Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

Explore the best online schools in New Mexico to choose the right school. Explore college costs and find state-specific scholarships.
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Updated June 27, 2023

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Accredited Degree Programs, Scholarships and Resources for Top Schools

Online education in New Mexico is varied and provides education for students not only in college, but also for students in grades K-12. New Mexico is home to more than 35 accredited schools, including community colleges, public four-year schools, tribal colleges and universities and private schools. Almost all of those institutions offer something in the way of online learning, from single courses to full degrees on everything from the associate to doctoral level. Students in grades K-12 can earn credit from two fully-online schools, district programs, the state virtual school or community colleges offering dual enrollment.

Best Online Colleges in New Mexico

Students in New Mexico paid an average of $7,924 for public tuition in the 2018-2019 school year. However, attending online public college or university could be free for some 55,000 in-state students in New Mexico beginning in the fall of 2020. In 2019, the legislature introduced the Opportunity Scholarship, which could provide free tuition to students at 29 state colleges and universities regardless of income. The program would cover in-state college expenses not paid for by the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship or federal loans and grants.

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.

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

#1 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

New Mexico State University-Main Campus

  • Las Cruces, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New Mexico State University-Main Campus offers top-ranked online degrees for learners seeking flexible study. Located in Las Cruces, the school's academic options include in-person programs and 40 online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 6,244 study in an online format.

Distance learners receive support and can form connections through the virtual learning community. Degree candidates can connect with classmates using tools such as videoconferencing. In addition to coursework, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to gain practical skills and bolster their resume. Online learners also benefit from numerous institutional resources, providing support throughout the duration of their program. Opportunities such as job fairs and career workshops help enrollees explore their professional options.

Financial aid helps many students minimize debt and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. According to the institution, 99% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,875
Out-of-state
$21,864
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,844
Out-of-state
$16,834
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
14,296
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

New Mexico Tech

  • Socorro, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

While completing New Mexico Tech's online programs, enrollees develop field-specific knowledge and practical skills that apply to roles across industries. Learners based in any location can earn their degree through one of the school's seven online programs. Busy students often benefit from the flexibility of online learning.

Options including email, chat, and videoconferencing allow distance learners to communicate with peers and instructors. To impress prospective employers, degree-seekers often complete internships and original research. Career services prepare students to obtain a job in their field after graduation.

Degree-seekers can access career services for help choosing the best professional path. Learners can participate in mock interviews to prepare to impress employers after graduation.

Some classes require additional fees. Applicants should speak with an admissions counselor to determine exact costs. The federal government assists eligible enrollees through scholarships, grants, and low-interest student loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,826
Out-of-state
$22,194
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,160
Out-of-state
$23,585
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,835
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

  • Portales, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

With exceptional flexibility for busy learners, the online programs at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus appeal to working professionals. With a main campus in Portales, the school's academic offerings include 29 online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 3,946 attend classes online.

The online learning community allows remote students to collaborate with peers through discussion boards and email. With virtual communication tools, such as videoconferencing and chat, participants can develop their network and connect with classmates. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which students can gain by completing internships and research projects. Distance learners can access institutional resources in an online format. Enrollees can participate in mock interviews to prepare for the job application process.

To reduce the financial burden of higher education, eligible students can apply for financial aid. The school's financial aid office can help learners understand their funding options, including scholarships and student loans. To defray the cost of their education, 97% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$5,994
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,044
Out-of-state
$9,342
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
5,685
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

New Mexico Highlands University

  • Las Vegas, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New Mexico Highlands University delivers high-quality academic programs on campus and online. The public institution educates 1,646 distance learners through one online program. Because online programs allow learners to complete coursework according to their schedule, many working professionals choose this format.

Degree-seekers receive support and guidance from instructors. Participants can collaborate with peers and instructors while conducting original research. Academic advisors help learners choose courses that align with their professional goals, customizing the curriculum to their needs.

Federal scholarships, grants, and loans can help degree-seekers fund their education. The institution's financial aid office provides information about scholarship and fellowship eligibility. At the school, 95% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,440
Out-of-state
$8,712
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,112
Out-of-state
$9,336
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,787
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

Western New Mexico University

  • Silver City, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students at Western New Mexico University can access top-quality educational programs in an online format. In addition to delivering in-person programs on campus in Silver City, the school offers 36 online programs. Learners from all walks of life can benefit from the flexibility guaranteed by an online education.

Distance learners can form connections with like-minded peers through the virtual learning platform. To gain professional experience, along with field-specific skills, degree-seekers can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty to conduct original research. Enrollees also benefit from access to numerous institutional resources, receiving academic and career guidance throughout the duration of their studies. Career workshops allow students to develop their professional network and explore their career options.

Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. Many scholarship programs support enrollees in specific fields of study. With 95% of the student body receiving financial aid, the school's programs can be very affordable.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,167
Out-of-state
$11,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,356
Out-of-state
$8,730
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

University of the Southwest

  • Hobbs, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

While completing University of the Southwest's online programs, enrollees develop field-specific knowledge and practical skills that apply to roles across industries. Of the school's student body, 875 attend online programs. Working professionals, who may not be able to attend classes during the day, often pursue flexible online programs.

Distance learners can communicate with peers and faculty through the online learning platform. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Academic advisors provide support and guidance for online students throughout their program. Learners can participate in mock interviews, career workshops, and job fairs.

Students in some programs may have additional costs, such as lab fees. An admissions counselor can help applicants calculate their exact program cost. Enrollees often pursue institutional funding and scholarships from third-party organizations.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,500
Out-of-state
$22,500
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
875
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

New Mexico Junior College

  • Hobbs, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students can enroll in New Mexico Junior College's online programs to earn their degree remotely. Along with in-person programs at the Hobbs campus, degree-seekers can pursue nine online programs from the public school. The institution enrolls 1,163 online learners, who receive access to a supportive learning community and institutional resources.

Distance learners can develop professional connections with classmates and professors using the virtual classroom environment. Curricula include general education requirements, which help degree-seekers develop soft skills that apply to careers across industries. Degree candidates can consult with academic advisors to choose electives that align with their academic and professional goals. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.

The financial aid office provides details about the various available funding options, which can make higher education more accessible. Students should submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,344
Out-of-state
$1,536
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,327
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

Central New Mexico Community College

  • Albuquerque, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

At Central New Mexico Community College, learners can choose from top-quality online academic programs in various fields. Located in Albuquerque, the school's academic options include in-person programs and 28 online programs. The institution enrolls 10,167 online degree-seekers.

Students benefit from a supportive online learning community. Tools such as videoconferencing and discussion boards allow participants to communicate with peers. In addition to completing internships, degree-seekers can conduct original research to gain professional experience and impress employers after graduation. Online learners also benefit from numerous institutional resources, providing support throughout the duration of their program. To prepare for their job search, enrollees can attend networking events and access career services such as resume assistance.

By submitting the FAFSA, students can determine whether they qualify for federal funding. Learners can contact the school's financial aid office for information about scholarships and fellowships. To defray the cost of their education, 83% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,344
Out-of-state
$7,104
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
23,096
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

San Juan College

  • Farmington, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Among San Juan College's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. Located in Farmington, the public school's offerings include 10 remote programs. Online learners can take advantage of virtual career counseling and tutoring to make the most of their educational experience.

In the online classroom environment, enrollees can network with classmates and receive help from professors. Although requirements vary by program, distance learners complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. Academic advisors assist students in selecting electives based on their individual goals and interests. Degree candidates can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.

With overall costs varying by program, applicants should contact the financial aid office for details regarding the cost of earning a degree. Students who demonstrate financial need may qualify for federal grants, scholarships, or work-study programs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,176
Out-of-state
$3,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,741
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Online Schools and Colleges in New Mexico

Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus

  • Roswell, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

To access a top-quality educational experience, learners can consider the online programs at Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus. The 1,074 online students attending the public institution can choose from four online programs. Distance learning features flexibility which can make obtaining a degree easier for working professionals, who often need to set their own schedule.

Online enrollees can benefit from attending instructors' online office hours. Participants can develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as research collaborations with peers. The institution delivers resources including academic and career advising to support learners' overall success.

Funding options for degree-seekers include institutional scholarships, grants from nonprofits, and federal financial aid. Interested applicants can work with financial aid officers to explore scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 86% of enrollees obtain financial aid to help cover degree costs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$5,232
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,256
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

City Spotlight: Colleges in New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM

Known as the most populous city in the state, Albuquerque remains a vibrant home to 11 postsecondary institutions, including New Mexico's flagship university. The state has shown an expansion of online learning options to serve its diverse student population and bridge the distances between urban centers.

Education matters in New Mexico. According to the Albuquerque Department of Economic Development, 24 percent of city residents have some training or post-secondary education beyond high school while 23 percent hold an associate or bachelor's degree. Most impressively, the state has the highest concentration of PhDs in the country, and 11 percent of Albuquerque residents have attained a graduate degree.

Colleges and Universities in Albuquerque

COLLEGESIZETUITIONTYPE
University of New Mexico-Main Campus33,304$4,651Public
Central New Mexico Community College43,062$1,158Public
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute995N/APublic

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

You will find no shortage of online schools and colleges in New Mexico, which can make picking a degree confusing. To find the degree best suited for your career goals and interests follow this checklist:

  1. List your top schools
  2. Research the curriculum
  3. And determine the tuition

Click on the icon below for more details about New Mexico's online programs.

How Much More Do College Grads in New Mexico Make?

A college degree can offer a pathway to a better paying career. In New Mexico, college graduates with a bachelor's degree earn $44,000 a year on average, which is $17,000 more than a high school graduate according to the 2013-2017 American Community Survey from the U.S. Census Bureau. Take a look at the graph below to get a better idea of what graduates earn by degree level nationwide.

LESS THAN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAHIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAASSOCIATE DEGREE
$28,756$37,960$44,824
Source: BLS
BACHELOR'S DEGREEMASTER'S DEGREEDOCTORAL DEGREE
$62,296$74,568$94,900
Source: BLS

Paying for Online College in New Mexico: Tuition and Financial Aid

New Mexico offers tuition that is cheaper than the national average. In-state public tuition and fees in New Mexico cost about $7,924 a year, compared to the national average of $9,037. The proposed Opportunity Scholarship would help in-state residents at public colleges. However, it still takes financial savvy to not go into debt, especially for out-of-state or private school students.

Review this graph to get a better understanding of the total cost of college in New Mexico and nationwide.

IN-STATE TUITIONOUT-OF-STATE TUITIONNATIONAL AVERAGE
$7,924$20,061$9,037 (In-State)$25,657 (Out-of-State)
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
TUITIONOUT-OF-STATE TUITIONNATIONAL AVERAGE
$23,865N/A$30,731
Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Cost Considerations for Online Students in New Mexico

The tables listed above give a general sense of the cost of tuition in New Mexico compared to national averages. However, students should take other mandatory expenses into consideration including those listed below:

  • Course-Specific Fee: Courses such as chemistry labs may charge students a supplemental fee to cover the costs of materials, supplies, and the use of facilities.
  • Online Course Fee: Online students pay a fee to cover the operating costs of the online learning platform and 24/7 technical support.
  • Payment Plan Fee: Students can opt to pay their tuition by enrolling in a payment plan, but this may incur an additional fee.
  • Student Activity Fee: Activity fees cover the costs of operating activities, clubs, and organizations. However, online students often do not pay student activity fees.
  • Technology Fees: Students typically pay a flat-rate fee toward the operational expenses associated with the school's email system, technical support, and computer labs.

Qualifying for In-State Tuition in New Mexico

The New Mexico Higher Education Department sets the rules for in-state residency. Students can establish residency in New Mexico and receive in-state tuition after residing in the state for 12 consecutive months. Exemptions often apply to students in the military or students financially dependent on parents who live in New Mexico.

Colleges approve a student's in-state residency after they submit supporting documents, such as proof of residing in the state for 12 months preceding the first day of the semester. Online students can sometimes receive in-state residency tuition without meeting these requirements. Many schools have reciprocity agreements that offer students in neighboring states discounted out-of-state tuition. Check with your school for specific in-state residency requirements.

Paying for College in New Mexico: Scholarships and Financial Aid

Online college students can find interest-free financial aid from nonprofits, the state, and private institutions. Keep reading to find a sampling of some of the many scholarships and grants available to students in New Mexico.

Scholarships for New Mexico College Students

Carl F. Scott Scholarship Fund for Tucumcari Lodge No. 27 AF&AM

Who Can Apply: Students pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctorate can receive this scholarship. The scholarship is open to nontraditional students who live in Quay County.

Amount: $1,200-$2,400

APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

"New Mexico Scholars Program

Who Can Apply: This scholarship goes to New Mexico residents who have graduated from a local high school in the top 5% or can show proof of scoring a 25 on the ACT exam. Applicants also must meet income requirements.

Amount: Varies

APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

Opportunity Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The Opportunity Scholarship improves on the New Mexico Legislature Lottery Scholarship to provide financial aid to students at one of the state's 29 public colleges. There are no income requirements.

Amount: Varies

APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

Trythall Family Scholarship for Excellence in Continuing Education

Who Can Apply: Up to two students 25 years or older can win this scholarship named in honor of the Trythalls, who owned a staffing company. Applicants must live in Albuquerque and show proof of a 2.8 GPA.

Amount: $3,000

APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

Youth in Foster Care Scholarship Fund

Who Can Apply: This scholarship helps students aged 17-21 who grew up in the New Mexico foster care system. Applicants must show proof of a minimum of 2.5 GPA.

Amount: $1,000

APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

Grants for New Mexico College Students

Who Can Apply: This grant goes to financially needy students attending a public college or university who cannot meet the requirements to receive other state grants. Applicants must take at least six credits per semester.

Amount: $1,000 per semester

APPLY FOR GRANT

Student Incentive Grant Program

Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants for this grant include New Mexico undergraduates in considerable financial need. They must attend a public or tribal college in New Mexico.

Amount: $200-$2,500

APPLY FOR GRANT

University of New Mexico Research Grants

Who Can Apply: The Graduate and Professional Student Association offers numerous research and professional grants for graduate students at the University of New Mexico to cover travel and materials associated with a research project.

Amount: Up to $5,000

APPLY FOR GRANT

Loan For Service

Who Can Apply: Students attending college in New Mexico can receive financial aid if they agree to pursue a career in a high-need field after college. The New Mexico Higher Education Department offers numerous loan-for-service programs, including ones for future teachers or nurses.

Amount: Varies

APPLY FOR GRANT

FINANCIAL AID FOR ONLINE SCHOOLS

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in New Mexico

Accreditation serves multiple purposes. Students who attend an accredited college or university can rest assured that their education meets quality standards. With regional and national accreditation, an outside agency reviews the school's curriculum and overall performance. Having regional accreditation, the more prestigious designation, also allows schools and students to receive federal and state financial aid. For-profit or vocation schools more frequently hold national accreditation.

Regional and National Accreditation

Seven regional bodies recognized by the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accreditation of private and public colleges and universities across the nation. In New Mexico, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) awards regional accreditation as a mark of quality, recognizing a school's ability to award associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

Professional organizations and independent organizations also evaluate programs and departments in New Mexico. For instance, chemistry programs may receive accreditation from the American Chemical Society. Similarly, the American Psychological Association accredits psychology programs. Students typically prefer degrees from programs that carry subject-specific accreditation since it guarantees that the curriculum meets professional standards.

How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited

If you believe that a program or school does not hold accreditation, you should do additional online research. Colleges and universities usually list accreditations online. However, if a school does not advertise its status, you can verify accreditation by searching the CHEA online directory, the Department of Education database, or the HLC website.

Online College and Adult Education in New Mexico

Out-of-state students or those living in rural areas can earn a degree by attending online classes. As you will see below, states and schools also offer numerous initiatives to help adult learners return to college.

By the Numbers: Adult Education in New Mexico

Did you know that in New Mexico an estimated 64,864 residents hold a bachelor's degree?

The Opportunity Scholarship could make New Mexico the 21st state to provide "tuition-free" degrees to adult learners.

Some 27% of residents in New Mexico hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Source: U.S. Census BureauNew Mexico Higher Education Department

Adult Education Programs for New Mexico Students

  • Adult Education Justice Initiative: The Adult Education Justice Initiative gives grants to adults 22 years or older who have criminal backgrounds and need a pathway to college.
  • High School Equivalency Program: The New Mexico Higher Education Department helps adult learners achieve a high school diploma by earning their GED or passing the High School Equivalency Test. The program offers both distance learning and traditional classes.
  • Opportunity Scholarship: The proposed New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship would contribute funds to eligible applicants attending one of the state's 29 public colleges and universities. Adult learners returning to college can receive up to two years of financial assistance.

Online College Resources for New Mexico Students

Students in New Mexico can access countless online resources to help them at all stages of their college journey. Take a look below to find free online resources, including websites for financial aid opportunities, FAFSA workshops, and scholarships.

Popular Resources

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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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