The Best Online Colleges in Texas

We have researched the best online colleges in Texas. The Lone Star State has a large variety of accredited colleges that offer online degrees, giving students flexibility, affordability, and education access to undergrad and graduate programs.

Students don't need to live in Texas to earn a degree at these colleges; out-of-state students are welcome to attend.

The rise of education online has opened doors for Texas students who need flexibility to pursue their degrees while managing work, family, and other commitments. With a wide range of online degree programs, from bachelor's to doctoral levels, Texas schools can accommodate the needs of many distance learners.

Understand online colleges and online programs to compare affordability, academic quality, accreditation, and online delivery method (synchronous or asynchronous). Many schools in Texas offer online degrees that are flexible (asynchronous), which students may complete at their own pace.

Research degrees and concentrations while evaluating accreditation to help make an informed decision.

The Best Online Colleges in Texas

The primary ranking factors for Texas colleges online include preference to colleges offering undergraduate and graduate programs, the variety of programs offered, academic influence, graduation rates and affordability. This method helps provide objectivity in the rankings, helping online students to be informed about their education options.

For a more thorough explanation, visit our ranking methodology.

1.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University Online, a division of the Office of the Provost

Lubbock, Texas

Texas Tech University offers over 80 online bachelor's and master's degrees, online doctorates and online graduate certificates.

Some of the 26 online bachelor's include:

• Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science (BAAS) in Renewable Energy 
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
• Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations & Strategic Communication Management
• Bachelor of Science in Human Sciences

47 online master's include:

• Master of Agribusiness
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Data Science
• Master of Arts in English

13 online doctorates are offered, including:

• Doctor of Education in Agricultural Education
• Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a track in STEM Education

48 online graduate certificates are offered, which include:

• Youth Development Specialist
• STEM Leadership Communication

There are hybrid options available for many of the programs at Texas Tech.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

2.

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, Texas

UTPB online offers 16 bachelor's, 20 master's, and 8 certificates in a broad variety of subjects.

They are offering free bachelor's degrees for Texas residents through their Falcon Free Scholarships.

Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

3.

University of North Texas

Denton, Texas

University of North Texas (UNT) offers seven bachelor's, 38 master's, one PhD, as well as certificates and certifications online.

UNT also offers online tutoring for students.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.  

4.

Stephen F Austin State University

Nacogdoches, Texas

Stephen F. Austin University (SFASU) offers more than 30 degrees online. There are 12 online bachelor's, 20 online master's, and an online doctoral degree in their list of online programs.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5.

Lamar University

Beaumont, Texas

Lamar University offers many online subjects to earn a degree, including business, political science/criminal justice, education, nursing, health sciences, technology and liberal arts. These subjects vary in offering bachelor's, master's, or certificates.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.  

6.

Texas Christian University

Willian H. Koehler Center for Instruction, Innovation, and Engagement

Fort Worth, Texas

Texas Christian University (TCU) offers the following online degrees: 4 bachelor's (all are BSN to DNP programs), master's programs in Nursing, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Arts, two doctorates in Nursing, and post graduate certificates.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

7.

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, Texas

Texas A&M offers 1 online bachelor's (a Bachelor of Science in Nursing), online master's (in fields such as medicine, public health, agriculture, law, business, and and engineering), online doctorates, and online certificates.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8.

Baylor University

Waco, Texas

Baylor University is a private, Christian Baptist research university, which offers online graduate degrees, including 9 online master's and 10 online doctorate degrees in a variety of subjects.

Online master's include:

• Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders 
• Master of Arts in School Leadership
• Master of Arts in Theology and Sports Studies
• Master of Business Administration

Online doctorates offered include:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner
• Doctor of Nursing Practice - Nurse Midwifery

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9.

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, Texas

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private research university in Dallas, Texas. SMU offers online master's degrees, online certificates, and online short courses.

Percentage of online enrollment: 7%

Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

10.

Rice University

Houston, Texas

Rice University offers 4 online master's programs:

• Master of Computer Science Online
• Master of Data Science
• Master of Engineering Management and Leadership
• Master of Business Administration Online Program

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Advantages of online Texas Colleges

Embracing an online college in Texas comes with advantages. Students can often study at their own pace and schedule, eliminating the stress of juggling work, family, and education. Moreover, online courses are generally more economical than on-campus classes, thanks to the absence of overhead costs and potential discounts for students who pay their tuition in full.

Quality education is also a mark of Texas online colleges. Online courses are taught by experienced faculty members who bring their expertise to the classroom. Students gain access to a wealth of resources, such as online libraries, discussion boards, and virtual labs, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.

State Initiatives Supporting Online Education

The state of Texas recognizes the importance of education, and has taken several initiatives to support it. These include tailoring support services for distance learners, allowing schools to receive state funding for online classes, and outlining best practices for developing and implementing distance learning programs.

In addition, Texas supports its residents by providing free tuition for low-income students who meet the eligibility criteria, grants for adult learners, and scholarships for veterans. These initiatives help make online education in Texas more accessible and affordable.

Ranking Methodology for the Best Online Colleges in Texas

With so many online colleges in Texas, how can prospective students identify the best options for them? Ranking methodologies provide a good way to research and compare different online programs based on various factors, such as affordability, academic influence, and online enrollment.

Let's examine the data sources and key ranking factors that shape these methodologies.

Data Sources

To rank online colleges in Texas, various data sources are employed, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the U.S. Department of Education is home to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

This center provides educational statistics on American schools. These federal data sources provide information on affordability, accreditation, and program offerings, for a reliable assessment of online colleges in Texas.

Understanding Accreditation of online colleges in Texas

When choosing between the best online colleges in Texas, it's essential to consider accreditation. Accreditation is a process that verifies the quality of education provided by an institution and guarantees that credits earned are transferable to other accredited institutions. By attending an accredited college in Texas, you not only get a recognized degree, but also enhance your career prospects and potential eligibility to receive federal financial aid. Regionally accredited schools online have the highest prestige.

In Texas, the Higher Education Coordinating Board recognizes accreditation agencies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Make sure to verify the accreditation status of online colleges in Texas.

Types of Online Degrees Offered in Texas

The world of online school in Texas is large and diverse, offering many undergraduate and graduate online programs to suit the goals of online learners.

From online associate degree options to doctoral degrees, certificates, hybrids, synchronous and asynchronous programs, and even accelerated programs with 7-8 week courses, colleges in Texas have something for almost everyone.

No matter your career aspirations or the stage of your educational journey, there's Texas online degree programs for almost all subjects.

Texas has some of the most prestigious and best accredited online colleges. Baylor University, Texas Tech University, Rice University, University of North Texas, Southern Methodist University, and Stephen F. Austin State University are some of the top universities. All of these offers supported online degrees for undergraduate and graduate students.

Programs in Texas can appeal to a wide range of interests and career paths. Some popular online degrees include business administration, humanities, political science, engineering, and healthcare (such as clinical mental health counseling). Business administration is the most popular online bachelor's degree in the nation.

Whether you're looking to advance in your current field or embark on a new career, these popular online undergraduate programs and graduate degrees offer the flexibility and convenience needed to help achieve college education goals.

Comparing Online vs. On-Campus Degrees

Online and on-campus degrees might appear different on the surface, but they offer the same quality of education. The main differences are in cost, flexibility, and the degree of interaction with professors and peers. The degree validity and viability in seeking jobs is the same.

Online programs are generally more cost-effective and offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing students to complete their degrees at their own pace. However, on campus degrees might provide more opportunities for networking and face-to-face interaction with professors and fellow students. Many online schools offer degree completion programs for transfer students, whether transfer students are coming from community colleges or a private or public institution of higher learning.

See our article The Best Colleges for Transferring to Universities in Texas.

Costs and Financial Aid for Online Students

The tuition and fees for online universities in Texas vary depending on the institution and any prior coursework completed. For instance, in-state tuition averages $18,711, while out-of-state students pay an average of $24,889 at public four-year colleges in Texas.

However, online programs often offer more cost-effective options thanks to the absence of additional fees associated with on-campus programs.

Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

Financial aid can help make your online education in Texas more affordable. The state offers various grants and scholarships, such as the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program (TEOG), Toward Excellence, Access, and Success Grant Program (TEXAS Grant), and Tuition Equalization Grant Program (TEG).

Additionally, students may explore scholarship options through online scholarship databases like Scholarships.com and Bold.org. Don't let finances stand in the way of your educational dreams – explore your financial aid options today.

See our Financial Aid Guide for Online Colleges Students.

Employment Opportunities for Graduates of Online Colleges in Texas

Graduating from an online college in Texas may help open the door to a wealth of career opportunities. With a recognized degree in hand, graduates are able to apply for the same jobs as those who earned their degrees through traditional, on-campus programs.

The fast-growing industries of hospitality, healthcare, technology, and green energy offer many in-demand jobs, ensuring a bright future for online college graduates in Texas.

Highest Paying Jobs in Texas

High paying jobs in Texas often require a minimum of a college degree. Business leaders typically need at least a bachelor's degree, whereas healthcare administration or paralegals may only require an associate degree. Business administration is the #1 online subject with the highest earning potential in our list of the 20 Best Online Degrees for Careers with a bachelor's degree.

Most of the highest earning positions are in business in management and finance. The next highest earning potential is in computer science and technical management positions. Third is commercial airline pilot. Marketing managers also do well. Austin is also an epicenter for game design, which is a popular subject for online learners.

See our article The Best Bachelor's Degrees in Marketing in Texas.

Tips for Choosing a College in Texas

Selecting the right college in Texas is an important step in an online student's education. To be informed, it's important to research online schools, degree options and concentrations, online delivery method, evaluate support services, and understand accreditation. By taking these factors into account, students will be better prepared to determine the college education that aligns with their degree of choice, learning style, and career goals.

See our Online College Success: 10 Best Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What colleges in Texas are online?

Texas has six state university systems, and many colleges within these offer online degrees. There are also 38 private universities in Texas, which also have their colleges that offer degrees online.

Then there are private colleges that aren't part of a university system that also offer degrees online throughout the state. Given that new degree program options arise online often, it's hard to keep track of all colleges which offer degrees online.

For those looking for education in Texas that is taken online, there are a number of excellent options available. With these educational opportunities, students can better find many college options that best suits their needs.

Can you get a bachelor's degree online in Texas?

Yes, students can get a bachelor's degree online in Texas. Texas colleges offer online associate, bachelor's, master's and doctorate degree programs, as well as online undergraduate and graduate certificates. University of North Texas, one of the largest providers of online credit courses among Texas public universities, offers over 80 online program options.