When it comes to choosing an online university, you have a lot of options. Our comprehensive list of the best online universities in the world can be a helpful tool when making this decision.
Nowadays, online universities are top-rated. They enable students to study at their convenience, which makes them even more convenient for students with busy schedules. The popularity of online universities has increased tremendously in recent years. This is because of the convenience and flexibility they offer.
Are there certain qualities that make an online university the best? The best university is one that meets your requirements. We’ve included some pointers to help you choose the best online university for you.
Table of Contents
5 Tips for Choosing the Right Online University for You
There are many great online universities out there, but finding the right one can be challenging. To help you get started with choosing the best one for you, we’ve compiled this list of five tips for choosing the right online university for you.
- Consider how flexible you need things to be
- Check for the availability of your study program
- Determine your budget
- Find out what accreditations are important to you
- Make sure you meet admission requirements
1) Consider How Flexible You Need Things To Be
The first thing you need to consider when choosing an online university is how flexible you need things.
There are many different types of online universities; some require students to be on campus, and others offer fully online programs. Decide which type of school will work best for you and your lifestyle.
2) Check for the availability of your study program
First, you will want to search through a variety of online universities and programs. You have to verify if your study program is available online or not. You should also ask the following questions: Is the program offered fully online or hybrid?
Does the school offer all of the courses that you need? Is there an option for part-time or full-time enrollment? What is their employment rate after graduation? Is there a transfer policy?
3) Determine Your Budget
Your budget will have a significant impact on which school you choose. The cost of a university depends on the type; whether it is a private or public university.
Private universities are more expensive than public universities, so if you are on a budget, you should consider a public university.
4) Find Out What Accreditations are Important to You
If you’re looking at online universities, it’s essential to think about accreditation and find out what is important. Accreditation ensures that a school or college meets specific standards. There are many different types of certification, so be sure you know which ones are important to you.
Make sure your school of choice has regional or national accreditation before deciding on an institution! You should also check if your choice of program is accredited.
5) Make Sure You Meet Admission Requirements
If you’re planning on applying to an online university, you must meet certain requirements. One of the most important criteria is your GPA.
At a minimum, you will need a 2.0 GPA (or higher) in order to apply and be admitted into an online university.
Other important admission requirements are test scores, letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc. You should also understand how many credits are required for graduation, and if there is any opportunity for transfer credits from other institutions.
For more tips, check our guide: How Do I Find the Best Online Colleges Near Me
Benefits of Attending An Online University
What are the benefits of studying online? That’s an important question, especially when you’re trying to choose between an in-person college and an online one.
Here are seven benefits of studying online:
1) More Cost Effective
The popular saying “online programs are cheap” is a myth. In most universities, online programs have the same tuition as on-campus programs.
However, online programs are more cost-effective than on-campus programs. How? As an online student, you will be able to save on transportation, health insurance, and accommodation costs.
2) Flexibility
One of the benefits of attending an online university is flexibility. You can continue working and caring for your family while earning a degree. You can take online courses at any time with the help of a flexible schedule. Flexibility allows you to balance work, life, and school more.
3) A More Comfortable Learning Environment
A lot of people don’t enjoy sitting in a classroom for hours each day. When you have the option to attend school online, you can take all your classes from the comfort of your own home or office.
Even if you’re a night owl, you don’t want to commute, or you live far from campus, you can still get an education without making too many sacrifices.
4) Improve Your Technical Skills
Another significant benefit of online learning is that it allows you to develop technical skills more than a traditional program would.
As an online student, you will likely need to use digital learning materials, become acquainted with new tools and software, and troubleshoot common issues. This is especially helpful for people who want to enter the tech industry.
5) Teaches Self-discipline
Online universities teach a lot about self-discipline. You’re in control of your own time. You have to be disciplined enough to keep up with the work and turn it in on time, or else you’ll fail.
For example, if you are taking a course that requires you to read and submit an assignment at the end of each week, you have to stay on top of reading and writing. If you miss one deadline, the entire schedule can fall apart.
6) Develops Good Time Management Skills
Many people struggle to balance their work, personal life, and studies, but the struggle is even more prevalent when you are an online student. When you don’t have to go to campus to attend class, it’s easy to procrastinate.
It is essential to develop good time management skills in order to successfully complete an online program. You will need to plan out your schedule so that you can complete all assignments by the due date and also have enough time to devote to dedicate to your career and personal life.
7) Career Advancement
Online classes are a great way to advance in your career. Traditional colleges and universities usually require students to take time off from their jobs in order to pursue a degree.
This is not the case for online universities, studying online allows you to work and earn while continuing your education.
40 Best Online Universities in the World
Below is a table showing the 40 best online universities in the World, and the programs offered:
| RANK | NAME OF UNIVERSITY | TYPES OF PROGRAMS OFFERED |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Certificate, and Non-degree College credit courses |
| 2 | University of Massachusetts | Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Credential, and Certificate programs |
| 3 | Columbia University | Degree programs, Non-degree programs, Certificates, and MOOCs |
| 4 | Pennsylvania State University | Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Minors |
| 5 | Oregon State University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Certificate, and Micro-credentials |
| 6 | Arizona State University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 7 | King College London | Master's, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate, and Online short courses |
| 8 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Master's, Graduate Certificate, Professional Certificate, and online courses |
| 9 | University of Edinburgh | Master's, Postgraduate Diploma, and Postgraduate Certificate |
| 10 | University of Manchester | Master's, Certificate, Diploma, and MOOCs |
| 11 | Ohio State University | Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 12 | Columbia University | Certifications, Degree programs, and Non-degree programs |
| 13 | Stanford University | Master's, Professional Courses and Certificates |
| 14 | Colorado State University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Certificate, and Online courses |
| 15 | John Hopkins University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Certificate, and Non-degree program |
| 16 | University of Arizona | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Certificate, and Individual courses |
| 17 | Utah State University | Bachelor's, Master's, Associate, Doctoral, Certificate, and Professional Education Licensure |
| 18 | University of Alabama | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Certificate, and Non-degree programs |
| 19 | Duke University | Master's, Certificates, and Specializations |
| 20 | Cornell University | Master's. Certificate, and MOOCs |
| 21 | University of Glasgow | Postgraduate, MOOCs |
| 22 | New York University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Certificate, and Online courses |
| 23 | University of Wisconsin–Madison | Bachelor's, Master’s, Doctoral, Certificate, and Non-credit courses |
| 24 | Indiana University | Certificate, Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate |
| 25 | University of Pennsylvania | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 26 | Texas A&M University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 27 | University of Oklahoma | Master's, Doctoral, and Graduate Certificate |
| 28 | West Texas A&M University | Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate |
| 29 | University of Nottingham | Postgraduate, MOOCs |
| 30 | University of Cincinnati | Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees and Certificates |
| 31 | University of Phoenix | Bachelor's, Master's, Associate, Doctoral, Certificate, and College credit courses |
| 32 | Purdue University | Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees and Certificates |
| 33 | University of Missouri | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Educational Specialist, and Certificate |
| 34 | University of Tennessee, Knoxville | Bachelor's, Master's, Post Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 35 | University of Arkansas | Bachelor's, Master's, Specialist, Doctorate, Micro-certificate, Certificate, Licensure, and Minors |
| 36 | University of Washington | Bachelor's, Master's, Certificate, and Online courses |
| 37 | University of Central Florida | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 38 | Texas Tech University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, and Certificate |
| 39 | Florida International University | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Certificate, and Minors |
| 40 | George Washington University | Associate's, Bachelor's, Certificate, Master's, Education Specialist, Doctoral, and MOOCs |
Top 10 Online Universities in the World
Below are the top 10 online universities in the world:
- University of Florida
- University of Massachusetts
- Columbia University
- Pennsylvania State University
- Oregon State University
- Arizona State University
- King College London
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Manchester.
1. University of Florida
The University of Florida is a public land-grant research university in Gainesville, Florida. Founded in 1853, the University of Florida is a senior member of the State University System of Florida.
UF Online, the virtual campus of the University of Florida, started offering online programs in 2014. Currently, UF Online offers about 25 online undergraduate programs and several graduate programs, as well as non-degree college credit courses.
UF Online has one of the most affordable online programs in the US and one of the most respected. It also offers financial aid options.
2. University of Massachusetts
UMass Global, formerly known as Brandman University, is the online campus of the University of Massachusetts, a private, non-profit institution. It traces its roots to 1958 but was officially founded in 2021.
At UMass Global, students can either take classes fully online or hybrid; UMass Global has over 25 campuses throughout California and Washington and 1 virtual campus.
UMass Global offers undergraduate, graduate, credential, and certificate programs across its five schools in the areas of arts and sciences, business, education, nursing, and health. Online programs are available in more than 90 fields of study.
UMass Global programs are affordable and students are eligible for merit-based or need-based schools.
3. Columbia University
Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university in New York City. Founded in 1764 as King’s College, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and the fifth oldest in the United States.
Columbia University offers various certifications, degree programs, and non-degree programs online. Students can enroll in a variety of online programs which ranges from social work, engineering, business, law, and health technologies, to a variety of other professional development programs.
4. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Pennsylvania State University is Pennsylvania’s only land-grant university, founded in 1855 as one of the nation’s first colleges of agricultural science.
Penn State World Campus is the online campus of Pennsylvania State University, offering more than 175 degrees and certificates. Online programs are available at different levels: bachelor’s, associate’s, master’s, doctoral, undergraduate certificate, graduate certificate, undergraduate minors, and graduate minors.
With more than 125 years of experience in distance education, Penn State launched World Campus in 1998, giving learners the ability to earn the Penn State degree entirely online.
Penn State World Campus students are eligible for scholarships and awards, and some students may qualify for financial aid. Each year, Penn State World Campus offers more than 40 scholarships to undergraduate students.
5. Oregon State University
Oregon State University is a public research university in Oregon. It is the largest university (by enrollment) and also the best research university in Oregon.
Oregon State University Ecampus offers more than 100 degrees. Its online programs are available at different levels; undergraduate and graduate degrees, undergraduate and graduate certificates, micro-credentials, etc.
Oregon State University is driven to make college more affordable by using no-cost and low-cost learning materials and providing financial assistance to those in need.
6. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university with its main campus in Tempe. It was founded in 1886 as the Territorial Normal School, Arizona’s first higher education institution.
ASU Online is the online campus of Arizona State University, offering more than 300-degree programs and certificates in high-demand areas like nursing, engineering, business, and many more.
At ASU Online, students are eligible for federal student aid or grants. In addition to affordable tuition rates, ASU offers scholarships to online students.
7. King College London (KCL)
King College London is a public research university in London, England, United Kingdom. KCL was founded in 1829, but its root reaches back to the 12th century.
King College London offers 12 postgraduate online programs in several areas, including psychology, business, law, computer science, and life sciences. KCL also offers online short courses: micro-credentials and continuing professional development (CPD) programs.
As a King’s Online student, you will have access to all of King’s specialist services, such as library services, career services, and disability advice.
8. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university, offering tech-focused programs. Founded in 1884 as the Georgia School of Technology and adopted its current name in 1948.
Georgia Tech Online, the online campus of the Georgia Institute of Technology, offers 13 online master’s degrees (10 masters of science and 3 professional master’s degrees). It also offers graduate certificates and professional certificates.
Georgia Tech Online partners with Georgia high schools to enroll students in advanced math courses that are not available in their high school programs. It also offers on-campus and online courses over the summer to current Georgia Tech students and students from other universities.
9. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is a public research university in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. Established in 1583, it is one of the oldest universities in the world.
The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading institutions, offering both on-campus and online programs. It has been delivering online learning programs since 2005 when its first online master’s was launched.
The University of Edinburgh offers only postgraduate programs online. There are 78 online master’s, postgraduate diploma, and postgraduate certificate programs, as well as short online courses.
10. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is a UK-based public research university with a campus in Manchester, England. It was established in 2004 by the amalgamation of the Victoria University of Manchester and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST).
The University of Manchester offers 46 online postgraduate degree and certificate programs in several areas, including business, engineering, law, education, health, etc. It also offers short online courses.
The University of Manchester offers funding advice and scholarships to help you finance your online learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online universities less expensive?
Tuition at online universities is the same as on-campus tuition. Most schools charge the same tuition for online and on-campus programs. Online students, however, will not be charged fees associated with on-campus programs. Fees like health insurance, accommodation, transportation, and so on.
How long does it take to complete an online program?
An online program typically lasts the same amount of time as a program offered on campus. Bachelor's degree programs may take 4 years. A master's degree may take up to 2 years. An associate's degree may take a year plus. Certificate programs can be completed within a year or less.
How can I fund an online program?
Several online universities offer financial assistance to students. Eligible Students who can't afford to pay for their studies can apply for financial aid like loans, grants, and scholarships.
Is an online program as good as an on-campus program?
Online programs are the same as on-campus programs, the only difference is the delivery method. In most schools, online programs have the same curriculum as on-campus programs and are taught by the same faculty.
We Also Recommend:
- Top 30 Accredited Online Colleges for Psychology
- 35 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs in the World
- 25 Best MBA in Healthcare Management Online
- 100% Online Doctorate Programs: A Complete Guide
- 20 Best Computer Engineering Degree Online
- Top 30 Online MBA Programs in California.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best online university for you is the one that fits your needs and goals. These 40 online universities were chosen for their ability to do just that: regardless of what you’re looking for, each one is capable of providing you with a world-class education from anywhere in the world.
This article is intended to help students who want to study online understand the system and select the best online university. So, if online education is your next step, you should give some thought to the 40 best online universities in the World.
Remember, when it comes to top-quality education, there are no shortcuts, and getting into a good university can only be achieved with hard work and determination. We wish you success with your application.