Online colleges in Texas allow students in the second most populated state to pursue the college experience that best suits their needs.
Working students in search of programs that do not interfere with personal or professional responsibilities should consider earning an online degree in Texas. The state's 60x30TX strategic plan aims to increase the number of degree holders aged 25-34 by at least 60% before 2030.
The Texas Affordable Baccalaureate program specifically focuses on online, hybrid, and competency-based courses that offer innovative pathways for students to earn their degrees sooner and on their own terms. Online programs in Texas may also offer cohort-style models, which allow students to build a strong network with other online learners.
Texan higher education initiatives strive to remove financial barriers restricting students from obtaining degrees, lowering the amount of statewide student debt. Public universities in Texas provide over $15.3 billion in financial aid every year, and the average Texas graduate possesses about $26,900 in student debt.
The following ranking includes 25 of the best online colleges in Texas.
Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Texas A&M University is a public, postsecondary institution that offers 133 undergraduate degrees, 175 master's degrees, and 92 doctoral programs through 17 colleges and schools. Texas A&M students can earn a variety of online degrees from one of the best colleges in Texas.
Texas A&M offers online degrees in disciplines such as engineering, agriculture, nursing, and public health. Online students access coursework through the Canvas learning management system, and courses may use asynchronous or synchronous formats.
While admission requirements vary by program, all applicants must submit official transcripts. First-time freshmen also need to submit a personal essay, SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. Graduate applicants may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the program. Transfer applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA.
The University of North Texas is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The University of North Texas hosts more than 38,000 students each year and offers 106 bachelor's degrees, 88 master's degrees, and 36 doctoral programs, including a variety of online options. Distance learners can choose from 80 online degrees and nearly 1,200 online courses.
Distance learners at UNT have five start dates per year and can access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Online assignments may include discussion board posts, supplemental readings, group projects, and essays. The school provides live, one-on-one peer tutoring sessions through Zoom. Online students also have access to a math lab, academic coaching, and virtual workshops.
Admission requires standardized test scores and a minimum 2.25 GPA. UNT participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, which allows out-of-state students from participating states to apply.
Texas Tech University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1925, Texas Tech University is a public research university that holds Carnegie classification for very high research activity. The school offers over 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs. In addition to on-campus programs, Texas Tech offers fully online degrees in areas including English, communication studies, and business administration.
Texas Tech provides online coursework through the Blackboard learning management system. Students engage with professors and peers through discussion board posts and chats. Courses may use asynchronous or synchronous formats. Assignments may include readings, group projects, exams, and individual projects.
Admission requires official transcripts. Incoming freshmen must also submit SAT or ACT scores. Certain programs may require additional admission materials.
The University of Texas at El Paso is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A top-tier research university, the University of Texas at El Paso holds R1 Carnegie classification and enrolls nearly 25,200 students each year. Students can choose from 77 bachelor's degrees, 72 master's degrees, and 22 doctoral programs. In addition to on-campus programs, UTEP offers several online degrees in areas such as criminal justice, nursing, education, and engineering.
Online courses typically follow an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Assignments may include discussion board posts, group projects, quizzes, and individual projects.
UTEP suggests that students allot at least 10 hours of study per week to each class. Distance learners have access to technical assistance, a writing center, and a digital library. UTEP also pairs online students with an enrollment counselor and a student success advisor.
Freshman applicants must submit official transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Graduate applicants must submit a statement of purpose, a resume, and letters of recommendation.
Sam Houston State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Sam Houston State University offers 90 bachelor's degrees, 60 master's degrees, and 10 doctoral programs, including online options. The school offers fully online degrees in areas like communication studies, sociology, curriculum and instruction, and public administration, making it a great choice for students who want to attend a Texas college online.
SHSU uses the Blackboard learning management system to administer distance coursework. Online courses typically follow a flexible, asynchronous format. Assignments may include discussion board posts, recorded lectures, group projects, and essays. Distance learners receive access to an academic advisor and technical support.
Online classes follow a traditional, semester-based schedule, which includes two 16-week sessions per year. Freshman admission requires official transcripts, standardized test scores, and a minimum 2.25 GPA.
Dallas Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Dallas Baptist University is a private, Christian university that offers coursework through a faith-based lens. Distance learners can choose from a variety of fully online degrees in areas like biblical studies, psychology, healthcare management, and management information systems.
DBU online students access weekly modules through the Blackboard learning management system. The asynchronous learning format allows students to complete assignments on their own time. However, DBU does provide deadlines. Students engage with professors and peers through discussion board posts, email, and group chats.
Distance learners have access to a writing center, digital databases, an online bookstore, and an academic advisor. DBU uses a semester-based academic calendar, which includes two 16-week sessions per year. DBU also offers a 10-week summer session, which can help students expedite graduation.
Freshman admission requires official transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1927, Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers postsecondary programs taught through a Christian lens. The school's core values include spiritual formation, immersive learning, and community engagement. Students can choose from over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs, including several online degrees.
Online areas of study include biblical studies, child and family studies, human services, and occupational leadership. Distance programs use the Blackboard learning management system to provide weekly modules that contain assignments and additional learning materials. Online courses use an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Assignments may include projects, case studies, recorded lectures, and exams. Distance learners have access to counseling services, testing services, technical support, and librarian research support.
All applicants must submit a Christian character reference. Incoming freshmen must submit ACT or SAT scores and official transcripts indicating a minimum 2.0 GPA. Graduate applicants must submit a personal essay, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA.
The University of Texas at San Antonio is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The largest university in the San Antonio region, the University of Texas at San Antonio enrolls over 32,000 students annually. The school emphasizes public service, innovation, and research and holds Carnegie recognition for its commitment to serving local communities.
UTSA offers fully online bachelor's degrees in areas like cybersecurity and multidisciplinary studies. The Blackboard online learning management system houses weekly modules that include assignments, discussion forums, and students' grades. Courses use an asynchronous format, allowing students to set their own schedules and balance their studies with professional obligations.
Assignments may include group projects, supplemental readings, essays, and exams. Distance learners have access to an academic counselor, a writing center, online research support, peer mentoring, and technical support. Admission requires official transcripts and SAT or ACT scores.
Concordia University Texas is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1926, Concordia University Texas is a private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Concordia prioritizes academic excellence, engaged learning experiences, and affordability. The school hosts around 2,500 students annually and offers a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Students considering online degrees in Texas can choose from nearly 20 career-focused online programs at Concordia. Areas of study include computer science, business, criminal justice, and education.
Online students use the Blackboard learning management system to access assignments, exams, and discussion boards. Concordia University Texas uses asynchronous learning, which provides flexible access to coursework. Online students also have access to tutoring, counseling, and academic advising services.
Admission requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for undergraduate applicants and at least a 2.5 GPA for graduate applicants.
LeTourneau University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
LeTourneau University offers postsecondary programs through a faith-based lens. LETU enrolls over 3,000 students annually, representing 44 states and 33 countries. Students can choose from over 140 programs, including many fully online options. Online areas of study include aviation and aeronautical science, nursing, psychology, and theology.
Distance learners access coursework through the Canvas learning management system using a mostly asynchronous format. Weekly modules contain supplemental reading materials, assignments, and opportunities for engagement through discussion posts, group chats, and email.
Online students have access to tutoring, counseling, and academic advising services. Freshman admission requires official transcripts, a minimum 2.5 GPA, and standardized test scores.
Houston Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1960, Houston Baptist University enrolls over 3,000 students annually and offers a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Students considering online degrees in Texas can choose from several fully online programs at HBU.
Online undergraduate program options include biblical studies, theology, psychology, and nursing. Students can also earn online graduate degrees in education, counseling, or management. Online students access course materials through the Blackboard learning management system.
Courses use an asynchronous format. Students engage with professors and peers through discussion forums, recorded video presentation posts, live chats, and email. Assignments may include group projects, essays, quizzes, and exams.
Undergraduate admission requires official transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Minimum GPA requirements vary by program. Graduate admission requirements may include proof of work experience and letters of recommendation.
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin hosts 5,800 students from 36 states and 45 countries every year, over 50% of whom identify as first-generation college students. Students can choose from 35 undergraduate programs and 18 graduate degrees. The school also offers fully online degrees in areas like business administration, communications, and engineering.
Distance learners access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Courses typically span eight weeks and follow an asynchronous format. Assignments may include essays, projects, and quizzes. Students engage with peers through discussion board posts, group projects, and live chats.
Distance learners can access tutoring services through the tutoring center or through Smarthinking. Freshman admission requirements include standardized test scores and official transcripts.
Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A member of the Texas State University System, Lamar University hosts around 15,000 students each year and ranks among the most ethnically diverse universities nationwide. Approximately 53% of the school's learners identify as first-generation college students.
The school offers fully online degrees in areas like business administration, education, and nursing. Distance learners access coursework through the Blackboard learning management system. Courses use an asynchronous format, allowing students to set their own schedules and balance their studies with other obligations.
Assignments may include exams, online chats, and projects. Students engage with professors and peers through discussion boards, email, and live chats. Online students have access to a career center, virtual tutoring, online proctoring, and technical support.
Undergraduate admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED and SAT or ACT scores. Graduate admission requirements include GRE or GMAT scores.
West Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1910, West Texas A&M University offers 60 undergraduate programs, 38 master's degrees, and two doctorates. The school strives to accommodate diverse learning needs through a variety of online degrees in areas like business, computer information technology, and marketing.
WTAMU offers both semester-based, 16-week courses and accelerated, six-week courses. Students access coursework through the Blackboard learning management system. Courses offer both synchronous and asynchronous formats, and assignments may include essays, exams, discussion posts, live video sessions, and group projects.
Undergraduate admission requirements include a minimum 2.0 GPA and ACT or SAT scores. Graduate admission requirements include GMAT or GRE scores.
Wayland Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1908, Wayland Baptist University is a Christian university that serves over 5,100 students annually. The school encourages immersive learning through research, internships, and community service opportunities. Distance learners can choose from 20 online degrees in areas like Christian ministry, English, business, and nursing.
Online students use the Blackboard learning management system to access assignments, grades, and supplemental materials. Online courses typically follow an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to manage educational and personal responsibilities. Assignments may include papers, readings, discussion posts, and projects.
Online students gain access to digital databases, career development resources, technical support services, and a writing center. Admission requires official transcripts and standardized test scores.
University of Houston - Clear Lake is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
University of Houston - Clear Lake offers over 90 undergraduate and graduate degrees, including nearly 20 online options. The school offers online bachelor's degrees in anthropology, business, and public service leadership.
Graduate distance learners can choose from online degrees in areas like early childhood education, finance, software engineering, and educational management. Fully online programs feature mostly asynchronous coursework and students can log in at any time of the day. However, students must adhere to course deadlines.
Undergraduate admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED and ACT or SAT scores. Graduate admission requirements vary by program, but all applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit official transcripts.
The University of Texas at Tyler is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The University of Texas at Tyler hosts over 10,000 students annually and offers 48 undergraduate degrees and 37 graduate degrees, including many online options. The school offers fully online degrees in areas like kinesiology, accounting, and history.
Distance learners access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Courses use a mostly asynchronous format. Online learners engage with professors and peers through discussion boards, group chats, email, and video chats. UT Tyler suggests that students allocate at least 10 hours of study per week to each course.
Online students have access to digital databases, academic advising services, supplemental instruction, and technical support. Freshman admission requires official transcripts and standardized test scores. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Midwestern State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Midwestern State University hosts nearly 6,000 students from 44 states and 54 countries every year. Emphasizing intellectual curiosity, social justice and service, and academic excellence, MSU prepares students to make a positive impact on society.
Nontraditional students considering an online degree in Texas can choose from multiple online programs at MSU. Online areas of study include education, radiologic sciences, counseling, and nursing. MSU uses the D2L Brightspace learning management system to house online coursework, grades, and discussion forums. Courses use a mostly asynchronous format.
Assignments may include group projects, quizzes, and essays. Online students have access to counseling, tutoring, and technical support services. General admission requirements include official transcripts and standardized test scores.
Angelo State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The second-largest school in the Texas Tech University System, Angelo State University hosts nearly 10,500 students each year. The school offers 43 undergraduate degrees, 24 master's degrees, and one doctorate across six colleges.
Nontraditional learners considering online colleges in Texas can choose from online degrees in areas like intelligence and analysis, counseling, education, and social work. ASU uses the Blackboard learning management system to administer online courses and most courses use an asynchronous format.
Online learners engage with instructors and peers through threaded discussions, chat rooms, and email. Online students have access to 24/7 online tutoring, supplemental instruction, technical support, and digital databases through the Porter Henderson library.
Undergraduate admission requirements include standardized test scores and official transcripts. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Tarleton State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Part of the Texas A&M University System, Tarleton State University hosts approximately 13,200 students each year. Students can choose from over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across seven colleges, including multiple online options.
Distance learners can pursue degrees in areas like computer information systems, English, criminal justice, and engineering. Students access coursework through the Canvas learning management system, and courses typically use an asynchronous format. Assignments may include projects, quizzes, and exams.
Online learners have access to tutoring services, academic advising, career services, and technical support. Admission requires official transcripts.
Southwestern Adventist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Southwestern Adventist University is a Christian university with 125 years of experience offering accessible and academically challenging degrees. In addition to on-campus programs, the school offers online degrees in areas like education, business, Christian studies, and nursing.
Online courses at Southern use the Canvas online learning management system to manage students' assignments, deadlines, grades, and supplemental course materials. Courses may use an asynchronous or synchronous format. Students engage with their peers and professors through discussion posts, group chats, video conferencing, and email. Online students can access spiritual guidance, online tutoring services, a writing center, and library research assistance. Students can also access digital databases and technical support.
Undergraduate admission requires a high school diploma or GED with a minimum 2.75 GPA and official transcripts. Transfer applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
South Texas College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
South Texas College offers over 120 undergraduate and graduate degrees across six locations, including a virtual campus. Distance learners can pursue online degrees in areas like anthropology, science, social work, philosophy, and technology management. Online courses use an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance their studies with outside obligations.
Assignments may include discussion posts, group projects, individual projects, and exams. Online students gain access to digital peer tutoring sessions, online tutoring through Smarthinking, and an online writing center that edits student work within 24-48 hours.
Distance learners also receive access to academic counseling, technical support, and library services. Undergraduate admission requires official transcripts and a high school diploma or GED. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
McMurry University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
McMurry University is a private liberal arts university that emphasizes immersive learning experiences. The school hosts around 10,500 students each year, representing 50 states and 11 countries. McMurry students can access some of the top online degrees in Texas, choosing from areas of study like nursing, criminal justice, and business.
Distance learners use the Blackboard learning management system to access all course materials. Courses use an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Students engage with professors and peers through discussion board posts, email, and live chats.
Undergraduate admission requirements include high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. McMurry participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, allowing out-of-state learners from participating states to apply.
Texas A&M University - Commerce is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Texas A&M University - Commerce is a public university that hosts over 6,000 undergraduate students and 4,000 graduate students annually. Students considering online degrees in Texas can choose from multiple areas of study at TAMUC, including agriculture, engineering, sociology, and computer science.
TAMUC offers two online course formats: 100% online and a hybrid model that requires 15-50% in-person attendance. Distance learners access coursework through the D2L Brightspace learning management system.
Online courses typically use an asynchronous format, allowing students to learn on their own time. Distance learners engage with professors and peers through discussion posts, group chats, and email.
Admission requirements include official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. The strongest undergraduate candidates rank in the top 30% of their graduating high school classes. Graduate applicants must hold a minimum 3.25 GPA.
Texas A&M University - Texarkana is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1971, Texas A&M University - Texarkana is a public university that joined the Texas A&M University system in 1996. The university values academic excellence, practical learning, research, and service. A&M-Texarkana also prioritizes affordability; over 85% of students receive financial support.
A&M-Texarkana offers 20 bachelor's degrees, 12 master's degrees, and one doctorate. It also strives to accommodate nontraditional learners through fully online programs in areas like business, instructional technology, and nursing. Distance learners use the Blackboard online learning management system to access online coursework.
Online courses may use a synchronous learning format, taught through videoconferencing software, but they more often follow an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete assignments when their schedules permit. Weekly modules contain deadline dates, assignments, and additional reading materials.
Online students engage with professors and peers through written communication, including discussion board posts, emails, and group chats. Assignments include discussion board posts, readings, and essays. Courses may require in-person proctored exams at an approved facility.
Undergraduate admission requires official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Graduate applicants must submit a resume, letter of intent, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from an accredited institution.
School Type
Private Nonprofit
Graduation Rate
33%
Percent Receiving Loans
60%
Online Enrollment
46%
👏
End of list, bravo!
Ranking Methodology
Online Colleges in Texas Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Texas based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
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Employment in Texas
While out-of-state learners may choose online colleges in Texas, many online students also to live in the state or plan to after graduation. Texas is the 10th largest economy in the world, providing excellent opportunities for professionals holding degrees. Texas is also home to nearly 50 Fortune 500 organizations.
Students seeking steady careers should examine the leading industries in Texas, which include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, aviation and defense, biotechnology and life sciences, energy, and information technology. Each industry offers opportunities for varying levels of education, and students can advance as they earn advanced degrees.
Quality of life is another factor. On a 100 point scale, Texas offers a 93.9 cost of living index. Students may want to examine the average earning potential in their desired roles to determine what sort of lifestyle they could afford after earning their degrees.
Students considering an online degree in Texas have access to multiple programs that prepare graduates to excel in competitive markets. Distance learners with no prior college experience may want to begin by earning an associate degree, which are typically offered by community colleges or technical schools.
Both online associate degrees and master's degrees may differ from traditional, on-campus programs.
An associate degree typically requires 60 credits and two years of study, though schools may also offer accelerated options. Online associate degrees may qualify graduates for degree-completion programs, which lead to a bachelor's degree. Common majors reflect thriving industries in the state, including mechanical drafting or mechanical engineering technology.
Online colleges in Texas also offer opportunities for working professionals who wish to advance their careers or transition to another field. Graduate programs require 30-60 credits and students can typically earn their degrees in 12-24 months, depending on the program.
Both online associate degrees and master's degrees may differ from traditional, on-campus programs. Online courses often utilize an asynchronous learning format, which relies on students managing their own schedules and doing independent work outside of group projects and forum discussions. Additionally, students may need to acquire their own field placements for practicum requirements, though schools often assist in this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Online College Cheaper in Texas?
While some schools offer lower rates for distance programs, the cost of online degrees in Texas varies by institution and can be different depending on prior completed coursework. Attending a Texas college online can mean savings on commuting costs or on-campus living expenses.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Texas?
Distance learners can access traditional semester-based programs, which often require four years for a bachelor's program. However, accelerated options allow students to graduate sooner.
What Is the Most Popular Degree in Texas?
The most popular majors at public institutions in Texas include business, health professions, interdisciplinary studies, engineering, and biological or biomedical sciences.
Does an Online Degree Have the Same Value as an On-Campus Degree?
Online programs offer the same educational quality as in-person courses. In fact, many online courses are taught by the same professors as in-person classes, and colleges and universities don't typically mark whether a degree was earned online on the final diploma.
Is Texas a Good State For Higher Education?
Online schools in Texas offer quality programs that allow students to acquire pertinent knowledge and skills needed to excel in their respective fields.
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