Best Accredited Online Colleges in Indiana
Indiana is home to some of the largest and best-recognized accredited online colleges in the U.S. In 1999, Ball State University in Muncie launched one of the earliest fully online master’s degrees. You can earn your online degree from one of Indiana’s small, private colleges, research universities, or technical schools. Today, about 53% of Hoosier students take at least one online class, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Whether you are an Indiana resident or eyeing an Indiana-based college, earning your degree online in this state can be a great option — provided you choose an appropriately accredited school.
What Colleges Are Accredited in Indiana
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) sets nationwide standards for postsecondary education. The ED and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) approve accrediting agencies.
Institutions and programs must meet standards of academic and professional quality to receive accreditation. Indiana’s online schools and colleges can carry several types of accreditation.
Institutional Accreditation
Institutional accreditation means the entire school has received an evaluation and become accredited. In Indiana, the most common institutional accrediting agency is the Higher Learning Commission. However, any institutional accrediting body recognized by the Department of Education (ED) or the Commission on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can issue valid accreditation credentials.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Subject-specific accreditation, also called programmatic accreditation, is a stamp of approval from a specialized agency that applies only to a specific major or department. Subject-specific accreditation can help bolster a program’s quality, and in some fields, it can be critical for licensure.
For example, if you want to be a medical doctor, your doctoral program must hold subject-specific accreditation with the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. However, if you want to be a teacher, approval from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation is not required but may be desirable.
Top Accredited Indiana Online Colleges
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Indiana University-Bloomington delivers flexible options for online learners. Students based anywhere in the country can enroll in the school's 30 online programs. The institution enrolls 8,390 online degree-seekers.
The college’s online learning community is next to none. Participants can develop connections with classmates, which may lead to jobs after graduation. To contribute to the field and gain practical skills, students can complete original research under faculty supervision. To help distance learners work toward their professional goals, the institution provides online resources including academic advising and career counseling. Job fairs provide opportunities for enrollees to explore professional options and meet prospective employers.
Students can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. The financial aid office can help learners identify funding options to pursue, such as grants and scholarships. The institution indicates that 84% of its enrollees use financial aid to defray their educational costs.
- In-State$9,575
- Out-of-state$35,140
- In-State$9,501
- Out-of-state$31,932
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled43,260
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students can enroll in Ball State University's online programs to earn their degree remotely. Along with 113 online programs, the public school delivers in-person classes at its campus in Muncie, Indiana. To succeed in their online program, the institution's 9,809 distance learners can take advantage of virtual resources, such as digital library materials.
After enrolling, online enrollees connect with fellow colleagues, faculty members, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Online programs feature advanced coursework, during which learners gain the specific skills necessary for their profession. Academic advisors help students customize their program based on their goals, while ensuring they remain on track to graduate. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.
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.
- In-State$9,358
- Out-of-state$26,138
- In-State$8,850
- Out-of-state$21,954
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled22,443
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Winona Lake, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online enrollees 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 explore elective options and other academic opportunities. Options for gaining professional experience while enrolled include internships and research projects.
The financial aid office provides details about the various available funding options, which can make higher education more accessible. Many organizations and associations provide scholarships to students in specific fields.
- In-State$24,078
- Out-of-state$24,078
- In-State$7,386
- Out-of-state$7,386
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled1,957
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners at Purdue University access high-quality educational programming. The public institution enrolls 10,129 students in 35 online programs. Online learning eliminates the need to live near campus, allowing individuals to study from any location.
Online enrollees can communicate with peers and professors remotely. Program participants can conduct original research and pursue internships to gain practical experience. Learners can benefit from online advising sessions and career services, such as mock interviews.
In addition to institutional funding, degree-seekers can apply for scholarships and grants from private organizations. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. For 65% of the school's enrollees, financial aid of some kind reduces the overall cost of higher education.
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled45,500
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Bethel University
Mishawaka, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Bethel University, learners can choose from top-quality online academic programs in various fields. From its main campus in Mishawaka, Indiana, the school delivers 16 online programs to students located throughout the country. Of all enrollees, 475 benefit from distance learning opportunities.
Online students receive opportunities to collaborate with classmates. While enrolled in their online program, participants can connect with classmates using tools such as videoconferencing. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students develop their resume and gain practical experience. The institution's virtual resources help online learners make the most of their program. Career services include career workshops, mock interviews, and resume assistance.
By submitting the FAFSA, students can determine whether they qualify for federal funding. Learners may receive many types of funding, including grants, scholarships, and fellowships. The institution indicates that 100% of its enrollees use financial aid to defray their educational costs.
- In-State$28,700
- Out-of-state$28,700
- In-State$8,500
- Out-of-state$8,500
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled1,450
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Oakland City University
Oakland City, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With top-quality online programming, Oakland City University provides a variety of options for students pursuing their degree online. With 10 online programs, the private school also offers on-campus programs in Indiana. The institution enrolls 143 online learners, who complete rigorous coursework to earn their degree.
Online enrollees can network with peers and receive assistance from instructors through the virtual classroom environment. Online programs require both general education and field-specific classes, helping learners gain hard and soft skills. Before registering for classes, students consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. Experiential learning opportunities such as research projects and internships allow enrollees to gain experience while bolstering their resume.
To minimize student debt, applicants should consider various forms of funding. Students who demonstrate financial need may qualify for federal grants, scholarships, or work-study programs.
- In-State$24,300
- Out-of-state$24,300
- In-State$8,100
- Out-of-state$8,100
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled1,435
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Among Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. Based in Indiana, the private school delivers 33 online programs. While pursuing their online degree, distance learners benefit from a supportive online community and academic resources.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. Although requirements vary by program, online learners complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. Students work with academic advisors to develop a customized plan of study based on their unique goals. Enrollees often pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as original research and internships, to improve their skills and bolster their resume.
The financial aid office provides information about the cost of earning a degree from the school. Students with financial need may qualify for grants from the institution or the federal government.
- In-State$29,950
- Out-of-state$29,950
- In-State$12,780
- Out-of-state$12,780
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled1,094
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a premier online education should consider Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus, the public school offers 46 online programs. The institution enrolls 12,161 online learners, who complete rigorous coursework to earn their degree.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. Learners complete general education requirements and advanced classes to prepare for roles in their field. Before registering for classes, students consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.
To reduce the financial burden of earning a degree, applicants should explore their funding options and contact the financial aid office. Students with financial need may qualify for grants from the institution or the federal government.
- In-State$8,580
- Out-of-state$29,589
- In-State$8,826
- Out-of-state$24,144
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled29,537
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
For a premier educational experience, online learners can attend Indiana State University. Students located anywhere in the world can take advantage of the public institution's 60 online programs. Online learners can study a variety of subjects and complete coursework from any location, at convenient times.
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. Research opportunities help participants bolster their resume and develop practical skills. The institution delivers resources including academic and career advising to support learners' overall success.
The school offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible applicants. Institutional scholarships and fellowships feature eligibility requirements, which students can learn about from financial aid officers. At the school, 92% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
- In-State$9,036
- Out-of-state$19,960
- In-State$7,542
- Out-of-state$14,814
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled12,144
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners at University of Southern Indiana participate in high-quality programs that provide important academic preparation. The public institution's 17 online programs provide flexible learning options for busy students based in any location. While completing their studies, online learners can live anywhere in the world.
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. Program participants can conduct original research and pursue internships to gain practical experience. Learners can access career services to locate professional opportunities and prepare for interviews.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. Students can consult with a financial aid officer to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. At the school, 92% of enrollees obtain financial aid to help cover the cost of earning a degree.
- In-State$7,986
- Out-of-state$19,296
- In-State$9,486
- Out-of-state$18,528
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled10,705
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners with busy schedules can access flexible academic options through Valparaiso University's online programs. The school provides six options for online students, with programs available in many fields. At the institution, 446 enrollees take classes online, completing their programs remotely.
Online students receive support and can form connections through the virtual learning community. Participants learn alongside colleagues and communicate through email, chat, and discussion boards. In addition to completing internships, students can conduct original research to gain professional experience and impress employers after graduation. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Enrollees can participate in mock interviews to prepare for the job application process.
Students can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. In addition to need-based funding, learners can apply for merit-based awards from the school and third-party organizations. To fund their education, 99% of the institution's enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$40,520
- Out-of-state$40,520
- In-State$11,700
- Out-of-state$11,700
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled3,502
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
University of Saint Francis
Fort Wayne, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Saint Francis offers online programs of premier quality. Along with educating enrollees at its Indiana-based campus, the school offers seven distance programs for its 1,008 online enrollees. Many online programs feature enrollment and scheduling flexibility, making higher education more accessible for busy learners.
Students earning a degree online can participate in discussions and receive assistance from professors through the virtual learning platform. Learners receive opportunities to collaborate on research projects with professors, bolstering their resume and preparing for careers in their field. Enrollees can access institutional resources such as academic and career guidance, which help individuals succeed in their program and profession. Mock interviews help students prepare to secure positions in their field after graduation.
With assistance from the institution's financial aid counselors, applicants can explore many funding options. Available funding options include scholarships, grants, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Of the school's student body, 99% of degree-seekers qualify for some form of financial aid.
- In-State$30,380
- Out-of-state$30,380
- In-State$9,450
- Out-of-state$9,450
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled2,249
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Huntington University
Huntington, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners at Huntington University participate in high-quality programs that provide important academic preparation. A leader in distance learning, the private institution offers 13 online programs reaching 259 students across the globe. Learners with personal or professional responsibilities can choose online programs that allow them to complete assignments according to their schedule.
Through forums and chats, online enrollees can engage in a supportive online learning community. Program participants can conduct original research and pursue internships to gain practical experience. Career services prepare learners to succeed in the workforce after graduation.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. Institutional scholarships and fellowships feature eligibility requirements, which students can learn about from financial aid officers. To fund their education, 95% of the school's enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
- In-State$25,956
- Out-of-state$25,956
- In-State$11,064
- Out-of-state$11,064
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled1,384
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University East
Richmond, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Indiana University East's offerings include top-quality academic programming, which learners can access in person or online. Through its 19 online programs, the public institution educates 2,989 students. Online learning features flexibility which can make obtaining a degree easier for working professionals, who often need to set their own schedule.
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Internship opportunities help participants improve their professional credentials. Career services, such as job boards and mock interviews, help learners prepare to secure professional positions after earning their degree.
Degree-seekers often receive scholarships from third-party organizations, along with federal financial aid. Institutional scholarships and fellowships feature eligibility requirements, which students can learn about from financial aid officers. The school reports that 92% of enrollees receive financial aid of some kind, which can help them fund their degree.
- In-State$6,895
- Out-of-state$19,346
- In-State$7,264
- Out-of-state$17,113
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled3,766
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University Northwest
Gary, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners can take advantage of Indiana University Northwest's premier educational offerings. Through its 15 online programs, the public institution educates 2,209 students. The flexibility of online learning allows working professionals to complete coursework at convenient times.
Forums, chat, and email provide online enrollees with options for connecting with instructors and classmates. Gaining professional experience through opportunities such as internships can help individuals secure roles in their field after graduation. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.
Degree-seekers often receive scholarships from third-party organizations, along with federal financial aid. The institution's financial aid office provides information about scholarship and fellowship eligibility requirements to prospective students. The school reports that 85% of enrollees receive financial aid of some kind, which can help them fund their degree.
- In-State$6,895
- Out-of-state$19,346
- In-State$7,264
- Out-of-state$17,113
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled3,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Colleges and universities post their accreditation statuses on their websites, usually under specific accreditation pages. Check the academic catalog if you cannot find an accreditation statement on their site. For online colleges in Indiana, you can refer to the Higher Learning Commission‘s list of accredited institutions in the state.
The Impact of Accreditation When Transfering Credits
Accreditation is the key to credit mobility. When transferring credits between schools, accredited schools generally only accept past learning from other institutions with accreditation. By ensuring that your school has accreditation, you future-proof your credits and reduce the likelihood of having to retake classes.
Accreditation Criteria for Licensing
Most careers that require licensure also require accredited degrees. If you plan to become a physician, teacher, lawyer, nurse, or audiologist, you will typically need to complete a program from an institution with accreditation.
The same typically applies to aspiring counselors, psychologists, therapists, and certified public accountants, who must hold degrees from accredited institutions to take their licensure exams. Some careers, such as law, also require candidates to have completed programs recognized by programmatic accreditors.
Choosing the Right Online College in Indiana
Completing a bachelor’s degree is a long and challenging process. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, only 64% of enrollees who started their bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution in 2014 finished the same school within six years. To maximize your chances of success, use the following steps to choosing an online college:
1. Check Accreditation Status
Only consider attending an institutionally accredited school. The primary institutional accreditor in Indiana is the Higher Learning Commission. Also, check for relevant programmatic accreditation. For example, if you plan to major in nursing, be sure your program holds accreditation with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
2. Search for an Affordable Program
Lack of finances is the primary reason students drop out of college, according to a report by education lender Sallie Mae. Choose a college you can afford without taking on major debt or excess work hours while in school.
3. Ask About Mental Health Services
Many students drop out of college because of the mental health challenges associated with higher education. Ask your admissions representative what counseling, medical support, and faculty training the school provides to help manage your mental health while studying.
4. Find Academic Support
Tutoring and other academic support services can help you pass tough classes, learn complex concepts, and ultimately complete your college degree. Find out what academic support your prospective school offers online students.
Online College Resources for Indiana Students
Indiana students can access information about schools, scholarships, academic support, and career resources through public and private agencies. Start with the list of key resources listed below:
Learn More Indiana
Located in Indianapolis, Learn More Indiana provides college-related resources for students across the state. Users can learn about choosing a college, securing admission, applying for aid, and maximizing dual credits.
The site also provides information on the 21st Century Scholarship, which can pay up to 100% of tuition at public colleges or partial support at private colleges in Indiana.
IN.gov
The Indiana state government’s site offers a hub for education-related resources from pre-kindergarten through college. Users can discover more about financial aid, scholarships, and educator licensing through the links on this site. The page also provides information about the Commission for Higher Education’s EARN program, which helps students secure paid internships.
Indiana Online
Indiana Online, a Cognia-accredited online education provider, partners with schools to offer 180 supplemental courses for middle and high school students. Aspiring college students who need secondary-level prerequisites, applicants who still need to finish their high school diplomas, and people looking to boost their GPAs for admission may benefit from Indiana Online’s courses.
Indiana Department of Workforce Development
Learn more about top careers through the state’s workforce development office. This website provides a calendar of upcoming job fairs, career assessments, and a job board. Users can learn more about Indiana’s high-demand, high-wage occupations or even complete their high school equivalency through this department.