Best Accredited Online Colleges in Colorado
Colorado has 31 two- and four-year colleges, 103 private religious institutions/seminaries and 354 private occupational colleges. More than 85,000 students study in Colorado’s private colleges, with 268,000 students enrolled in the state’s public colleges. Numerous colleges in Colorado have added online and blended learning options to their programs, as well. But how can a student find the best online college in Colorado? It all starts with a close examination of cost, quality and the resources students need to turn their college degree into a successful career. Read on to get started.
15 Best Online Colleges in Colorado
Many online schools and colleges in Colorado provide affordable and flexible alternatives to on-campus learning. A college degree makes candidates more competitive in Colorado’s job market. Data from the Colorado Skills for Jobs Report projects that 74% of all jobs in the state will require a postsecondary degree or postsecondary training by 2020.
This guide provides information about choosing the best online college for your needs. The following sections explore financial aid and tuition options, accreditation information, and resources for prospective and current students.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Colorado State University-Fort Collins provides high-quality online programs, which meet the same standards as on-campus options. The public school maintains a campus in Fort Collins and offers 39 programs for degree-seekers throughout the country. The institution provides online resources, such as tutoring, for its 8,786 online learners.
Distance learners can use the virtual classroom environment to communicate individually and foster professional relationships with peers and faculty members. Curricula include general education requirements, which help learners develop soft skills that apply to careers across industries. Academic advisors help students create and follow a plan to graduate on time. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
While program costs vary, applicants can contact the financial aid office for information about specific fees and expenses. Students who demonstrate financial need may qualify for federal grants, scholarships, or work-study programs.
- In-State$9,426
- Out-of-state$28,147
- In-State$10,520
- Out-of-state$25,791
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled33,426
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Many online courses feature opportunities to participate in discussions and develop professional connections with classmates. Participants can collaborate with peers and instructors while conducting original research. Learners can benefit from online advising sessions and career services, such as mock interviews.
Degree-seekers with financial need may qualify for federal student loans, which typically feature better terms than private loans. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. At the school, 81% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
- In-State$9,284
- Out-of-state$20,082
- In-State$13,912
- Out-of-state$24,438
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled12,807
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Enrollees can connect with peers and instructors through group projects, virtual office hours, and online discussion boards. To practice new skills and gain experience in their field, degree-seekers can pursue internships and collaborative research projects. The institution provides resources including career services and academic advising, which help students reach their academic and professional goals. Learners can participate in mock interviews, career workshops, and job fairs.
Educational expenses can vary based on the program. For specific information regarding program costs, applicants can contact an admissions counselor. Enrollees often pursue institutional funding and scholarships from third-party organizations.
- In-State$23,502
- Out-of-state$23,502
- In-State$13,045
- Out-of-state$13,045
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,587
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Regis University
Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Regis University delivers online degrees that prepare enrollees for professional roles in a variety of fields. Learners can earn a degree through the school's 110 online programs without relocating or commuting to campus. The institution's flexible remote programs make higher education more accessible for busy students.
Degree candidates can expand their professional network by connecting with peers through the virtual 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. To explore employment options, degree-seekers can attend job fairs organized by the school.
Distance learners may need to pay an additional technology fee. Admissions counselors can provide detailed cost information and help applicants understand the amount they should budget for their education. Eligible enrollees can benefit from internal and external funding opportunities to help lower the total.
- In-State$37,830
- Out-of-state$37,830
- In-State$14,441
- Out-of-state$14,441
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled6,908
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Johnson & Wales University-Denver
Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus
Johnson & Wales University-Denver offers flexible online programs that meet high academic standards. Students can pursue online options or enroll in on-campus programs at the school's campus in Denver. Of all enrollees, 111 benefit from distance learning opportunities.
The college’s online learning community is next to none. Participants can develop connections with classmates, which may lead to jobs after graduation. Students can complete internships to gain professional experience, which may help them secure a job after graduation. Online learners can access academic and professional resources to benefit their studies. Degree candidates can take advantage of career services and networking opportunities to prepare to secure a job after graduation.
The federal government provides funding to support students with financial need. Learners can also apply for scholarships from third-party organizations. According to the institution, 100% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
- In-State$33,054
- Out-of-state$33,054
- In-State$13,734
- Out-of-state$13,734
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled927
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At University of Northern Colorado, online students can access programming of equivalent quality to in-person academic options. Based in Greeley, the school educates 4,138 remote enrollees through 24 online programs. With flexible enrollment options, online programs often allow learners to begin their studies faster.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. While earning their degree, many learners pursue practical learning opportunities to qualify for positions that require professional experience. The institution's career center provides enrollees with resources such as resume assistance and interest inventories. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
Exploring various funding options with the help of financial aid counselors can help applicants reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. The federal government supports enrollees with financial need through loans, grants, and work-study programs. Of the school's student body, 93% of degree-seekers qualify for some form of financial aid.
- In-State$7,596
- Out-of-state$19,854
- In-State$10,867
- Out-of-state$19,620
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled12,930
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners who need scheduling flexibility can consider University of Colorado Boulder's online programs. Students can pursue online options or enroll in on-campus programs at the school's campus in Boulder. The institution's student body includes 4,200 online enrollees.
The school maintains a supportive online learning community. Participants learn alongside colleagues in a virtual classroom environment. Degree candidates can pursue independent learning opportunities like internships, along with collaborative opportunities with faculty and staff, including research projects. When registering for classes, learners can consult academic advisors in their department. Networking opportunities and career services help enrollees prepare to succeed in the workforce.
Students with financial need often qualify for federal funding. Learners can contact the school's financial aid office for information about scholarships and fellowships. According to the institution, 66% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
- In-State$10,728
- Out-of-state$34,930
- In-State$11,826
- Out-of-state$31,284
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled37,883
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment11%
- AccreditationYes
Nazarene Bible College
Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 year
- Online
While attending Nazarene Bible College, students can choose from online programs across fields. With a main campus in Colorado Springs, the school educates enrollees through in-person classes, along with 698 online programs. With flexible enrollment options, online programs often allow learners to begin their studies sooner.
The institution's online learning environment features opportunities for students to receive academic support and connect with peers. While earning their degree, many learners pursue practical learning opportunities to qualify for positions that require professional experience. Academic advisors assist enrollees with course enrollment and provide insights into the field. Through career workshops, students can form professional connections and make plans for their professional future.
The institution's financial aid office is an excellent resource for applicants who need help exploring their funding options. Enrollees who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies may qualify for merit-based awards.
- In-State$8,880
- Out-of-state$8,880
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled698
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
University of Denver
Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A supportive online learning community helps online enrollees succeed. Participants can pursue internships to impress employers after graduation. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.
Federal scholarships, grants, and loans can help degree-seekers fund their education. Students can discuss their financial aid options with the institution's financial aid officers. For 90% of the school's enrollees, financial aid of some kind reduces the overall cost of higher education.
- In-State$51,336
- Out-of-state$51,336
- In-State$51,336
- Out-of-state$51,336
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled12,931
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus provides high-quality online programs, which meet the same standards as on-campus options. Based in Denver, the public school delivers 34 online programs. The institution provides online resources to support its 7,637 distance learners, including virtual library access and tutoring.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. After completing general education requirements, degree-seekers take advanced classes in their area of interest. Academic advisors help students choose electives that align with their professional aspirations. Enrollees can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.
The financial aid office can provide information about funding options to help applicants reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Along with institutional awards, students may receive grants and scholarships from organizations in their field.
- In-State$7,920
- Out-of-state$24,408
- In-State$6,786
- Out-of-state$22,590
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled24,910
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners searching for a high-quality education can consider Metropolitan State University of Denver. The public institution's seven online programs allow busy students to earn their degree in a flexible format. They can choose from a variety of subjects and learn at their own pace, right from the comfort of their home.
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Experiential learning opportunities, such as research collaborations and internships, help participants develop practical and professional skills. Career services, such as job boards and mock interviews, help degree candidates prepare to secure professional positions after earning their degree.
Learners with financial need may qualify for federal student loans, which typically feature better terms than private loans. Students can consult financial aid officers for information about institutional and outside funding options. For 70% of the school's enrollees, financial aid of some kind reduces the overall cost of higher education.
- In-State$6,432
- Out-of-state$20,009
- In-State$8,892
- Out-of-state$12,607
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled20,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Adams State University
Alamosa, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Adams State University offers top-ranked online degrees for learners seeking flexible study. Learners in many fields of study can find suitable options in the school's 20 online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 1,586 attend classes online.
The online learning community allows distance learners to collaborate with peers through discussion boards and email. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students develop their resume and gain practical experience. To help distance learners work toward their professional goals, the institution provides online resources including academic advising and career counseling. To prepare to apply for jobs after graduation, enrollees can take advantage of mock interviews and resume help.
Degree candidates can pursue financial aid to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. In addition to need-based funding, learners can apply for merit-based awards from the school and third-party organizations. To fund their education, 98% of the institution's enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$5,736
- Out-of-state$17,160
- In-State$4,590
- Out-of-state$7,830
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled3,114
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students can enroll in Colorado Mesa University's online programs to earn their degree remotely. The public school delivers 12 online programs from its campus in Grand Junction. The institution's 3,258 online learners benefit from institutional resources, such as career counseling and tutoring.
In the virtual classroom environment, enrollees can request individual assistance from instructors. Curricula include general education requirements, which help learners develop soft skills that apply to careers across industries. Academic advisors assist students in selecting electives based on their individual goals and interests. Many enrollees pursue internships to gain professional experience, which can make them more competitive for positions after graduation.
Applicants can contact the financial aid office for details about program costs and funding opportunities. Students can apply for scholarships based on academic merit or personal history.
- In-State$7,787
- Out-of-state$20,720
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,373
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Pueblo, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The school maintains a supportive online learning community. Through online learning, participants can develop long-lasting connections with colleagues throughout the country. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students develop their resume and gain practical experience. The institution provides online resources to support distance learners during their studies. Enrollees can take advantage of career services and networking opportunities to prepare to secure a job after graduation.
Many students apply for financial aid to reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. To receive the most funding possible, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and any other awards for which they qualify. To defray the cost of their education, 93% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.
- In-State$6,349
- Out-of-state$19,658
- In-State$5,651
- Out-of-state$16,803
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled7,081
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
Working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities can earn a degree from Colorado State University-Global Campus in a flexible online format. The school supports 39 remote programs from its main campus in Aurora, catering to students from all walks of life. The institution's student body includes online enrollees.
Online students receive support and can form connections through the virtual learning community. Participants can communicate with peers through chat and videoconferencing. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students develop their resume and gain practical experience. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Career services include career workshops, mock interviews, and resume assistance.
Students with financial need often qualify for federal funding. Learners may qualify for many types of funding, including grants, scholarships, and fellowships.
- In-State$8,400
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled12,670
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I’m Looking for in Colorado?
Students considering online schools and colleges in Colorado have plenty of options. Learners should research prospective institutions to find the best choice for their needs. The Colorado Department of Higher Education provides a list of all colleges in the state. The link below also provides information about online learning options in Colorado.
How Much More Do College Grads in Colorado Make?
According to a study by the American Institutes for Research, many postsecondary degrees below a bachelor’s degree can lead to middle-class earnings in Colorado.
The chart below shows the national medians for full-time annual salaries by degree level. Higher education levels typically correlate with higher salaries, in Colorado and throughout the United States. However, specific earning potential depends on factors including field and position.
Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree | Doctoral Degree |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 | $62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: BLS
Paying for Online College in Colorado: Tuition and Financial Aid
When calculating the overall cost of a degree, prospective students should consider tuition, fees, and related expenses. In-state tuition rates are typically significantly lower than out-of-state rates. Learners can fund their education through financial aid, student loans, scholarships, and grants.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the average in-state tuition and fees at ranked public schools rose by 4% for the 2019-2020 school year.
The tables below list the average in-state, out-of-state, and national costs of tuition and fees at public and private four-year institutions.
In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
---|---|---|
$7,924 | $20,061 | $9,037 (In-State), $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
In-State Tuition | National Average |
---|---|
$22,837 | $30,731 |
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Colorado
The tables above do not reflect some fees and expenses, such as housing and transportation costs. Below are some considerations prospective students should take into account when budgeting for college.
- 1
Residency Requirements
Some programs include on-campus requirements for distance learners. These components may require students to incur housing or travel expenses.
- 2
Technology Fees
Many online schools charge technology fees to cover online resources and technical support. These may be one-time or annual fees.
- 3
Summer, Evening, and Weekend Tuition
Universities often vary tuition rates according to each student’s class schedule. Learners should research fees associated with summer, evening, and weekend courses.
- 4
Textbooks and Materials
Online courses may require physical or digital textbooks, along with online learning resources.
- 5
Required Travel
Some distance education programs require internships or practicums that involve travel.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Colorado
Some Colorado schools offer in-state tuition rates to all online learners, regardless of residency status. This can save out-of-state students thousands of dollars in tuition. The Colorado Department of Higher Education website lists the residency requirements for the state.
Students can also research reciprocity agreements and exchange programs. Colorado recognizes several exchange groups, including the Western Undergraduate Exchange, the Western Regional Graduate Program Exchange, and the Professional Student Exchange Program.
Learners can find information about tuition rates and residency requirements on their prospective school’s website.
Paying for College in Colorado: Scholarships and Financial Aid
Students attending online schools and colleges in Colorado can apply for a variety of financial aid options. Scholarships and grants are ideal forms of funding; unlike loans, these awards do not require repayment.
Scholarships for Colorado College Students
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Colorado
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) sets standards for postsecondary institutions. Colleges must meet these standards to receive accreditation, which serves as a mark of quality. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) also monitors accrediting boards. The following sections provide information about the different types of accreditation.
Regional and National Accreditation
Public universities and state schools typically receive regional accreditation. National accreditation typically applies to private colleges, trade schools, and vocational institutions. Regional accreditation is older and is generally considered to be more prestigious.
The Higher Learning Commission awards regional accreditation to Colorado institutions. The ED and CHEA oversee both regional and national accrediting agencies.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Subject-specific accreditation agencies evaluate individual programs. Professionals and experts in the field oversee specialized accrediting agencies. Students can find these organizations and accredited programs in the CHEA database and the ED database.
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Most accredited schools showcase their institutional and programmatic accreditation on their website. Prospective students can determine a Colorado institution’s regional accreditation status through the Higher Learning Commission’s website. Learners should search the ED and CHEA databases to learn whether a program holds accreditation.
Online College and Adult Education in Colorado
Government funding of online and adult education programs can help reduce the financial burden on students. The sections below include statistics about adult education in Colorado and links to state-funded initiatives.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Colorado
- Adults with a bachelor’s degree have a 2.1% unemployment rate in Colorado.
- Adults with a bachelor’s degree earn a median salary of $48,818 in Colorado.
- The Department of Education projects that about 74% of all jobs in Colorado will require a postsecondary degree or training by 2020.
Sources: CDE
Adult Education Programs for Colorado Students
- Colorado High School Equivalency Program: The Colorado Department of Education approves three tests for students to receive a high school equivalency diploma: the GED credential, the High School Equivalency Test, and the Test Assessing Secondary Completion.
- Integrated Education and Training: The IET initiative offers classes in basic skills and English language to help learners obtain occupational and college certificates. Students can earn a high school equivalency certificate and a college certificate simultaneously.
- English Language Acquisition: This program helps individuals whose native language is not English. Students learn speaking, writing, and reading skills that they can use in college courses and their professional lives.
Online College Resources for Colorado Students
Before applying to online schools and colleges in Colorado, students should research the accessibility and affordability of their options. Online resources can help learners determine their goals, next steps, and desired outcomes. Below are five websites that provide tools and information for Colorado students.