The Best Online Colleges in Texas
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Editor & Writer
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Editor & Writer
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Texas is a bastion of higher education. The state is home to 148 postsecondary institutions, and the Texas Economic Development Corporation found that colleges and universities in Texas educate over 1.45 million students. Texas employs the nation's second-largest and fastest-growing workforce across all industries in the U.S.
In this guide, you can learn about the best online colleges in Texas and how they prepare students to enter the workforce. Explore jobs in demand in Texas and the employment outlook in the state. You can also find answers to frequently asked questions about online colleges in Texas. For more information about going to college in the Lone Star State, check out our Resources for Students in Texas page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Texas
How many online colleges are in Texas?
Students can find 148 postsecondary institutions in Texas, many of which offer at least some online programs. However, every college in Texas that provides online options features different programs, specialties, and strengths. Prospective students should research different schools to determine their online offerings and make sure the program they want is available.
Students should compare online programs from different schools to see which one matches most closely with their interests and needs. Applicants should assess variables like course offerings, accreditation, and tuition costs. Find this information on a school's official website or by contacting a representative in the admissions department with questions.
Does Texas have good online colleges?
Yes, Texas features many good online colleges for students seeking degrees and/or certificates. The state boasts some of the best colleges in the nation for in-person and online classes.
Prospective students should begin their search for the best online colleges in Texas by determining what kind of subject they wish to study. Once they know the type of degree they want, they can directly compare schools' individual programs and find the best fit.
Prospective students should always look for accredited universities and programs when researching schools. Potential learners should also look into individual program requirements before applying.
How much does it cost to go to college online in Texas?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average total cost of attending a public four-year college in Texas was $18,711 for in-state students and $24,889 for out-of-state students during the 2019-2020 academic year. Students should keep in mind that some schools allow out-of-state online students to pay Texas in-state tuition rates. Furthermore, students living off campus may be able to reduce costs. Prospective students can learn more about a school's tuition policies by checking the school's website or by contacting the admissions department.
Calculating college costs can be difficult — especially for online programs. Students should always research the true cost of an online program before applying to a school. However, many colleges offer affordable tuition rates for online programs.
What is the cheapest online college in Texas?
Some of the cheapest online colleges in Texas — especially for out-of-state students — are Texas Tech University and Texas State University. These universities offer low tuition rates for both online undergraduate and graduate students. In fact, these colleges offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country.
Students should always check the tuition rates of the specific program they plan to apply to — especially graduate students. Some programs cost more than others due to factors like the intensity of the requirements and the length of the program.
Who qualifies for free college in Texas?
Most free college programs in Texas only benefit Texas residents. Students must meet a low-income standard set by the school. Many schools also require undergraduate students to be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant to receive free tuition from the school.
Individuals who do not meet these qualifications can research additional financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and loans.
Explore Featured Online Programs
Top Online Degree Programs in Texas
The Best Accredited Online Colleges in Texas
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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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LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
LeTourneau University offers 19 online bachelor's programs, featuring popular options like computer information systems, cybersecurity, criminal justice, and business. The school also has 13 online master's programs, including healthcare administration, business administration, and psychology.
Many course options are offered asynchronously, and some classes follow accelerated five-week terms. Students can access academic support services, including an online writing center and tutoring services.
Although LeTourneau University is test-optional, first-time undergraduates should have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA, while prospective engineering majors should have a 3.2 GPA or higher.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $ 380-$410
Graduate | $ 625-$800
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Texas Tech University, students can choose from 17 online bachelor's degrees, more than 40 online master's degrees, and a handful of doctoral and certificate programs.
Texas Tech provides remote learners with supplementary resources like graduate and undergraduate writing centers and a virtual career center.
Applicants to master's programs must submit transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA over their last 90 credits of coursework. Texas Tech is a test-optional institution.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $399
Undergrad, out of state | $461
Graduate, in state | $461
Graduate, out of state | $869
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of North Texas
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
In 2020, the University of North Texas offered almost 90 online program options and more than 1,500 online courses. It served roughly 138,000 remote learners.
The university supports virtual students through infrastructures like academic coaching services, a peer-led supplemental instruction program, and an online writing center.
Undergraduate applicants should submit SAT or ACT scores and academic transcripts. Though the University of North Texas takes a holistic approach to graduate admissions, most admitted students had a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $374
Undergrad, out of state | $460
Graduate, in state | $462
Graduate, out of state | $541
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Parker University offers online associate and bachelor's programs, as well as an online MBA. Options for distance learners relate primarily to healthcare, business, and technology fields. Virtual students can pursue disciplines like computer information systems, healthcare management, and public health.
Students can access services like the Parker Success Academy, which is a networking platform that allows users to connect with industry leaders and resources. Admission requirements vary by program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $660
Graduate | $740
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers three online undergraduate programs in anthropology, business, and public service leadership and 11 online master's programs in areas like human resource management and business administration.
In fully remote courses, students must complete course materials according to a set schedule and adhere to deadlines, although there are no specific meeting times. Learners may also attend "web-enhanced" hybrid courses.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $326
Undergrad, out of state | $905
Graduate, in state | $528
Graduate, out of state | $1,050
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Texas A & M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers dozens of certificates, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees in fully remote learning formats. Students can also enroll in hybrid bachelor's and master's programs.
Virtual courses consist of recorded lectures and supplementary materials, and they do not have set meeting times. Learners can access library resources, career services, and financial aid counseling.
Texas A&M University is a test-optional institution, though applicants must submit academic transcripts. Supplementary requirements vary by program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $384
Undergrad, out of state | $792
Graduate, in state | $480
Graduate, out of state | $888
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Sam Houston State University offers 22 online undergraduate degrees and 31 online graduate degrees. Popular options include computer science, health science, criminal justice, and education. Distance learners can begin their classes in the fall, spring, or summer.
Although many programs can be completed through a 100% online, asynchronous format, select courses may require some in-person classes or labs. Remote learners can also access an academic and mentoring center, student money management center, writing center, and career services.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $451
Undergrad, out of state | $859
Graduate, in state | $552
Graduate, out of state | $960
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Southwestern Assemblies of God University, approximately 70% of students are enrolled virtually. Learners can pursue 28 online bachelor's programs and 16 online graduate programs in areas like theology, social work, criminal justice, and business. Students can also earn up to 45 credits based on experiential learning and demonstrated work experience.
Undergraduate applicants should have at least a 2.0 high school GPA. Graduate applicants should have a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA and may be asked to submit supplementary essays and references.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $399
Graduate | $350-$545
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Stephen F. Austin State University, learners can choose from more than 30 fully remote certificate and degree programs and over 400 online courses in fields like nursing, sustainability, education, and music. Distance learners can access academic and support services like academic advising and a career center.
Undergraduate applicants who graduate in the top 25% of their high school class do not need to submit standardized test scores. Graduate applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and certain programs require GRE or GMAT scores.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $353
Undergrad, out of state | $762
Graduate, in state | $446
Graduate, out of state | $855
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lamar University offers 18 online undergraduate degrees in fields like marketing, electrical engineering, and nursing. The university also offers more than 30 online graduate programs. Popular options include clinical mental health counseling and special education.
Learners can enroll at numerous start dates throughout the year. Courses may be available in standard 15-week sessions or accelerated eight-week sessions. Lamar University supports virtual students with online tutoring and virtual exam proctoring services.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $374
Undergrad, out of state | $782
Graduate, in state | $483
Graduate, out of state | $891
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Texas Employment Outlook
Texas employs over 14 million workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the annual mean wage in Texas for all occupations was $52,400, as of May 2020. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, 714,800 jobs opened in the state between July 2020 and July 2021. Texas represents the second-largest state economy in the U.S., following California.
Five of the fastest-growing jobs in Texas are:
- Wind Turbine Service Technicians
- Statisticians
- First-Line Supervisors of Gaming Workers
- Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs
- Actuaries
Additionally, family medicine physicians and anesthesiologists are some of the highest-paid professionals in Texas. Texans can also find lucrative work as airline pilots and engineering managers.
5 High Demand Jobs in Texas
Wind Turbine Service Technician
- Annual Median Salary: $52,420
- Job Outlook: 83% growth from 2018-2028
Wind turbine service technicians install and repair wind turbines used to generate renewable energy. These professionals must inspect turbines for electrical and/or mechanical issues. They also complete on-site repairs. Technicians sometimes need to climb turbines to perform maintenance. They also collect data from turbines for research and analysis.
Statistician
- Annual Median Salary: $83,400
- Job Outlook: 45% growth from 2018-2028
Statisticians apply mathematical theorems to solve problems in business environments, such as determining what the public thinks of a specific product or brand. Statisticians may create surveys, experiments, and polls to gather data. After analyzing the data, these professionals must synthesize and present their findings in a usable format.
Actuary
- Annual Median Salary: $106,410
- Job Outlook: 38% growth from 2018-2028
Actuaries assess financial risk using mathematical theories and statistics. These professionals calculate the probability and economic cost of events like sickness, death, and accidents. Actuaries design insurance and pension plans with the data they collect and analyze. These professionals often work as part of a team.
Operations Research Analyst
- Annual Median Salary: $85,010
- Job Outlook: 38% growth from 2018-2028
An operations research analyst helps companies determine how best to use their resources. Businesses may also bring in operations research analysts to help them solve complex problems. These professionals may use computer databases, sales histories, customer feedback, and employee interviews to determine possible solutions. Most analysts work as part of a team.
Physician Assistant
- Annual Median Salary: $113,420
- Job Outlook: 37% growth from 2018-2028
Physician assistants work alongside doctors and surgeons, helping with medical procedures and communicating with patients. These professionals review patient medical histories, order diagnostic tests, and give treatments like providing vaccines. Physician assistants also research the latest treatment methods and may participate in outreach programs.
Popular Career Paths in Texas
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