Online education has transformed higher learning in the United States. Today, students no longer need to relocate or attend physical campuses to earn respected degrees. Thanks to advancements in technology and strict academic regulations, many accredited online universities in the USA now offer the same quality education as traditional on-campus institutions.
Accreditation is a critical factor when choosing an online university. It ensures that the institution meets nationally recognized academic standards, that your degree is respected by employers, and that you remain eligible for federal financial aid. For American students — and international students seeking U.S. degrees — accredited online programs offer flexibility, affordability, and career relevance.
This comprehensive guide highlights the 10 best accredited online universities in the USA, based on academic reputation, accreditation status, student support, affordability, program diversity, and overall value. Each university listed below offers fully online or hybrid degree programs designed to meet modern workforce demands.
List of the 10 Best Accredited Online Universities in USA
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
3. Penn State World Campus
4. Arizona State University Online (ASU Online)
5. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
6. American Public University System (APUS)
7. Walden University
8. Capella University
9. Oregon State University Ecampus
10. University of Arkansas Grantham
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
Founded in 1997 by U.S. governors, Western Governors University is a nonprofit institution created specifically to serve working adults through online education. WGU pioneered the competency-based education model, allowing students to advance by demonstrating mastery of skills rather than spending fixed time in classes.
Why WGU Is One of the Best
WGU is ideal for self-motivated learners who want to graduate faster and save money. Instead of paying per credit, students pay a flat rate per six-month term, allowing them to complete as many courses as they can within that period. This structure makes WGU one of the most affordable accredited online universities in the USA.
Courses and Programs Offered
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity & Data Analytics
- Education & Teaching Licensure
- Nursing & Healthcare
Fees
It has relative high school fees rate compared to other online colleges.
Approx. $4,000–$4,500 per six-month term
• Average annual cost: $8,000–$9,000
For more information, visit the WGU official website
2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Southern New Hampshire University is a private nonprofit university founded in 1932. Over the past decade, SNHU has become one of the largest online education providers in the United States, serving hundreds of thousands of students worldwide.
Why SNHU Is One of the Best
SNHU is widely recognized for its affordable tuition, generous transfer credit policies, and strong student support services. The university is particularly popular among first-generation college students and working professionals.
Courses and Programs Offered
- Business & Management
- Psychology & Mental Health
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science & IT
- Education & Healthcare
Fees
The school fees are relatively cheaper than WGU but higher than others
- Undergraduate: ~$330 per credit hour
- Graduate: ~$637 per credit hour
For more information, visit the official website
3. Penn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus is the online learning division of Pennsylvania State University, one of the most respected public universities in the United States. Established in 1998, it delivers the same degrees taught by the same faculty as on-campus programs.
Why Penn State World Campus Is One of the Best
Students earn a Penn State degree — with no “online” distinction on the diploma. The institution is known for academic rigor, strong alumni networks, and career credibility, making it one of the most prestigious online universities in the USA.
Courses and Programs Offered
- Business & MBA Programs
- Engineering & Technology
- Healthcare Administration
- Education
- Information Sciences
Fees
Average: $590–$1,000+ per credit hour (varies by program)
For more information visit the official website
4. Arizona State University Online (ASU Online)
Arizona State University is a public research university known for innovation and academic excellence. ASU Online extends this reputation by offering hundreds of online degree programs with the same curriculum as on-campus courses.
Why ASU Online Is One of the Best
ASU Online consistently ranks among the top online universities in the USA. It offers flexible start dates, strong career services, and partnerships with major employers across industries.
Courses and Programs Offered
- Business & Finance
- Engineering & STEM
- Nursing & Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Computer Science & Data Science
Fees
- Undergraduate: $550–$700 per credit
- Graduate programs vary widely
For more information visit the school’s official website
5. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
UMGC is part of the University System of Maryland and specializes in serving adult learners, military personnel, and veterans. It has decades of experience in distance education.
Why UMGC Is One of the Best
UMGC is especially respected for cybersecurity, IT, and business programs. Its flexible scheduling and career-aligned curriculum make it an excellent choice for professionals.
Courses and Programs Offered
- Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
- Business Administration
- Data Analytics
- Education
- Healthcare Management
Fees
- Undergraduate: ~$312 per credit (in-state)
- Graduate: ~$659 per credit
For more information, visit the college’s official website
6. American Public University System (APUS)
APUS includes American Public University and American Military University. Founded in 1991, it is a nonprofit institution popular among military members, veterans, and public service professionals.
Why APUS Is One of the Best
APUS offers low tuition rates, monthly start dates, and programs designed for government, military, and homeland security careers.
Courses and Programs Offered
• Public Administration
• National Security & Intelligence
• Business
• Healthcare
• Information Technology
Fees
• Undergraduate: ~$285 per credit hour
• Graduate: ~$370 per credit hour
For more information, visit official website of the college
7. Walden University
Walden University focuses primarily on graduate and doctoral education. It is well known for serving professionals in education, healthcare, psychology, and public service.
Why Walden Is One of the Best
Walden offers flexible learning formats and is especially popular among students seeking master’s and doctoral degrees online. It emphasizes real-world impact and leadership development.
Courses and Programs Offered
• Education & Teaching
• Psychology & Counseling
• Public Health
• Nursing
• Business Administration
Fees
• Varies by degree level and program
• Tuition discounts and scholarships available
For more information visit official website of the school.
8. Capella University
Capella University is known for its FlexPath learning format, allowing students to complete courses at their own pace. This competency-based option appeals to experienced professionals.
Why Capella Is One of the Best
Students with prior knowledge or work experience can significantly reduce time to graduation. Capella is particularly strong in healthcare, IT, and psychology programs.
Courses and Programs Offered
• Business & Leadership
• Information Technology
• Healthcare Administration
• Psychology
• Education
Fees
• FlexPath programs: ~$2,500–$3,000 per session
• Traditional formats priced per credit
For more information, visit the official website of the college.
9. Oregon State University Ecampus
Oregon State University Ecampus is the online division of Oregon State University, a respected public research institution. It consistently ranks among the best online bachelor’s programs nationwide.
Why OSU Ecampus Is One of the Best
OSU Ecampus combines academic rigor with strong faculty engagement and high student satisfaction rates.
Courses and Programs Offered
• Business & Management
• Computer Science
• Environmental & Natural Sciences
• Liberal Arts
• Education
Fees
• Undergraduate: ~$366 per credit (Ecampus rate)
• Graduate tuition varies
For more information, visit the school’s official website.
10. University of Arkansas Grantham
University of Arkansas Grantham is a public university with a long history in distance education, especially in technical and professional fields.
Why UA Grantham Is One of the Best
The university offers fully online degrees with affordable tuition and flexible learning options, making it accessible to working adults.
Courses and Programs Offered
• Business Administration
• Engineering Technology
• Health Professions
• Information Technology
• Criminal Justice
Fees
• Undergraduate: ~$265 per credit hour
• Graduate: ~$350 per credit hour
For more information, visit the school official website
Conclusion
Choosing one of the best accredited online universities in the USA can open doors to better career opportunities, higher earning potential, and personal growth — without sacrificing flexibility. The universities listed above offer trusted accreditation, diverse academic programs, and strong student support systems.
Before enrolling, always compare program curriculum, tuition costs, accreditation, and career outcomes. With the right choice, an online degree from a U.S. accredited university can be just as powerful as a traditional on-campus education.