Best Online Colleges in Washington
BestColleges.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestColleges.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
2024Washington offers many reasons to study in the state, including a robust job market, beautiful natural landscapes, and access to a wide variety of colleges and universities. The state also provides several opportunities for studying online, making it easy for residents and non-residents alike to secure a quality education. An online program can provide you with the flexibility to complete your education while working or balancing other obligations.
When reviewing potential programs, look for those that hold proper accreditation, offer reasonable tuition rates, and have strong data supporting employment after graduation. Check out our list of the best online universities in Washington.
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Colleges in Washington
University of Washington
Seattle, WA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,927
- Out-of-state$38,757
- In-State$17,004
- Out-of-state$30,477
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled53,083
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Washington State University
- Pullman, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,708
- Out-of-state$26,392
- In-State$12,366
- Out-of-state$27,163
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled26,873
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Central Washington University
- Ellensburg, WA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,816
- Out-of-state$23,881
- In-State$10,401
- Out-of-state$24,361
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled9,257
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Washington University
- Cheney, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,080
- Out-of-state$25,464
- In-State$12,661
- Out-of-state$27,987
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled10,700
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
Cost of College in Washington
In Washington, the average tuition at public universities is actually less than the national average for in-state students. On the other hand, out-of-state learners can expect to pay more in Washington than the national average.
Keep in mind that universities often offer a lower flat rate for online degree programs, regardless of whether you live in Washington.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $7,842 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $31,410 |
| Private Four-Year | $40,839 |
| Public Two-Year (In-State) | $4,727 |
| Public Two-Year (Out-of-State) | $8,421 |
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Washington
With a large tech industry in the Evergreen State, it should come as no surprise that information security analysts are projected to be in high demand over the next decade. The Washington Employment Security Department projects roles for these professionals will grow 40% between 2021 and 2031.
Jobs for those with a religious calling are also in demand, with roles for directors of religious activities and education, religious workers, and clergy all slated to expand in the coming years.
| Job | Job Growth, 2021-2031 | Average Annual Wage, 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analysts | 40% | $112,000 |
| Directors, Religious Activities and Education | 35% | $49,380 |
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | 34% | $131,280 |
| Religious Workers | 34% | $39,370 |
| Music Directors and Composers | 34% | $62,940 |
| Clergy | 33% | $55,550 |
| Chief Executives | 32% | $100,090 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 30% | $164,070 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 30% | $102,240 |
| Management Analysts | 29% | $95,290 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Washington
Many factors go into what makes the cheapest online college, including federal aid. From a strictly tuition-based standpoint, Washington State University’s Global Campus charges among the cheapest tuition rates at $5,675 per semester for residents and $6,326 for non-residents.
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 April 16, 2024.
Explore More College Resources
Best Community Colleges in Washington
We’ve ranked the best community colleges in Washington. Learn about educational opportunities, in-demand jobs, and unique cultural offerings.
by Marisa Upson
Updated October 18, 2024
Best Colleges in Oregon
Discover the best colleges in Oregon. Compare programs by affordability and quality to find the right fit.
Updated October 30, 2024
Best Colleges in Idaho
The higher education experts at BestColleges.com have reviewed the top 2-year and 4-year colleges in Idaho. Start planning your future at BestColleges.com
Updated August 3, 2023