Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

The best online colleges in Texas offer low tuition rates and top-notch academics. Check out the top ranked online schools in the Lone Star State.
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Updated December 21, 2023

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The Lone Star State is known for its cuisine, cattle ranching culture, and world-class colleges. From top-ranked public universities to elite private colleges, Texas is one of the best places to earn your degree. And you don’t have to live in the Lone Star State to attend a Texas college.

Accredited online colleges prioritize flexibility, academic quality, and value. Our ranking of the best online colleges in Texas can help you find the right fit to earn your degree.

Explore Our Featured Online Programs

Jump to the Best Online Colleges in Texas

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
$8,935 $21,204 68%
#2 University of North Texas
Denton, TX
$8,295 $18,111 81%
#3 The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX
$7,704 $23,112 100%
#4 Lamar University
Beaumont, TX
$6,228 $16,020 88%
#5 Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
$5,856 $15,648 97%
#6 Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
$4,495 $14,287 70%
#7 Stephen F Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX
$7,842 $18,858 83%
#8 The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX
$6,577 $18,817 65%
#9 Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX
$5,616 $15,408 96%
#10 University of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TX
$5,882 $15,740 95%

Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges in Texas

#1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $297-$705
Graduate | $347-$755

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's, doctorate

Texas Tech offers 80 online undergraduate, graduate, and career certificate programs through its 13 schools and colleges. In addition to fully online programs in majors such as business administration and criminology, you can study at the Lubbock campus or one of five regional sites through the hybrid format.

As a test-optional school, Texas Tech does not require SAT or ACT scores for first-time students. First-time students, transfer students, and graduate students must submit official transcripts, whether applying through the ApplyTexas Application or Common App.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,935
Out-of-state
$21,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,956
Out-of-state
$15,136
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
40,542
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

University of North Texas

  • Denton, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $393
Graduate | $459-$1,081

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's, doctorate

UNT Online provides a large catalog of distance learning options, with 87 virtual programs and 1,816 courses. Roughly 143,639 learners took online courses in the 2022 school year. Online programs include undergraduate, graduate, and accelerated programs that take between 12-18 months to complete.

You can also enroll in accelerated microcourses to learn data analytics, which you can stack to use toward a degree or certificate. 

Learning formats include online courses and in-person lessons at the Denton or Frisco campuses. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,111
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,350
Out-of-state
$13,694
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
42,441
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

The University of Texas at El Paso

  • El Paso, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $336-$420
Graduate | $490-$664

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's

UTEP, a top-ranked Hispanic-serving institution, offers 28 bachelor's and master's degrees. 

You can earn virtual degrees from departments like liberal arts, education, nursing, business, and engineering. UTEP also offers online graduate degrees. Online learners get access to the UTEP library, writing center, and career services.  

Master's students apply through the Graduate School Application, while undergraduates submit an application through ApplyTexas. Transfer students must hold 12 credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,704
Out-of-state
$23,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,865
Out-of-state
$15,320
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
24,003
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $314
Graduate | $359

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's, doctorate

LU's online degrees provide a flexible format and year-round start dates. The university offers 20 online undergraduate programs and 32 graduate degrees. Many graduate programs take as few as 15 months. 

Additionally, LU features 12 certificate options to choose from. Online learners receive personal assistance from enrollment to graduation with online advising and technology support. 

Prospective students can submit their applications via ApplyTexas. Undergraduates must submit their transcripts, while graduate students are required to submit GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,228
Out-of-state
$16,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,471
Out-of-state
$13,815
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,320
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $636
Graduate | $741

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's, doctorate

SHSU Online provides a range of virtual programs, including over 40 undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as multiple professional and graduate certificates. 

You can choose between online coursework or in-person lessons at the Huntsville or Woodlands campuses in Texas. As an undergraduate, you can major in communication studies, criminal justice, education, homeland security, or nursing.

Graduate degrees include business administration, curriculum and instruction, project management, and special education. Apply as an undergraduate or transfer student with 12 or more college credits.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,108
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
21,612
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Angelo State University

  • San Angelo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $187
Graduate | $232

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's, doctorate

Established in 1928, ASU offers more than 40 online programs, including nine undergraduate degrees, 24 master's degrees, and two doctoral programs. Choose from fully online or hybrid formats with classes available in San Angelo. 

ASU also offers an online dual bachelor's and master's program in management that takes five years to complete.

First-time students need to submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students need at least 12 transferable credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,495
Out-of-state
$14,287
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,181
Out-of-state
$11,525
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
10,826
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Stephen F Austin State University

  • Nacogdoches, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $561
Graduate | $566

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's 

SFA's six colleges feature 32 fully online degrees and several virtual certificates and minors. SFA joined the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements to offer distance learning programs in 2016. As an undergraduate, you can study general business, human sciences, nursing, or sports business. 

Graduate programs include business administration, interdisciplinary studies, educational leadership, and nursing. 

First-year students in the top 25% of their class can receive automatic admission. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA and 15 credits. Graduate students need a minimum 2.5 GPA. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,842
Out-of-state
$18,858
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,262
Out-of-state
$13,524
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
12,000
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

The University of Texas Permian Basin

  • Odessa, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $362
Out-of-State | $362

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor’s, master’s

University of Texas of the Permian Basin, located in Odessa, enrolls around 7,000 students and offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in an online format. Online students pay a flat tuition rate regardless of their state residency.

UTPB offers bachelor’s degrees in humanities, accounting, psychology, or industrial technology. You can also choose a master’s program in English, special education, criminal justice administration, or educational leadership. 

The university’s MBA program offers in-demand concentrations in accounting, finance, and marketing, plus a unique option in energy business.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,577
Out-of-state
$18,817
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,948
Out-of-state
$12,292
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
5,534
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
81% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

Texas Woman's University

  • Denton, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $238
Out-of-State | $658

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate

This public institution graduates more healthcare professionals than any other university in Texas. And despite its name, Texas Woman's University is coed, with women making up 89% of students.

TWU offers an online bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, health studies, or nursing. Or you can pursue a degree in accounting, child development, or data science.

At the graduate level, you can earn your MSN or DNP to become a nurse practitioner or earn a graduate degree in occupational therapy, library science, or school counseling.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,616
Out-of-state
$15,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,112
Out-of-state
$12,456
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
16,338
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024

University of Houston-Downtown

  • Houston, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
Undergraduate | $245-$665
Graduate | $413-$783

Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor's, master's

University of Houston-Downtown has three colleges: the College of Humanities and Social Studies, the College of Public Service, and the Marilyn Davies College of Business. You can pick from 15 bachelor's degree programs and five graduate degree programs.

You can complete online coursework or a hybrid program at four off-campus locations. These degree completion programs admit students holding credits from other universities or community colleges. 

UHD accepts transfer students with 15 or more college credits, transient students earning a degree elsewhere, or graduate students. Majors include psychology, criminal justice, supply chain management, and marketing. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,882
Out-of-state
$15,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,073
Out-of-state
$14,535
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
15,077
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
81% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

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

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page.


Did You Know...

Why Does Accreditation Matter for Online Colleges in Texas?

Institutional accreditation guarantees a quality education. That means accredited online colleges in Texas have undergone extensive evaluation by recognized accrediting agencies.

The accreditation process happens on an ongoing basis. Colleges must continue to meet evaluation criteria in order to renew their accreditation status.

Attending an accredited online college in Texas ensures you can transfer credits to other accredited institutions and earn a recognized degree. Attending an unaccredited college could limit your career prospects and ability to get federal financial aid.

Here are a few accrediting agencies to look for when researching online colleges in Texas:

How Much Does Online School in Texas Cost?

Online colleges in Texas cost anywhere from roughly $3,000-$39,000 a year in tuition and fees.

In general, public in-state two-year colleges will be your cheapest option, and private four-year colleges will be your most expensive option.

How much you spend on your online degree from Texas will ultimately depend on the length of the program, whether the school is public or private, and how much financial aid you get.

Some online schools in Texas offer discounted or in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of residency. Even the best online colleges in Texas can cost less than schools in high-tuition states like Vermont and New Hampshire.

Many online colleges in Texas offer scholarships and grants, so be sure to fill out the FAFSA.

How Do I Choose the Best Texas College for Me?

With so many online colleges in Texas, it can be hard to narrow down your options. Before researching specific schools, consider your budget and your field of study. Then, you can look for colleges that match your interests and needs.

Make sure to choose an accredited online college. Accredited schools meet high standards for academic excellence. At an accredited institution, you’ll also qualify for more forms of financial aid. As an online learner, it’s also a good idea to research support services that help you reach your educational goals.

Fast-Growing Jobs in Texas

Roughly 14.5 million people make up the civilian labor force in Texas, a state with a population of more than 29 million. Hospitality, healthcare, tech, and green energy are some of the fastest-growing industries in Texas.

Many in-demand jobs in Texas offer salaries above the national average.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Texas has an unemployment rate of 4% as of October 2023, which is similar to the national unemployment rate of 3.7%.

10 Fastest-Growing Job Fields in Texas
Job Job Growth Rate (2021-2031) Avg. Annual Salary (May 2022)
Wind Turbine Service Technicians 102% $54,790
Nurse Practitioner 66% $124,660
Cooks, Restaurant 65% $30,300
Statisticians 52% $88,630
Data Scientists 50% $102,230
Information Security Analysts 50% $115,570
Logisticians 48% $77,350
Occupational Therapy Assistants 47% $74,750
Physical Therapist Assistants 45% $73,770
Medical and Health Services Managers 43% $118,700
Sources: Projections Central, BLS

Highest-Paying Jobs in Texas

You likely already know it: If you want to get paid well in Texas, you usually need a college education. The degree you'll need, though, will depend on the industry.

Some of the highest-paying jobs in Texas, like doctor or surgeon, require a doctoral degree. But other top-paying careers, like petroleum engineer and air traffic controller, only require an undergraduate degree.

10 High-Paying Jobs in Texas
Job Avg. Annual Salary (May 2022) Minimum Education Required
Cardiologists $413,510 Doctorate
Chief Executives $314,060 Bachelor's
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers $212,940 Bachelor's
Family Medicine Physicians $211,940 Doctorate
Nurse Anesthetists $208,940 Master's
Architectural and Engineering Managers $168,180 Bachelor's
Computer and Information Systems Managers $156,150 Bachelor's
Petroleum Engineers $150,860 Bachelor's
Air Traffic Controllers $145,280 Associate
Computer and Information Research Scientists $142,740 Master's
Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Schools in Texas

How many colleges does Texas have?

Texas is home to 148 colleges and universities, according to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. That includes 37 public universities, 50 community college districts, and 38 private universities. Many of these Texas colleges offer online degrees.

Which is the hardest college to get into in Texas?

The hardest college to get into in Texas is Rice University. A private institution, Rice receives more than 30,000 applications every year and admits 9% of applicants, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

The most selective public university is the University of Texas at Austin, which admits 31% of applicants.

What colleges are in Houston, Texas?

Houston is home to Rice University, the University of Houston, and Texas Southern University.

As the largest city in Texas, Houston is also home to nearly 430,000 college students. Many universities in Houston also offer online programs and tuition discounts to Texas residents.

What Texas colleges offer online programs?

Many top-ranked colleges and universities in Texas, including the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Rice University, offer fully online programs and classes.

You can choose from among 148 postsecondary institutions to attend in Texas. This number includes state colleges, universities, community colleges, and trade schools.

What is the cheapest college in Texas?

According to NCES data, the cheapest four-year colleges in Texas include Texas A&M International University (2021-2022 net price: $5,383), Texas A&M University-Central Texas (net price: $5,465), and Jarvis Christian University (net price: $7,365).

Attending an online college in Texas as an out-of-state student can greatly increase how much you pay in tuition and fees.


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Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed December 20, 2023.

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