Online programs open opportunities to individuals who might not otherwise be able to pursue a traditional college degree. Programs offered completely online provide essential flexibility and autonomy to many different types of learners including adults returning to higher education, first time college students, and individuals wishing to change careers.
For instance, a recent survey of 2,000 parents highlights that 44 percent plan to return to higher education, according to Study Finds. Whether to complete a previous academic plan or to start fresh, nearly 80 percent of the parents surveyed indicate a desire for balance between academics, work, and family, and believe that an online or hybrid program can help them achieve this goal. Furthermore, 47 percent of parents surveyed indicate that they would be most interested in pursuing a fully online program when they decide to further their education, with an additional 30 percent being content with a hybrid program.
Even those pursuing fields of study that have traditionally only been offered in a classroom environment have seen success from online programs. Research shows that students interested in STEM fields such as engineering, nursing, and computer science can benefit from online college programs and obtain a quality education comparable with traditional learning.
While many institutions have broadened their online offerings in recent years and the demand for digital learning has exploded since the pandemic, individuals must discover which institution offers the best online program for their specific academic, career, and personal goals. Study Finds evaluated information from expert sources to determine the best online colleges and their top 5 online colleges are ranked and explored below:
- University of Florida: Study Finds’ highest ranked online college is the University of Florida due to its diverse learning opportunities, flexible schedules, and well-ordered admissions process. “The University of Florida Online helps students feel welcome and supported right from the start,” according to Intelligent. “They provide structured academic on-ramps that help students determine which program and learning format are right for them, which credits they can transfer from previous institutions, and how to prepare if they’re not quite ready for higher education.” Boasting ongoing enrollment and over 200 undergraduate and graduate online degree programs, the university attracts students with a myriad of academic interests.
- Liberty University: Liberty University, one of the largest faith-based higher education institutions in the country. “This Christian institution has long been a leader in online learning, with a wide array of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs,” according to Intelligent. “Students can pursue degrees and certificates in fields of study like social work, psychology, education, religion, and criminal justice.” The institution offers over 600 programs via self-paced online classes.
- Florida International University: Florida International University, an institution known for its leading research opportunities, superior student support, and renowned faculty. “A success coach works with each student one-on-one. The program allows students to complete mock interviews, create their LinkedIn profiles, and earn certifications,” says expert source Academic Influence. The school offers more than 300 online degree options. “Students in these programs benefit from FIU’s long tradition of research and inquiry, with access to cutting-edge innovations, expert faculty, and opportunities for unique hands-on learning experiences,” added Intelligent.
- University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas offers students a fully asynchronous program called eVersity for online learning.“The University of Arkansas System eVersity has been offering high-quality education to students for generations,” states EdSmart. “The university has a mission to enrich individuals’ lives through high-quality education, accessibility, affordability, relevancy, and personalization.”
- Thomas Edison State University: Thomas Edison State University, renown for its exceptional preparation of graduates ready to enter the professional workforce. “A key component of Thomas Edison State University’s mission is to serve adult and non-traditional learners. They support this mission with programs and courses designed to be flexible, accessible, and career-focused,” according to Intelligent, which ranks TESU number one for adult learners.