Online Schools and Colleges in Delaware

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Updated June 27, 2023

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Delaware's colleges and universities are bucking national trends and reporting record enrollment numbers, especially for non-traditional adult learners and international students. These are primary demographics for online learning, and more colleges in the state are opting-in to online education options, including hybrid programs and fully-online degrees and certificates. To learn more about what earning a degree online in Delaware looks like and find answers to frequently asked questions on paying for college, transfer credits and college preparation, continue reading below.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org 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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Best Online Colleges in Delaware

U.S. News & World Report ranks Delaware among the top states in the country in terms of key higher education metrics, such as the cost of in-state tuition and fees and the number of residents who hold college degrees. The First State has the country's highest graduation rates for students at four-year schools.

According to Digital Learning Compass, enrollment in online programs increased 82.4% in Delaware between 2012 and 2015, much higher than the 11% nationwide growth in online enrollment. This guide includes information about online schools and colleges in Delaware, including accreditation information and lists of available scholarships.

#1 Online Schools and Colleges in Delaware

University of Delaware

  • Newark, DE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At University of Delaware, online learners in many fields can access high-quality online programs. Students located anywhere in the world can take advantage of the public institution's 11 online programs. Distance learners often save money by living in areas with lower costs of living while attending school.

Online enrollees receive support and guidance through the virtual learning environment. By conducting original research while earning their degree, participants can enhance their resume and abilities. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.

In addition to institutional funding, degree-seekers can apply for scholarships and grants from private organizations. To determine whether they qualify for institutional scholarships and fellowships, applicants should contact the financial aid office. To pay for their studies, 88% of enrollees use financial aid, according to the school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,730
Out-of-state
$34,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,164
Out-of-state
$34,164
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
23,808
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Online Schools and Colleges in Delaware

Wilmington University

  • New Castle, DE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
Wilmington University's offerings include top-quality academic programming, which learners can access in person or online. Along with providing in-person programs, the private institution offers 68 online options. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.

Online instructors often hold virtual office hours, during which they provide guidance and additional assistance. Participants can pursue internships to impress employers after graduation. Academic advisors help learners select classes and ensure they are on track to graduate.

Federal scholarships, grants, and loans can help degree-seekers fund their education. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. Financial aid reduces the overall cost of earning a degree for 63% of the school's enrollees.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,430
Out-of-state
$11,430
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,784
Out-of-state
$8,784
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
14,730
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
75% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Online Schools and Colleges in Delaware

Delaware State University

  • Dover, DE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Delaware State University is a leader in online education. Located in Dover, the school boasts a robust online learning community, supporting 2,288 remote enrollees across nine programs. With flexible enrollment options, online programs often allow learners to begin their studies sooner.

The institution's online learning environment helps students make professional connections and receive academic support. Completing field-specific experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, can help graduates impress prospective employers. Institutional resources, such as job boards and the alumni network, can help enrollees locate job opportunities after graduation. Mock interviews help students prepare to secure positions in their field after graduation.

The institution's financial aid office is an excellent resource for applicants who need help exploring their funding options. The federal government supports enrollees with financial need through loans, grants, and work-study programs. Of the school's students, 98% qualify for some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,361
Out-of-state
$16,397
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,160
Out-of-state
$11,376
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
4,768
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Delaware?

The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) maintains an online list of accredited schools in the state. Click on the name of the school to learn which majors and degrees the institution offers. You can also click the icon below for details about higher education institutions in Delaware.Search All Accredited Schools in Delaware

How Much More Do College Grads in Delaware Make?

DDOE organizes Delaware's labor market into low-skill, middle-skill, and high-skill jobs. The first table shows how salaries in Delaware tend to increase in direct proportion to a worker's educational attainment. Nationwide data also reflects this trend, as indicated by the second table. This data illustrates that a college degree is worth the investment of time and money.

Less Than a High School DiplomaAssociate Degree, Certification, or Non-Bachelor's Postsecondary EducationBachelor's Degree or Higher
$26,350$44,960$88,510

Source: Delaware Department of Education

Less Than a High School DiplomaHigh School DiplomaAssociate Degree
$28,756$37,960$44,824
Bachelor's DegreeMaster's DegreeDoctoral Degree
$62,296$74,568$94,900

Source: BLS

Paying for Online College in Delaware: Tuition and Financial Aid

According to College Board, the national cost of in-state tuition and fees at public four-year schools increased 2.2% from 2009 to 2020. Both in-state and out-of-state tuition for four-year public universities in Delaware costs slightly more than the national average. Above-average tuition rates combined with likely cost increases in the coming years mean that many students turn to scholarships and loans to fund their education.

In-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNational Average
$9,999$29,356$9,037 (In-State) $25,657 (Out-of-State)
In-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNational Average
$15,096N/A$30,731

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Cost Considerations for Online Students in Delaware

Although most online students save money on room and board, many schools charge fees specific to online learners. Below are some common costs related to online education.

  • Technology Fee: Many online schools and colleges in Delaware charge distance learners a technology fee. Students either pay a flat fee or a per-credit amount.
  • Books and Course Materials: Online students often pay a one-time fee to access digital textbooks and materials for each course.
  • Exam Costs: Some schools require online students to take exams on campus, which involves transportation and parking costs. These campus visits may also require learners to take time off work.
  • Proctoring Fees: Online students can sometimes take exams at pre-approved testing centers in their community. However, this generally requires a proctoring fee.
  • Transfer Credit Charge: Some schools charge online students a per-course fee to transfer credits from a previous school.

Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Delaware

To be eligible for in-state tuition, financially independent college applicants must show proof of residency in the state for a period of at least 12 months prior to enrollment. Most schools consider applicants who are not financially independent to share the residency status of their parent or legal guardian. In Delaware, military members and their dependents who are participating in an approved veteran benefit program also receive in-state status.

Some schools charge all online students in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency. Students should contact each prospective school to learn about specific residency requirements.

Paying for College in Delaware: Scholarships and Financial Aid

Students in online schools and colleges in Delaware can apply for many of the same scholarships and grants as on-campus learners. The funding options below can help you earn a college education while minimizing your student debt.

Scholarships for Delaware College Students

B. Bradford Barnes Memorial Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at the University of Delaware. Candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and an SAT score of at least 1290.

Amount: Full tuition and fees, books, and room and board

Apply For Scholarship

Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Applicants must declare a major in the humanities or social sciences, have at least a 3.0 GPA, score a minimum of 1000 on the SAT, and enroll full time at the University of Delaware or Delaware State University.

Amount: Full tuition and fees, books, and room and board

Apply For Scholarship

Diamond State Scholarship

Who Can Apply: This scholarship program is open to high school seniors who have a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least a 1290 SAT score or 27 ACT score. Applicants must be full-time students pursuing an undergraduate degree at an accredited college or university.

Amount: $1,250 per year

Apply For Scholarship

Fresh Start Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The program supports women who are residents of Delaware, hold a high school diploma or GED, had at least a two-year break from formal schooling after high school or during postsecondary studies, and have been admitted to a Delaware higher learning institution.

Amount: Amount determined before the fall semester, not to exceed the cost of tuition, fees, books, and other education-related costs

Apply For Scholarship

Roothbert Fund Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Residents of Delaware and 15 other states can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, have completed at least one year of college, and be considering a career in the education field.

Amount: $5,000 to $7,000 per year

Apply For Scholarship

Grants for Delaware College Students

Christa McAuliffe Teacher Incentive Program

Who Can Apply: This program supports Delaware residents enrolled full time in an undergraduate program leading to teacher certification. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and a combined SAT score of at least 1010. Recipients must agree to teach in a Delaware public school after graduation.

Amount: $5,000 per year

Apply For Grant

Delaware Department of Education Scholarship Incentive Program

Who Can Apply: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Recipients must enroll full time in an accredited Delaware college or university. If pursuing a major not offered by a Delaware public university, recipients may enroll in an out-of-state school.

Amount: Up to $2,200

Apply For Grant

Delaware Teacher Corps Incentive Program

Who Can Apply: This loan forgiveness program is open to high school seniors with a minimum 2.75 GPA and an SAT score of at least 1140. Applicants must be enrolled in a program leading to teacher certification and be willing to practice in a teacher-shortage area after graduation.

Amount: Up to the cost of tuition

Apply For Grant

Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans and Others

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be the child of either a Delaware resident who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces or who is MIA or POW, a state police officer who died while discharging their duties, or a Delaware Department of Transportation employee who died in a work-related incident.

Amount: Up to $8,500

Apply For Grant

Nursing Incentive Program

Who Can Apply: This loan forgiveness program supports full-time students enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program leading to RN or LPN certification. Recipients must serve in a state-owned medical facility after graduation.

Amount: $5,000 per year

Apply For Grant

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Delaware

Accreditation indicates that a school has passed a rigid inspection process by a third party. Attending an accredited institution ensures that employers and other schools will recognize your degree. Accreditation is a voluntary process that demonstrates the value of a school's programs.

Additionally, most state and federal scholarships and grants are only available to learners attending accredited institutions. The sections below describe the various types of accreditation, along with methods for determining whether your prospective school holds accreditation.

Regional and National Accreditation

The Commission for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) oversee both regional and national accrediting agencies. Public and private degree-granting nonprofit schools typically receive regional accreditation. National accreditation generally applies to career and technical institutions and for-profit schools.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

CHEA and ED also oversee subject-specific accrediting bodies, which evaluate programs and departments. For example, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredits undergraduate and graduate business and accounting programs. Specialized accreditation demonstrates that a program prepares learners to succeed in the field.

How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited

Accredited schools typically indicate that their accreditation status on their official website. You can also search the CHEA directory, which lists all accredited institutions in Delaware and throughout the country.

Online College and Adult Education in Delaware

Through flexible scheduling options, online schools and colleges in Delaware help busy students fulfill their education goals. Online education is often ideal for learners with personal responsibilities or full-time jobs.

By the Numbers: Adult Education in Delaware

More than 40 million Americans exhibit low literacy skills, yet publicly funded adult education programs can only provide services for two million Americans each year.

In a 2013 assessment of adult literacy and numeracy skills that included a total of 24 countries, the U.S. ranked 16th in literacy and 21st in numeracy skills.

Nationwide, the 2016 average annual expenditure per adult student was only $1,021.

Sources: ED, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau

Adult Education Programs for Delaware Students

  • Adult Basic Education/GED: Adult basic education and GED classes cover basic high school subjects, computer literacy, and life skills. Delaware residents can enroll in classes through several learning centers.
  • English as a Second Language Instruction: ESL classes are available at several locations and centers throughout the state. These classes also include information about U.S. citizenship and continuing education.
  • Family Literacy: Open to parents and their young children, Delaware's family literacy programs provide classes on interactive parenting, work readiness, civics and citizenship skills, and basic academic subjects.

Online College Resources for Delaware Students

Delaware provides a variety of resources to help online students learn about scholarships and grants, career options, and college preparedness. The state also provides information for parents and educators.

  • Delaware Higher Education and Training Website: This website provides information on topics related to college education, including financial aid options, college investment plans, and how to avoid scholarship scams.
  • Delaware Student Success: This website, maintained by the Higher Education Department, provides information for graduating high school students, educators, and parents. Topics include college readiness, different career paths, and financing options.
  • Dover Public Library: The Dover Public Library offers online resources for college-bound students, including career and college preparation and Free Application for Federal Student Aid materials. Students can also sign up to receive text messages from the Delaware Department of Higher Education.
  • $tand By Me College Funding Project: In partnership with the Delaware Department of Education, this organization conducts workshops throughout the state. The events help students, parents, and educators learn about the college application process and financial assistance programs.
  • Office of Occupational and Labor Market Information: This website provides data to help students choose a college major and stay informed about career prospects.

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org 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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