Online colleges have become an increasingly popular way for people to earn a degree without ever leaving their homes. With the COVID-19 pandemic, even more people have decided to enroll in online classes. But with so many online colleges to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 online colleges to help you make an informed decision.
First on our list is Southern New Hampshire University. This non-profit university has over 80,000 online students and offers over 200 degree programs. Their online classes have flexible schedules, so students can attend classes at their convenience. With a 87% job placement rate for graduates, students can be confident in the value of their degree.
Top 10 Online Colleges
A list of the top 10 online colleges for students to consider in 2022.
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Factors for Consideration
Factors to consider when evaluating online colleges, including accreditation, program offerings, student services, and overall affordability.
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Overview of Top 3 Picks
A brief overview of the top three online colleges on the list, highlighting unique features and program options for students to explore.
1. University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix is a famous online college that was established in 1976. This college provides a lot of online degree programs such as Business, Healthcare, Criminal Justice, Education, and more. It is one of the largest private universities in North America with over 200,000 students enrolled. The University also provides online classes where students can learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.
The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has received recognition from the American Psychological Association (APA), National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and other associations and organizations. Students who complete their degree from this college are able to benefit from a strong alumni network which can help them build professional connections and opportunities.
2. Liberty University
Liberty University is another online college which was established in 1971. It provides over 600 programs through its online platform, including undergraduate and graduate degrees. Liberty University offers courses in Education, Business, Criminal Justice, Health Sciences, Nursing, and more.
The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It is a Christian-based institution, which means that all classes at Liberty University are taught from a Christian perspective. They also have student organizations, such as the Liberty University Christian Association and the Center for Apologetics and Cultural Engagement, that provide students with an opportunity to stay connected with their spiritual beliefs while studying.
3. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University is a popular online college which provides students an opportunity to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This university offers online courses, undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines such as Business, Education, Nursing, Psychology, and more.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which is the regional accreditation agency for the six New England states. This college has been recognized for its online courses and innovative programs by numerous publications including U.S. News and World Report.
4. American Public University System
The American Public University System provides over 200 programs in various fields such as Arts and Humanities, Business, Education, Security, and more. Students can access course materials, lectures, and assignments from anywhere and anytime.
It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. The university is also a member of numerous other organizations such as the Council of College and Military Educators and the National League for Nursing.
5. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global is a public online college that was established in 2018 through the merger of Kaplan University and Purdue University. The college provides undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields such as Business, Criminal Justice, Nursing, and more.
Purdue University Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). It is also a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
6. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is one of the largest public universities in the United States. It provides over 200 online degree programs in various fields such as Business, Engineering, Education, and more.
The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Arizona State University has consistently been ranked number one in the U.S. News and World Report rankings as the “Most Innovative School.”
7. Penn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus is the online college of Pennsylvania State University and was established in 1998. It provides over 150 online degree and certificate programs in various fields such as Business, Education, Engineering, and more.
Penn State World Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has been ranked as one of the top online colleges by U.S. News and World Report for the last several years.
8. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is a Christian-based online college that provides over 225 online programs in various fields such as Education, Business, Nursing, and more. Courses at Grand Canyon University are taught from a Christian perspective.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is also a member of the Arizona Association of College and University Business Officers (AACUBO) and the Christian Adult Higher Education Association (CAHEA).
9. Central Michigan University Global Campus
Central Michigan University Global Campus is the online college of Central Michigan University and provides over 50 online degree and certificate programs in various fields such as Business, Healthcare, and more.
Central Michigan University Global Campus is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is also a member of the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This college has consistently been ranked among the top online colleges in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report.
10. Ashford University
Ashford University is an online college that provides over 60 undergraduate and graduate online programs in various fields such as Business, Education, Psychology, and more.
Ashford University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is also a member of the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
In conclusion, choosing the right online college is an important decision and it is important to consider factors such as accreditation, program offerings, and alumni network. The above-mentioned colleges are some of the top online colleges in the United States which provide students with a quality education that is flexible and affordable.
FAQ
1. What is an online college?
An online college is an institution of higher learning that provides education programs and courses online through the internet instead of physical classrooms. These colleges offer courses that can be taken anywhere there is internet access via computers, laptops, or mobile devices. Students can learn at their own pace, access course materials at any time, and participate in forums and discussion boards with their classmates and professors.
2. How do I choose the right online college for me?
Choosing an online college requires careful research and consideration. Start by researching the accreditation status of the college, the courses and programs offered, tuition fees, required technological and academic prerequisites, and student support services. Consider your own personal and professional goals as well as your preferences for learning style, schedule, and pace. Look for online reviews, testimonials and recommendations from other students and alumni as well as online rankings on trusted websites.
3. Can online degrees be credible?
Yes, online degrees from accredited colleges are credible. Accreditation is a process that evaluates the quality of an education program and a college. Accredited online colleges meet the same standards as traditional colleges and offer the same level of academic rigor. Employers and other academic institutions recognize online degrees from accredited colleges. However, it is important to ensure that the online college you choose is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency to avoid scam colleges and college credit fraud.
4. What are the benefits of online education?
Online education offers benefits such as flexibility, convenience, and cost savings. It allows students to learn at their own pace, and from anywhere with internet access. Online programs are often less expensive than traditional college programs, due to reduced overhead costs. Online students can also save money on housing, travel, and other living expenses. In addition, online colleges offer access to a wide range of courses and programs, which may not be available at traditional colleges in their area.
5. Can I transfer credits from a traditional college to an online college?
Yes, it is possible to transfer credits from a traditional college to an online college, but the process depends on the online college and the accreditation of the program you are transferring into. Each online college has its own policies regarding transfer credit, but many online colleges will accept up to 90 credits from accredited institutions to apply toward bachelor’s degrees. Students should research the transfer policies of the online college they want to attend and consult with an academic advisor to ensure that their previous coursework will transfer over.
6. What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous courses?
Synchronous courses are live classes that students attend virtually at specific times, just like traditional classrooms, while asynchronous courses allow students to access class materials and complete coursework at any time, without real-time interaction with classmates or instructors. Synchronous courses are more structured, with fixed schedules and a live video format, while asynchronous courses offer more flexibility and independence for students to complete their coursework at their own pace.
7. Can online students access student support services?
Yes, online students have access to student support services such as academic advising, tutoring, library resources, and technical support. Online colleges offer various support services to ensure that students have access to the resources and assistance they need to succeed. These services may be accessed via email, phone, live chat, or video conferencing.
8. Can I interact with professors and fellow students in online courses?
Yes, interaction with professors and fellow students is a vital aspect of online courses and programs. Professors can provide feedback on assignments, and students can interact with each other via discussion boards, forums, email, video conferencing, or chat rooms. Some online colleges also offer virtual study groups, social networking platforms, and online clubs to foster student interaction and networking.
9. Are online courses more demanding than traditional courses?
Online courses can be equally as demanding as traditional courses, and sometimes even more demanding due to the nature of independent learning. Online courses require self-motivation, self-discipline, and time-management skills to successfully complete coursework and meet assignment deadlines. Additionally, students must be proficient in technology and online communication to effectively participate in online courses. However, since online courses allow students to learn at their own pace, it may be possible to complete courses more quickly, depending on the program.
10. Can I get financial aid for online college?
Yes, financial aid is available for online college students just as it is for traditional college students. Students attending online colleges may be eligible for various forms of financial aid such as scholarships, grants, and loans. To determine eligibility for financial aid, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Online colleges also offer financial aid options specific to their institution, so make sure to research what is available at your prospective online college.