Best Online Private Colleges and Universities of 2022

Online private colleges and universities offer students high-quality academic opportunities with various degree paths. Graduation rates are higher for private colleges than public institutions. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that 68% of private school students graduated within six years compared to 62% of students at public institutions in 2019.

Funding for private colleges and universities comes from tuition payments and donations. Colleges often focus on undergraduate education offer a liberal arts curriculum, while universities typically award more graduate degrees and house research programs.

According to NCES, private, nonprofit four-year colleges charged an average of $3oln6,700 in tuition during the 2019-2020 academic year. During the same period, public four-year schools charged an average of $9,400. Private schools often offer generous student aid packages that help lower some of those costs.

Online private colleges and universities allow students to access top-ranked programs in the U.S., regardless of their location. Online education also offers flexibility for working students. However, learners need strong time-management skills to succeed.

Private colleges and universities offer high-quality academic programs. You have likely heard of many top-ranked private colleges in the U.S. and their academic reputations. Private colleges and universities often offer smaller class sizes, more student-teacher interaction, and smaller student populations.

Because private colleges do not rely on taxpayer support, they do not charge tuition or fees based on your residence. Students at accredited schools and programs also qualify for federal student aid, and many schools offer generous scholarships and grants that reduce student costs.

Choosing a private online institution can also enable you to align your education with your beliefs. Some private institutions are affiliated with specific faiths like Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Judaism.

Most students choose private nonprofit colleges and universities. For-profit colleges can serve students seeking degree-focused certifications. However, you should research for-profit schools carefully. They may not hold accreditation or offer programs recognized by employers, regulators, or other schools.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online students must meet many of the same entrance requirements as their on-campus peers. Undergraduate admissions officers usually consider students’ high school courses, GPAs, and college admission exam scores from tests like the ACT and SAT. The application may also include questions about your work history, extracurricular activities, and volunteer experience.

Graduate admissions typically require applicants to possess an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Degree-seekers may also need to complete an entrance exam depending on their program of interest. Standard tests include the GRE, GMAT, and LSAT.

You may also need to submit essays that describe your academic and career goals and demonstrate your writing ability. Schools may also request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, coaches, or religious leaders.

Schools may restrict online programs to students who have already completed one or more semesters of college-level study. Students must also meet technology requirements to participate in online courses.

The application process includes multiple steps. Make a checklist of the materials you need submit to help keep your applications organized.

Tuition makes up the bulk of education costs. Online degree programs are generally less expensive than on-campus programs. According to the Education Data Initiative, attending an online private institution cost $58,560 during the 2019-2020 academic year. Pursuing a degree in person at a private school cost $148,800. Online students qualify for federal student aid programs and may benefit from grants or scholarships offered by their school.

In addition to tuition, consider the cost of technology, internet service, books, and supplies. Remember to budget for travel costs if your school requires on-campus sessions.

Many online private colleges and universities offer full-time and part-time enrollment. Students balancing their education while working may benefit from taking fewer classes each semester. Online programs often feature flexible classes with asynchronous scheduling. Students can watch recorded lectures, read assignments, and participate in discussions at times that are convenient for them.

Some programs do require students to take part in scheduled online sessions, or synchronous classes. Schools may also offer accelerated degree plans, which can enable students to earn their degrees more quickly. Consider which format best meets your needs.

While online education can allow you to study from anywhere, many students choose colleges close to home. Attending a nearby school will enable students to participate in campus activities and easily access on-campus resources, such as libraries or testing centers. Attending a school nearby can also allow you to participate in internship opportunities arranged through your institution.

Schools seek accreditation through third-party organizations like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Higher Learning Commission. These organizations evaluate school resources, academic standards, and instructor qualifications. Postsecondary institutions must hold institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to participate in federal student aid programs.

Individual programs may also apply for programmatic accreditation from industry-recognized organizations. Graduating from an accredited program may impact professional licensing or certification and opportunities for employment and further education.

Student support encompasses academic advising, tutoring, and counseling services that help learners succeed. Institutions may also offer mentorship opportunities, internship placements, and mental health counseling. Online private colleges and universities also provide services specifically for online students.

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

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