Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Updated October 18, 2023
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According to U.S. News and World Report, Ohio ranks as the most affordable state in the country.
Not only does Ohio offer the most affordable housing in the country, it also maintains the 11th most affordable cost of living. The state’s tuition rates are close to the national average, making it an excellent location for students attending college.
Online colleges offer several benefits, including more flexibility and lower costs. Online programs typically include the same coursework as on–campus programs, and diplomas do not usually state whether a student earned their degree on campus or online. Online colleges in Ohio often allow students to create their own schedules, which can be helpful for learners who need to balance academics with job and family obligations. Distance learners also save money on housing, transportation, and other costs.
Ohio is a particularly rich state for online learning. Ohio’s Quality Matters Consortium, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring online course quality, is the largest system of its kind in the country. Ohio universities and colleges offer online degrees in diverse fields such as nursing, education, ministry, and psychology. With 14 online schools in Ohio, students interested in eLearning can find programs and coursework in nearly any field.
The Best Online Colleges in Ohio
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider University of Cincinnati-Main Campus. Remote enrollees at this public college can choose from 66 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. Internships are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Those interested in applying to these online programs should contact the school directly for more information.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 19,270
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 21
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 14%
Admission Rate: 77%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#2 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A quality online college education is available at Ohio State University-Main Campus. Enrollees at this public college can choose from 17 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Columbus campus. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. Hands-on learning through internships help many students prepare for work in the field. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.
Those interested in applying to these online programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Ohio State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 21,150
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 12
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 4%
Admission Rate: 54%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#3 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio Christian University has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this private school. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Circleville campus are available to help online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internships give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.
Ohio Christian University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,389
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 55%
Admission Rate: Data not available
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#4 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Ohio University-Main Campus
Athens, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio University-Main Campus is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Enrollees at the public institution can choose from 48 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Athens campus. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Learners receive a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Ohio University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 13,063
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 23
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 14%
Admission Rate: 82%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#5 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Bowling Green, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus provides one of the best online college experiences available. The public institution offers 26 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
Online learners can work with academic and career services professionals located at the Bowling Green campus. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internships. Program graduates obtain fully accredited degrees.
School representatives can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,815
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 9%
Admission Rate: 72%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#6 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Toledo is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The public institution offers 32 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.
The academic and career advisors located on campus can also assist online learners. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
University of Toledo at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,874
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 9%
Admission Rate: 96%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#7 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mount Vernon Nazarene University ranks among the best online colleges. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 20 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Mount Vernon campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Students receive a degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 895
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 26%
Admission Rate: 73%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#8 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kent State University at Kent offers online programming that ranks highly among similar programs. The public institution's 44 online degree options include offerings at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Kent campus are available to help online learners. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Completing the program grants graduates an accredited degree.
Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn about online program options and admission requirements.
Kent State University at Kent at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 15,098
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 23
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 13%
Admission Rate: 86%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#9 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Union Institute & University
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union Institute & University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Enrollees at this private college can choose from 22 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.
From its Cincinnati campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internships are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Learners receive a degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Union Institute & University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 853
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 79%
Admission Rate: Data not available
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#10 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tiffin University is a fantastic choice for online learners. The private institution's 54 online degree options include offerings at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
Online learners can also receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Tiffin. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.
Tiffin University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,498
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Online Master's Programs: 24
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 58%
Admission Rate: 69%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#11 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Malone University
Canton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider Malone University. The private institution makes 11 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Canton campus. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. An accredited degree is awarded to enrollees upon completing the program.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.
Malone University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 676
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 18%
Admission Rate: 71%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#12 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Franklin University provides one of the best online college experiences available. Enrollees at the private institution can choose from 56 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Columbus campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Upon completion of all program requirements, students get an accredited degree.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Franklin University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,809
Online Bachelor's Programs: 32
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 79%
Admission Rate: Data not available
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#13 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, Youngstown State University is an attractive choice. A total of 16 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
All learners, including those online, can take advantage of the academic and career services professionals hosted at the school's Youngstown campus. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internships. Upon completing the program, the college gives graduates an accredited degree.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Youngstown State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,475
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%
Admission Rate: 67%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#14 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A quality online college education is available at Cleveland State University. A total of 11 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
The physical campus in Cleveland employs academic and career service professionals who can also help online learners. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. The program grants enrollees an accredited degree upon completion.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Cleveland State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,674
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%
Admission Rate: 94%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#15 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
God's Bible School and College
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider God's Bible School and College. The private institution offers nine remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Cincinnati campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Program graduates get a degree with full accreditation.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
God's Bible School and College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 291
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 50%
Admission Rate: 53%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#16 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Notre Dame College
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider Notre Dame College. The private institution offers 20 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Cleveland campus. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. The program grants graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
School representatives can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Notre Dame College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 420
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 41%
Admission Rate: 98%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#17 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Ashland University
Ashland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ashland University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 24 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.
Career and academic service associates located at the Ashland campus also assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
Ashland University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,604
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 13
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 20%
Admission Rate: 71%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#18 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Mount Carmel College of Nursing. Those who choose to enroll at this private college can choose from four different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Columbus campus. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. An accredited degree is awarded to students upon completing the program.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
Mount Carmel College of Nursing at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 403
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 40%
Admission Rate: 74%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#19 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
University of Northwestern Ohio
Lima, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Northwestern Ohio is a leader in online education. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level can choose from 21 options through this private institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Lima campus. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. The school's internship program gives students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Graduates receive a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
Those interested in applying to these online programs should contact the school directly for more information.
University of Northwestern Ohio at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 692
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 53%
Admission Rate: Data not available
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#20 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
The University of Findlay
Findlay, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Findlay is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from seven online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Findlay campus. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
The University of Findlay at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,564
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Online Master's Programs: 5
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 7%
Admission Rate: 77%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
Online Colleges in Ohio Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Ohio 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.
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