Accredited online colleges go through a stringent process of quality control to ensure they meet high standards of education and students assistance. Make sure your online college received accreditation from an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Bogus online college accreditors, with trustworthy sounding names, provide diploma mills accreditation. Some diploma mills have created their own accrediting agency in order to proclaim they have an “accredited” college. Look for online education degrees from accredited colleges with a good reputation. Many accredited online colleges provide financial aid.
Regional accreditation
Every school in our online accredited college list has regional accreditation, regarded as the most rigorous type of accreditation, it’s the gold standard of college accreditation. Regionally accredited colleges provide the same high standard of education for traditional and online programs.
Most traditional colleges and universities prefer transfer students with regionally accredited degrees and credits.
Company tuition reimbursement plans typically cover regionally accredited programs.
Some professions requiring licensing, may not accept nationally accredited degrees and coursework.
The U.S. Department of Education recognizes six regional accreditation agencies. Each regional accreditation agency oversees a collection of states. Accrediting agency representatives review the entire school, including its coursework for quality standards. The regional accrediting agencies (private organizations) often enforce more competitive admission standards.
The United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) review accrediting agencies for quality.
The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, often provides nationally recognized accreditation to institutions providing distance education. Many regionally accredited colleges and universities don’t accept transfer credits from nationally accredited schools which don’t also have regional accreditation.
Nationally accredited schools are mainly for-profit and provide vocational, technical or career programs. Some professionals in the field report national accrediting agencies have lower standards than regional accrediting agencies.
A degree obtained from a “state approved” college, which doesn’t also have regional accreditation, may not transfer to a regionally accredited college.
The six regional accreditation agencies:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Specialized accreditation
College departments as well as specific programs often have specialized accreditation from an agency representing a specific field of study or from a professional organization. These agencies and organizations often accredit programs which prepare students for their industry. Specialized accreditation, also known as program accreditation, informs prospective employers a specific degree program in a specific field has passed a rigorous review. More than 50 fields have specialized accrediting agencies.
Professionals should find out if their industry requires or prefers they graduate from a program with specialized accreditation. Individuals may need a degree with program accreditation to take a licensure exam or to take a certification exam not required for employment but preferred by employers.
Best Accredited Online Colleges Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools based on factors including academic excellence, reputation, awards, scholarly quality of faculty, the number and variety of online degree programs, and online teaching methods. The guidelines have an emphasis on specialized accreditations. We don’t include all specialized accreditations in the school profiles, we do include important specialized accreditations relevant to online students.
Our list includes regionally accredited online colleges providing high-level online education. The list includes traditional schools providing a variety of accredited online degree programs.
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #1 Penn State World Campus (State College, PA)
Penn State World Campus, also known as Penn State Online, is the online campus of the prestigious Pennsylvania State University, a public university established in 1892. Penn State World Campus has an enrollment of more than 6,000 students with students throughout the world.
Penn State World Campus offers more than 120 degree and certificate programs leading to associate and bachelor degrees in a variety of topics such as business administration, human development and family studies, economics, psychology and turfgrass science; master’s degrees in adult education, earth sciences, finance, homeland security and more, as well as a doctorate in nursing.
Penn State World Campus students receive instruction from the same faculty and receive the same degree as University Park campus students.
The school offers most programs in an asynchronous format allowing students flexibility to complete coursework on their schedule; however, some courses include live-setting elements.
Penn State World Campus offers a variety of resources to online students including career counseling, undergraduate advising, tech support, exam proctoring, tutoring and an online bookstore.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes the Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus as a research university with very high research activity.
Middle State Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) provides regional accreditation to Pennsylvania State University.
Pennsylvania State University’s accreditation highlights also include:
- National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)/Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #2 Northeastern University (Boston, MA)
Northeastern University, founded in 1898, is a private nonprofit research university. The university enrolls nearly 24,000 students in a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Northeastern University Online offers more than 70 programs through six colleges. Online accredited college degree programs include bachelor and master degrees in accounting and finance, communications, legal and criminal justice, as well as doctoral degree programs in education, leadership and administration, nutrition, and physical therapy, and certificate programs.
Northeastern University offers its online degrees in an asynchronous format. Instructors present material on a weekly basis. Students must complete readings and assignments by set deadlines.
Online students receive the same diploma as campus-based students. Northeastern University provides student support services including academic advising and online tutoring.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes the Northeastern University as a research university with high research activity.
Northeastern University received regional accreditation from New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
Northeastern University’s accreditation highlights include:
- American Psychological Association (APA), Commission on Accreditation
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology)
- Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Project Management Institute’s Global –Accreditation-Center
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #3 UMass Online (Amherst, MA)
The University of Massachusetts, established in 1863, features four universities, a medical school and a satellite campus. A public university system of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts enrolls nearly 72,000 students in a variety of degree programs and boasts an alumni network of 330,000.
The University of Massachusetts offers more than 100 online programs leading to associate, bachelor and master degrees in a variety of topics including education, liberal arts, nursing, information and public health, as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
Students receive instruction from the same world-class faculty as on-campus students but with the flexibility of an online program. Students complete coursework on their schedule and by specific deadlines.
UMass Online students have access to services including 24/7 tech support, library services, financial aid and academic advising.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Massachusetts Amherst as a research university with very high research activity and recognizes University of Massachusetts-Boston and University of Massachusetts-Lowell as research universities with high research activity.
The University of Massachusetts campus at Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, Lowell and the Medical School received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
The University of Massachusetts’ accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools and Business International (AACSB)
- Computing Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB)
- National League for Nursing (NLN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #4 University of Florida Distance Learning (Gainesville, FL)
The University of Florida, established in 1853, is a sea-grant, land-grant and space-grant research university. A member of the State University System of Florida, the University of Florida enrolls nearly 50,000 students at its 16 colleges and more than 150 research centers and institutes.
The University of Florida offers a variety of online accredited college degree programs leading to bachelor degrees in a dozen areas including environmental management, business administration, biology, society and sport management, as well as more than 70 master degree programs in industrial and systems engineering, public health, veterinary medical sciences and sustainable design.
The university also offers online doctorates in education, public health and health processions, nursing, pharmacy and liberal arts & sciences.
The University of Florida offers a handful of bachelor completion programs in microbiology and cell science, digital arts and sciences, fire and emergency services, and communication sciences and disorders. Students must hold an associate’s degree.
Online students have access to an online bookstore, course management system, career resource center, library resources and the registration system.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Florida as a research university with very high research activity.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS) provides University of Florida regional accreditation.
The University of Florida’s accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing (CCNE)
- American Association for Leisure and Recreation, Council on Accreditation
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- American Psychological Association (APA), Commission on Accreditation
- Commission on Accreditation Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), Commission on Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #5 IU Online, Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)
Indiana University, established in 1820, has more than 110,000 students enrolled in a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its nine campuses. Indiana University, a public university system, boasts an alumni network of more than 580,000.
IU Online offers more than 100 online accredited college degree programs leading to associate, bachelor and master degrees in topics including applied science, labor studies, nursing, social work and special education. The university also offers a doctor of nursing practice degree and a doctorate in nursing science.
The accredited online university also offers dozens of undergraduate and graduate certificate programs as well as nine degree completion programs in business administration, mathematics, political science, criminal justice and more.
Students have access to online libraries and technology resources.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Indiana University-Bloomington as a research university with very high research activity.
Indiana University received regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Indiana University’s accreditation highlights also include:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- National Association of Schools of Art Design (NASAD)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Office of Social Work Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #6 Boston University Online (Boston, MA)
Boston University, established in 1839, is a private, non-sectarian research university affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Boston University enrolls about 33,000 students in bachelor, master, doctoral and professional degree programs through its 18 schools and colleges.
Boston University Online offers an undergraduate degree completion program in Interdisciplinary Studies for students who completed about half of their undergraduate work. The university also offers online graduate degree programs in a variety of topics including art education, communication, computer information and social work as well as doctoral degrees in music education and occupational therapy.
Boston University Online offers undergraduate, graduate and professional certificate programs.
The accredited online university provides courses featuring discussion boards, lectures, videos and interactive animations.
Boston University’s online courses usually operate on a seven-week schedule, allowing students to take two courses each semester. Students can complete coursework on their schedule within a set time frame.
Online students have access to technical support, a bookstore, career services, libraries and financial aid.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Boston University as a research university with very high research activity.
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) provides Boston University regional accreditation.
Boston University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Project Management Institute Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
- American Psychological Association (APA), Commission on Accreditation
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Commission on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #7 Drexel University Online (Philadelphia, PA)
Drexel University, established in 1891, offers almost 200 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional degree programs. Drexel University, a private research university, enrolls about 25,500 students.
Drexel University offers a host of online accredited degree programs through Drexel University Online for traditional students and working adults.
The accredited online university offers 10 bachelor degree programs including business administration, communications, general studies and psychology; more than 50 graduate degree programs such as arts administration, hospitality management, learning technologies, software engineering and information systems; and 45 online certificate programs in engineering, technology and public health, education, information science/systems, legal studies, business and clinical research.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Drexel University as a research university with high research activity.
Drexel University received regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Drexel University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Computer Science Accreditation Commission (CSAC)
- Computing Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Council on Education on Public Health (CEPH)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation (NASAD)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #8 ASU Online (Phoenix, AZ)
Arizona State University, a public research university established in 1885, enrolls more than 82,000 students. Arizona State University offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate degrees through 16 schools and colleges and online.
ASU Online offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs fully online.
Students have flexibility in terms of coursework, but they should plan to spend about six hours each week on coursework per credit. Students attend classes in 7.5-week sessions.
ASU Online offerings include nearly 50 bachelor degree programs in topics such as art history, business, educational studies, film and nursing; 40 master degree programs including biomedical diagnostics, construction management, education and engineering; as well as a doctor of behavioral health degree.
Students also can pursue a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificates.
Through ASU Online, students can access library resources, career services, online tutoring and technical support.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Arizona State University as a research university with very high research activity.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Arizona State University regional accreditation.
Arizona State University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Office of Social Work Accreditation
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #9 University of Illinois (Urbana, IL)
The University of Illinois, a land-grant, public research university established in 1867, offers more than 150 programs of study at 17 colleges. The flagship campus of the University of Illinois system, the University of Illinois enrolls more than 44,500 students.
At the University of Illinois, students can choose from more than a dozen online bachelor degree programs such as business administration, history, liberal studies and philosophy; 41 master degree programs including aerospace engineering, agricultural education, food science and human nutrition, and legal studies; as well as doctorates in nursing practice and public health. The University of Illinois also offers a degree completion program in nursing.
Instructors determine the proportion of asynchronous and real-time communication in each course. Some instructors also require trips to campus; students should check before registering.
Online students have access to library resources and career services.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as a research university with very high research activity.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides University of Illinois regional accreditation.
The University of Illinois’ accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
- National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (ACEND) of the American Dietetic Association
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #10 Oregon State University Ecampus (Corvallis, OR)
Oregon State University, a public, co-educational research university established in 1868, has more than 30,000 students enrolled in more than 200 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. Oregon State University, a land-grant, space-grant, sea-grant and sun-grant university, boasts more than 160,000 alumni.
Oregon State University’s Ecampus offers nearly 20 accredited online undergraduate degrees in topics such as German, horticulture and sociology as well as a post-baccalaureate program in computer science, which students can complete in one year.
Students can also pursue online accredited master’s degrees in executive leadership, education or engineering or doctoral degrees in educational or counseling. Students also can earn a variety of graduate certificates.
Oregon State University offers most of its online courses in an asynchronous format, allowing students flexibility to complete coursework on their schedule. Online students have access to online tutoring, career services, library resources and learning centers.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Oregon State University as a research university with very high research activity.
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) provides Oregon State University regional accreditation.
Oregon State University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Council for Standards in Human Services Education (CSHSE)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #11 Washington State University Global Campus (Pullman, WA)
Washington State University, a public, land-grant research university founded in 1890, enrolls more than 27,000 students. Washington State University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs ranging from chemical engineering to animal science to architecture.
Washington State University offers online courses and degree programs through its Global Campus.
Students can pursue an online accredited bachelor degree in several topics including accounting, criminal justice, humanities and social sciences or a dozen master’s degrees such as strategic communication, engineering and technology management, electric power engineering or special education.
The university also offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificate programs as well as a handful of online teaching endorsements.
The accredited online school provides academic advisement, 24/7 tech support, online tutoring, library resources and a writing lab.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Washington State University as a research university with very high research activity.
Washington State University received regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Washington State University’s accreditation highlights include:
- American Chemical Society (ACS)
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
- American Psychological Association (APA) Commission on Accreditation
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- National Architecture Accreditation Board (NAAB)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #12 Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
Florida State University, established in 1851, is a sea-grant and space-grant public research university. Florida State University enrolls approximately 41,700 students across more than 300 programs of study at its 16 colleges.
Florida State University offers bachelor degree completion programs. Students must have completed about 60 semester hours of transferable credit, including program prerequisites and liberal studies requirements.
Students can pursue bachelor’s degrees in public safety and security, computer science, criminology and interdisciplinary social science as well as a host of master’s degrees in topics ranging from business to criminology to education.
Florida State University also offers post-master’s degree programs in educational leadership/administration and library and information studies as well as a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificate programs.
Most of the online courses use an asynchronous format.
Florida State University online students have access to a variety of support services including technical support, career services, an online bookstore, library resources, and reading and writing tutorial services.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Florida State University as a research university with very high research activity.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) provides Florida State University regional accreditation.
Florida State University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Office of Social Work Accreditation
- National Association of School of Art and Design (NASAD)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #13 University of Colorado Denver (Denver, CO)
The University of Colorado Denver, a public research university established in 1912, enrolls 29,000 students annually. A member of the University of Colorado system, University of Colorado Denver offers degree programs at two campuses and online.
The University of Colorado Denver offers a handful of online bachelor’s degrees in nursing, sociology, criminal justice and more. The university also offers master’s degrees in various topics in business, engineering, nursing, education, arts and media, and public affairs as well as doctorates in nursing practice, nursing and pharmacy.
Students also can complete hybrid programs toward a Doctor of Education in Leadership for Educational Equality or a Master of Science in Global Energy Management.
The university also offers courses toward 15 certificate programs.
University of Colorado Denver online students have access to tech support and the university’s writing center.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Colorado Denver as a research university with high research activity.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides University of Colorado Denver regional accreditation.
University of Colorado Denver’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #14 University of North Dakota Online & Distance Education (Grand Forks, ND)
The University of North Dakota, a public research university founded in 1883, offers more than 220 fields of study leading to a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as professional degrees in medicine and law. The oldest university in the state, the University of North Dakota enrolls about 14,900 students annually.
The University of North Dakota offers a host of bachelor’s degrees in areas such as civil engineering, general studies, nursing and social science as well as an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
Online students also can pursue a variety of master’s degrees ranging from aviation to forensic psychology to education, two doctoral programs in nursing and more than a dozen graduate certificates.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides University of North Dakota regional accreditation.
The University of North Dakota’s accreditation highlights include:
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD)
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
- National Council for Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #15 Robert Morris University (Moon Township, PA)
Robert Morris University, private, co-educational university founded in 1921, enrolls more than 5,000 students. Robert Morris University offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs at its five academic schools.
Robert Morris University’s online students can take classes leading to bachelor’s degrees in topics such as business administration, cyber forensics, English and organizational leadership as well as master’s degrees in competitive intelligence systems, human resource management, internet security assurance, nursing and more.
Students also can take courses toward certificate programs or for professional development.
Courses start every eight weeks, and students can pursue their degrees on a part-time or full-time basis. With material available 24/7, online students have flexibility to complete coursework on their schedule. Online students have access to tech support and the university’s bookstore.
Robert Morris University received regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Robert Morris University’s accreditation highlights include:
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)/Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #16 Rochester Institute of Technology (Henrietta, NY)
Rochester Institute of Technology, a private university established in 1829, offers more than 200 academic programs leading to a variety of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees. Rochester Institute of Technology enrolls about 18,000 students at its nine academic colleges.
Rochester Institute of Technology’s online accredited college degree offerings include associate and bachelor degree programs in applied science as well as master degree programs in topics such as facility management, health systems administration, applied statistics and imaging science. Students can also pursue a host of advanced certificates ranging from network planning and design to communication and digital media to project management.
Rochester Institute of Technology online students have flexibility to complete coursework on their schedule, and most programs have several start dates each year. Online students have access to a virtual concierge and academic support.
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) provides Rochester Institute of Technology regional accreditation.
Rochester Institute of Technology’s accreditation highlights include:
- ABET
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #17 Regis University (Denver, CO)
Regis University, founded in 1877 by the Society of Jesus, is a private, co-educational Roman Catholic university. A member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, Regis University enrolls about 9,700 students in a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs at its three colleges.
Regis University’s accredited online college degree offerings include dozens of bachelor degree programs such as accounting, computer networking, health information management, finance and health care administration as well as more than 30 master degree options including information assurance, nursing, software engineering, education and criminology.
Online students can also complete more than 30 graduate certificates and a post-baccalaureate certificate in health information management. Regis University also offers a bachelor’s completion degree in nursing.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Regis University regional accreditation.
Regis University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Board for Applied Science, Computing, Engineering, and Technology
- Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC)
- Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)
- Collegiate Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #18 Liberty University Online (Lynchburg, VA)
Liberty University, a private, non-profit Christian university founded in 1971, offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. Liberty University enrolls about 13,800 on-campus students and more than 100,000 online students. Liberty University is the largest private Christian university in the United States and the world.
Liberty University Online offerings include dozens of associate and bachelor degree programs such as aeronautics, business, education and government as well as about 130 programs of study leading to master’s degrees in business, seminary, cyber security, education, music and more.
Online students also can complete doctoral programs in business administration, worship studies, nursing practice, theology, counseling and education. Liberty University also offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree completion programs.
Students have flexibility to complete coursework and do not need to log in at specific times.
Liberty University received regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS).
Liberty University’s accreditation highlights include:
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #19 UAB Online, University of Alabama at Birmingham (Birmingham, AL)
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, a public university established in 1969, enrolls more than 18,500 students from around the world. A member of the University of Alabama System, the University of Alabama offers 140 programs of study leading to a variety of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional degrees.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers online, distance accessible and blended courses through UAB Online.
Students can complete a host of degrees fully online such as bachelor’s degrees in accounting, finance, health care management and marketing as well as master’s degrees in sociology, early childhood education, civil structural engineering and more.
Online students also can complete doctoral programs in education and engineering.
The accredited online university offers its students 24/7 technical support, library resources, an online bookstore and academic advisers.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Alabama at Birmingham as a research university with very high research activity.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS) provides University of Alabama at Birmingham regional accreditation.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #20 Florida Institute of Technology Online (Melbourne, FL)
The Florida Institute of Technology, a private research university founded in 1958, offers a variety of degrees with an emphasis on engineering, mathematics, science and technology. Florida Tech enrolls nearly 9,000 students across five academic divisions.
Florida Institute of Technology offers online accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs through a partnership with University Alliance.
Students can earn their degrees 100 percent online. They can access course materials 24/7 with no required on-campus visits.
Florida Institute of Technology’s online degree offerings include eight associate degree programs, which students can complete in less than two years, in accounting, business administration, marketing and more.
Florida Tech also offers 15 bachelor’s degrees in topics including applied psychology, aviation management and computer information systems. All bachelor degree students also can add a human resources administration minor.
Online students also can pursue master’s degrees in information assurance and cybersecurity, information technology, supply chain management and business administration as well as a handful of graduate certificates.
Online students have access to services such as an online student orientation, online tutoring and technical support.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education includes Florida Institute of Technology in its list of Doctoral/Research Universities list.
Florida Institute of Technology received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS).
Florida Institute of Technology’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #21 Indiana Wesleyan University (Marion, IN)
Indiana Wesleyan University, a private, liberal arts, evangelical Christian university founded in 1920, enrolls about 16,000 students in a variety of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs. Affiliated with the Wesleyan Church and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, Indiana Wesleyan University offers programs through five academic units.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online degree offerings include a host associate’s degrees as well as bachelor degree completion programs, which require students to have at least 60 transferable credit hours. Undergraduate degree programs include accounting, addictions counseling, criminal justice and early childhood education.
Online students also can earn master’s degrees in dozens of topics such as theology, public affairs, athletic training and healthcare administration or doctoral degrees in nursing practice, organizational leadership and occupational therapy. Indiana Wesleyan University also offers a variety of certificate programs.
Indiana Wesleyan University online students can access course materials on their schedules, and most programs do not require on-campus visits.
Online students have access to academic advisers and library resources.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Indiana Wesleyan University regional accreditation.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #22 Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, AZ)
Northern Arizona University, a public university established in 1899, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Northern Arizona University, governed by the Arizona Board of Regents, enrolls about 27,700 students annually.
Northern Arizona University’s online accredited college degree programs include more than 40 bachelor’s degrees in topics such as criminal justice, emergency management, health sciences and sociology as well as 20 master’s degrees in administration, applied geospatial sciences, education and more. Online students also can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree or complete more than a dozen certificates. Northern Arizona University also offers an online degree completion program in dental hygiene.
Northern Arizona University online students have 24/7 access to course materials as well as access to an online bookstore, library resources and technical support.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Northern Arizona University as a research university with high research activity.
Northern Arizona University received regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northern Arizona University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #23 Florida International University (University Park, FL)
Florida International University, a public research university founded in 1965, enrolls 50,000 students annually in about 190 academic programs leading to undergraduate, graduate, specialist and doctoral degrees. A member of the State University System of Florida, Florida International University boasts an alumni network of 180,000 members worldwide.
Florida International University provides students with the opportunity to earn bachelor and master degrees fully online. Students can pursue online accredited bachelor’s degrees ranging from business administration to criminal justice to recreational therapy. Florida International University’s online accredited master degree offerings include computer engineering, education and international business. The university also offers a handful of professional certificates and a host of personal enrichment programs.
The same faculty members teach on-campus and online courses. Students can access online course materials anytime.
Florida International University online students have access to Success Coaches, an online orientation, technical support and the university’s alumni network.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes Florida International University as a research university with high research activity.
Florida International University received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Florida International University’s accreditation highlights include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) Commission on Accreditation
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management (CAHME)
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #24 University of Memphis (Memphis, TN)
The University of Memphis, founded in 1921, enrolls more than 21,000 students from around the world in a variety of degree programs. A public research university and the flagship university of the Tennessee Board of Regents system, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through UM Online.
Online students can pursue nearly 20 online accredited bachelor degree programs including African and African-American studies, history, communication, business and nursing as well as almost two dozen master degree programs such as public health, criminal justice, leadership and teaching special education.
The university also offers an online Doctorate of Education in Higher & Adult Education and a number of graduate and professional certificates.
Most UM Online courses are asynchronous, but some classes may require “real-time” elements.
University of Memphis online students have access to student resources such as library services, financial aid and career services.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes University of Memphis as a research university with high research activity.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) provides University of Memphis regional accreditation.
University of Memphis’ accreditation highlights include:
- ABET
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
- National Association of Schools of Art Design (NASAD)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Office of Social Work Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
Best Accredited Online Colleges: #25 Missouri State University (Springfield, MO)
Missouri State University, a public university founded in 1906, offers nearly 200 programs leading to a host of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Missouri State University is among the largest universities in the state with an annual enrollment of more than 22,000 students from around the world.
Missouri State University offers nine online accredited bachelor degree completion programs designed for students who already hold an associate’s degree. Undergraduate offerings include technology management, general business and nursing.
The school also offers a dozen master’s degrees ranging from history to nursing to education as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
Missouri State University students can also complete a number of undergraduate and graduate certificate programs 100 percent online.
Online students have access to services including library resources, technical assistance, tutoring and financial aid.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Missouri State University regional accreditation.
Missouri State University’s accreditation highlights also include:
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International)
- ABET – Computing Accreditation Commission
- Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- Council on Social Work Education – Commission on Accreditation (CSWE)
Our list of accredited online colleges provides plenty of good schools to choose from.