As our world has grown increasingly reliant on digital spaces, education has expanded to offer more online degrees. Accredited online colleges deliver the same rigorous and legitimate education as traditional, on-campus learning, but with added flexibility, accessibility, and potential cost savings.
Some online programs may still have in-person requirements, but others allow you to earn a degree at any level without needing to leave the comfort of your home.
Discover our ranking of the best accredited online colleges in this helpful guide, which includes details on accreditation, available degrees, tuition costs, and financial aid.
Top 5 Accredited Online Schools
Why Accreditation Matters for Online College
Accreditation is particularly important for online schools to ensure high academic standards. Additionally, you must attend an accredited school to qualify for federal financial aid. Accreditation is also important for reputation purposes; employers may consider your school's accreditation status when you apply for jobs.
Depending on your target career and the state you live in, your online degree may also need to hold programmatic accreditation. Healthcare, social work, and law are examples of fields where programmatic accreditation is often required for state licensure.
How Does Online College Work?
Accredited online colleges operate in several ways. However, at their core, they allow students to complete coursework away from campus, so long as they have a strong internet connection. Schools may deliver classes fully online or through a hybrid format that blends distance learning with on-campus classwork.
Colleges may use synchronous and/or asynchronous methods of administering classes. Synchronous classes mirror the in-person experience with set class times and direct interactions with instructors. In contrast, asynchronous delivery allows learners to watch recorded lectures and complete assignments at their convenience, as long as they meet specified deadlines.
However, some fully online programs may include occasional on-campus requirements, like fieldwork. Always inquire about any in-person elements of online learning, along with whether you'll need to arrange for placements.
Consider online college if…
- You need a flexible schedule.
- You're looking to save money.
- You want to complete coursework from any location.
- You need a more accessible learning format.
Consider traditional college if…
- You prefer in-person instruction.
- You're pursuing a labwork-heavy degree.
- You're easily distracted at home.
- You value peer-to-peer interaction.
Explore Accredited Online Colleges Near You
Need local school options? Search below to discover the top accredited online colleges and universities in your state.
Is Online College Worth It?
Median Weekly Earnings by Highest Education Level (2024)
$930
High school diploma
$1,543
Bachelor's degree
$1,840
Master's degree
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that professionals with higher educational attainment typically see higher demand in the job market and earn larger salaries.
Although pursuing higher education requires careful financial planning, degree-holders typically see a strong return on their investment. The BLS reports that the median weekly income for workers with a bachelor's degree as their highest level of education is about $600 higher than that of individuals with only a high school diploma.
A postsecondary education also appears to increase demand for job candidates. BLS reporting indicates an unemployment rate of 4.2% for those holding a high school diploma as their highest educational attainment. This figure drops to 2.5% for bachelor's degree-holders and 2.2% for individuals with a master's degree.
Additionally, companies with distributed workforces may look to hire graduates from online programs, due to their demonstrated ability to complete work with little oversight and remain in close contact without direct supervision.
Q&A With Real Online College Students and Grads
Q: Why did you decide to pursue an online degree?
"I wanted to be able to study, travel, and work simultaneously — not sit in a classroom at a set time each week."
— Alexandra Markin, Founder of Online Student Life
"I love the freedom of being able to study from anywhere in the country. … I also struggle with social anxiety sometimes, so knowing I have the comfort of being able to study from home allows me to feel more at ease."
— Charlotte Amy Rose, Founder of Sacred Footprints
"I decided to continue my education online mainly because I wanted to move out of state and needed the flexibility to finish my degree while also starting my family."
— Alison Hamar, College Counselor and Schools Manager at Transizion
Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a degree online?
"Flexibility. If you need to take classes when you have time and don't have to abide by a strict schedule, then online classes can be a great fit. You do have to be a self-motivated student, and online education isn't for everyone."
— Alison H.
"With an online degree, you can be there for your family, friends, or anything you want in life when you need to be. You don't have to choose between that and a three-hour lecture."
— Alexandra M.
"Earning a degree online offers more flexibility. I can work more easily around it as I don't need to factor in travel time. I feel you are more focused too. You can spend more time actually studying and learning rather than traveling to and from university."
— Charlotte A. R.
Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to students considering an online college?
"I would highly recommend getting involved with the university, even if you are online. There are still so many extracurricular activities and courses you can join, which is a great way to meet people on the same course or just like-minded people you can share your experience with."
— Charlotte A. R.
"I would consider how much time you have to dedicate to school, if you can and will hold yourself accountable, and if flexibility is a necessity in your life. … In many ways online school is harder, but if you are motivated and driven to finish your degree and need the flexibility, then I would go for it."
— Alison H.
"You need to know your learning style and what works best for you. … Try a few online courses first before you commit to an online degree. The format of online learning isn't for everyone."
— Alexandra M.