The Most Popular Accredited Online Colleges

At Southern New Hampshire University Online (SNHU), the institution's #1 ranking is due to its popularity among online students, with a total of 157,898 remote learners. This places SNHU in the top 1% nationally in terms of student reach and engagement. Complementing this significant online presence is the online college's remarkable earnings potential, as evidenced by a median earnings figure of $62,040, which is well above the national standard.

Why we like them: SNHU offers a selection of over 200 online degree programs, catering to various fields such as accounting and finance, art and design, business, criminal justice, education, and engineering. Its programs are designed for career advancement, being both affordable and accredited without mandatory entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE. The institution supports learning with career-focused curriculums and encourages transfer of up to 90 undergraduate credits.

Western Governors University (WGU) holds an online enrollment that exceeds 156,900. This situates it within the top 1% nationwide for volume of online learners. Complementing this achievement, the institution also boasts a high median earnings for graduates overall at $77,387, reflecting a strong market value. This success is indicative of WGU's commitment to equipping its students with skills that translate into tangible career benefits.

Why we like them: WGU's competency-based education approach enables you to progress through courses as quickly as your skills and knowledge allow, potentially accelerating your path to degree completion. WGU provides an array of accredited online bachelor's and master's degrees across fields such as business, education, technology, and nursing, with various certification options available for further specialization. The institution is notably accredited by NWCCU, ensuring high educational standards. Additionally, WGU supports military learners by accepting GI Bill benefits and offers dedicated resources to veterans and active-duty personnel.

Ranked third as one of the most popular colleges in online education, the University of Phoenix (UoPX) attracts a large number of online students, with an online enrollment figure of 88,738. This places the university in the highest tier, surpassing 98% of institutions across the U.S. in terms of online participation. Additionally, the median earnings of graduates stand at $53,222, showing how the school effectively prepares graduates for the workforce.

Why we like them: UoPX provides fully online degree programs tailored to high-demand skills in fields like business, technology, healthcare, and criminal justice. With flexible 5-6 week courses, students can start when it suits them, with 20 start dates for a bachelor’s and 17 for a master’s annually. We also like that students can use the Savings Explorer® tool and Transfer Credit Guide to reduce costs, potentially saving up to $11,000 and a year of study. Career Services for Life® offers ongoing career coaching, resume support, and interview prep.

Liberty University (LU) has over 81,000 online students engaged in virtual education, among only a handful of institutions globally to reach such numbers. The retention rate here is another compelling metric — we recognize LU’s 79% retention rate falls within the top quartile nationally, which is indicative of student satisfaction and support throughout their studies.

Why we like them: LU offers over 600 online programs, catering to various academic levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. With eight flexible start dates each year, learners can tailor their education to fit personal schedules. Tuition has remained stable for nine years, ensuring affordability across many programs. The online courses range in duration, with most running for eight weeks, while select courses may require brief campus attendances. LU is committed to supporting military students with specific discounted rates, widening access for service members and their families.

Arizona State University (ASU Online) ranks 5th due to its significant online enrollment of 66,946 students, which places it among the top-performing institutions worldwide. Additionally, an admirable median earnings figure, reported at $63,171, pairs well with its strong recommendation rate of 90%. These metrics together highlight the potential return on investment for graduates. Moreover, ASU boasts a stellar retention rate, positioning it within the top 15% of schools for this measure, signifying student satisfaction and program effectiveness.

Why we like them: ASU Online offers over 300 online degrees and certificates across fields like business, engineering, nursing, law, and the sciences, led by the same esteemed faculty as on-campus programs. Known for innovation, we believe its high-quality education fosters career readiness. With flexible programs and ample student support, ASU Online empowers students — whether first-year, transfer, military, or adult learners — to achieve academic goals and career growth.

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is an online college that hosts over 50,000 distance learners, placing it among the top 1% globally. This impressive figure underscores its capacity to accommodate a large number of online students effectively. Additionally, the median earnings for UMGC graduates stand at $78,724, placing the institution in the top 8% nationally with an "A" Salary Score. This suggests that UMGC's educational offerings not only attract a high volume of online learners but also positively impact their financial future.

Why we like them: UMGC offers a vast array of over 135 online degrees and certificates designed to enhance your professional skills in fields like business, cybersecurity, and teaching. We also appreciate how the university recognizes prior education, military, and professional experience through transfer credit options. UMGC provides career-focused online degrees at various levels, including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs, with no in-person attendance required.

With over 48,000 online learners, American Public University System (APU) is among the top 1% of most popular online colleges, demonstrating a robust infrastructure. Coupled with a retention rate of 90%, APU ensures that distance learners receive the support needed to thrive in an online educational setting.

Why we like them: APU offers an online learning experience with a focus on affordability, accessibility, and quality with 200+ online degrees and certificates. APU’s programs start monthly, with 8- and 16-week course options, making it easy for working adults to integrate studies into their schedules. With tuition as low as $350 per credit for undergraduates and a range of grants available, APU is an affordable choice for both military and civilian students. APU’s programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, with specialty accreditation for fields like business, nursing, and public health, ensuring graduates meet professional standards.

Purdue Global (PG) attracts over 45,000 online learners, placing it among the top 1% of institutions across the nation with large and well-established virtual learning communities. We also think that PG's quality is further supported by an overall student review rating of 3.73 out of 5, underscoring PG's commitment to quality online education.

Why we like them: PG delivers an online learning experience tailored for working adults, combining flexibility with extensive support. With 24/7 access to a range of interactive resources, students can complete classes around demanding schedules. The online classroom is user-friendly and built to foster engagement through discussion boards, seminars, and real-time support. Purdue Global’s diverse faculty bring industry insights into the virtual classroom, and students benefit from resources like a comprehensive digital library and career services, all designed to support personal and professional growth from enrollment to graduation.

Capella University (Capella) is ranked 9th due to its significant online enrollment of 39,727 students, positioning it in the top 2% for online schools in terms of sheer volume. Moreover, the university's median earnings for graduates stand at $65,844, which is an A- Salary Score when compared to other institutions. This highlights the potential for a solid return on investment for graduates.

Why we like them: Capella offers a virtual learning experience designed for busy professionals who need adaptable study options. With its self-paced FlexPath and structured GuidedPath, Capella empowers students to tailor their education to their schedules, helping them reach career milestones efficiently. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Capella’s programs in fields like business, nursing, and social work are additionally recognized by specialized accrediting bodies, affirming high standards. Capella provides ample support, career-ready skills, and the assurance of quality, equipping students to advance toward their professional goals with confidence.

Strayer University (Strayer) is among the top 2% of institutions with a significant online student body. Its vast online presence is pivotal in supporting a large base of students seeking flexible learning opportunities. It is also known to be a military-friendly institution, with significant enrollment under the GI Bill, emphasizing the accessibility and appeal of its programs to military learners.

Why we like them: Strayer’s online programs are designed to adapt to students’ schedules and learning preferences, letting them complete coursework anytime, anywhere. With over 50 campuses available for additional support, students can access faculty, advisors, and coaches to guide them from enrollment through graduation. The online platform is easy to navigate, featuring video-based learning and access to Sophia for no-cost general education courses. Strayer’s approach, grounded in real-world skills, supports students with a range of resources, from a virtual bookstore to online tutoring, and even a virtual assistant.

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has over 28,000 online learners currently enrolled, making it a popular choice. Another compelling aspect is its strong median earnings, reaching $94,499. This situates it in the top 2% for median salary nationally — an A+ Salary Score. Furthermore, the university boasts a notable graduation rate of 94% and a 91% recommendation rate, highlighting its academic efficiency and student satisfaction.

Why we like them: JHU extends its academic programs beyond the traditional campus, offering a wide selection of online degrees, certificates, and individual courses. Through schools like the Krieger School of Arts & Sciences, Whiting School of Engineering, and Bloomberg School of Public Health, students can engage in fields from public health to international studies and advanced engineering. With options through platforms like Coursera, learners can also explore free courses on relevant topics, including data analysis and patient care. These online options cater to both professionals and lifelong learners, enabling access to a premier education from virtually anywhere.

DeVry University (DeVry) earns its place due to its substantial online presence, ranking 12th with an online enrollment of 27,875 students. This figure places the institution among the top 2% globally for online education enrollment, signifying its capacity to cater to online learners. Additionally, DeVry demonstrates a commendable commitment to supporting military education, with an enrollment of 6,695 military personnel, making it one of the top performers in this category at the 99th percentile.

Why we like them: DeVry’s online degree programs allow students to pursue college degrees without disrupting their lives. Offering both fully online and hybrid programs, DeVry supports remote learning through 24/7 access to coursework, tutoring, and a mobile app for studying on the go. Students can choose from a variety of career-focused programs in fields like business, health, and technology, all built with practical, tech-infused learning. With a range of supportive resources, DeVry enables students to gain relevant skills to advance in today’s competitive job market.

Chamberlain University (Chamberlain) has almost 25,000 students engaged in online education currently. This positions the university in the top 2% for online enrollment among similar institutions, highlighting its prominence as a leader in providing accessible distance learning opportunities. Further enhancing its appeal is the median earnings of graduates, which stands at $86,704. This means Chamberlain's graduates are in the top 4% nationwide compared to their peers from other institutions.

Why we like them: Chamberlain offers a range of online programs, enabling students to pursue nursing and healthcare degrees through flexible, accredited options. With over 130 years of experience, Chamberlain is dedicated to preparing skilled professionals through Chamberlain Care®, a commitment to supporting students’ success from enrollment through graduation. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and respected organizations like the CCNE and CEPH, Chamberlain’s programs meet rigorous standards. Students benefit from a supportive academic culture and resources designed to empower healthcare professionals who positively impact communities worldwide.

Ranked 14th on our list, the Lone Star College System (LSC) is another popular choice among the top 2% of institutions in terms of online engagement. It also has over 1,800 military students currently enrolled, which how it supports educational accessibility for service members and veterans.

Why we like them: With a mission to enrich lives, LSC combines educational opportunities with accessible online learning. Through LSC-Online, students can choose from over 30 fully-online programs, synchronous or asynchronous, to fit their schedules and personal commitments. LSC-Online offers flexible course loads, allowing students to enroll in one to six courses per semester. Classes are available in traditional 16-week or accelerated 8-week formats, with both covering the same comprehensive content. We also like that LSC provides plenty of support, from dedicated advisors to 24/7 IT help, all aimed at fostering student success in a community-focused environment.

Brigham Young University - Idaho (BYU-Idaho) excels in its online enrollment, serving 22,541 students through its well-established virtual platforms. Additionally, the university enjoys a high recommendation rate of 86%, indicating strong satisfaction and endorsement from those who have engaged with its programs.

Why we like them: BYU-Idaho, in partnership with BYU-Pathway Worldwide, offers online degrees tailored for busy students balancing work, family, and other obligations. The programs, which are fully online and faith-based, enable students to earn a bachelor’s degree in as little as three years by streamlining core courses and minimizing electives. With tuition at roughly half the cost of traditional universities and guaranteed tuition discounts, BYU-Idaho provides a practical, supportive path to completing a degree online.

Like other online colleges on this list, Full Sail University's (Full Sail) online enrollment is exceptionally high, with 21,969 distance learners. In addition, the university has a retention rate of 76%, indicating a stable and supportive learning environment where many students likely feel encouraged to continue their education.

Why we like them: Full Sail’s online programs provide an immersive, fast-paced learning experience for students ready to build real-world skills. With a custom-designed platform, hands-on learning projects, and resources like Project LaunchBox™ — a package of professional software and a laptop — students can create and collaborate anytime, anywhere. Courses are structured to follow a logical progression, enhancing skills at each stage. Full Sail’s focus on career readiness includes portfolio-building modules in bachelor’s programs and practical experience in master’s, along with extensive networking, mentorship, and career support throughout the online experience.

Hosting more than 19,000 students virtually, Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) proves to have an extensive reach in online education. This significant statistic is complemented by their exceptional graduation rate of 92% and retention rate of 98%, reflecting the satisfaction and commitment of students to continue their studies here. The impressive median earnings of graduates, at $100,403, further underscore the value of a degree from GIT, placing the institution in the top 1% in terms of earnings compared to other universities.

Why we like them: Georgia Tech Online features online degrees, graduate certificates, and free open courses. Georgia Tech provides options for skill enhancement and career advancement at a fraction of campus costs. Students can earn the same rigorous degree as on-campus peers in fields like STEM and business. With expert faculty and a range of resources, Georgia Tech Online empowers learners globally to build credentials and advance their careers on their terms.

Ranked 18th for its impressive online enrollment, UMass Global has 17,124 students currently engaged in remote learning. This expansive reach is complemented by the institution's strong earnings potential, as graduates can expect a median earnings of $70,187, which ranks in the top 16% nationwide with an A- Salary Score.

Why we like them: UMass Global provides a wide array of online bachelor’s degree programs. With 16 core fields and 33 concentrations to choose from, online students can gain specialized skills in areas like business, IT, and criminal justice. The online format supports self-paced and structured learning, enabling students to pursue education without compromising work or personal commitments. Financial aid options are available, and UMass Global’s dedicated resources ensure students receive guidance from admissions to graduation, helping them achieve career advancement and enhanced earning potential.

Miami Dade College (MDC Online) is a popular college that enrolls around 17,000 online students. It also enrolls hundreds of military students as well through the GI Bill. Overall, it claims to be one of the nation’s most diverse institutions, with a commitment to accessible and affordable education that includes 93% of students graduating debt-free.

Why we like them: MDC Online offers fully online programs across fields including business, healthcare, and technology. Students can choose from courses in 8-, 12-, 14-, or 16-week formats to suit their schedules and career goals. With programs such as associate and bachelor's degrees and certificate options, MDC Online supports a variety of academic paths, including fast-track College Credit Certificates for quick skill-building. MDC’s online resources, advising, and financial aid options ensure students are well-supported from enrollment to graduation.

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) has a substantial enrollment of nearly 17,000 virtual learners. If you were to compare its online enrollment with that of other universities, CPCC would be among the top 2% with the highest number of students taking online courses. It's accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College (SACSCOC), ensuring quality.

Why we like them: CPCC provides fully online programs as well as hybrid and blended courses that combine online and in-person learning. Students access coursework through Brightspace, the college’s learning management system, where they can collaborate with peers and complete assignments. With a range of online associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates available, CPCC empowers students to achieve their educational goals from virtually any location with internet access.

Houston Community College (HCC) ranks 21st, driven by its significant online enrollment of 16,560 students. While the college’s retention rate stands at 63%, reflecting room for improvement, it remains a testament to the institution’s ability to support its student body through diverse online programs.

Why we like them: HCC Online offers online and hybrid programs, allowing students to pursue their education on their own schedules. With over 60 fully online degree and certificate programs and more than 70 hybrid options, HCC provides access to high-quality education from anywhere. Known for affordability, HCC allows students to save significantly, especially when transferring to four-year universities after completing an associate degree. Supported by virtual advising, technical help, tutoring, and career services, HCC Online enables students to stay on track and accelerate their path to graduation.

Ranked 22nd, Columbia Southern University (CSU) is among the top 2% of institutions when compared to other universities or colleges by the number of students engaged in online studies. This exceptional reach underscores its popularity and commitment to accessible education. Our trust is CSU is further bolstered by a commendable overall student review rating of 3.98 out of 5, which comes from firsthand experiences.

Why we like them: CSU offers fully online degree programs at associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, designed to provide flexibility for busy professionals balancing work, family, and education. With a commitment to affordability, CSU includes textbooks in tuition, which is less than half the cost of many competitors. Recognized for quality online education, CSU provides a supportive environment backed by dedicated staff. Students can also benefit from transfer credits, scholarships, and military benefits, making CSU an accessible choice for those seeking to advance their careers without significant personal sacrifice.

If you consider the scale of online education initiatives across various colleges online, Excelsior University (Excelsior) is among the top 2% for online enrollment. Excelsior also has a median earning among graduates of $73,735, an A Salary Score. We value universities that not only attract many online students but also demonstrate strong post-graduate outcomes, setting a high standard in online education.

Why we like them: Excelsior offers a variety of online degree and certificate programs in fields such as business, health sciences, technology, and public service. Designed for busy students, Excelsior allows maximum credit transfer options, making it possible to finish degrees faster and at a lower cost. Accredited and committed to quality, Excelsior provides a supportive online learning environment, helping students leverage prior experience to reach their career goals. With pathways from associate to master’s programs, Excelsior is a great choice that enables learners to balance education with life commitments and advance professionally.

Florida International University (FIU Online) earns its position for having one of the largest online enrollments, accommodating around 14,800 online learners, which places it among the top 3% in the nation. This online school also has a high retention rate of 91% that suggests a consistent level of student satisfaction and institutional support that encourages students to continue their studies.

Why we like them: FIU Online offers a range of fully online degree programs that provide the same academic rigor and quality as on-campus courses. Students benefit from FIU's extensive resources, including access to Canvas, the learning management system for coursework, communication, and support. With more than 20 years in online education, FIU Online brings an innovative approach to digital learning, focusing on experiential courses taught by expert faculty, with diplomas indistinguishable from the on-campus counterparts.

Ivy Tech Community College-Central Indiana (IvyOnline) is in the top 3% of most popular online schools across the country. Complementing this is the college's substantial military enrollment, showing that it is among the top 5% of institutions accommodating military students, providing essential access to those serving the nation.

Why we like them: IvyOnline, the fully online option at Ivy Tech, offers flexibility for students balancing work, family, and educational goals. Through IvyOnline, students can complete associate degrees and certificates entirely online in fields like business, cybersecurity, healthcare, and liberal arts. Courses are mostly asynchronous, allowing students to learn on their schedule, though some may include live sessions or online office hours. IvyOnline provides access to Ivy Tech’s support services, including tutoring, advising, and career resources, ensuring a high-quality educational experience that seamlessly transfers to Indiana colleges and universities.

Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) secures its place at #26 on our list due to its remarkable online enrollment of 14,133, distinguishing it as one of the top online schools. Coupling this strength with a median earnings percentile that places it in the top 55%, NVCC demonstrates the ability to enhance future salary potential.

Why we like them: NOVA Online at NVCC offers fully online programs for students looking to earn an associate degree, certificate, or career studies certificate. With asynchronous learning, students can complete coursework on their own schedule. NOVA Online provides various start dates, with terms ranging from 7 to 15 weeks, and offers support services and resources equivalent to those available on-campus. NOVA is accredited by SACSCOC and provides guaranteed transfer agreements with many in-state and out-of-state institutions, ensuring students can advance their education.

Pennsylvania State University - World Campus (Penn State) enrolls over 13,800 online students. If you were to compare PSU's online enrollment with that of other institutions, PSU would be among the top 3%. Furthermore, PSU is recognized for serving military learners, placing it in the top 5% for military enrollment with 1,898 GI Bill students.

Why we like them: The Penn State World Campus offers over 200 online degrees and certificates, providing students worldwide with access to Penn State’s high-quality education. With more than 25 years of experience in online education, the Penn State World Campus offers the same esteemed faculty and rigorous curriculum as the on-campus experience. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, or a certificate, World Campus ensures a recognized Penn State credential backed by a global community.

Saint Leo University's (Saint Leo) online enrollment number is 13,662 students. This positions Saint Leo among the top 3% of schools, indicating its widespread appeal and capability to provide flexible learning options. We also want to note the median earnings among graduates has a B Salary Score, with median earnings at $55,411.

Why we like them: Saint Leo offers more than 60 online programs, including bachelor's, master's, and certificate options, in areas such as business, healthcare management, criminal justice, psychology, and information technology. Online learning is entirely asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework at their convenience while still meeting assignment deadlines. Courses are hosted on a user-friendly platform with support services like online tutoring, advising, and career development. Additionally, the programs reflect Saint Leo’s Catholic liberal arts values, aiming to educate the whole person.

Even at #29 on our list, the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) hosts an impressive 13,578 online students, which places it among the top 3% nationwide. This vast enrollment speaks to UTA's capacity and expertise in delivering quality online education.

Why we like them: UTA offers 100% online, TEA-approved graduate programs through the College of Education tailored for current educators and aspiring leaders in education. With options like the MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with specializations in Literacy Studies, Math Education, Science Education, as well as disciplines in educational leadership, special education, and instructional design technology, UTA’s programs offer diverse paths to career growth. These online programs are available in both accelerated formats — where courses span 5-8 weeks and may be synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous — and traditional semester-based formats last 14-16 weeks.

The University of Central Florida (UCF) has attracted and retained 13,565 online students, placing it in the top 3% of institutions for this metric. UCS also has an impressive retention rate of 93%, ranking in the top 5%, revealing that students find their online courses engaging and fulfilling. Furthermore, its recommendation rate is 94%, showing that its a solid choice for online learning.

Why we like them: UCF excels as a leader in online education with over 100 fully accredited online degree programs, including bachelor's, master's, graduate certificates, and doctorates. The university offers programs in diverse fields such as criminal justice, healthcare, and engineering, tailored for success in these top industries. UCF Online emphasizes flexibility, innovation, and personalized support, featuring dedicated student success coaches for academic guidance. There's an exclusive focus on digital resources, ensuring students are well-equipped for today's dynamic industries. UCF also facilitates practical learning through its online resources, catering to working professionals and students alike.