The Online Colleges Source
This comprehensive guide to online colleges and universities is the web’s most thorough and reliable source of information for online higher education. If you’re trying to decide whether to study online, and if so where, you’ve found the right resource!
First, we present our insightful Online Colleges FAQ. Need a question about online colleges answered quickly? We’ve got you covered with our list of the twenty most frequently asked questions about online colleges and online education.
Next we include our extensive list of resources for online students, which we regularly update and improve. Any still unanswered questions you have about online colleges and online education — from scholarships and affordability to accreditation and rankings of top online colleges — is likely to be answered here.
Do you already know what subject you want to study? Have you narrowed it down to a particular field? In that case, check out our ranking articles of various online degree programs or our overall ranking of the best online colleges. These articles make you aware of high-quality schools as well as the best online degree programs specific to your interests.
Finally, we present an interactive map of the United States allowing you to see a ranking of the best online colleges and universities in each state. Even though online education knows no boundaries, studying at an online college with a nearby physical compus offers physical access and resources you can’t access online.
List of Resources for Online Colleges
The 100 Best Online Colleges for 2018. Our most visited article about online colleges and universities. The best of the best.
The Best Online College in Each of America’s Fifty States. Each state has its best online college. See what they are at a glance.
How Military Personnel and Families can Make the Most out of Online College Military personnel and veterans have many options when it comes to online college. We've got a few tips on how you can make a most of these opportunities.
Twenty-Five Online Colleges with the Best Return on Investment. Best bang for the buck? Check out these online colleges.
How to Pay for College 20 tips to help make college more affordable
Financial Aid for Online College Find answers to all of your questions about financial aid for online education.
The Most Popular Online Colleges. Which online colleges enroll the most students? This article provides the answer.
The Twenty-Five Best Online Degrees. So you’ve decided to attend an online college. What degree should you pursue?
Scholarships for Online Students. These scholarships are specifically geared toward online students.
TheBestSchools.org $1,000 Online College Scholarships. TheBestSchools.org offers six $1,000 scholarships to online students annually.
The Savvy Student’s Guide to Online Colleges and Online Education. Everything you need to know about online colleges and online education.
Online Degree Program Rankings
TheBestSchools.org provides in-depth rankings of degree programs as well as of colleges and universities. We do this across many different schools and programs so that you can find the course of study that is right for you. At TheBestSchools.org, we are very deliberate in our rankings, balancing academic excellence, return on investment, and indirect or secondary benefits in evaluating schools or programs. For our approach to ranking educational programs, see our article “TheBestSchools.org’s Ranking System.”
Associate’s Degree & Certificate Ranking Articles
Business & Management
Business Administration: Top 20 Online Associate Degree Programs 
If you want a specific job that requires only an associate’s degree, or you want to hit the job field as soon as possible, and ABA can open many doors.
Entrepreneurship: The Best Online Associate’s Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online associate degree in entrepreneurship. See all the opportunities available to students who earn an associate degree.
Financial Management: The Best Online Certificate Programs 
Discover what you can do with a certificate in Financial Management, and the 20 best certificate providers. A career change may not require another degree.
Management: The Best Online Associate Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online associate degree in business management. See all the opportunities available to students who earn an associate degree.
Marketing: The 25 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited associate in marketing degree online and see how you can use targeted marketing skills to gain customers and grow revenue in any industry.
Computers & Technology
Graphic Design: 5 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online associate in graphic design degree and learn how you can hone your skills and distinguish your credentials from other artists.
Health Information Technology: The 10 Best Online Degree Programs 
The healthcare industry needs qualified people to organize, manage, and retrieve information. Find the best online degree programs here!
Information Technology: The 10 Best Online Associate Degree Programs 
An Associate’s IT degree can prepare you to compete on the job market. Find the best schools for your entrance into the booming IT field.
Network Security: The Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited network security associate degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Criminal Justice & Legal
Criminal Justice: The 50 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Land an exciting career position with the help of an online Criminal Justice associate’s degree from a top-ranked school.
Homeland Security: 15 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online associate in homeland security degree from a fully accredited school and learn how you can keep the country safe with a homeland security degree online.
Paralegal: The Best Online Associate Degree Programs 
Find the best, accredited, online Paralegal degree programs. We’ve ranked online paralegal certificates, online associate’s, and online bachelor’s degrees.
Education & Teaching
Early Childhood Education: 35 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online associate in early childhood education programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the education system with enhanced expertise and knowledge gained from an online early childhood education associate program.
Education: The Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online associate in education programs from fully accredited schools. Learn how you can kickstart your teaching career with an associate degree online.
Nursing & Healthcare
Health Information Technology: The 10 Best Online Degree Programs
The healthcare industry needs qualified people to organize, manage, and retrieve information. Find the best online degree programs here!
Healthcare Administration: The 10 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
An Associate’s in Healthcare Administration opens an excellent way into the strong and growing healthcare industry. Find the best online programs for you.
Healthcare Management: The Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited healthcare management degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced knowledge and experience earned from your associate degree.
Human Services: The 10 Best Online Associate Degree Programs 
Make your passion for helping people a career with an associate’s in Human Services. Find top programs to get attention for career and educational opportunities.
Medical Assisting: The 10 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Show you’re serious about working in the healthcare industry with an associate’s degree in Medical Assisting. Stand out more with a degree from a top program.
Medical Coding & Billing: The 25 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online medical billing and coding programs from accredited colleges. See what it takes to launch a career in this in-demand healthcare profession.
Medical Office Administration: 8 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online associate in medical office administration programs from around the country. See all the ways you can impact individuals and your community.
Liberal Arts & Humanities
Ministry: The 15 Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online associate in ministry programs. See how you can make a faith-based impact from becoming a chaplain to doing work in your community.
Theology: Best Online Associate’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online theology degree and see where deep understanding of religion can take you in life. An associate theology degree online is the first step.
Trades & Careers
Automotive Mechanic Schools: The 25 Best Programs 
Find 20 colleges and universities offering Automotive Mechanics programs. All of these schools offer high-quality technical educations that will help get you qualified to work in the automotive service industry.
Culinary Schools: The 30 Best Schools 
These are the best culinary schools in America! See how they compare, and find the one that fits your interests best.
Bachelor’s Degree Ranking Articles
Art & Design
Game Design: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
These schools provide the training needed to become a video game designer, incorporating technical knowledge with visual design, scripting, and animation. Check out these 10 online degree programs!
Graphic Design: The Top 15 Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
A topnotch Graphic Design degree can empower you with the ability to put the world as you see it, before the eyes of all.
Video Game Design: The 50 Best Schools 
Video game design schools have arrived on the academic landscape! Find the best school to prepare you for an exciting career in video game design!
Web Design: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
See the best, fully accredited bachelor’s in web design degrees online. Learn the latest information on user experience, coding, and improving web functionality on a variety of levels with an online bachelor’s in web design.
Business & Management
Accounting: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Accounting degrees prepare you for the essential role of tracking a company’s lifeblood — its money. Learn from expertise at top schools to start your accounting career!
Business & Economics: The World’s Best 100 Programs in the World 
Here are the best Business & Economics programs in the world, These schools have respected faculty, well-established alumni, and most likely to land you a job.
Business Administration: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Learn how to manage people and numbers, improve performance, think creatively, analyze data, and manage projects, in these top online BBA programs.
Business Intelligence: The 15 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in business intelligence and see how your technical knowledge and career options can grow with a bachelor’s in business intelligence online.
Business Management: The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
If you want to move up the ladder to a leadership position, a degree from a reputable school may be the key. Find the best programs to help you advance.
Business Studies: The 25 Most
Affordable Online Bachelor of Business Studies Degree Programs 
Advancing your career requires a quality education. Get an affordable online business degree at these online colleges to start your move to the top.
Communications and Public Relations: The 25 Most
Affordable Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Communications & Public Relations skills are highly desirable across all business enterprises. These are most affordable, accredited, online bachelor degree programs.
Economics: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online economics degree and get a well rounded education that can prepare you for a wide range of careers.
Emergency Management: The 15 Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online bachelor’s degree in emergency management from accredited online colleges, and learn what you can do with these credentials across a variety of industries.
Entrepreneurship: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited bachelor’s degrees in entrepreneurship online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced entrepreneurial knowledge.
Finance: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online finance degree for you and learn the critical role that finance expertise can play in growing a business.
Hospitality: The 30 Best Hospitality Programs 
Advancement opportunities abound in the Hospitality industry for those with the special skill set a Hospitality Degree will give you. Find the best programs in the US
Hospitality Management & Tourism: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Programs 
Here are your best opportunities for online bachelor degrees in hospitality. H&T harbors an array of job opportunities; a degree gives you a competitive edge.
Human Resources: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
If you have an eye for talent and character, you could be the right person to find the right people for other business. See the best HR degree programs for you.
Internet Marketing: The 7 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited digital marketing degree online and see how you can use targeted marketing skills to gain customers and grow revenue in any industry.
Management Information Systems: 15 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online management information systems (MIS) degree programs and learn how advanced computer skills can improve a company.
Marketing: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Businesses depend on marketing! Without marketing, great products go unknown. Find the best degree programs to become a valuable marketing team member!
Organizational Leadership: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best online degree in organizational leadership from accredited online colleges, and learn what you can do with a degree in organizational leadership.
Project Management: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in project management degree and further your career managing and improving your company’s workflow.
Public Relations: The 19 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in public relations degree for you and learn the critical role that public relations expertise can play in growing and maintaining a business.
Sports Management: The 15 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Want to help athletes achieve their goals in a dynamic and exciting industry? Find the best, fully accredited online sports management degrees and take the first step toward getting your degree.
Supply Chain & Logistics: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best online degree in supply chain & logistics from accredited online colleges, and learn what you can do with a degree in supply chain & logistics across a variety of industries.
Real Estate: The 4 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Looking for a career as a real estate agent? See the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s degrees in real estate and learn how to be successful in this rewarding field.
Tourism: The 20 Best Degree Programs 
Equip yourself to join a massively growing industry by learning the business skills and cultural education necessary to run an array of hospitality and tourism venues.
Computers & Technology
Computer Information Systems: The 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Become an essential part of 21st century enterprises by getting your Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems, online, from a highly respected school!
Computer Programming: The 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited bachelor’s in computer programming degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Computer Science: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Computers and digital technologies now impact every industry. An online Bachelor in Computer Science degree opens the way to many highly rewarding careers.
Computer Science: The World’s 100 Best Comp Sci Programs 
Computer science stands at the epicenter of this new age of information. Those who study computer science often access some of the highest paying jobs in a wide range of growing fields. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Cybercrime: The 25 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
See the best, fully accredited cybercrime degrees online. Learn the latest information on uncovering, solving, and preventing cybercrimes and a variety of levels.
Database Management: 5 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited database management degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Game Design: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
These schools provide the training needed to become a video game designer, incorporating technical knowledge with visual design, scripting, and animation. Check out these 10 online degree programs!
Graphic Design: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
A topnotch Graphic Design degree can empower you with the ability to put the world as you see it, before the eyes of all.
Information Assurance and Security: The 12 Best Online Bachelor Programs 
Land a rewarding job protecting a company’s more powerful asset, its information. Find the best online programs to make you a powerful asset!
Information Technology: The 25 Best Online IT Degree Programs 
Among the hottest degrees today, an online bachelor’s in IT will help you compete. Get more attention with an IT bachelor’s degree from a great school!
Management Information Systems: 15 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online management information systems (MIS) degree programs and learn how advanced computer skills can improve a company.
Network Administration: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited network administration degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Network Security: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited network security degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge. With a bachelor’s in IT security, you can be on the frontline of these 21st-century global issues.
Software Engineering: The 15 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited software engineering degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Video Game Design: The 50 Best Schools
Video game design schools have arrived on the academic landscape! Find the best school to prepare you for an exciting career in video game design!
Web Design: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
See the best, fully accredited bachelor’s in web design degrees online. Learn the latest information on user experience, coding, and improving web functionality on a variety of levels with an online bachelor’s in web design.
Web Development: 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited web development degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Criminal Justice & Legal
Corrections: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in corrections degree and further your career managing and improving corrections in your community.
Criminal Justice: The 30 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
The increasingly popular Criminal Justice degree programs explore the criminal justice system, the roots of criminality, the legal system, and social policy.
Criminal Justice Studies: The 25 Most
Affordable Online Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs 
Advancing your career requires a quality education. Get an affordable online criminal justice degree at these online colleges to start your move to the top.
Cybercrime: The 25 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
See the best, fully accredited cybercrime degrees online. Learn the latest information on uncovering, solving, and preventing cybercrimes and a variety of levels.
Forensic Psychology: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
What are your options for a bachelor’s in forensic psychology online? Review our list of fully accredited online bachelor’s programs in forensic psychology and pick the best one to take your education to the highest level.
Forensic Science: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in forensic science. Learn to understand the forensics behind crime scene investigation and serve a crucial role in court cases.
Homeland Studies: The 40 Best Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best online homeland security degree from a fully accredited university and learn how you can keep the country safe with a homeland security degree online.
Law Enforcement: The 20 Best Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online law enforcement degree and get started in a career serving and protecting your community as a police officer.
Legal Studies: The 25 Best Bachelor Degree Programs 
If you believe you have strong eye for detail and sharp analytical mind, a degree in legal studies might be the right fit for you. Study with the best to become the best!
Paralegal: The Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Find the best, accredited, online Paralegal degree programs. We’ve ranked online paralegal certificates, online associate’s, and online bachelor’s degrees.
Education & Teaching
Child Development: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best online bachelor’s in child development programs from fully accredited universities. See the reward in helping children through an accredited online bachelor’s program.
Early Childhood Education: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Focus on early childhood education increases the demand for trained professionals. Find the best programs to start your teaching career.
Education: 40 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online bachelor’s in education programs from fully accredited universities. See how you can achieve fulfilling career paths that foster positive growth experiences and make a difference in the community.
Elementary Education: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best online bachelor’s in elementary education programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can impact children’s lives with knowledge gained from an online elementary education program.
Mathematics: The 5 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Bachelor in Mathematics graduates help meet the increasing demand for diverse quantitative skills. Find the Best Online Bachelor of Mathematics Degree Programs.
Teacher Education: The 30 Best Online Teaching Degree Programs 
Schools don’t teach students; teachers teach students. The job market for teachers is huge, the demand for them is constant. Find the best programs in this article.
Nursing & Healthcare
Emergency Management: The 15 Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Find the best online bachelor’s degree in emergency management from accredited online colleges, and learn what you can do with these credentials across a variety of industries.
Health Education: The 8 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online bachelor’s degree in health education online and see how the skills you learn from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Health Informatics: The 10 Best Bachelor Degree Programs 
Health Informatics bachelor degree programs teach you how to harness the power of data to improve healthcare. Find the best degree programs for your career!
Health Science: The 25 Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Many Health Science students pursue graduate work in lucrative healthcare fields. Note: The best undergrad programs feed into the best grad programs.
Health Services: The Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best bachelor’s in health services online and see how the skills you learn in an online health services degree from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Healthcare Administration: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
In small clinics and major hospitals, Healthcare Administrators oversee healthcare services. Find the best online Healthcare Administration bachelor degree programs to move ahead.
Healthcare Management: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Programs 
Gain the skills and credentials you need for an array of healthcare management jobs. Study online at a well-respected school to become your best!
Human Services: The 25 Best Online Bachelor in Human Services Degree Programs 
The health services sector is booming! Equip yourself to help individuals and communities deal with major life challenges. Find the best degree programs for you.
Nutrition: The 6 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in nutritional sciences degree and further your career managing and improving the health of your community.
Nursing: The 50 Best Online Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in nursing programs in the country. Start a rewarding career in the nursing field and learn how you can help save lives.
RN-to-BSN: The 50 Best Online Programs 
An RN to BSN online program can increase the opportunities to advance your careers and earning potential. These are the best online RN-to-BSN programs to help you succeed!
Social Work: The 10 Best Online BSW Programs 
Accredited
Online Bachelor of Social Work degree programs now exist. With an appropriately accredited BSW, you can cut your Master of Social Work credit requirements in half! Here are your best options.
Social Work: The 25 Best On-Campus Programs 
With an appropriately accredited BSW, you can cut your Master of Social Work credit requirements in half and/or get you into a meaningful career. Here are the best BSW programs.
Psychology & Counseling
Addiction Recovery: 7 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online addiction recovery programs available today. See all the ways you can impact individuals and your community as a substance abuse counselor.
Behavioral Psychology: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online behavioral psychology degrees available today. See how you can learn to better understand people, and apply that knowledge to help individuals and organizations.
Counseling: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best accredited online bachelor’s degree in counseling and start your journey toward helping people come together and grow as individuals.
Forensic Psychology: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
What are your options for a bachelor’s in forensic psychology online? Review our list of fully accredited online bachelor’s programs in forensic psychology and pick the best one to take your education to the highest level.
Music Therapy: The 20 Best Bachelor Programs 
Music therapists use music to help others heal. Find the best, accredited bachelor programs in the US.
Psychology: The 30 Best Online Bachelor Programs 
You are endlessly fascinated by people and their behaviors. Start turning that fascination into a career by enrolling into a great psychology program.
Social Sciences: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Online Bachelor in Social Science programs are more plentiful than a few years ago. But you don’t want just any school. You want a high quality accredited program. Here’s your list!
Liberal Arts & Humanities
Anthropology: The 5 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
If you’re looking for the best online Bachelor in Anthropology degree programs, this is the list for you! Find the program that fits your needs and interests!
Bible: The 25 Best Colleges 
There are over 1200 Bible colleges and many more Christian colleges and universities. Considering those numbers, finding the right school for seems daunting. This list can help.
English: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Online Bachelor of English degree programs go beyond studying literature to nurture invaluable communication skills that have virtually limitless applications. Here are best online English degree programs!
Geography: The 5 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Online Bachelor in Geography degree programs are rare, but there are 100% online programs offered by top-tier universities. Here are the five best programs!
General Studies: The Best Online Bachelor’s Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online general studies degree and get a well rounded education that can prepare you for a wide range of careers.
History: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
An online Bachelor in History degree can train you to become nothing less than a time traveler! Find the best online History degree program for your journey!
Human & Family Development: The 25 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in human & family development programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a bachelor’s in human & family development online.
Journalism: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited bachelors in journalism degree online and learn the details of this important global industry.
Liberal Arts: The 50 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online liberal arts degree and get a well rounded education that can prepare you for a wide range of careers.
Mathematics: The 5 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Bachelor in Mathematics graduates help meet the increasing demand for diverse quantitative skills. Find the Best Online Bachelor of Mathematics Degree Programs.
Mathematics: The 50 Mathematics Programs in the World 
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 mathematics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university mathematics program appears where it does.
Ministry: The 9 Best Online Bachelor Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in ministry programs. See how you can make a faith-based impact from becoming a chaplain to doing social work in your community.
Music Therapy: The 20 Best Bachelor Programs
Music therapists use music to help others heal. Find the best, accredited bachelor programs in the US.
Political Science: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Online Bachelor of Political Science degree programs attract people interested in the principles and decisions that affect nations and everyone therein. Here are the best programs.
Public Policy: The Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in public policy degree and develop the skills needed to succeed in US and foreign policy.
Public Relations: The 19 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in public relations degree for you and learn the critical role that public relations expertise can play in growing and maintaining a business.
Social Sciences: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Online Bachelor in Social Science programs are more plentiful than a few years ago. But you don’t want just any school. You want a high quality accredited program. Here’s your list!
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World 
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
Social Work: The 10 Best Online BSW Programs
Accredited
Online Bachelor of Social Work degree programs now exist. With an appropriately accredited BSW, you can cut your Master of Social Work credit requirements in half! Here are your best options.
Social Work: The 25 Best On-Campus Programs
With an appropriately accredited BSW, you can cut your Master of Social Work credit requirements in half and/or get you into a meaningful career. Here are the best BSW programs.
Sociology: The 25 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
If you’re looking for the best online Bachelor in Sociology degree programs, this is the list for you! Find the program that fits your needs and interests!
Sports Ministry: The Top 10 Bachelor Degree Programs 
If you see your talent in sports as a opportunity, or tool, to reach people with the gospel, then a Sports Ministry degree may be the perfect combination for you.
Theology: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online theology degree and see where deep understanding of religion can take you in life. A theology degree online is the first step.
Science & Engineering
Aeronautics & Aviation: The 10 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited aeronautics and aviation degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced aeronautics knowledge.
Chemistry: The World’s 50 Best Chemistry Programs 
Humanity is always finding new reasons to reshuffle the elements that nature provides. Chemists, more so than practitioners of other fields, need a strong research center to operate in. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Computer Science: The 20 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Computers and digital technologies now impact every industry. An online Bachelor in Computer Science degree opens the way to many highly rewarding careers.
Computer Science: The World’s 100 Best Comp Sci Programs
Computer science stands at the epicenter of this new age of information. Those who study computer science often access some of the highest paying jobs in a wide range of growing fields. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Electrical Engineering: 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelors in electronics engineering and see how your technical knowledge and career options can grow with a electronics engineering degree online.
Engineering/Technology & Computer Science: The World’s 50 Best Programs 
For those serious about technology degrees, this ranking deserve your attention. Respected the world over, these universities help guide the future.
Forensic Science: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online bachelor’s in forensic science. Learn to understand the forensics behind crime scene investigation and serve a crucial role in court cases.
Life & Agriculture Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World 
Life & Agriculture Sciences harnesses the knowledge of the hard sciences to meet the needs of people and the world. Find the best programs in the world today!
Mathematics: The 50 Mathematics Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 mathematics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university mathematics program appears where it does.
Medical & Pharmacy: The 50 Best Programs in the World 
Learn about the best medical and pharmacy schools in the world, their extraordinary resources and commitment to clinical medicine and pharmacy. Find out what sets them apart, and which might be right for you!
Physics: The 50 Best Programs in the World 
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 Physics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university physics program appears where it does.
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
Software Engineering: The 15 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited software engineering degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Trades & Career
Automotive Mechanic Schools: The 25 Best Programs
Find 20 colleges and universities offering Automotive Mechanics programs. All of these schools offer high-quality technical educations that will help get you qualified to work in the automotive service industry.
Culinary Schools: The 30 Best Schools
These are the best culinary schools in America! See how they compare, and find the one that fits your interests best.
Master’s Degree Rankings Articles
Art & Design
Art & Art History: The 6 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited master’s in art and art history degree online and learn the details of this creative career path.
Video Game Design: The 50 Best Schools
Video game design schools have arrived on the academic landscape! Find the best school to prepare you for an exciting career in video game design!
Business & Management
Accounting: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online master’s in accounting programs and see how you can jumpstart your career in accounting with the skills learned from an accredited online master’s degree in accounting.
Business Administration: The 50 Best Online MBA Programs 
Students who complete online MBA programs increase their career options and earning potential, even in a tight job market. Find the best schools to advance your career!
Business Intelligence: The 10 Best Online Master’s Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s degree in business intelligence. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a master’s degree.
Business & Economics: The World’s Best 100 Programs in the World
Here are the best Business & Economics programs in the world, These schools have respected faculty, well-established alumni, and most likely to land you a job.
Communications: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited communications degree online and see how you can use targeted communications skills to gain customers and grow revenue in any industry.
Economics: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Online Master in Economic degree programs are scarce, but there are a few great schools offering attractive online Economics programs. Find the best, here.
Emergency Management: The 10 Best Online Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online masters degree in emergency management. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a masters degree.
Engineering Management: The 25 Best Online Master’s Programs 
See what the best online master’s in engineering management programs have in common and find the right one for you. How high can you climb with a fully accredited master’s in engineering management online?
Entrepreneurship MBA: The 20 Best Online Programs 
Entrepreneurship no longer relates only to establishing a new company. Join an Entrepreneurship MBA program that encourages the innovation companies need.
Executive MBA: The Best On-Campus & Online Programs 
Executive MBAs are highly selective degree programs for those preparing to lead leaders. In the competitive business world, every advantage matters. Discover the best programs for your goals.
Finance: The 20 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best online master’s in finance programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can shape the conversation and help a business grow with a finance master’s online.
Finance MBAs: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Become the person companies depend on to understand complex financial data, direct better decision making, and help the company prosper.
Hospitality: The 30 Best Hospitality Programs
Advancement opportunities abound in the Hospitality industry for those with the special skill set a Hospitality Degree will give you. Find the best programs in the US
Hospitality & Tourism: The 20 Best Degree Programs
Equip yourself to join a massively growing industry by learning the business skills and cultural education necessary to run hospitality and tourism venues.
Human Resources: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Businesses need the right employees — -that’s why HR professionals are vital for the success of companies. A master’s degree is your entrée into the HR field.
International Business MBA: Best Online Degree Programs 
We live in a global economy! Global businesses need special professionals to make deals regardless of boarders. Study with the best, to become the best!
Internet Marketing: The 15 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited master’s in digital marketing degree online and see how you can use targeted marketing skills to gain customers and grow revenue in any industry.
Management: The 50 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
See what the best online master’s in business management programs have in common and find the right one for you. How high can you climb with a fully accredited master’s in management online?
Management Information Systems MBAs: The 20 Best Online MBA in Degree Programs 
Develop the technical skills, business skills, and leadership skills you need to be your best. Find the best schools to prepare you for your future in management.
Marketing: The 50 Best Online Master’s Programs 
If you enjoy the challenges of increasing market share, reaching new customers, and building a corporate brand, a master’s in marketing will make you a more marketable job candidate.
MBA: The 50 Best Online MBA Programs
Students who complete online MBA programs increase their career options and earning potential, even in a tight job market. Find the best schools to advance your career!
Negotiation & Conflict Management: The 10 Best Online Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s degree in negotiation & conflict management. See all the opportunities available to students who earn an master’s degree.
Nonprofit Management: The 10 Best Online Degree Programs 
Find the best online Non-Profit Management master degree programs to help you build and maintain services for those in need.
Organizational Leadership: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Whether leaders are born or made, there is always room for improvement. Become a better leader by learning the skills of scholars in these programs.
Organizational Psychology: The 7 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best online master’s in organizational psychology from fully accredited universities and learn how organizational psychologists keep businesses running smoothly.
Project Management: The 20 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Project managers love seeing ideas become polished products and need skills to deal with every step in-between. Learn the “in-between” in these top programs.
Retail Sales Management: Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs 
See what the best online master’s in retail sales management programs have in common and find the right one for you. How high can you climb with a fully accredited master’s in retail sales management online?
Sports Management: The 25 Best Master Degree Programs 
Not all sports careers are for athletes only. Find the best online Sports Management master degree programs and career information.
Supply Chain Management: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Excellent supply chain managers keep products moving . . . they keep business moving. Train with experts from top schools to be your best!
Sustainability: Best MBA Degree Programs 
More focus is placed on the environmental impacts of businesses, than ever before. Find the best online MBA to help you steer businesses toward better paths.
Computers & Technology
Computational Linguistics: The 20 Best Graduate Programs 
Computational linguistics is a field of vital importance in the information age. The best schools for computational linguistics have a strong interdisciplinary culture, notable faculty, and numerous specializations to choose from.
Computer Science: The World’s 100 Best Comp Sci Programs 
Computer science stands at the epicenter of this new age of information. Those who study computer science often access some of the highest paying jobs in a wide range of growing fields. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Computer Science: The 20 Best Graduate Programs 
Discover the best schools for Computer Science graduate degrees, and get tips on how to choose a school that’s right for you and how to navigate the application process.
Cyber Crime: The 50 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
See the best, fully accredited master’s in cybercrime degrees online. Learn the latest information on uncovering, solving, and preventing cybercrimes.
Information Assurance & Security: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
We know too well what can happen if the wrong people get a hold of a company’s private information. Learn from leading experts in the field at these topnotch schools.
IT: The 20 Best Master Degree Programs 
Individuals with IT master’s degree gain a high level of technical expertise and are more suited for leadership positions, which generally means, a higher income.
Internet Security: The 10 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited internet security degree online and see how you can use your acquired skills to protect companies and individuals from fraud.
Management Information Systems: The 15 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Develop the technical skills, business skills, and leadership skills you need to be your best. Find the best schools to prepare you for your future in management.
Network Security: The 24 Best Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited master’s in network security degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Video Game Design: The 50 Best Schools
Video game design schools have arrived on the academic landscape! Find the best school to prepare you for an exciting career in video game design!
Criminal Justice & Legal
Criminal Justice: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
These top online programs can prepare you compete for in-demand criminal justice jobs in the legal, sociological, practical, and theoretical areas of law enforcement.
Criminology: 10 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online master’s in criminology degree from a fully accredited university. Learn criminal behavior and the causes and effects of crime with a criminology degree online.
Forensic Psychology: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in forensic psychology. Learn to understand the psychology behind criminals and serve a crucial role in court cases.
Homeland Security: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
An online Homeland Security master’s degree will prepare you for an array of jobs serving and protecting our country. Find the best program for you!
Information Assurance & Security: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs
We know too well what can happen if the wrong people get a hold of a company’s private information. Learn from leading experts in the field at these topnotch schools.
Law Enforcement: The 9 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online law enforcement degree and get started in a career serving and protecting your community as a police officer.
Legal Studies: The 8 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best online legal studies degree from a fully accredited university and learn how you can achieve your career goals with a legal studies degree online.
Network Security: The 24 Best Master’s Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited master’s in network security degrees online and see how you can build a successful career through advanced technical knowledge.
Education & Teaching
Child Development: The 5 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online masters in child development programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the early childhood education system with enhanced expertise and knowledge gained from an online program.
Coaching: The 40 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited master’s in coaching programs online and see the reward in helping people grow as individuals as well as athletes.
Curriculum & Instruction: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Learn about the best online programs to help you master the art and science of designing and implementing curricula that will better engage students. Find the best school for you!
Early Childhood Education: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Gain knowledge to better understand early childhood development, and the skills to better reach children, or run a facility. Find the best online program for you.
Education: The 20 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Whether you are seeking your teacher licensure through graduate work, or aspiring to go into an administrative position, take the next step with an online Master of Education.
Educational Administration: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
A Master’s in Educational Administration prepares graduates for an array of leadership positions in the educational system. Find out who’s leading the leaders!
Educational Leadership: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
The best leadership is that done by example. Earn your Educational Leadership master’s degree with the best, to become the best leader you can be.
Educational Technology: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Master in Educational Technology degree programs shows students how to apply technology to improve education. Find the best online degree program for you!
Elementary Education: The 20 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best accredited online Elementary Education master degree programs to help you advance your career! We’ve done the research; you pick the school!
English Language Learning: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited ESL master’s programs online and see the reward in helping people learn English as a second language though a master’s in ESL online.
Gifted & Talented Education: The 30 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited gifted and talented education master’s programs online and see the reward in helping gifted and talented students achieve their true potential.
Higher Education: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
An online Master in Higher Education degree prepares you for rewarding leadership roles at colleges and universities. Find the best online program for you.
Library & Information Science: The 20 Best Online Master Programs 
What good is a massive storage of information without people skilled in finding what is needed? Perfect your library & information science skills at these top schools!
Math Education: The 10 Best Online Master Programs 
Find the best online masters in math education programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the education system with enhanced expertise and knowledge gained from an online master’s program.
Online Teaching: The 8 Best Online Master’s Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in online education programs, and learn how you can impact the education system for distance students.
Reading: The 25 Best Online Master in Reading Programs 
Literacy is essential for all success in education. Learn the best strategies to teach people to read from any of these outstanding online programs!
School Counseling: The 10 Best Online Master’s Programs 
An online master’s degree in School Counseling can lead to a rewarding job helping students find the best paths for their lives. But first, you need to find your best path.
Science Education: The 10 Best Online Master’s Programs 
Find the best online master’s in science education programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the education system with enhanced expertise and knowledge gained from an online master’s program.
Secondary Education: The 30 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online masters in secondary education degree and get a well rounded education that can prepare you for a wide range of careers.
Social Studies: 10 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs: 
Find the best master’s degree in social studies online and see how the skills you learn in an online master’s in social studies from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Special Education: The 30 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Gain skills you need to help students of all ages overcome their educational challenges. Learn from experts at these great schools. Find the best school for you!
Teacher Education: The 30 Best Online Teaching Degree Programs 
Schools don’t teach students; teachers teach students. The job market for teachers is huge, the demand for them is constant. Find the best programs in this article.
Nursing & Healthcare
Emergency Management: The 10 Best Online Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online masters degree in emergency management. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a masters degree.
Gerontology: The 10 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online gerontology master’s degree and learn the variety of ways you can help the elderly, through healthcare, social services, and more.
Healthcare Administration: The 25 Best Online Masters Degree Programs 
Shape and hone your unique skill set and interest in America’s best graduate online Master of Healthcare Administration degree programs.
Healthcare Informatics: The 25 Best Online Masters Degree Programs 
Graduate Healthcare Informatics degree recipients needed immediately! Find the best schools to prepare you for the unique field of healthcare informatics.
Healthcare Management MBAs: The 25 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
An online MBA in Healthcare Management equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage healthcare organizations.
Human Services: The 10 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best master’s degree in human services online and see how the skills you learn in an online master’s in human services from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Nurse Practitioner: Best Online Master’s Degrees 
Find the best, fully accredited online MSN programs in the country. Start a rewarding career in the nursing field and learn how you can help save lives.
Nursing Administration: The 20 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find online Master in Nursing Administration degree programs from respected, accredited colleges and universities. Prepare for leadership roles at the department and director level.
Nutrition: The 25 Best Master Programs 
Career opportunities in public and private settings abound for those with a master degree in nutrition. Read our article to discover the best master’s degree programs in nutrition.
Public Health: The 30 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
A Master of Public Health degree can open up many opportunities. Become a leader in improving health policies and conditions around the world.
Social Work Online: The 25 Best MSW Degree Programs 
Online offerings make the incredibly versatile MSW even more attractive by adding convenience and flexibility. Find out more about the Top 25 online MSW programs.
Social Work: The 25 Best On-Campus MSW Degree Programs 
An MSW is one of the best degrees you can have for helping people and communities in various ways. See our list of the 25 best MSW programs to get on your way to a rewarding Social Work career!
Psychology & Counseling
Counseling: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best online masters in counseling programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the counseling system with enhanced expertise and knowledges gained from an online program.
Family Counseling: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in family counseling programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a master’s in family counseling online.
Forensic Psychology: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in forensic psychology. Learn to understand the psychology behind criminals and serve a crucial role in court cases.
Human & Family Development: The 10 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best accredited online master’s degree in human family & development and start your journey toward helping people come together and grow as a family.
Organizational Psychology: The 7 Best Online Master Degree Programs
Find the best online master’s in organizational psychology from fully accredited universities and learn how organizational psychologists keep businesses running smoothly.
Psychology: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Many careers and professional areas, including health services, education, criminal justice, business, and sports value the skills and knowledge individuals gain in psychology master’s degree programs. Find the best, fully accredited, online master’s in psychology degree for your future!
School Counseling: The 10 Best Online Master’s Programs
An online master’s degree in School Counseling can lead to a rewarding job helping students find the best paths for their lives. But first, you need to find your best path.
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
Substance Abuse Counseling: The 20 Best Online Master Degrees 
The demand for licensed counselors grows. An online master’s degree is a wise choice if you are working in the mental health field or exploring a career change.
Science & Engineering
Biomedical Engineering: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in biomedical engineering degrees available today. See all the ways you can impact individuals and your community.
Civil Engineering: The Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in civil engineering degrees. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a master’s degree.
Chemistry: The World’s 50 Best Chemistry Programs
Humanity is always finding new reasons to reshuffle the elements that nature provides. Chemists, more so than practitioners of other fields, need a strong research center to operate in. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Computational Linguistics: The 20 Best Graduate Programs
Computational linguistics is a field of vital importance in the information age. The best schools for computational linguistics have a strong interdisciplinary culture, notable faculty, and numerous specializations to choose from.
Computer Science: The World’s 100 Best Comp Sci Programs
Computer science stands at the epicenter of this new age of information. Those who study computer science often access some of the highest paying jobs in a wide range of growing fields. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Electrical Engineering: The 25 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in electrical engineering. See how your technical knowledge and career options can grow with a master’s in electrical engineering online.
Engineering: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Looking for a career as an engineer? See the best, fully accredited online master’s degrees in engineering and learn how to be successful in this rewarding field.
Engineering/Technology & Computer Science: The World’s 50 Best Programs
For those serious about technology degrees, this ranking deserve your attention. Respected the world over, these universities help guide the future.
Engineering Management: The 25 Best Online Master’s Programs
See what the best online master’s in engineering management programs have in common and find the right one for you. How high can you climb with a fully accredited master’s in engineering management online?
Life & Agriculture Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
Life & Agriculture Sciences harnesses the knowledge of the hard sciences to meet the needs of people and the world. Find the best programs in the world today!
Mathematics: The 50 Mathematics Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 mathematics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university mathematics program appears where it does.
Medical & Pharmacy: The 50 Best Programs in the World
Learn about the best medical and pharmacy schools in the world, their extraordinary resources and commitment to clinical medicine and pharmacy. Find out what sets them apart, and which might be right for you!
Physics: The 50 Best Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 Physics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university physics program appears where it does.
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
Liberal Arts & Humanities
Christian Apologetics: The Top 10 Graduate Programs 
Defending the faith is your concern, not defending your degree. Here are some of the top graduate programs at some of the most influential seminaries in the country.
Creative Writing: The 10 Best Programs 
With the power of words you can transport someone to new and exciting worlds. Sharpen your talents with guidance from experts in one of these premier programs.
Divinity (MDiv): The Best Online Master of Divinity Programs 
Find the best accredited, 100% online MDiv programs from schools you know and trust, based on overall academic quality, faculty strengths and reputation.
Human & Family Development: The 10 Best Online Master Degree Programs
Find the best accredited online master’s degree in human family & development and start your journey toward helping people come together and grow as a family.
Journalism: The Best Online Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in journalism degree online and learn the details of this important global industry.
Mathematics: The 50 Mathematics Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 mathematics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university mathematics program appears where it does.
Media Communications: The Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited media communications degree online and learn the details of this important global industry.
Ministry: The 6 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in ministry programs. See how you can make a faith-based impact from becoming a chaplain to doing work in your community.
Political Science: The 5 Best Online Master’s in Political Science Degree Programs 
Study and learn to inform world-changing decisions with a master’s in Political Science for these globally respected universities. The best part, they’re all 100% online.
Public Administration: The 30 Best Online Master Degree Programs 
Become a leader in a government or non-governmental career who impacts issues and problems affecting the general public.
Public Policy: Best Online Master’s Degree Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online master’s in public policy degree and develop the skills needed to succeed in US and foreign policy.
Social Work Online: The 25 Best MSW Degree Programs
Online offerings make the incredibly versatile MSW even more attractive by adding convenience and flexibility. Find out more about the Top 25 online MSW programs.
Social Work: The 25 Best On-Campus MSW Degree Programs
An MSW is one of the best degrees you can have for helping people and communities in various ways. See our list of the 25 best MSW programs to get on your way to a rewarding Social Work career!
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
Social Studies: 10 Best Online Master’s Degree Programs:
Find the best master’s degree in social studies online and see how the skills you learn in an online master’s in social studies from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Theology: The Top 20 Online Theology Master’s Degree Programs: 
Find the best online graduate Theology programs and top programs related to theology. Discover the right path for your academic and ministerial interests.
Doctorate Degree Ranking Articles
Business & Management
Accounting: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in accounting programs and see how you can jumpstart your career in accounting with the skills learned from an accredited online doctorate degree.
Business Administration: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in business administration (DBA) programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can take your business career in a scholarly direction, or apply complex concepts to real world business challenges.
Human Resources: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited doctorate in human resources degree online and learn the details of this important organizational industry.
International Business: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in international business degree for you and learn the critical role that business expertise can play in a global world.
Management: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in management programs and see how you can jumpstart your career in management with the skills learned from an accredited online degree.
Marketing: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in marketing programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can shape the conversation and help a business grow with a marketing doctorate online.
Organizational Leadership: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online organizational leadership doctorate programs and see how you can help enact change and become a better leader with a EdD or PhD in organizational leadership online.
Organizational Psychology: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online organizational psychology doctorate from fully accredited universities and learn how organizational psychologists improve workplaces and keep businesses running smoothly.
Computers & Technology
Computer Science: The 20 Best Graduate Programs
Discover the best schools for Computer Science graduate degrees, and get tips on how to choose a school that’s right for you and how to navigate the application process.
Criminal Justice & Legal
Criminal Justice: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate degree in criminal justice. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a doctorate.
Education & Teaching
Counselor Education: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in counselor education programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a EdE or PhD in counselor education online.
Curriculum & Instruction: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online curriculum & instruction doctorate programs to help you master the art and science of designing and implementing curricula that will better engage students. Find the best school for you!
Early Childhood Education: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online early childhood education doctoral degree and get a well rounded education that can prepare you for a wide range of careers.
Education: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited doctorate in education degree online and learn the details of this important community educational service.
Educational Administration: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online educational administration doctorate programs and see how you can help change a school, and a community, with a EdD or PhD in educational administration online.
Educational Leadership: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online educational leadership doctorate programs and see how you can help enact change and become a better leader with a EdD or PhD in educational leadership online.
Educational Psychology: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in educational psychology programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a doctorate in educational psychology online.
Educational Technology: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in educational technology programs from fully accredited universities. Learn how you can improve the education system with enhanced expertise and knowledges gained from an online doctorate program.
Higher Education: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Reach the highest levels of education with an online doctorate in higher education from a fully accredited online university. Prepare for a career as a principal, dean or other administrator.
Higher Education: Best Online Doctoral Programs
Reach the highest levels of education with an online doctorate in higher education from a fully accredited online university. Prepare for a career as a principal, dean or other administrator.
Reading & Literacy: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited reading and literacy doctorate programs online and see the reward in helping people read though a doctorate in reading and literacy online.
Nursing & Healthcare
Healthcare Administration: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best doctorate degree in healthcare management online and see how the skills you learn in an online doctorate from a fully accredited online college can change lives.
Nurse Practitioner: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in nursing programs from around the country. From working as a nurse executive to scholarly pursuits in nursing, a DNP will serve you well.
Public Health: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in public health degree and learn the variety of ways you can help the elderly, through healthcare, social services, and more.
Psychology & Counseling
Behavioral Psychology: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in behavioral psychology programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a doctorate in psychology online.
Counseling: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online counseling doctorate degrees available today. See all the ways you can impact individuals and your community as a counselor.
Educational Psychology: The Best Online Doctoral Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in educational psychology programs and see how you can help people and have a successful career with a doctorate in educational psychology online.
Family Counseling: The Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online family counseling doctorate degrees available today. See all the ways you can impact individuals and your community as a counselor.
Organizational Psychology: The Best Online Doctoral Programs
Find the best online organizational psychology doctorate from fully accredited universities and learn how organizational psychologists improve workplaces and keep businesses running smoothly.
Liberal Arts & Humanities
Public Administration: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate degree in public administration. See all the opportunities available to students who earn a doctorate degree.
Public Health: Best Online Doctoral Programs
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in public health degree and learn the variety of ways you can help the elderly, through healthcare, social services, and more.
Public Policy: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online doctorate in public policy degree and develop the skills needed to succeed in U.S. and foreign policy.
Social Work: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best online doctorate in social work programs from accredited colleges. See what it takes to launch a career in this in-demand, community-driven profession.
Theology: Best Online Doctoral Programs 
Find the best, fully accredited online theology doctorate degree and see where deep understanding of religion can take you in life. A theology degree online is the first step.
School Rankings
Elementary through High School
Boarding Schools: The 50 Best in the US 
Find most selective, competitive, and influential schools in the country. These schools open Ivy League doors; these are the grounds on which lucrative social networks are built.
Christian Boarding Schools: The 30 Best 
Boarding schools offer stable and secure places for children in a variety of circumstances. Find the best Christian boarding schools for your family’s needs.
Christian High Schools: The 50 Best in America 
Out of the nearly 12,000 Christian high school in the US, we found 50 schools that exemplify academic excellence, extracurricular richness, and more, while keeping faith central to their mission in education.
Middle Schools: The 50 Best in the US 
Here’s a list of 50 middle schools from across the country whose faculty, staff, and students all deserve a word of thanks for their exemplary work!
Online High School Diplomas: The 50 Best 
If traditional high school did not, or will not work for your life, the great news is that you can get your high school diploma online. Find the best online high school diploma program for you, and let your future begin!
Private Day Schools: The 50 Best in the United States 
Here is your key to information about the very best private “day schools” in the US, where students are challenged not only academically, but personally success as well.
Private Elementary Schools: The 50 Best in the United States 
Experts increasingly tout the importance of early childhood education. As a result, more families are searching for quality private elementary schools. To help, this article ranks the 50 best private elementary schools across America.
Public Elementary Schools: The 50 Best in the US 
These schools exemplify the best in elementary education! Working with what they have, they create environments that are highly effective at stimulating learning and fostering personal growth.
Public High Schools: The 100 Best in the U 
These schools prove that a world-class education doesn’t require a tuition. See which schools are raising the bar for public high school education.
Colleges & Universities
Business & Economics: The World’s Best 100 Programs in the World
Here are the best Business & Economics programs in the world, These schools have respected faculty, well-established alumni, and most likely to land you a job.
Chemistry: The World’s 50 Best Chemistry Programs
Humanity is always finding new reasons to reshuffle the elements that nature provides. Chemists, more so than practitioners of other fields, need a strong research center to operate in. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Christian Colleges, Online: The Top 20
Online education has leveled the playing field, in many ways, for schools of all ranks to reach new students and grow. These Christian colleges are taking their mission to the cyber world.
Colleges: The 50 Best in the United States
Discover a different take on defining the best colleges, one that is actually focused on colleges rather than universities, and one that focuses on student successes rather than names.
Colleges, Online: The 100 Best Online Colleges 2017
Find the best online college for you by searching our list of reputable, accredited colleges and universities with robust online education offerings. These are the best of the best!
Colleges, Online: The Best in Your State
Looking for the best online colleges for you? Chances are, it’s one you already know and respect, in your own state! Go ahead, see the best in your state!
Colleges, Online: The Most Affordable for Bachelor's Degrees
The most affordable online colleges for bachelor degrees aren't always the cheapest online colleges. These online colleges all are fully accredited, nonprofit online colleges & universities. To help find the most affordable online bachelor's degrees, we also direct you to your state's best online colleges.
Colleges, Online & On-Campus: The Best ROI
These lists of 125 online, public, and private colleges look at “best return” by considering a large set of institutional factors, which are supplemented bachelor’s salary report for early-career and mid-career average salary data by college.
Colleges and Universities: The 100 Best in the US by State
For each of the 50 states in the US, find out what is the state’s best full-fledged university and its best four-year liberal arts college.
Colleges and Universities: The Most Affordable in Each State
Looking for the most affordable four-year college in your state? We’ve found the college with the lowest net cost per year in each state.
Colleges for Homeschool Graduates: The 30 Best
The college atmosphere can be quite a change, and challenge, for homeschool graduates, just as it is for all high school graduates. Discover the schools that best suit your goals.
Community Colleges: The 50 Best in the United States
Check out these community colleges that rival many four-year state and private schools in terms of quality courses, facilities, and return on investment.
Community Colleges
Online: The Most Affordable in the US
The most affordable online colleges for associate degrees aren't always the cheapest online colleges. Many are online community college; all are fully accredited, nonprofit online colleges & universities. To help find the most affordable online associate degrees, we also direct you to your state's best online colleges.
Computer Science: The World’s 100 Best Comp Sci Programs
Computer science stands at the epicenter of this new age of information. Those who study computer science often access some of the highest paying jobs in a wide range of growing fields. Here are the best programs in the WORLD!
Conservative Colleges: The 20 Best in America
Conservative colleges provide an important counterbalance to the liberalism that pervades American higher education. See the 20 Best conservative-friendly colleges.
Engineering/Technology & Computer Science: The World’s 50 Best Programs
For those serious about technology degrees, this ranking deserve your attention. Respected the world over, these universities help guide the future.
Life & Agriculture Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
Life & Agriculture Sciences harnesses the knowledge of the hard sciences to meet the needs of people and the world. Find the best programs in the world today!
Mathematics: The 50 Mathematics Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 mathematics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university mathematics program appears where it does.
Medical & Pharmacy: The 50 Best Programs in the World
Learn about the best medical and pharmacy schools in the world, their extraordinary resources and commitment to clinical medicine and pharmacy. Find out what sets them apart, and which might be right for you!
Music: The 20 Best Music Conservatories in the US
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Bible: The 25 Best Colleges
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Online Colleges: The Most Popular
The most popular online colleges boast the highest enrollment numbers, proving they are doing something right! Who are they and what makes them so popular!
Physics: The 50 Best Programs in the World
We researched the most important characteristics of each of the top 50 Physics programs on the list in order to reveal why each university physics program appears where it does.
Social Sciences: The 50 Best Programs in the World
The Social Sciences include approaches from Sociology and Psychology to evaluate human behavior from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. These are the best programs from around the world.
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Law Schools: 10 Top Affordable Recognized in the US
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Conservative Colleges: The 20 Best in America
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Medical & Pharmacy: The 50 Best Programs in the World
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Online Colleges by State
Four great reasons to find an online college in your state:
- In-state tuition can save you a lot of money.
- Be a part of a university or college that you know and love.
- Get a degree from a school that employers know and trust.
- Be close enough to easily visit the campus when you want.
Click on the abbreviations to see the best online colleges in your state!
- AL
- AK
- AZ
- AR
- CA
- CO
- CT
- DE
- FL
- GA
- HI
- ID
- IL
- IN
- IA
- KS
- KY
- LA
- ME
- MD
- MA
- MI
- MN
- MS
- MO
- MT
- NE
- NV
- NH
- NJ
- NM
- NY
- NC
- ND
- OH
- OK
- OR
- PA
- RI
- SC
- SD
- TN
- TX
- UT
- VT
- VA
- WA
- WV
- WI
- WY
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Colleges and Online Education
Q: Is online education right for me?
Online education requires more discipline than traditional college courses. Because students do not meet in person at a set time, there is a need for online students to schedule their own time for study and coursework. Successful online learners will be self-starters who can incorporate their studies into an existing schedule.
Q: Will I miss out on the college experience?
Many students choose to pursue online education because they cannot attend classes on campus because of work or family schedules. While this does provide the opportunity for high quality education for those who would not otherwise be able to purse their studies, other online students long for a traditional college experience.
You should consider what you want to get out of your educational experience. Are the friendships and networking that occur on campus important to you? If so, you may wish to seek out night classes or other flexible on-campus options. Some online programs attempt to simulate these interactions using online message boards that are available for everything from study groups to emotional support. As with every other aspect of online education, you will need to evaluate if the virtual environment is right for you.
Q: What subjects can I reasonably study online? Are there any subjects that I cannot study online?
In the past, the largest obstacle for online students in any field of study was the asynchronous nature of discussion. Because all students in the class were not available online at the same time, the classroom discussion and dialogue that lead to higher level thinking required active participation through discussion boards and email correspondence over the course of several days. This can be rewarding considering students and instructors alike have time to consider their input into discussions, which can lead to a more meaningful dialogue. However, for some students there is a need for discussion and feedback to be in real time. In recent years, technological advances have allowed online courses to incorporate asynchronous and synchronous elements.
Synchronous online classes allow students and instructors to be online at the same time. All Lectures, discussions, and presentations occur at a scheduled times. In order to participate in these activities, everyone must be online at the ordained time. This may be a concern for those seeking out online education because of a busy or unpredictable work schedule.
Asynchronous classes allow students to participate in course activities whenever they choose. Materials, lectures, tests, and assignments are provided by instructors beforehand and can be accessed by students at any time. Students are often given a time frame during which they need to connect at least once or twice.
Q: Is online education effective?
If you feel comfortable flying solo — and many students are more than prepared to do so — an online degree program may be right for you. If this is your first attempt at managing your educational affairs without the assistance of parents or teachers, make sure you are up to the challenge, that you are using all the support services available to you, and that you have somebody in your corner, be it a family member or a professional tutor, to help you through the early stages of transition and hold you accountable. Your performance at an online college is determined in large part by the way that you have historically approached education.
As an editorial from the New York Times (2013) points out, your performance at an online college is determined in large part by the way that you have historically approached education. The editorial observes that “courses delivered solely online may be fine for highly skilled, highly motivated people, but they are inappropriate for struggling students who make up a significant portion of college enrollment and who need close contact with instructors to succeed.”
It is important that you, as the college applicant, know into exactly which of these categories you fall. For some enrollees, compatibility will require the adoption of improved study habits, better schedule management, and a stronger work ethic. Of course, the positive offshoot is that if you can successfully make this transition, you will also be gaining absolutely essential life skills. These skills won’t just help you to succeed in your online education; they will make you more valuable to prospective employers.
That said, high rates of non-completion are rampant in online education and suggest that one must be realistic about one’s abilities before deciding to go this route.
Q: How many students participate in online education?
The 2015 Survey of Online Learning by the Babson Survey Research Group shows that nearly six million students take at least one course online. Just over one-fourth (28%) of students in higher education are taking at least one online course. While the number of online learners has fallen slightly since 2011 (nearly 33%), more of the students are taking online courses at major, public non-profit universities.
Q: How long has distance learning been around?
The first distance learning course is generally recognized to have started in 1728, when an American shorthand instructor named Caleb Phillips thought to offer instruction by mail in Boston. The idea of waiting days to receive assignments and return them is something today’s distance learning student can barely comprehend, but in the absence of computer, telephone, and even telegraph, the ability to learn through the postal system was a real head-turner at the time.
England later realized the potential of learning by mail, when the innovation of standardized penny postage in the United Kingdom made distance education a reality. In the 1840s, Sir Isaac Pitman needed just three years to parlay this innovation into the Phonographic Correspondence Society and, thereafter, Sir Isaac Pitman’s Correspondence Colleges.
Distance learning opportunities were soon created for foreign language instruction in Germany, and mining safety in California. The University of London created what some believe is the first university-based distance learning program in 1858. This is an important development for two reasons. First, this is the inaugural effort to use distance learning as a substitute for a comprehensive college experience. Until then, distance learning had an emphasis on discrete topics, with a particular focus on development of a skill, like shorthand. University of London’s program is also an important milestone, based on its success to innovate and expand its offerings. Its distance learning program reaches thousands of students in 180 countries, offering over one hundred credentials that can be obtained completely online. This advancement would only be possible with continued expansion of the mission and vision of the purpose of distance learning, as well as the incorporation of the latest technology.
Distance learning gained ground with educators throughout Europe as the nineteenth century wore on. According to Distance Learning, the late 1800s saw the emergence of several leading distance education institutions, including Edinburgh’s Skerry’s College in 1878, London’s Correspondence College in 1887, and, in Sweden, the influential Hermod’s, which was officially established in 1898. Newly established institutions like the University of Chicago making correspondence education a major part of their educational arsenal as early as 1890.[36] Within the decade, major distance education institutions had emerged in Boston and eastern Pennsylvania as well.
Q: Can I blend online courses with on-campus courses?
Increasingly, students are experiencing higher education through a blended course of study that includes some combination of online learning and physical class time. This can provide students the opportunity to take a course that they previously were not able to take because of a scheduling conflict. Additionally, some students who commute can reduce the number of trips to campus by blending on-campus and online courses. Some science courses may offer the lecture portion of a course online while requiring students to attend a laboratory component in person.
Q: Will I be able to continue to work full-time while earning an online degree?
The allure of online education, for many, lies in the fact that classes can be taken anytime and anywhere. Many students think that because online courses are so flexible that they can incorporate a college education into a life that already includes a full-time job and a family. They are correct, but should be careful.
While a great number of students have successfully completed degrees while working a full-time job, it is important to consider all the obligations on your time before beginning a program of study. Online courses require as much, if not more, study time as traditional college classes.
Q: Are online degrees accredited?
Yes. There are several types of accreditation which may be given to a college or university. The gold standard is regional accreditation. If an institution is regionally accredited, the online courses and degrees offered by that school are accredited by the same organization.
According to the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), regional accreditation “is a self-regulatory process based on rigorous standards.” Accordingly, academic institutions receive accreditation based on internal evaluations conducted by colleges and universities and in accordance with such rigorous standards.
Once self-review is complete, accrediting commissions call for a peer review of the applying university or college. Following these steps, a commission within the agency determines an institution’s accreditation status. This process should also conclude with a concrete plan of action for subsequent review of accreditation status in the event that consequential changes take place in the way the institution operates.
Schools not awarded accreditation status at the end of this process often receive counsel and support from the accrediting agency so that they can make the changes and improvements needed to merit accreditation. For instance, the accrediting agency may identify lapses in quality or consistency of academic programs, and set out a course of action to redress them before the school can reapply for accreditation. Institutions with accreditation may lose this recognition due to a decline in quality or a problematic change in operations.
Q: How do I know if an online school is legitimate?
Unfortunately, not all online colleges have your best interest in mind. As with any new technology and industry, online education has proliferated over the past decade. There is no shortage of for-profit institutions that claim to offer high quality online education that are little more than scams that prey on those wishing to obtain a college degree. It is important to research any institution in which you are considering enrolling.
So, how do you know if a school is legitimate? Regional accrediting agencies regulate and evaluate higher education in order to make this determination easier for prospective students. Accreditation is the educational stamp of approval that guarantees your selected academic institution has attained certain standards of operational, procedural, financial, and academic practice. Regional accreditation is the gold standard!
Q: What are the best online degrees?
The best online degrees are going to be those offered by affordable schools which help you to further your education and accomplish your goals. That being said, some online degrees are better received by graduate schools and employers than others. We have highlighted The 25 Best Online Degrees which tend to fall into one of the five following categories: Business, Computers and Information Technology, Healthcare, Science and Engineering, and Social Science and Criminal Justice.
Q: How much can I expect to pay?
Prices can vary based on public or private institutions, location, and degree level. As a general rule, public institutions are more affordable than private schools (assuming you are attending a school in a state where you hold residence) and undergraduate courses are less expensive than graduate level instruction.
For the 100 best online colleges of 2017, average undergraduate cost per credit for in-state students was $430 per credit while out of state students could expect to pay $616 per credit on average. Keep in mind that this list includes both private and public institutions at which tuition for undergraduates rages from $120 per credit at the most affordable option to as much as $1824 per credit for the most expensive undergraduate option. When considering the total cost of a bachelor's degree, this difference can amount to over two hundred thousand dollars. It is important to research the cost of you degree program at each school you are considering before enrolling.
Q: How do I finance an online education?
Because online students do not require on campus housing or meal plans the cost of online education can be much more affordable than attending classes in person.
However, you must consider that you will still need a place to live and need to meet your basic needs. Will you be able to continue to work full time while pursuing your degree? If not, you may need to take advantage of financial aid options available to online students.
Online programs from accredited institutions offer similar financial aid packages to on-campus options. Many online students receive scholarships and grants. Additionally, federal student loans are available to finance online education with the same limits and terms as traditional college.
Q: What is the difference between For-Profit and Non-Profit Schools?
It is simplistic to see for-profit colleges as motivated purely by money and non-profit colleges as motivated purely by academic excellence. For-profit colleges, if they are to succeed in the long run, need to provide a good product and thus are motivated to strive for academic excellence. Alternatively, non-profit colleges can be tempted to cash in on their non-profit status, milking the government for student loans to cover their ever upward spiraling tuition costs.
You should not limit your search to non-profit schools. Indeed, some for-profit schools have had remarkable success forging corporate partnerships and helping employees of corporations advance their education. Stories of success as well as stories of failure cover the entire gamut of American online education. What this all means is that in searching for the right online college, you need to be thorough, exercising due diligence, and leaving nothing to chance.
Q: Will my computer/internet connection be good enough?
Online education obviously requires a computer and a reliable internet connection. You may wish to consider the age and condition of your device before beginning an online education program. Many programs require you to view large video and audio files. You will want to ensure that you have a computer with a high-speed internet connection so that you can stream these files without frustrating delays.
Additionally, many schools use specialized software for certain classes. While you do not need the latest and greatest hardware, it would be wise to ensure that your computer has sufficient memory and meets all necessary technical specifications. Even if you do not own a reliable computer or high-speed internet is not available in your area, there may be options for your online education. Public libraries often offer computer access. However, you should ensure that such use does not violate policies and consider such factors as daily usage limits.
Q: Are online degrees as good as on-campus degrees?
When considering an online college and an online degree, the reputation of the school and specific program is of great importance. Schools which are renowned for a given program of study will offer degrees which are useful to students whether they earn their credentials in person or through distance education.
However, the prestige of the school is not the only consideration when weighing the value of a degree. In many cases, the skills you gain during your studies will eclipse the degree that you earn. If this is true for you, then you need to seek an online college with a positive track record in its quality of instruction. Consider conducting some research on the employment rate for those who have previously graduated from a given online college program. Evidence that graduates are enjoying gainful employment in their chosen field of study is usually a good indicator of an online college’s relative quality.
Q: How quickly can I expect to finish an online education?
Graduation rates for online students suggest a trend that completing an online degree may be a slightly lengthier undertaking than traditional in-person college courses. Various studies suggest that less than 20 percent of students in online degree programs will graduate in 3 years or less.
When we extend the time period to six years, we see graduation rates rise to nearly 50 percent. These data are unsurprising considering many online students do not take as full a course load as their on-campus counterparts because of career or familial obligations which also require their time and energy.
Q: Is the retention rate for online students the same as on-campus students? Why?
Retention rates for online colleges vary widely among the top 100 online schools. The schools in our list boast freshman retention rates from 56 percent to 96 percent. The average retention rate for the 100 best online colleges is 77 percent. This number is on par with the average freshmen retention rate for brick and mortar colleges.
One consideration which must be given to schools with lower retention rates is the lower barrier to entry for online education. Students can begin taking online courses with greater ease than beginning on-campus programs. Upon starting an online education, many may find that they do not have the time necessary to pursue their studies while working full time or maintaining family obligations.
Q: How do graduation rates for online students compare to on-campus students?
You are wise to be wary of those online colleges with low graduation rates. An editorial in the New York Times (2013) cites a five-year study released in 2011 which determined that students who were enrolled in more online as opposed to brick-and-mortar classes were substantially less likely to earn a degree or move on to a four-year college.
The reason offered by researchers is that too many students begin their college education lacking the basic learning skills needed to succeed in college: from independent time management and healthy study habits to competence in compositional English and research capabilities. This is true of students attending both traditional and online college classes. But it means that many students beginning their college education genuinely need the assistance, support, and motivation often found on campus, either through faculty, college counselors, existing student services, or one’s classmates. Without access to such a support network, ill-prepared students run the risk of struggling with their academic and personal responsibilities.
Q: What Do Employers Really Think About Online Degrees?
The perceived dividing line between these two modes of education is becoming increasingly blurred to prospective employers. As online education continues its expansion into traditional institutions of higher learning and becomes a necessary part of the course catalogue for major colleges and universities, employers are becoming less apt to scrutinize the medium through which your degree was earned, though perhaps increasingly likely to place greater stock in the reputation of the college or university from which you earned it.
Some employers may even place a higher premium on prospective employees who have demonstrated the ability to manage their own education, to work well with others from a distance, and to operate on a flexible and non-traditional schedule. Indeed, the same skills that one might exercise to successfully complete an online education are highly adaptable to a wide array of 21st century jobs.
Still, for all of these gains, there are employers who may view online education as subject to too great a variance in quality. There are employers who, if pressed to choose between two worthy candidates, will instinctively choose one with a brick-and-mortar education over one with an online degree. Some employers are just plain old-fashioned. This underscores the recommendation to exercise discretion when applying for a job. There is never a reason to specify on your résumé whether you earned your degree online or in a traditional classroom setting.
NOTE: This FAQ is drawn from our comprehensive Savvy Student’s Guide to Online Colleges and Online Education.