It is important to understand what Regionally accredited and Nationally accredited colleges means….Regional Accreditation is the educational accreditation of schools, colleges, and universities in the USA by one of SIX regional accreditors. While National Accreditation includes the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) which is commonly referred to as a “national accreditor.” The DEAC is a single organization that focuses on accrediting distance learning schools throughout the United States of America.
Please, keep in mind when choosing a school, that regionally-accredited universities’ credits may not transfer to a nationally-accredited college and vice versa. If a school has BOTH accreditations, national and regional, it may be possible to transfer or receive credits from any other accredited university’s programs. Also, please ask and CONFIRM a school’s accreditation status with the Department of Education website.
Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges – Online Focused
The nutshell version is to choose a REGIONALLY accredited school as they may be more beneficial to you but, again, it all depends on your individual plans regarding your education. However, regionally accredited schools are oftentimes more expensive than nationally accredited schools, but they also are available to offer corporate tuition reimbursement plans.Methodology:
All information is cited from the unbiased, independent NCES.gov’s College Navigator
To ensure our rankings methodology cannot be duplicated without our knowledge, we have chosen to withhold some aspects of the calculations. For more in depth calculations and criteria, please contact us at the email address provided below.
Our sponsored schools are paid advertisements that are not affiliated with our site’s individual school rankings. They are clearly defined with the word “SPONSORED” as to not confuse our readers with what has been methodologically researched and ranked by our site editors and researchers as compared to the independently sponsored schools that pay for their placement on our site. For more information regarding our rankings or our sponsored schools, please email us at LINDA.WEEMS210@GMAIL.COM.
Of course, our website is only one step in preparing you for your journey towards selecting an online college that is the right fit for you. Visiting each schools’ website yourself and requesting information to be sent directly to you for your review is highly recommended.
The schools listed below, in alphabetical order, show their accreditation for the school as a WHOLE, but each individual program, such as nursing and business management, for examples, also may have achieved their own accreditations.
Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges – Online Focused
CHECK OUT OUR LATEST RANKING OF THE BEST ACCREDITED SCHOOLS HERE!Aspen University
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Why choose Aspen?: Aspen University is a Nationally Accredited (NA) school but it is not Regionally Accredited (RA) meaning that without region accreditation you could be looking at future issues finding a job especially in the education field . Nowadays most employers are not concerned with the lack of RA but you need to be aware of this information. But having said that, Aspen is a highly recognized distance learning and is dedicated to keeping costs low so that their students are debt free
Accreditation: Distance Education and Training Council (NA), Accrediting Commission
Obtainable degrees: Associates, Bachelors, Masters, Doctoral, and Certificates
Areas of study: Professional Studies such as Criminal Justice, Medical Management, Psychology and Addiction Counseling and Project Management, Nursing, Education, Management, Information Technologies, and Liberal Arts and Sciences in literature, languages, history, mathematics, psychology, and basic sciences.
Tuition: (2014) Associates and Bachelors degrees – $125.00 per credit hour…Masters and Doctoral degrees – $325.00 per credit hour…Fine Arts programs – $125.00 per credit hour…Certificate programs – $325.00 per credit hour
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall of 2011 and Returned in Fall of 2012: 80%
Course flexibility: Aspen’s course schedule is asynchronous meaning that you can take the classes any time of the day or night to fit your busy schedule. You may participate in online class discussions and everything is completed online except for papers and such where you will then upload them to the school. Most students take one or two courses at a time but you may take up to three courses at a time, if you wish. Proctored exams are required but you may take them at a facility closest to you and they only occur a couple of times a year.
For more information, please click here
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Capella University
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Why choose Capella?: Capella’s faculty resides in 48 states and in 8 countries around the world! Capella’s enrollment consists mainly of graduate and doctoral students while only about 1 percent consists of those seeking certificates only on the opposite end of the spectrum. According to their website, “96% of employers rate graduates of Capella as exceptional.”
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Obtainable degrees: Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree, Post-master’s certificate, Doctor’s degree – research/scholarship, Doctor’s degree – professional practice
Areas of study: Business and Technology, Counseling and Psychology, Education, Health Care and Nursing, Public Service
Tuition: (2014) Certificate – $305 – $360 per credit hour… Bachelor’s Degree – $305 – $360 per credit hour… Master’s Degree – $385 – $720 per credit hour… Doctorate – $505 – $768 per credit hour
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 24% Part Time
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: Just below 50%
Fees: Application – $50… Graduation – $350
Course flexibility: Asynchronous online classes allows you to take them at anytime, day or night, although you are required to fulfill your weekly assignments on time. There new program called FlexPath allows you to complete your assignments on your own schedule at your own pace….no weekly deadlines!
For more information, please click here
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Colorado Technical University
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Why choose CTU?: Depending on your area of study, Colorado Technical University has a degree program to fit your needs through their Virtual Campus and Virtual Commons. Their flexible learning platform called M.U.S.E. meaning My Unique Student Experience allows students to experience real world situations and stimulate through different learning styles and really enjoy their virtual experience. CTU has 7 commitment statements geared towards their students’ success that are listed on their website.
Accreditation: Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Obtainable degrees: Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree
Areas of study: Business and Management, Healthcare, Security Studies, Information Systems and Technology, Engineering and Computer Science,
Tuition: Bachelor’s Degree – $385 per credit hour, Master’s Degree – $585 per credit hour, Doctorate – $598 per credit hour.
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 43% Full Time….25% Part Time
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: 13%
Course flexibility: Flexibility translates into 24/7 access to lectures, the ability to check grades at any time, access previous lectures in the archives, and complete assignments. Interacting with other classmates and professors is easy to do in the Virtual Commons.
For more information, please click here
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Colorado State University
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Why choose CSU?: Among the reasons to choose Colorado State University Online is their strive for academic excellence, an enhanced, quality education, convenience, accessibility, and, overall, being a part of a tight-knit community.
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Obtainable degrees: Graduate certificates and training, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree
Areas of study: CSU offers a HUGE variety of courses to take from FREE online courses to veterinary medicine to tourism management and of course, the standards, including business management, education and, computer science. A link to the university’s website is here for you to view all of their offerings.
http://www.online.colostate.edu/onlinedistance/
Tuition: Undergraduates – $379.00 per credit…Graduates – $549.00 per credit but many factors are involved depending on the course and degree being sought
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: Not Reported
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: Not Reported
Course flexibility: Operating on a weekly schedule, there are weekly deadlines versus daily ones allowing you the time and flexibility needed to complete assignments and exams and also participate in case studies and discussions. You are highly encouraged to contribute your input with your instructor and fellow students and to interact frequently.
For more information, please click here
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Kaplan University
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Why choose Kaplan?: Kaplan University is a dedicated school in providing students with an innovated education. Kaplan is a student oriented program that focuses on students to teach them precious values needed in today’s ever changing society. Kaplan serves more than 66,000 online and on-campus students.
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Obtainable degrees: One but less than two years certificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree
Areas of study: In General, you may obtain a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Science in Psychology and Educational Psychology……a Bachelor’s Degree obtained in Science in Communication, Science in Psychology, Science in Liberal Studies, Science in Human Services, and Science in Early Childhood Development….. an Associate’s Degree obtained in Applied Science in Human Services and Early Childhood Development… as well as certificates in Addictions, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Autism Spectrum Disorders and a Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Tuition: (2012-2013) $15,352….Kaplan has many programs that vary in tuition…please see their website for a more detailed list of pricing for tuition as this figure is the one stated on the National College of Education Statistics page.
Course flexibility: User-friendly web design along with advanced technology allows Kaplan to bring easy use and access to your experience. Tech support is offered via live chat, phone, email and message boards. You may tailor your own curriculum to fit your schedule to achieve success in your studies.
For more information, please click here
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Liberty University
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Why choose Liberty?: Liberty University has been at the forefront of distance learning education since 1985. At Liberty University the staff and faculty are geared towards your success and the achievement of your potential goals. With over 160 online programs to choose from, you will definitely find the right course of study for you. Online students have the option to attend campus for one week intensive classes, tours and commencement ceremonies.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Obtainable degrees: Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, Post-master’s certificate, Doctor’s degree – research/scholarship, Doctor’s degree – professional practice
Areas of study: There is a plethora of degrees to choose from at Liberty University, with specializations in each degree category. Please visit the link below to obtain access to all they have available for you to choose from.
http://programs.onlineschoolscenter.com/forms/liberty-university-online
Tuition: Bachelor’s Degree: part time – $415 per hour rate, full time – $360 per hour rate
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 68% Full Time….31% Part Time
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: 46%
Fees: A one time non-refundable application fee of $50
Course flexibility: At Liberty University, you will have the opportunity to engage an academic support team 24/7. The online program allows students to study whenever and wherever they choose, so that you won’t interrupt your responsibilities with your family and at work. Liberty also offers low tuition cost for a top rated university, so you will get the best bang for your buck. The same courses that are taught online can also be found on campus, to insure that you are receiving the same quality education.
For more information, please click here
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Post University
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Why choose Post?: Post University makes it easy and affordable to get your degree in little time. They are there to listen to what you need, then design a specific schedule that best fits your timing.
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
Obtainable degrees: Less than one year certificate, Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Postbaccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree
Areas of study: Post University offers a plethora of areas of study to choose from…it was simply easier to post the link to their website:
http://programs.onlineschoolscenter.com/forms/post-university
Tuition: Price per credit hour – $875.00 according to the Post University website….information regarding tuition was not clear on whether or not this price was for online or on-campus or if there was even a difference between the two AND if it was for Connecticut only residents or if the cost applied to out-of-state residents as well. Please visit the school’s website for more information.
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 44% Full Time….19% Part Time
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: 25%
Course flexibility: Post University offers students interactive courses that are taught by a highly skilled faculty. Post is all about you and will have a team of fellow students and professionals that will assist in your success. At Post University you can achieve your Bachelor’s degree in at least 18 months and a Master’s degree in 14-24 months.
For more information, please click here
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Walden University
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Why choose Walden?: Walden University offers a vast array of individual courses to advance your career all the way up to receiving your doctoral degree online and is a leader in distance learning. Walden also features MobileLearn which introduces a whole new learning style to fit your needs.
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Obtainable degrees: Less than one year certificate, Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree, Post-master’s certificate, Doctor’s degree – research/scholarship
Areas of study: Business Management, Communication and New Media, Nursing, Public Health and Health Sciences, Education, Public Policy and Administration, Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Emergency Management, and Psychology and Counseling, Social Work and Human Services
Tuition: Tuition is based on the area of study and the degree you are seeking…if you visit Walden’s website and click under “Tuition and Fees” you can choose your area of study and it will tell you about the program, including the costs and hours needed to complete the program or individual courses.
Fees: Many programs also require a technology fee of anywhere between $120 and $160
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 100% Full Time…24% Part Time
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: N/A
Course flexibility: While encouraged to participate in the classroom discussions, the courses are set up to allow for flexibility within your busy schedule. Tests are taken online and most are graded immediately giving you instant results. You will have constant access to the faculty and teachers via phone and email.
For more information, please click here
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Western Governors University
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Why choose WGU?: Western Governors, unlike most distance learning facilities, doesn’t charge per course or per credit, their tuition rates are on a “per term” basis…
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Obtainable degrees: Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree
Areas of study: Teachers College, College of Business, College of Information Technology, College of Health Professions
Tuition: Tuition is based per area of study, on a per term basis and a term is 6 months in length. Terms begin on the first of each month. As of September 1, 2012:
– Nursing Programs (MSN and BSN) – $3,250 per term
– B.S. Nursing (Prelicensure) – $4,250 per term
– Business Master’s Programs – $3,250 per term
– Business Bachelor’s Programs – $2,890 per term
– Information Technology Programs – $2,890 per term
– All Teachers College Programs – $2,890 per term
Fees: $65 non-refundable Application Fee and a $145 per term, non-refundable Resource Fee…there is also Special Fees that apply to select programs
Retention percentage of First Time Bachelor Degree Seeking Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2011 and Returned in Fall 2012: 89%
Percentage of Full-time, First-time Students Who Began Their Studies in Fall 2006 and Graduated Within 150% of “Normal Time” to Completion for Their Program: 27%