing more than 15,000 people in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. At the time of publication, many of the most highly-compensated roles were not projected to see an increase in employment opportunities in Massachusetts between 2018 and 2028, so many of them were left off the list.

Most of the listed professions correlate with major industries in Massachusetts, as reported by the BLS New England Information Office. These industries include construction and manufacturing, finance, trade and transportation, information, and health or education services. Many of the best online colleges in Massachusetts offer programs in these areas.

Highest-Paying, Fastest-Growing Careers
Careers Salary Projected Job Growth (2018-2028)
Computer and Information Systems Managers $159,180 9.4%
Financial Managers $153,650 13.1%
Marketing Managers $144,000 6.8%
General and Operations Managers $137,870 5.6%
Medical and Health Services Managers $132,960 9.5%
Management Analysts $110,390 10.9%
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists $106,610 5.3%
Source: BLS, ProjectionsCentral

This list of the fastest-growing careers only includes roles employing more than 1,000 individuals in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Fastest-Growing Careers
Careers Salary Projected Job Growth (2018-2028)
Statisticians $119,620 31.3%
Information Security Analysts $106,550 29.1%
Operations Research Analysts $90,960 23.9%
Software Developers, Applications $115,270 23.4%
Respiratory Therapists $74,280 21%
Source: BLS, ProjectionsCentral

Online Associate and Graduate Degrees

Colleges and universities offer many educational pathways to meet the needs of aspiring professionals, including those interested in earning online degrees in Massachusetts.

Distance learners usually choose to pursue an online learning model because of personal preference, existing work schedules, or the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the best online colleges in Massachusetts offer expanded distance learning options to accommodate more degree-seekers. Learners with previous academic experience can easily transfer their credits to most online colleges and universities, reducing their time to degree completion.

Online programs use delivery methods that offer added flexibility for students. For example, learners with full schedules may find asynchronous delivery — courses that are accessible anytime, from anywhere — more useful, while others prefer programs with structured, synchronous sessions.

Online learners in Massachusetts have access to many majors and areas of study. For example, those interested in pursuing a two-year course of study can earn associate degrees in business, information technology, or the liberal arts, among others.

Graduate students enjoy similar offerings: Available specializations include business administration, cybersecurity and information assurance, and applied behavior analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Online College Cheaper in Massachusetts?

College can cost less for learners who earn online degrees in Massachusetts, but tuition rates vary by school. Costs generally depend on the type of school (public or private) and whether it offers in-state tuition rates to online students.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Massachusetts?

Online learning typically takes less time than on campus programs in the Bay State, but it depends on the student and program. In an accelerated program with the right transfer credits, for example, learners can complete an undergraduate degree in just over a year.

What Is the Most Popular Degree in Massachusetts?

Business management and marketing, social science, and the humanities rank among the most popular fields of study in Massachusetts.

Does an Online Degree Have the Same Value as an On-Campus Degree?

Employers typically consider online degrees to be as prestigious as their traditional equivalents, but prospective learners should always vet potential schools. Understanding how online learning works and what to expect will also help make the experience more rewarding. For many, increased popularity and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic have normalized online education.

Is Massachusetts a Good State For Higher Education?

Yes. Massachusetts performs very well in terms of state support for higher education. It consistently ranks as the most educated state in the U.S. and enjoys a high concentration of colleges and universities.

Are Online Colleges in Massachusetts Accredited?

The best online colleges in Massachusetts hold regional accreditation. Prospective learners should always conduct additional research to ensure they earn their credentials from pograms that have been vetted by the proper agencies.

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