Most Popular Online Colleges

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $330

Out-of-State | $330

Credits to Graduate: 120

What's the most popular online college? By the numbers, it's Southern New Hampshire University. Nearly 140,000 students enroll online at this private institution. 

SNHU is popular for a good reason. The college appeals to many students with its low tuition rate, generous transfer credit policy, and over 200 online programs. And the flexible programs at SNHU require no set class times, making it a great option for busy learners. 

If you're ready to apply, you can submit an online application for free, with no test score requirement. 

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $318

Out-of-State | $499

Credits to Graduate: 120

The University of Maryland Global Campus is one of the largest online colleges. In fact, more than 50,000 students attend UMGC online. And the public university blends convenience with affordability. 

UMGC offers online programs in accounting, English, biotechnology, and homeland security. You can also major in public safety administration, software development, or legal studies.

There are over 125 online programs to choose from and lifetime career services you can use as a UMGC graduate. The college offers a streamlined admission process and free digital course materials. And you can transfer up to 90 credits for prior coursework, professional experience, and military experience.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $626-671

Out-of-State | $626-671

Credits to Graduate: 120

Still debating which major to choose? At Penn State World Campus, you'll have over 175 options for degrees and certificates. Students can specialize in unique fields like agribusiness management or turfgrass science. Or earn a degree in criminal justice, business, journalism, or integrated social sciences.

At Penn State, you'll benefit from support services like help throughout the application process and personalized financial aid support. Penn State also offers career counseling, undergraduate advising, and tutoring for distance learners. In addition, the public university offers special services for military members, international students, students with disabilities, and transfer students.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $280

Out-of-State | $371

Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter credits

With Purdue University Global, you can test out online classes for three weeks completely free. If it's a good fit, you'll join more than 40,000 online learners at Purdue.

Bachelor's students take two years on average to graduate at Purdue. And learners typically meet 46% of their degree requirements through prior learning credits. You can create a personalized learning pathway with ExcelTrack degrees, which build on career experience and transfer credits to save you time and money.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $236

Out-of-State | $649

Credits to Graduate: 120

As one of the largest colleges in the country, Florida International University enrolls nearly 54,000 on-campus students, plus more than 36,000 online learners. The public university in Miami offers dozens of online degrees, making it a popular choice.

FIU's online programs include unique options like Asian studies, the Internet of things, and global sustainable tourism. Or choose from popular majors in business, the social sciences, or education. You can also major in hospitality management with a concentration in food innovation, spirits management, or hospitality leadership.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $129

Out-of-State | $553

Credits to Graduate: 120

Live in Florida? Then, the University of Florida might be your cheapest option for college. Through UF Online, you can earn a bachelor's degree at a low tuition rate of $129 per credit.

Choose from two dozen majors, including advertising, microbiology, and health education. These accredited programs meet the same high standards as on-campus programs. 

You can also add a minor to customize your degree — the public college offers 11 online minors. UF also holds virtual career fairs and offers exclusive job postings for distance learners.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $421

Out-of-State | $1,428

Credits to Graduate: 120

George Mason University is Virginia's largest public research university and has over 50 online and hybrid programs. By combining a flexible schedule with a collaborative learning environment, Mason helps learners reach their educational goals.

You can study exciting tech fields like cybersecurity, computer game design, or data science. Or explore global affairs, international security, or health administration. 

GMU students also benefit from academic advising, career services, and wellness support as distance learners.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $185

Out-of-State | $185

Credits to Graduate: 120

At Kennesaw State University, a public college in Georgia, you can earn a bachelor's degree online for less than $200 per credit. Join more than 25,000 online students to earn your degree at this popular online college.

KSU students can choose from 15 fully online bachelor's programs, with majors in business administration, information technology, sociology, and software engineering. You can meet with academic advisors to plan your course schedule and connect with financial aid counselors to cover your costs. 

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $542-692

Out-of-State | $659-809

Credits to Graduate: 120

Missouri's flagship public university also offers online degrees. Through Missouri Online, you can choose from dozens of Mizzou bachelor's degrees that use a fully online format. Enroll in a popular program like business administration or explore majors in education, information technology, or psychology.

Mizzou also offers flexible majors in general studies and interdisciplinary studies that maximize your transfer credits. Costs vary depending on your major, and distance learners qualify for many forms of financial aid.

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $203

Out-of-State | $722

Credits to Graduate: 120

Nearly 20,000 students enroll online at Florida Atlantic University, making it one of the most popular online colleges. Online students take classes taught by the same faculty as on-campus learners. They also benefit from online student support services, including academic advising, career support, and financial aid counseling. 

Choose from unique majors like public management, geosciences, and exercise sciences. Florida residents can take advantage of the low in-state tuition rate. FAU aims to keep course material costs low, with a goal of no more than $20 per credit hour.