Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Looking for the best accredited online schools in the Buckeye State? Check out our top ranked schools in this comprehensive guide.
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Updated February 23, 2024

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Reasons to Apply to Online Schools in Ohio

  • Some Ohio online schools may offer in-state tuition discounts to online students.
  • Several prestigious Ohio universities offer online programs, including Ohio State.
  • Online degrees provide lots of flexibility, so you can work while you learn.
  • Ohio boasts a low cost of living compared to other states, making it a great choice for students on a budget.
  • Getting an online education is a convenient and inexpensive way to prepare for jobs in the state's biggest industries, including manufacturing, financial activities, healthcare, and education.

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.

Explore Our Featured Online Programs

Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.

Online Colleges in Ohio Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH
$10,099 $25,433 85%
#2 Ohio University
Athens, OH
$12,840 $22,810 89%
#3 Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH
$9,196 $9,556 78%
#4 Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH
$10,776 $18,765 79%
#5 Ashland University
Ashland, OH
$22,000 $22,000 70%
#6 University of Toledo
Toledo, OH
$9,028 $18,388 97%
#7 Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH
$27,780 $27,780 74%
#8 Franklin University
Columbus, OH
$9,552 $9,552 Not provided
#9 Walsh University
North Canton, OH
$30,205 $30,205 80%
#10 Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH
$23,483 $23,483 87%

Best Online Colleges in Ohio

#1 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

University of Cincinnati

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $311-$1,115
Out-of-State | $326-$1,130

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

The University of Cincinnati offers more than 100 fully online programs from all levels for students across the country. The school provides flexible schedules and primarily asynchronous delivery to support busy and working learners.

UC Online pairs online students with various advisors along the way, including admissions, student success, and career support personnel. Out-of-state students can also participate in online programs, even setting up internships near them when required. 

UC Online's programs are taught by the same faculty and feature the same accreditations as the on-campus programs. They all run in a seven- or 14-week format and feature no campus visit requirements. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,099
Out-of-state
$25,433
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,224
Out-of-state
$24,966
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
40,329
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Ohio University

  • Athens, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $307-$508
Out-of-State | $312-$527

Credits to Graduate: 192 quarter hours (undergraduate)

As a student in Ohio University's online college, OHIO Online, you have a choice of over 60 online and hybrid programs at various levels. You'll enjoy asynchronous courses and a self-paced schedule, plus no campus requirements throughout the program. 

OHIO Online also provides individualized assistance from advisors and career services professionals, along with round-the-clock mental health support. The school enrolls more than 7,500 students from across the country. Out-of-state learners only pay a $5-$19 nonresident fee.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,840
Out-of-state
$22,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,444
Out-of-state
$17,436
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
24,797
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Youngstown State University

  • Youngstown, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $275-$450
Out-of-State | $280-$455

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

Youngstown State University features more than 25 online bachelor's and master's programs in the fields of business, education, and nursing. Run by the Cyberlearning department, Youngstown State Online runs both synchronous and asynchronous classes.

Many of the online programs run in an accelerated format and offer multiple start dates for shorter completion times. With no campus requirements and only a $5 nonresident fee, out-of-state students have just as much access to Youngstown State online as in-state students. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,196
Out-of-state
$9,556
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,453
Out-of-state
$6,633
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,298
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Bowling Green State University

  • Bowling Green, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $437-$595
Out-of-State | $448-$606

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

Bowling Green State University (BGSU) offers 62 online and hybrid programs in various disciplines, including healthcare, business, and technology. Online classes here start six times per year and feature asynchronous delivery for ultimate flexibility. 

At BGSU Online, programs either run fully online in condensed seven-week or traditional 15-week sessions or in a hybrid format. Out-of-state students only pay an $11 nonresident fee on top of tuition and face no mandatory campus visits.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,776
Out-of-state
$18,765
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,017
Out-of-state
$14,009
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
17,645
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Ashland University

  • Ashland, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $590-$1,170
Out-of-State | $590-$1,170

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

A private Christian school, Ashland University offers its undergraduate students the choice of 50 online programs, including associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in business. Ashland's online students enjoy asynchronous classes and, in some programs, entirely self-paced studies. 

Ashland's online programs use state-of-the-art technology to leverage the same faculty and resources as its on-campus programs. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate as in-state learners. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,000
Out-of-state
$22,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,972
Out-of-state
$6,972
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
4,929
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

University of Toledo

  • Toledo, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $428-$640
Out-of-State | $429-$640

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

The University of Toledo has offered online programs for over 25 years, growing its catalog to more than 50 online programs. Called UToledo Online, the online school features programs in information technology, business, nursing, and education. 

Your online courses here typically run asynchronously throughout seven- or 15-week blocks. UToledo Online only adds a $1 surcharge on tuition for out-of-state students, and your tuition prices lock in for the length of your program when you first enroll. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,028
Out-of-state
$18,388
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,758
Out-of-state
$25,897
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
16,979
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Tiffin University

  • Tiffin, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525-$855
Out-of-State | $525-$855

Credits to Graduate: 121 (undergraduate)

Offering on-campus education for more than 130 years, Tiffin University also runs online programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Tiffin University features more than 11 online programs, each with six annual start dates, asynchronous classes, and an average 15-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio.

TU's online courses run asynchronously, and most of the online programs have no residency requirements. Online learners have access to professional workshops, individualized tutoring, and career support. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,780
Out-of-state
$27,780
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,600
Out-of-state
$12,600
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
2,934
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $298-$748
Out-of-State | $298-$748

Credits to Graduate: 124 (undergraduate)

Online students at Franklin University have plenty of options available to them, including 14 online information technology programs and over 20 online business programs. The programs feature flexible schedules for busy and working students, including asynchronous classes or synchronous sessions during the evenings. 

Most of the online programs offer multiple annual start dates and classes that run between 6-12 weeks. Franklin connects online students with a peer and professional network for additional support and mentorship.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$16,080
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,815
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Walsh University

  • North Canton, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $510-$745
Out-of-State | $510-$745

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

Located in Northeast Ohio, the Catholic Walsh University offers more than 30 online programs. Your online options include accelerated online bachelor's degrees in disciplines like aviation, business, and healthcare. You can also pursue several online master's and doctoral degrees. 

Online program structures vary by program, but most classes run asynchronously, though some evening and weekend sessions may be required. Programs usually feature 3-6 intakes each year, and some campus residencies may be required. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,205
Out-of-state
$30,205
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,410
Out-of-state
$13,410
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
2,440
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

  • Mount Vernon, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $265-$498
Out-of-State | $265-$498

Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate)

At Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU), you have over 40 online programs to choose from at the bachelor's and graduate levels, including options in ministry, business, and education. The Christian school's online programs feature no residency requirements and are accelerated and asynchronous. 

MVNU also offers online learners specialized career counseling and education workshops. To save you time on your degree, MVNU provides transfer credits for previous college courses, professional training, and credit by exam. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,483
Out-of-state
$23,483
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,674
Out-of-state
$10,674
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
2,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online (ASO) uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using data like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid awarded, and program offerings. And all our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

Our detailed methodology page can tell you more about how we create school rankings.


Why Accreditation Matters for Online Schools in Ohio

When applying to Ohio online colleges, you'll want to ensure each school is accredited.

Accreditation shows that an outside agency has reviewed the school and confirmed its academic quality. In other words, accreditation is a stamp of approval indicating that the school meets certain standards.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is the primary institutional accreditor for schools in Ohio.

If you're applying to online programs in professional fields like nursing or law, check that your program is programmatically accredited. Often, you can't qualify for state licensure unless you attend an accredited program and school.

How Much Do Online Colleges in Ohio Cost?

The average tuition and fees for four-year private colleges in Ohio were $35,352 in 2020-2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

If you're an Ohio resident, you can save money by opting for a public university. Tuition and fees for in-state residents at public schools averaged $10,049 that same year.

You can further lower your college costs by applying for federal financial aid each year you're in school.

The Ohio Department of Higher Education also offers many grants and scholarships to in-state students, with some specifically targeting nurses, veterans, and returning students.

4 Popular Cities for Online Colleges in Ohio

The four cities below are home to some of Ohio's biggest colleges and universities. They're also great places for online students to live and learn.

Columbus


Columbus is the largest city in Ohio, with a population of around 900,000. The city is home to Ohio State's main campus, which enrolls over 40,000 students. Local attractions include the Columbus Museum of Art, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Ohio Theatre.

Cleveland


After Columbus, Cleveland is the second largest city in Ohio, with a population of around 370,000. Cleveland is an exciting place for students of the arts and natural sciences. University Circle, which is located downtown, is home to landmarks like the Cleveland Botanical Garden, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Cincinnati


Cincinnati is a mid-sized city with a population of just over 300,000. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College has four locations throughout the city and surrounding area. Cincinnati is also rife with fun things to do and see, such as the Cincinnati Zoo and Findlay Market.

Lima


Lima is a smaller city in northwest Ohio, with a population of just 36,000. A prominent regional medical center, the city is also home to PG's Tide and Downy facilities. Lima is home to three educational institutions: the University of Northwestern Ohio, Ohio State at Lima, and Rhodes State College.

Online Colleges in Popular Ohio Cities
School Location Type Accreditation
Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Private, 4-Year HLC
Cincinnati State Cincinnati Public, 4-Year HLC
Cleveland State University Cleveland Public, 4-Year HLC
Columbus State Community College Columbus Public, 2-Year HLC
Cuyahoga Community College Cleveland Public, 2-Year HLC
Franklin University Columbus Private, 4-Year HLC
Mount Carmel College of Nursing Columbus Private, 4-Year HLC
Notre Dame College Cleveland Private, 4-Year HLC
Ohio Dominican University Columbus Private, 4-Year HLC
Rhodes State College Lima Public, 2-Year HLC
The Ohio State University Columbus Public, 4-Year HLC
University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Public, 4-Year HLC
University of Northwestern Ohio Lima Private, 4-Year HLC
Xavier University Cincinnati Private, 4-Year HLC

Did You Know...

Ohio State's Ohio Stadium in Columbus can fit 102,780 people!

What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs in Ohio?

The most in-demand jobs in Ohio vary widely in education requirements and salary expectations, with some asking for just a high school diploma and others requiring a graduate degree. These jobs also span many industries, from hospitality to healthcare.

Today, some of the fastest-growing jobs in Ohio include nurse practitioner, restaurant cook, and physician assistant.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Ohio
Job Median Annual Salary in OH (May 2021) Job Growth Rate in OH (2020-2030) Minimum Education Required
Nurse Practitioners $103,310 49% Master's
Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers $22,860 43% None
Restaurant Cooks $28,850 42% None
Statisticians $75,230 35% Master's
Occupational Therapy Assistants $61,390 31% Associate
Nonfarm Animal Caretakers $22,890 29% High school diploma
Medical and Health Services Managers $98,550 29% Bachelor's
Physician Assistants $102,510 29% Master's
Logisticians $77,030 28% Bachelor's
Physical Therapist Assistants $61,560 27% Associate

Sources: BLS, Projections Central

Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Online Colleges

How many colleges and universities are there in Ohio?

Ohio is home to a total of 289 colleges and universities. Of these, 127 are four-year institutions and 112 are two-year institutions. Ohio has 108 public colleges and universities and 84 private nonprofit schools. You can earn a bachelor's degree at 111 of these schools.

What Ohio colleges are online?

Many well-known Ohio colleges and universities offer online programs. These include Ohio State, Ohio University, and Miami University.

Is online school free in Ohio?

Online school is generally not free in Ohio. Like other online schools, Ohio online schools charge learners tuition and fees. You can save money by submitting the FAFSA and applying for scholarships.

Note, too, that tuition is often lower at public universities than it is at private schools.

How long do you have to live in Ohio to get in-state tuition?

In general, you have to live in Ohio for at least 12 months to qualify for in-state tuition.

That said, the Forever Buckeyes provision allows any students who've graduated from a public or private Ohio high school to qualify for in-state tuition, even if they moved away after graduation. In this case, you don't have to establish residency for one year before qualifying for in-state tuition.


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Recommended Reading

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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