Best Online Community Colleges of 2024
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Millions of students from diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds attend community college every year, taking advantage of an affordable education close to home. The best online community colleges go even further by letting you learn from anywhere with an internet connection, and some offer asynchronous instruction options.
Whether you're preparing to enter the workforce immediately after graduation or planning to transfer into a four-year program, online community colleges can help you achieve academic and professional success.
Featured Online Associate Degree Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Community Colleges of 2024
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Eastern Gateway Community College
Steubenville, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $131-$137
Out-of-State | $138
Credits to Graduate: 60
Eastern Gateway Community College offers fully online associate degrees in business, education, engineering and manufacturing, health, public service, and public safety.
Depending on the program and your career objective, you can enter the workforce with your associate or enroll in one of the two transfer programs to prepare for your transition into a bachelor's degree.
As a student in the transfer program, you can earn either an associate of arts (AA) or an associate of science (AS). Eastern Gateway Community College has over 250 transfer agreements, which can help prepare you to pursue further education.
Houston Community College
Houston, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $33-$121
Out-of-State | $151
Credits to Graduate: 60
As a student at Houston Community College (HCC), you have your choice of fully online courses, on-campus classes, or a combination of both.
You can enroll in one of 60 online or 70 hybrid programs to fit your studies in with your work and other obligations. If you're an online student, your program may require you to take up to 15% of your courses on one of HCC's campuses.
You can earn an associate from one of HCC's academic programs to prepare you for transfer to a four-year school. Another option is to graduate from one of the workforce programs to transition into employment.
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, VA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $185
Out-of-State | $364
Credits to Graduate: 60-69
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers classes that last 4-15 weeks, offering flexibility to recent high school graduates and working professionals alike. Through NOVA Online, you can opt for an AA, AS, or an AAS — depending on the program and your career objectives.
NOVA has strong ties with many surrounding communities in Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax. A NOVA Online degree can give you an advantage when pursuing employment opportunities in this region.
Ivy Tech Community College
Indianapolis, IN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $170
Out-of-State | $333
Credits to Graduate: 60-75
If you're concerned about carrying student loans after graduation, you might consider Ivy Tech Community College. The school reports that four out of five students graduate with no college debt.
The diversity of concentrations might be another reason to look at Ivy Tech Community College. You can find your chosen field from among the 21 fully online degree programs available, from accounting to software development. Some of the school's more popular programs include nursing, healthcare specialist, and precision agriculture.
Panola College
Carthage, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $122
Out-of-State | $378
Credits to Graduate: 60
Panola College is a small community college located in Carthage, Texas, a city known for its gas fields and country music. Over 80 degrees and certificates are available, including nine fully online degree programs.
Through Canvas, Panola offers six online associates of applied science degree programs. The subjects include cybersecurity, general business, and computer information technology. Other online degree programs include teaching education, medical laboratory technician, and office professional.
Northwood Technical College
Shell Lake, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $160
Out-of-State | $165-$234
Credits to Graduate: 60-62
Formerly Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, Northwood Technical College has over 100 years of history and was one of the first technical schools established in Wisconsin.
Northwood Tech offers 13 fully online associate degrees in diverse fields, including accounting, early childhood education, health information technology, and nonprofit leadership.
Northwood Tech's mission emphasizes a career-focused education. The school reports that 95% of graduates find employment within six months, and the average starting salary is over $43,000.
Stanly Community College
Albemarle, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $196
Out-of-State | $388
Credits to Graduate: 64-76
Stanly Community College first opened its doors in 1971. It now serves about 10,000 students annually, using a professional advising model to provide students with industry knowledge and mentoring.
Stanly offers 11 fully online associate degree programs in law, business, education, information technology, and human services. Examples of Stanly's online programs include:
- Accounting
- Business administration
- Early childhood education
- Human services developmental disabilities
- Information technology cybersecurity
Stanly also offers online diplomas for programs including information technology network management and criminal justice.
Lakeshore Technical College
Cleveland, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $189
Out-of-State | $219
Credits to Graduate: 60-61
Established in 1977, Lakeshore Technical College is a small institution located in Cleveland, Wisconsin. The college offers over 30 online associate degree programs. In some career areas, students can choose from multiple concentrations, such as:
- Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources: agriculture technician and agriculture science and technology
- Business Management and Administration: business management, human resource administration, manufacturing management
- Finance: accounting and accounting assistant
Two of LTC's degrees in law, public safety and security are available in an iFlex format, meaning students have the option of attending online or in person.
James A. Rhodes State College
Lima, OH - 2 years
- Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $190
Out-of-State | $380
Credits to Graduate: 62-65
Rhodes State College has 16 fully online associate degree programs. Areas of focus include marketing, human resources, and accounting. The newest degree at the college in Lima, Ohio is an associate in science in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Some people are more ready for online learning than others. That's why the college provides a questionnaire on its website for students to consider before enrolling.
Itawamba Community College
Fulton, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $140
Out-of-State | $240
Credits to Graduate: 60
Located in Fulton, Mississippi, Itawamba Community College offers the following fully online AAS programs:
- Business and marketing management
- Criminal justice
- Early childhood education
- General studies
- Hospitality management
- Paralegal studies
- Public health
The school also provides various services for remote students, especially individuals new to online classes. Enrollees also get access to technical support and online orientation.
Itawamba Community College has a career services center committed to helping you navigate the job search process and find meaningful employment.
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Is It Cheaper to Attend an Online Community College Than a Four-Year College?
The latest reported data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) shows that community college students attending an in-state school pay the lowest average tuition and fees of all undergraduates. Their out-of-state peers typically spend more than twice as much to earn a certificate or degree.
Additionally, in-state learners attending a four-year public college pay considerably more for their education, especially as the cost of college has steadily increased over the last several decades.
The cost of attending community college online can provide even further savings. Learning entirely online means you don't need to worry about commuting to or parking on campus. Your school may also provide extra financial benefits to online learners, such as free e-textbooks.
However, remember that many factors can influence your out-of-pocket costs, such as your financial aid package and other indirect expenses.
Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
---|---|
Public 4-Year (In-State) | $9,596 |
Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $27,457 |
Private 4-Year | $34,041 |
Public 2-Year (In-State) | $3,564 |
Public 2-Year (Out-of-State) | $8,415 |
How Much Can You Make With an Associate Degree?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the typical worker with an associate degree earns over 15% more than a professional with only a high school diploma.
Speak with your online community college's academic advisors to find out which degrees align with well-paying jobs. And check out the following table of high-paying jobs with an associate degree.
Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
---|---|---|
Computer Network Support Specialist | $60,810 | 5% |
Dental Hygienist | $87,530 | 7% |
Occupational Therapy Assistant | $65,450 | 23% |
Physical Therapy Assistant | $58,740 | 19% |
Respiratory Therapist | $77,960 | 13% |
Online Community Colleges by State
One of the potential benefits of enrolling in community college online is that you can explore different schools across the nation. This may lead to opportunities you hadn't considered, enabling you to embark on a new adventure.
However, if you do want to attend school closer to home, each state has many community colleges with online offerings.
Browse online community college and trade school programs across the United States:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
What's the Difference Between an Online Trade School, Technical College, and Career College?
Trade schools, like community colleges, typically offer students the opportunity to earn a degree in two years or less. That said, trade schools are somewhat different from colleges in that they provide more focused training on specific jobs or industries. Community colleges, meanwhile, tend to offer more generalized degrees.
Trade Schools
These schools provide focused study on different vocations, such as automotive repair, plumbing, and cosmetology. They are typically government backed or approved, and their credits can often be transferred to other accredited institutions. Students usually receive certificates — rather than degrees — upon completing these programs.
Technical Colleges
These two-year colleges are similar to trade schools in that they train you for specific careers; however, graduates typically receive associate degrees — rather than certificates — after completing course requirements. Technology-related programs, such as information technology, are common areas of study at technical colleges.
Career Colleges
The term "career college" is usually associated with for-profit schools that are not accredited. As a result, credentials earned at these institutions may not be recognized by other schools. Employers may also skip over candidates who hold an unaccredited degree.
Career college programs focus on specific careers, and students can often graduate in nine months to a year.
Can You Transfer From Community College Into a Bachelor's Program?
Yes — many community colleges offer associate degrees well suited for transfer to on-campus or online colleges and universities. These two-year degree programs let you complete the general education courses required in a bachelor's program. Typical classes include English composition, history, and science.
An associate for transfer track may appeal to many types of learners, including students unsure of their major and those who want to save on tuition. Also, you can explore different tracks while paying a per-credit tuition rate well below the average cost at a four-year school.
Consider checking a school's transfer policies and reciprocity or articulation agreements before enrolling in an online community college. Once you're a student, academic advisors can help you explore four-year schools and understand transfer requirements. Many four-year programs will accept up to 60 credits from accredited community colleges.
What Associate Degrees Can You Earn Online?
If you want to get a two-year degree online, remember that several types of associate degrees are available. Take some time to research the types of associate degrees and find the best one for your academic and career goals.
Associate of Arts (AA)
These programs typically focus on general education classes rather than those concentrated on a specific career or major. This can prepare you well for transferring to a bachelor of arts program in the future. Courses usually include English, mathematics, social sciences, and laboratory science.
Associate of Science (AS)
This two-year degree can be a great option if you wish to enroll in a bachelor of science program in the future. In most cases, an AS degree provides a strong academic foundation rather than specific career training. However, some AS programs offer concentrations in majors like biology, computer science, physics, and health science.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
These programs usually focus on preparing you to enter specific career fields upon graduation, as opposed to transferring to a four-year program. They may require you to complete a few general education classes, but most of the coursework relates to your chosen major. Examples of AAS programs include computer technology, healthcare systems technology, and hospitality management.
Associate of Applied Arts (AAA)
This category also includes specialized programs that train you for a specific vocation. Unlike AAS degrees, AAA programs tend to focus more on the visual arts, music, and advertising. You may take some general education classes, along with major-focused coursework like photography, graphic design, and art history.
More Featured Online Associate Degree Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Common Areas of Study for an Associate Degree
When you select a major for your online associate degree program, you make an important decision concerning the subject areas you will explore during your time in school. And, of course, your major affects the jobs you may qualify for after graduation.
The list below describes a few common majors you can pursue through community college online programs.
Business Administration
This major covers a variety of topics related to the business world, including management, sales, marketing, accounting, and organizational structures. You'll also learn how to apply your newly acquired skills in a practical setting.
Healthcare
Associate degrees in healthcare provide a comprehensive introduction to the healthcare sector. These programs often attract students who plan to enroll in a health services bachelor's program. You'll take courses across the sciences, including those pertaining to research, clinical procedures, and various healthcare professions.
Education
In an associate in education program, you'll cover theories and practices in teaching and learning, along with basic educational psychology. You'll also learn how to plan lessons, contribute to the social and academic growth of students, and manage school health and safety issues. Many students go on to enroll in four-year elementary or secondary education programs.
Social Sciences and History
Social sciences and history associate degrees prepare you for various bachelor-level programs. They may cover a variety of subjects, including sociology, ancient and modern history, social issues, and political science. The ultimate goal is to give you a solid foundation covering social institutions and behaviors.
Psychology
Honing in on the study of the social behaviors of individuals and groups, an associate degree in psychology gives you a base of knowledge that you can use in your future studies. Students learn about various subfields of psychology, how to conduct thorough research, and how to complete scientific experiments and tests.
Communications
An associate degree in communications explores facets of communication among people and groups, including through different forms of media. Interpersonal, organizational, professional, and intercultural communication are key areas of study.
Popular Online Associate Degree Programs
- Associate in Accounting Programs
- Associate in Computer Programming Programs
- Associate in Criminal Justice Programs
- Associate in Entrepreneurship Programs
- Associate in Health Information Technology Programs
- Associate in Healthcare Administration Programs
- Associate in Hospitality Management Programs
- Associate in Human Services Programs
- Associate in Liberal Arts Programs
- Associate in Management Information Systems Programs
- Associate in Network Administration Programs
- Associate in Entrepreneurship Programs
- Associate in Marketing Programs
- Associate in Medical Assistant Programs
- Associate in Psychology Programs
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 18, 2023.