For many of the top online schools, graduate tuition costs vary depending on the particular online graduate degree program. In determining which of the best distance universities to include in our ranking of the most affordable online graduate schools for masters degrees we looked at the per credit tuition costs of the cheapest online masters degree programs offered by each institution. We did our best to include all applicable per credit fees as well.

The colleges and universities with most inexpensive graduate degree programs are as follows:

#1. California Coast University ($230 per credit)
#2. Western Governors University ($241 per credit)
#3. Sullivan University ($283-$375 per credit)
#4. Saint Joseph’s College Online ($315-$475 per credit)
#5. Capella University ($375-$614 per credit)
#6. Baker College Online ($375 per credit)
#7. Walden University ($410-$700 per credit)
#8. American Sentinel University ($420-$450 per credit)
#9. Kaplan University Online ($441 per credit)
#10. Colorado State University Global Campus ($450 per credit)

More information about each school and the online masters degree programs offered can be found below.

#1. California Coast University

A private, non-profit university, California Coast University is headquartered in Santa Ana, CA but does without a traditional campus since all of its degree programs are offered completely online. Founded in 1973, the schools offers a wide selection of online graduate courses and degree programs.

Online Masters Degrees

California Coast University offers the most affordable online masters degree programs we could find, with tuition for all online graduate degree programs set at $230 per credit hour. The university offers masters degrees online in several different fields, including Organizational Management, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Education, and Business.

Accreditation

California Coast University is nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).

>>Click here to request more information from California Coast University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#2. Western Governors University

A private, non-profit online university, Western Governors University (WGU) currently has campuses in Utah, Indiana, Texas, Washington, and online. WGU was established by 19 Western state governors in 1997 in an attempt to improve access to quality higher education for working people.

Online Masters Degrees

Western Governors University charges a flat tuition rate per term rather than per credit. This means students pay the same amount for a six month term regardless of how many credit hours they take during that term. A standard full-time term is 12 credit hours, which averages out to about $241 per credit for their cheapest online masters degree programs, which include degrees in Education, Teaching, Information Technology, and Business.

Accreditation

Western Governors University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and also nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council.

>>Click here to request more information from Western Governors University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#3. Sullivan University

Sullivan University is private, for-profit university based in Louisville, KY. Established in 1962, the Sullivan is the largest private university in the state of Kentucky, with physical campuses in Louisville, Lexington, and Fort Knox, in addition to its online Global e-Learning campus.

Online Masters Degrees

Sullivan University’s Global e-Campus offers several affordable graduate degree programs online, ranging from $283-$375 per credit hour. Sullivan master’s degree programs online include programs in Business, Conflict Management, Human Resources Leadership, Information Technology, and Management.

Accreditation

Sullivan University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Sullivan University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#4. Saint Joseph’s College Online

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is a private, Catholic liberal arts college in Standish, ME. Saint Joseph’s was established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1912, and remains the only Catholic college in the state of Maine. In addition to traditional campus-based programs, the school offers several undergraduate and graduate programs online.

Online Masters Degrees

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers several inexpensive online masters degree programs ranging from $315-$475 per credit hour. Among the college’s cheapest masters degrees online are programs in Accounting, Pastoral Theology, Education, and Business.

Accreditation

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

>>Click here to request more information from Saint Joseph’s College Online about their online master’s degree programs<<

#5. Capella University

Capella University is a private, for-profit university in Minneapolis, MN. Established in 1991, Capella primarily serves working adult students and has earned a reputation for academic rigor and exceptional learning outcomes among online universities.

Online Masters Degrees

Capella University offers a number of inexpensive masters degrees online, ranging from $375-$614 per credit hour. Among the cheapest online graduate degrees at Capella are master’s programs in Education, Business, Health Administration, Counseling, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Project Management.

Accreditation

Capella University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Capella University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#6. Baker College Online

A private, not-for-profit career college with multiple campuses throughout the state of Michigan, Baker College was established in 1965. The school has since grown to become the largest private, non-profit college in Michigan, with over 42,000 students enrolled.

Online Masters Degrees

Baker College Online is one of the cheapest online universities for masters degrees with a flat rate of $375 per credit for all of its online graduate programs. Students can choose from online master’s degree programs in Accounting, Business, Psychology, and Information Systems, among others.

Accreditation

Baker College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Baker College Online about their online master’s degree programs<<

#7. Walden University

Walden University is a private, for-profit university based in Minneapolis, MN. Walden is a completely virtual university, with all of its degree programs administered online. Established by two teachers in 1970, the school has a reputation for socially progressive values and former president Bill Clinton serves as its Honorary Chancellor.

Online Masters Degrees

Walden University offers many cost effective masters degree programs online, ranging from $410-$700 per credit hour. Affordable online graduate degrees at Walden include online masters programs in Psychology, Criminal Justice, Counseling, Management, Education, and many, many more.

Accreditation

Walden University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Walden University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#8. American Sentinel University

American Sentinel University (ASU) is a private, for-profit university with offices in Denver, CO and Birmingham, AL. Established in 1988, ASU does not maintain a traditional brick-and-mortar campus since all of its degree programs are offered completely online.

Online Masters Degrees

American Sentinel University offers a number of low cost masters degrees online, with tuition ranging from $420-$450 per credit hour. ASU’s most affordable online graduate programs include master’s degrees in Computer Science, Information Systems, Management, and Nursing.

Accreditation

American Sentinel University is nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council.

>>Click here to request more information from American Sentinel University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#9. Kaplan University Online

Kaplan University is a private, for-profit university with campuses across the United States and a large online division. Founded as the American Institute of Commerce in 1937, the school was later renamed in honor of Stanley H. Kaplan, founder of the Kaplan Test Prep company.

Online Masters Degrees

Kaplan University Online offers several very inexpensive master’s degrees online at $441 per credit hour. Among the low cost online masters degrees from Kaplan are programs in Teaching, Health Care Administration, Business, Accounting, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, Psychology, and many, many more.

Accreditation

Kaplan University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Kaplan University about their online master’s degree programs<<

#10. Colorado State University Global Campus

Colorado State University Global Campus (CSU Global) is fully online public university and part of the Colorado State University System. Established in 2008, CSU Global focuses on providing degree programs for working adults and other non-traditional students.

Online Masters Degrees

Colorado State University Global Campus offers the cheapest online masters degree programs of any public university on our list, with tuition for all online graduate programs set at $450 per credit hour. CSU Global offers master’s degrees online in Teaching, Organizational Leadership, and Management, with numerous specializations available.

Accreditation

Colorado State University Global Campus is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information from Colorado State University Global Campus about their online master’s degree programs<<

Honorable Mentions

Here are some of the other most affordable online universities for master’s degrees that just missed making it into our top 10.

Liberty University Online

Online master’s degree programs starting at $465 per (full-time) credit hour.

Grand Canyon University

Online master’s degree programs starting at $495 per credit hour.

University of Advancing Technology

Online master’s degree programs with a flat semester rate, estimated at $467 per credit hour at 12 credits per semester.

Saint Leo University

Online master’s degree programs starting at $470 per credit hour.

Oregon State University (OSU Extended Campus)

Online master’s degree programs ranging from $478-$495 per credit hour.

For many of the best online colleges, tuition costs vary depending on the particular online degree program chosen. In determining which colleges to include in our ranking of the most affordable online schools for bachelors degrees we looked at the per credit tuition costs of the cheapest online bachelors degree programs offered by each school. We did our best to include all applicable per credit fees in the numbers quoted below to give you a true sense of the total cost per credit.

#1. California Coast University ($150 per credit)
#2. Ohio University Online ($153/$157 per credit)
#3. Baker College Online ($210 per credit)
#4. Western Governors University ($241 per credit*)
#5. Oregon State University ($248 per credit)
#6. Walden University ($280 per credit)
#7. Capella University ($290 per credit)
#8. Herzing University ($300 per credit)
#9. American InterContinental University ($302 per credit)
10. Colorado Technical University ($305 per credit)

You can find more information about each school and the online bachelor degree programs offered below.

Keep in mind that it’s not always the best, or even more cost effective, to go with the online bachelors degree program with the cheapest per credit tuition. Some inexpensive online schools with low cost per credit tuition require more credit hours to complete a degree program than colleges with higher per credit tuition, and actually end up being more expensive when all is said and done. It’s important to check the number of credit hours required for the degree program you are interested in and do the math.

Also, if the program is not from an accredited online school, you could end up with an online degree not even worth the cheap tuition you paid for it. In general, an online bachelors degree from a regionally accredited online college is considered more prestigious than one from a nationally accredited online school. Credits earned for online courses at a regionally accredited college are also typically more easily transferable to other schools and more likely to be eligible for reimbursement by corporate tuition reimbursement plans. On the other hand, regionally accredited online bachelors degree programs tend to have more competitive admissions and are usually more expensive. In our ranking of the cheapest online colleges and universities we included both regionally and nationally accredited schools.

#1. California Coast University

California Coast University is a private, non-profit university headquartered in Santa Ana, CA. The school was founded in 1973, but doesn’t have a brick-and-mortar campus because it offers all of its degrees through distance education courses online.

Online Bachelor Degrees

California Coast University offers the most affordable online bachelor degree programs we could find, with tuition for all online undergraduate degrees set at $150 per credit hour. The university offers bachelor degrees online in several of the most popular degree majors, including Business Administration, Business Marketing, Healthcare Administration, Management, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and General Studies.

Accreditation

California Coast University is nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from California Coast University<<

#2. Ohio University Online

Ohio University is a public research university in Athens, OH. Established in 1804, the school is one of the oldest public universities in the United States.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Ohio University Online offers the most inexpensive online bachelor degrees of any regionally accredited online college we could find, with tuition starting at $153 (OH residents)/$157 (nonresidents) per credit hour. Online bachelor degree completion programs are available in Nursing, Technical and Applied Studies, and Criminal Justice.

Accreditation

Ohio University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees at Ohio University Online<<

#3. Baker College Online

Baker College is a private, non-profit career college with multiple campuses throughout the state of Michigan. The college was founded in 1965, growing to become the largest private, non-profit college in Michigan, enrolling over 42,000 students.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Baker College Online is the third cheapest online college for bachelor degrees we could find overall, and the second least expensive regionally accredited online college. With tuition for all undergraduate programs weighing in at a mere $210 per credit hour, students can choose from online bachelor’s degree programs in Business Administration, Information Systems, Computer Science, General Studies, Health Services Administration, Information Technology and Security, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Psychology, Web Development, and more.

Accreditation

Baker College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Baker College Online<<

#4. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private, non-profit university located in Utah, Indiana, Texas, Washington, and Online. The university was founded in 1997 by 19 Western state governors wanting to increase access to quality higher education, hence its name.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Western Governors University is unique in that it charges a flat rate per term rather than per credit. This means students pay the same amount for a six month term regardless of how many credit hours they take during that term. A standard full-time term is 12 credit hours, which averages out to about $241 per credit for their cheapest online bachelor degree programs, which includes degrees in Business, Internet Technology, and Teaching.

Accreditation

Western Governors University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and also nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Washington Governors University<<

#5. Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) is a public research university in Corvalis, OR. Established in 1868, OSU is one of the flagship public universities of the state of Oregon.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Oregon State University’s Extended Campus offers affordable online undergraduate degree programs for $248 per credit regardless of residency status. The school’s inexpensive bachelor’s degree programs online include Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, Sociology, Women’s Studies, Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Economics & Policy, Horticulture, and Human Development & Family Sciences.

Accreditation

Oregon State University and the OSU Ecampus are regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Oregon State University<<

#6. Walden University

Walden University is a private, for-profit university headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, though its classrooms are completely virtual. The school was established by two teachers in 1970 and former president Bill Clinton is the Honorary Chancellor.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Many of Walden University’s online bachelor degree programs start at $280 per credit. These include bachelor programs in Health Studies, Public Health, Business Administration, Child Development, Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice, Education, Psychology, Internet Technology, Human Services, Education, and more.

Accreditation

Walden University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Walden University<<

#7. Capella University

Capella University is a private, for-profit university based in Minneapolis, MN. The school was founded in 1991 to serve working adult students and has since gone on to win awards for outstanding academic rigor and learning outcomes among online colleges.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Capella University offers a number of inexpensive bachelor degrees online, starting at $290 per credit. Online bachelor’s programs at Capella include Accounting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Finance, Internet Technology, Psychology, Healthcare Management, Health Informatics, Homeland Security, Internet Technology, and more.

Accreditation

Capella University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Capella University<<

#8. Herzing University

Herzing University is a private, for-profit career school with campuses throughout the Southern and Midwestern United States, as well as online. The school was founded as a computer training school by Henry and Suzanne Herzing in 1965, and now serves most of its students through its Online Campus.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Tuition at Herzing University varies depending on the number of credit hours enrolled, but tuition for full-time online undergraduates starts at $300 per credit. Herzing offers affordable bachelor degrees online in Accounting, Business Management, Criminal Justice, Graphic Design, Healthcare Management, Legal Studies, Nursing, and more.

Accreditation

Herzing University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Herzing University<<

#9. American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University (AIU) is a private, for-profit university with multiple campus in the United States and around the world. The university was established in 1970 and currently enrolls about 24,000 students, the majority of them online through AIU Online.

Online Bachelor Degrees Offered

American InterContinental University offers a number of low cost online bachelor degree programs, with undergraduate tuition set at $302 per credit hour. AIU offer bachelor degree programs online in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Accounting, Information Technology, and Fine Arts.

Accreditation

American InterContinental University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from American InterContinental University<<

#10. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University is a private, for-profit university with campuses in Colorado, Missouri, North Dakota, and Online. The school was established in 1965 with a focus on training former military personnel in technical and vocational majors.

Online Bachelor Degrees

Colorado Technical University offers several low cost online bachelor degree programs starting at $305 per credit. Bachelor’s degrees available online include Accounting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Finance, Information Technology, Psychology, and more.

Accreditation

Colorado Technical University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online bachelors degrees from Colorado Technical University<<

Honorable Mentions

Here are some of the other most affordable online colleges and universities that just missed making it into our top 10.

Southern New Hampshire University

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $320 per credit.

Liberty University Online

Online bachelor’s degree starting at $325 per credit.

Sullivan University

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $333 per credit.

Colorado State University-Global Campus

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $350 per credit.

American Sentinel University

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $350 per credit.

Bay State College

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $350 per credit.

Kaplan University

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $371 per credit.

Eastern Kentucky University

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $377 per credit.

University of Minnesota, Crookston

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $417.85 per credit.

CUNY School of Professional Studies

Online bachelor’s degree programs starting at $485 per credit.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using this ranking. For many top online colleges, tuition costs vary depending on the particular online degree program chosen. In determining which colleges to include in our ranking of the most affordable online schools for associates degrees we looked at the tuition costs of the cheapest online associates degree program offered by each school.

#1. Ivy Bridge College
#2. California Coast University
#3. Southern New Hampshire University
#4. Kent State University
#5. Liberty University Online
#6. Virginia College
#7. Iowa Central College Online
#8. Mid-America Christian University
#9. Baker College Online
#10. American InterContinental University

More information about each of the ranked schools, including tuition costs and the online associates degrees they offer, can be found below.

It’s important to note that deciding which are the lowest cost online associates degree programs can be determined based either on the total tuition of an entire degree program or the tuition cost per credit hour. It’s possible for an online school with the cheapest tuition per credit hour to cost more in the long run than another school with more expensive per credit tuition if that school requires fewer credit hours to complete the degree. We’ve organized our tuition ranking based on the total estimated cost of the least expensive online associates degree program offered by the school, but also show the per credit tuition cost.

Finally, it’s not always the best idea to go with the online associates degree program with the cheapest tuition. If the program is not from an accredited online school, you could end up with a degree not even worth the cheap tuition you paid for it. In general, an online associates degree from a regionally accredited online college is considered more prestigious than one from a nationally accredited online school. Credits earned for online courses at a regionally accredited college are also typically more easily transferable to other schools and more likely to be eligible for reimbursement by corporate tuition reimbursement plans. That said, regionally accredited online associates degree programs tend to have more competitive admissions and are usually more expensive.

#1. Ivy Bridge College

Ivy Bridge College is part of Tiffin University, a private university in Tiffin, OH. Tiffin University was founded in 1888, and has multiple campuses throughout the state of Ohio, at the University of Bucharest in Romania, and online.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Ivy Bridge College offers inexpensive online associates degree programs starting as low as $4,200 ($68.85 per credit) for an online associates in Accounting. Other low cost online associates degrees offered by the school include General Studies, Business, Computer and Information Technology, Healthcare Administration, Sports Management, Corrections, Homeland Security, and Law Enforcement.

Accreditation

Ivy Bridge College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Commission (NCA).

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from Ivy Bridge College<<

#2. California Coast University

California Coast University (CCU) is a private, non-profit university in Santa Ana, CA. CCU was founded in 1973, and has no campus classroom, offering all of its classes as distance education courses online.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

California Coast University offers a number of low cost online associates degrees starting at $9,000 ($150 per credit hour). Associates programs online at this cost include General Studies, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Health Care Administration, Business Marketing, and Business Administration.

Accreditation

California Coast University is nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from California Coast University<<

#3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, non-profit university split between Manchester and Hooksett, NH. SNHU was established in 1932 as the New Hampshire School of Accounting Secretarial Science, adopting its current name in 2001 to reflect its growth into a comprehensive university.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Southern New Hampshire University offers an array of inexpensive online associates degrees, starting as low as $11,500 ($319.44 per credit) for an associates in Marketing. Other low cost online associates degree programs available include and online associates in Fashion Merchandising.

Accreditation

Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from Southern New Hampshire University<<

#4. Kent State University

Kent State University is a public research university in Kent, OH. Founded as a teacher training school in 1910, Kent State has grown to become one of the largest universities in the state of Ohio and among the most respected universities in the world.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Kent State University offers and affordable online associate degree in Computer Technology, with tuition for the entire program set at $17,306 ($288.43 per credit). Kent State does not offer any other online associates degree programs at this time.

Accreditation

Kent State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from Kent State University<<

#5. Liberty University Online

Liberty University a private, non-profit Christian university in Lynchburg, VA. Founded in 1971, Liberty University has grown to become the largest Evangelical Christian university in world, with most students taking distance education courses through Liberty University Online.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Liberty University Online offers a number of cheap online associates degree programs starting at $18,200 ($303.33 per credit). Associates degrees offered online at this price include Education, Religion, Psychology, Business, Management, Interdisciplinary Studies, Criminal Justice, and Accounting.

Accreditation

Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from Liberty University Online<<

#6. Virginia College

Virginia College is a private, for-profit proprietary college with multiple campuses across the Southeastern United States. The original Virginia College was established in Roanoke, VA in 1983. The college is currently owned by Education Corporation of America headquartered in Birmingham, AL.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Virginia College offers an online associate degree program in Culinary Arts for $18,900 ($196.88 per credit). Other inexpensive online associates degree programs at Virginia College include Networking Technology, Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Paralegal Studies.

Accreditation

Virginia College is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from Virginia College<<

#7. Iowa Central College Online

Iowa Central College is a public community college located in Fort Dodge, IA. The school was founded in 1966 and now includes satellite campuses Webster City and Storm Lake in addition to its online campus Iowa Central College Online.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Iowa Central College Online offers affordable online associates programs starting at $18,910 ($305 per credit) for an online associates in Arts. Other cheap online associates degree programs at the school include Health Care Administration, Computer Networking Technology, Logistics and Transportation Management, Human Services, and Criminal Justice.

Accreditation

Iowa Central Community College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees at Iowa Central College Online<<

#8. Mid-America Christian University

Mid-America Christian University is a private, Christian liberal arts college in Oklahoma City, OK. Founded as the South Texas Bible Institute in 1953 and located in Houston, TX, the school changed its name and moved to Oklahoma in 1984.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Mid-America Christian University offers a low cost online associates degree program in Arts and Ethics for $19,000 ($296.88 per credit). The school does not currently offer any other online associates degrees at this time.

Accreditation

Mid-America Christian University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#9. Baker College Online

Baker College is a private, non-profit career college with campuses throughout Michigan. Founded in 1965, the Baker College System is now the largest private, non-profit college in the state of Michigan, with over 42,000 students.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

Baker College Online offers a number of inexpensive associate degree programs online starting at $19,065 ($205 per credit). These programs include degrees in Marketing, Business, Management, Human Resource Management, Accounting, Web Development, and Computer Programming. Other cheap online associates degree options include Information Technology Support and Emergency Services Management.

Accreditation

Baker College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees at Baker College Online<<

#10. American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University (AIU) is a private, for-profit university with multiple campus in the United States, the United Kingdom, Dubai and online. Established in 1970, AIU enrolls about 24,000 students, with the vast majority of them at their online campus AIU Online.

Online Associate Degrees Offered

American InterContinental University offers their most affordable online associates degrees starting at $27,180 ($302 per credit). AIU associates degrees online at this price include Visual Communications, Business Administration, and Criminal Justice.

Accreditation

American InterContinental University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

>>Click here to request more information about online associates degrees from American InterContinental University<<

College campuses play a large role in the quality of life of students, and we at Top Colleges Online believe a quality campus plays a significant part in creating a quality learning environment and successful educational experience. Many college campuses are pleasant, but some go a step further and are themselves intellectually stimulating by being interesting architecturally.

Students who love their college campuses report greater overall satisfaction with their college experience, and so we have gathered 50 different examples of awesome college architecture that go a long way towards creating loved college campuses. Within this list lies tremendous opportunity for educational inspiration and memorable college experiences.

50. Bennington College’s Student Housing

Bennington College is a small (and famously expensive) liberal arts college in Vermont. Its student housing is unusual in that rather than dorms, students live in houses. Some are from the 30s when the campus was first opened, but far more interesting are a series that were constructed in the 1970s by Edward Larrabee Barnes. A prominent and award winning architect from the middle of the 20th-century, he’s just one of the many designers that gave their skills to this small college.

49. Wellesley’s Galen Stone Tower

Rising above Wellesley’s Green Hall is the 182-foot high Galen Stone Tower, named for the trustee who funded it. A focal point of the campus, it houses a 32-bell carillon, which is often played by the students at major events. Arguably the most visually striking part of the campus, it’s a classic example of neo-Gothic architecture, and instantly recognizable.

48. University of Chicago’s Main Quad

Where most universities may be content with a simple quadrangle, a four sided hunk of grass surrounded by old buildings, not UC. No, they decided to build a quadrangle at the heart of their college, a quadrangle made up of other, smaller quadrangles. These are the oldest buildings on campus, and the Main Quadrangle is made up of six smaller quadrangles, each surrounded by buildings, bordering one larger quadrangle. Designed in the Collegiate Gothic and Victorian Gothic styles, they were built with the intent to mimic the classic structures of Oxford and Cambridge.

47. MIT’s Ray and Maria Stata Center

There is plenty to dislike about the Ray and Maria Stata Center at MIT. It leaks, the elevators are impossible to get anywhere on, there’s no soundproofing, and it’s incredibly jarring when in context of the rest of the buildings around it. However, it’s also a brilliant and visionary design by one of the most famous living architects, Frank Gehry. Completed in 2004, it’s a bizarre chimera looking building, and cost almost $300 million to build, causing something of an uproar.

46. Stanford’s Main Quad

When Stanford University was first constructed, it was undertaken in the then current Mission Revival style, which is still found throughout California. Designed by Charles Allerton Coolidge, the buildings were generally rectangular in shape, with half-circle arches, red tile roofs, and sandstone masonry. Unfortunately, the great earthquake of 1906 destroyed much of this original architecture, but Stanford’s Main Quad survived, as a legacy of this once classic style.

45. Arcadia University’s Grey Towers Castle

Construction began on Grey Towers Castle in 1893, but it wasn’t until 1929 when it was purchased by what was at that point Beaver College. Now part of Arcadia University, the Castle is an incredible and elegant construction of grey stone. Crafted in a variety of styles, it somehow manages to blend into a seamless whole. It’s a building beloved by the students of the college, and rumored to be crisscrossed with secret passages used for illicit liaisons from its earlier days.

44. Princeton’s University Chapel

You’ll see no shortage of chapels on this list, as religious buildings have always had a flair for the dramatic, even on campuses. The third largest university chapel in the world, this was built in the 1920s at an astonishing cost of $2 million, and is based on the fourteenth century English Gothic style. Built of sand- and lime-stone, it has an extensive array of iconography, crafted of stained glass, stone masonry, and wood carvings.

43. The University of the South’s All Saints Chapel

The chapel at Sewanee was completed in 1959 based on architectural plans that had been drawn up by Ralph Adams Cram in 1904. The design is inspired by numerous famous buildings, including the University Church at Oxford University, Notre Dame de Paris, and the French cathedrals Chartres and Amiens.

42. Harvard University’s Harvard Yard

More than just a shibboleth for anyone who’s been in Massachusetts too long, Harvard Yard is a central component of the life of Harvard University. Harvard is the oldest university in the USA, and Harvard Yard is the oldest part of said University. It’s 25 acres of green grass, surrounded by old buildings and older money and contains thirteen freshman dormitories, four libraries, five buildings of classrooms departments, and the central administrative offices of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and the university. While not a building in and of itself, it’s iconic nature deserves recognition.

41. Rhodes College’s Palmer Hall

Rhodes College is renowned for its Gothic architecture, to the point where thirteen of its campus buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. While any number of them will fit on this list, perhaps the most iconic of the lot is Palmer Hall, which was built in 1925, and designed by Henry Hibbs — the man behind many of Princeton’s buildings. In 1962 a 140-foot tower was added to the building, giving it a commanding presence over the entire campus.

40. Loyola Marymount University’s University Hall

Acquired by the university in 2000, University Hall was originally constructed as the world headquarters of Hughes Aircraft. This enormous corporate facility became an immense academic one, with both office and classroom space. It has 500,000-square-feet of space, is constructed of steel and concrete and is divided into seven structures — it even manages to fit the entire Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts inside it. Additionally, there’s a 70,000-square-foot atrium, and plenty of parking.

39. Bard College’s Fisher Center

The Fisher Center, or more accurately, the Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, is Frank Gehry design, this time at the small, liberal arts Bard College. The building contains two theaters and four rehearsal studios, as well as all the support facilities required. It’s been called “the best small concert hall in America”, and both of the theaters within are immensely flexible. There’s the 900 seat Sosnoff Theater, which features acoustic design by Yasuhisa Toyota, which can be converted from theater to concert hall. Theater Two holds a much more intimate 200 viewers.

38. University of Cincinnati’s Vontz Center for Molecular Studies

Let’s just put it this way. You can never go wrong with Frank Gehry. This bizarre, almost cartoonish, building is part of the UC medical campus. It’s a panoply of curved lines, skewed windows, tilted angles, making it stand out significantly from other buildings near by. Inside it fits 150,000 square feet of labs, offices and lecture halls. Built around the same time as Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, it cost a whopping $46 million to construct.

37. Stanford’s Memorial Church

When the Memorial Church at Stanford was dedicated in 1903, it was one of the first non-denominational churches on the West Coast, and remains one of the most prominent to this day. Most obviously marked by an enormous biblical fresco on the front of the building, the church is constructed in a Venetian style, with Byzantine details. The church has four pipe organs, and its eclectic style marks it as a product of the American Renaissance. Unfortunately, time has not been kind to the building, and it has weathered two severe earthquakes, requiring major repair work after each.

36. Notre Dame’s Basilica of the Sacred Heart

While the Main Building may be the most obvious physical feature of Notre Dame, it’s actually less high than the incredible Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The tower of the church stretches an incredible 218 feet into the air, and took 18 years to build from 1870 to 1888. A classic example of neo-gothic architecture, its covered with elaborate decorations including 44 stained glass windows and murals by by Vatican painter Luigi Gregori, and more than 116 stained glass windows overall. In 1992, Pope John Paul II elevated the building from church to basilica, and ensured it remained a major attraction at the school.

35. University of Cincinnati’s Steger Student Life Center

Since the 1990s, University of Cincinnati has pushed to differentiate itself from the competition through architecture, of which there are a great number of absolutely incredible campus buildings designed by modern architects. The Steger Student Life Center was built in 2005 by Moore Ruble Yudell, and houses many of the student organizations on campus. The building itself is like a bizarre and wonderful marriage between a curve and the prow of a ship. Long and thin, it pierces the air around it, while maintaining its own unique form.

34. CalTech’s Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics

A design by the incredible Morphosis firm, the Cahill Center looks all the world like a building passed through a broken mirror. With dramatic slashes through its outer walls, and areas jutting out at bizarre angles, it should be a painfully incongruous building. It’s not. It stands out, but more from its excellence than anything else. While Morphosis calls this one of their more conservative buildings (a statement that almost makes sense, given its low and long profile), its outside is still remarkable, even more so main internal staircase.

33. University of San Diego’s Immaculata Chapel

The entirety of USD’s architecture is based on the 16th century Spanish Renaissance, of which the chapel is a prime example. The style is specifically modeled on the Universidad de Alcalá in Spain, and while the chapel is no longer an official part of USD, it’s still very much associated with the Catholic university, and a major part of campus life for practitioners of the faith. The Plateresque style is incredibly ornate, and is an evolution of Gothic detail and forms, and is primarily noted for its ornate decorative facades, covered with flowers, creatures, and other carvings.

32. UCSD’s Geisel Library

The Geisel Library is named in honor of Theodor Geisel — a man better known to you and me as Dr. Seuss. That’s right, UCSD has a Dr. Seuss library — and while it’s not quite as bizarre as you’d assume a library named after the famed absurdest children’s illustrator would be, it’s still a remarkable looking building. So much so, in fact, that it’s featured on UCSD’s logo. It has a remarkable shape, with its middle floor the largest, and comparatively tiny lower and upper levels, and easily the most recognizable on campus.

31. University of Washington’s Quad

Practically every University in existence has a quad, so what in the world makes this one special? The trees. In 1964, some 40 cherry trees were moved to the Quad, and every spring when the cherry blossoms show, it’s a major deal. For a scant two weeks, the Quad becomes covered in a haze of pink petals, an annual event that has become a major part of the University. Unfortunately, the 30 trees are all more than 60 years old, and well into the end of the natural lifespan of the species — which raises questions about what the University will do as they start to die.

30. University of Cincinnati’s Engineering Research Center

Designed by UC alum Michael Graves, and built in 1994, the Engineering Research Center’s design inspiration is far more immediate than many on this list. It’s designed to look like a four-cylinder engine. Built using traditional methods and forms, it sits at a busy pedestrian intersection. Just looking at it, it’s a far more solid and almost brutalist form than many of the other modern designed buildings, an eminently pragmatic building in space and form.

29. Swarthmore’s Dean Bond Rose Garden

Across the campus of Swarthmore lies the Scott Arboretum, 357 acres comprised of 4,000 species of ornamental plant, all open free to the public. Yet by far the crowning jewel in this already impressive collection is the shockingly gorgeous Dean Bond Rose Garden. Housing 650 roses of more than 200 types, it was established in memorial of Elizabeth Powell Bond, the Dean of Women at Swarthmore. It’s now tradition for graduating seniors of the college to pin a rose on their gown for commencement.

28. Yale’s Ingalls Rink

Designed by Eero Saarinen, the Ingalls rink is exactly what you would guess from its name — a hockey rink. An unusual structure to put such a modern design into, it was built in the 1950s for $1.5 million — double its original estimate. Due to its undulating and wide appearance, it’s commonly likened to a whale in form, and can squeeze 3,500 inside. It’s had to have substantial renovations twice — once in 1991 for $1.5 million, and then from 2007-2009 for $23.5 million. While doubtless an unusual looking sports arena, it’s a widely recognized and respected building, making it onto America’s Favorite Architecture list, by the American Institute of Architects.

27. Notre Dame’s Main Building

Notre Dame is one of the most widely known religiously affiliated universities in the USA, and much of its architecture celebrates the institutions link to the Catholic Church. Perhaps the most obvious example of this is the Main Building, which is topped with an enormous gold dome, above which is a huge statue of the Virgin Mary. This immense building is now used primarily for administration purposes, but was once, unsurprisingly, the main building of the campus. Built in 1879, the dome was added in 1882, and regilded in 2005.

26. College of William and Mary’s Wren Building

The Wren Building holds the title of the oldest academic building in continuous use, which was constructed in 1700. That’s right, it’s been used for 300 years, and has suffered several fires and subsequent rebuilding, but most famously was reconstructed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., as part of the Colonial Williamsburg restoration in the 1920s. It’s constructed of red brick in the Flemish Bond style, and is as a historic building as you’re likely to find in the USA. Grand and ancient, it’s a true classic.

25. University of Washington’s Suzzallo Library Graduate Reading Room

Named for university president Henry Suzzallo, the Suzzallo library was completed in 1926, a stunning example of Collegiate Gothic style. Inside, the most visually striking area is the graduate reading room, feeling for all the world like the inside of a church. It’s 50-foot long, 52-foot wide, 65-foot high, with stone walls, a painted and stenciled timber-vaulted ceiling, and stained glass windows recreating a painted and stenciled timber-vaulted ceiling. It spans the entire third floor of the west face of the library, and was explicitly modeled on cathedrals.

24. Furman University’s Buddhist Temple

There are a number of chapels and churches on this list, but so far all are Christian of one sort or another. Unusually, Furman University of South Carolina has a Buddhist temple as part of its grounds. It’s part of an Asian garden, and the temple itself was moved from Japan and reconstructed by traditional carpenters. The Place of Peace, as it’s known, only became part of the campus in 2008. It’s hard to imagine a structure more dissimilar to the enormous neo-Gothic chapels of some campuses, yet you can’t deny the beauty of this small, unassuming, and simple temple.

23. Lewis and Clark’s Frank Manor House

Lewis and Clark College is widely renowned for its incredibly gorgeous campus, due to its sprawling woodlands feel in the hills of Portland. With a major emphasis on sustainability and an environmental bent, it’s very much in the tradition of the Pacific Northwest. Of all the buildings on this gorgeous campus, none are as well known as the Frank Manor House. It now serves as an admissions and administration building, but was originally constructed as a private residence in 1926 for an astonishing $1.3 million — and the college were allowed to purchase it for just $42,000. A stunning example of early-20th century design, it’s still visually striking.

22. United States Naval Academy’s Bancroft Hall

The United States Naval Academy isn’t one to do things by halves. Its buildings are immense, and grandiose in the greatest neo-classical tradition of American monumental architecture. There’s no better example of this than Bancroft Hall, the largest dormitory in the world. It houses 4,000 midshipmen in 1,700 rooms, has 33 acres of floorspace, and almost 5 miles of corridors. It’s a classic example of American Beaux-Arts architecture, and is so large it even has its own zip code.

21. Claremont’s Scripps College

It’s impossible to note a single building at the all-women Scripps College as being of particular note, as the entire campus was built under a single aesthetic. Designed by Gordon Kauffman, every building is constructed in the Spanish Colonial Revival Style style. Intertwined with the tiled roofs and small pillars is the incredible landscaping, which artfully mixes gardens into the college lifestyle. Students are allowed to clip roses from bushes, and fruit trees cover the campus. Famously beautiful, the entire small campus resonates.

20. Sweet Briar College’s Pannell Center

An astonishing twenty-one of the 30 campus buildings at Sweet Briar College are listed on the National Historic Registrar, which gives a hint at just how historically important this campus is. Formerly the refectory, what is now the Anne Gary Pannell Center is one of the four original buildings on campus, first constructed in 1906. Designed by Ralph Adam Cram, it’s one of his rare collegiate Georgian Revival buildings. Now home to the art history department, an art gallery and art library, what was once a dining hall remains an incredible piece of architecture.

19. Occidental College’s Thorne Hall

Many of Oxy (as it’s known) original buildings were built in a Mediterranean style, a hardly surprising fact for Southern California. The original three buildings were constructed in 1914, and the rest of the campus followed the same architectural tradition, and none more noticeably than Thorne Hall. Erected by Charles H. Thorne in memory of his wife in 1938 and remodeled in 1989, it seats almost 800 people, as well providing much of the performance and rehearsal space for the music department. It even contains a pipe organ purchased from the Empire Hotel in San Francisco, and rebuilt in the hall.

18. College of the Atlantic

In general, I’ve avoided saying things about an entire campus on this list, as it’s a copout when looking for fantastic individual buildings. Even so, I think the College of the Atlantic deserves special mention in its entirety. This tiny, liberal arts college in Maine has fewer than 400 students, and only offers one degree: human ecology. The entire college is based on sustainability, and the campus reflects that. It was the first carbon neutral campus. Since it’s on a tiny island, it’s impossible to escape the grasp of the surrounding sea, which informs much of the architecture and student life. Its buildings are eclectic, ranging from cottages to a converted monastery.

17. University of Chicago’s Harper Library Reading Room

There’s an incomparable beauty in old libraries, quiet refuges of sanity and knowledge. At many great universities, the library was given as much architectural attention as any chapel, for instance the recently renovated reading rooms in the Harper Memorial Library at University of Chicago. The renovations transformed the threadbare carpet and ratty chairs into a newly refitted, but still historically respectful, space, which became a massively popular study spot amongst the students.

16. University of Michigan’s Law Library

When the University of Michigan decided they wanted to expand their law library, they were faced with an interesting challenge. The Law Quad was a historical and classic space, they were loathe to expand into and disrupt with modern buildings. The answer? Build down. Now the law library features several floors of standard library stacks; and incredible neogothic reading room with 50-foot ceilings and stained glass windows; and then he Allan F. and Alene Smith Library, which was constructed underground in 1981. Through the use of a massive skylight build into the quad, a huge amount of natural light filters down into what could otherwise be an incredibly dark and dingy space.

15. Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago’s S.R. Crown Hall

It’s impossible to wax too lyrical about Crown Hall. The home of IIT’s college of architecture, it was designed by the famed modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and is viewed as his masterpiece. Widely regarded as one of the most important buildings in the 20th Century Modernist movement, it’s shocking to think this aggressively modern building is now more than 50 years old. The building’s design is based around simplicity, with exposed steel frames, and large sheets of glass. Transparent in every sense of the word, it’s a triumph of modern design.

14. Illinois Institute of Technology’s McCormick Tribune Campus Center

Constructed in 2003, the McCormick building was the first structure designed by Rem Koolhaas to be built in the USA. It’s a a single-story 110,000-square-foot, which took the place of a former parking lot. Koolhaas tracked the way students walked across the lot, and created a design to best match the way they moved through the space. One of the major problems he faced was that the Green Line train passed right over the building, so in order to minimize noise, an immense stainless steel tube was constructed for the train to drive through, dampening the sound.

13. Johns Hopkins University’s George Peabody Library

The Peabody Institute was donated by the famous philanthropist George Peabody in 1857, and as part of that the library was constructed in 1878, and its design remains striking to this day. Home to an incredible number of Victorian tomes, it’s interior is comprised of five levels, each of which bears ornamental internal balconies, stretching up to a skylight in the middle. Perhaps best described as a “cathedral of books”, it was built in the neo-Grec style, and soars 61 feet in the air.

12. Harvard University’s Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts

The Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts is the only building actually built by famed French designer Le Corbusier in the USA. One of the fathers of modernism, his designs are extremely important for the entire modernist architecture movement, and even though he didn’t see the building before his death, this 1962 construction remains eminently important. These days it not only houses the department of Visual and Environmental Studies of the University, but also the Harvard Film Archive, as well as screening films.

11. University of Cincinnati’s Campus Recreation Center

Thom Mayne and his company Morphosis are genuinely amazing architects, and their 350,000 square foot campus rec center at UC is no exception. This center is a chimera of a building, a structure made of a number of different styles, slammed together in an almost terrifying way. A combination of lecture theaters, dorms, and a gym, each of these areas has a different feel, which are then combined into one amazing, if slightly schizophrenic building.

10. Brown University’s Granoff Center for the Creative Arts

The Granoff Center only opened in January of 2011, designed as a space “for collaboration between and among the arts, sciences, and humanities.” Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, it’s an incredible 38,815 square-foot, three-story building, which cost $40 million to build. Cut from shear lines, and making heavy use of glass, it houses auditoriums, production studios, audio studios, art gallery, media lab, multimedia lab, and even an outdoors amphitheater wired for sound.

9. Pratt Institute’s Higgins Hall

Higgins Hall looks for all the world like a stately brownstone building one would expect of any college, but a recent renovation by architect Steven Holl has proven it anything but. Higgins houses an architecture school, and it seems only appropriate that an entirely modern and radically different shape should be married to such a classic building. The newly inserted hall looks almost like a series of shipping containers stacked atop one another, if the containers were made of translucent glass. Combined with windows that echo the works of Mondrian, it’s a radical new extension on the existing space.

8. Florida Southern College’s Annie Pfeiffer Chapel

Florida Southern College isn’t a big or well known institute, with just 2400 students and 100 teaching staff. What it does have, though, is the largest collection Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world, a collection strong enough to propel it to the top of the Princeton Review’s most beautiful campuses list. The collection as a whole is known as Child of the Sun, and one of its key structures is the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, which was dedicated in 1941. The chapel was the first building on campus, and constructed with student labor, and has become a hallmark of the college.

7. Emory University’s Pitts Theology Library

One of the largest and most important theological libraries in the world, Pitts features not only an impressive collection of manuscripts, but also an amazing digital image archive. One would assume that a theology library would be like so many other entries on this list, and immense neo-gothic structure in the Oxbridgian tradition. Instead, what it is is a magnificent southern building constructed in 1916, but that underwent a series of renovations in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and transformed into an amazing modernist space. The exterior is still constructed of rare pink Georgia marble, but the inside is one of the few examples of non-brutalist work done by Paul Rudolph. It’s a harmony of glass, right angles, and half circles, and is a gorgeous space.

6. Florida Southern College’s Water Dome

The other most notable FSC Lloyd Wright structure is the Water Dome, which was partially completed in 1949, but only fully finished to Wright’s specifications in 2007. Wright originally planned the dome to be a centerpiece of the college, but the water pump technology of the time wasn’t powerful enough to live up to his dreams. When it was reconstructed in 2007, his creation was finally realized, 74 jets making a dome water 45 feet high, illuminated droplets spreading over a 160-foot base. While visually less obviously architectural and striking than some of this other work, it’s amazing to see his plans finally realized.

5. New York University’s Department of Philosophy

The exterior of the Department of Philosophy looks just like any other old, big building, a frankly pedestrian site amongst the architecture of New York City. But in 2007 the interior of the building was gutted and remade, into something completely unlike any other. Playing with natural light in a frankly insane way, the interior is now white, and covered with randomly placed small holes, which allows illumination to stream throughout. Coupled with prismatic film, skylights, and cork floors, it’s a monument to natural illumination.

4. Yale’s Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

It’s hard not to wax lyrical about Beinecke, both in form and function. One of the foremost collections of rare manuscripts in the world, it’s the largest building in the world reserved exclusively for the preservation of rare books and manuscripts. It has an absolutely incredible collection of works, but is just as memorable for its architecture. The building itself is entirely windowless, instead constructed of translucent Danby marble. This allows some light to come through, but nothing direct or harsh enough to damage the collection. The interior is a masterwork of glass and low light, these priceless pieces protected in a beautiful location designed not only to keep them safe, but to allow them to be studied.

3. University of Chicago’s Regenstein Library

Brutalism as an architectural style is one that is all too prevalent at universities, which generally hire incompetent architects to design them. They end up with squat, brooding hulks of buildings, made of dour concrete slabs that have no beauty or art. The Regenstein Library at UC is an example of brutalism done right. It’s built of grooved limestone, and the exterior was explicitly created to mimic the spines of books (one of the few architectural flourishes brutalism can pull off). It holds almost 8 million volumes, and is one of the largest libraries in the world, and even more curiously, the outline is that of the continental USA.

2. University of Minnesota’s Weisman Art Museum

The Weisman Art Museum is located on the University of Minnesota campus, and it only takes a single look to recognize Frank Gehry’s unique style. Completed in 1993, it has a stainless steel skin, especially built for Gehry’s designs, and is a major campus landmark. In October 2010, work started on an addition to the building, also by Gehry, and one year later, the building reopened now with even more space for its incredible collection.

1. University of Virginia’s Rotunda

How can I put this succinctly…the Rotunda at the University of Virginia was designed by Thomas Jefferson. Frankly, if that isn’t enough of a reason on its own, I don’t know what is. Modelled on the Pantheon of Rome, Jefferson designed it to represent the “authority of nature and power of reason” — precisely the attitude one would expect from a post-enlightenment leader. It’s one of only three buildings in the USA protected as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and has been through several major rebuildings and refurbishments, and in 1976 was rebuilt to Jefferson’s original specifications.

Ray Kroc

In 1961, a traveling multi-mixer milkshake machine salesman named Ray Kroc purchased the McDonald’s company from the McDonald brothers. He turned a small number of restaurants into the largest fast food franchise in America and eventually the world. Kroc was raised in Oak Park, Illinois and left high school at 15 to become an ambulance driver during WWI. He was known as a smart businessman and described salesmanship as “the gentle art of letting the customer have it your way.”

Colonel Sanders

Harland David “Colonel” Sanders was the founder of the Kentucky Fried Chicken fast food chain. His face is now an icon of the restaurant. Sanders dropped out of school in the seventh grade and was home schooled where he grew up in Henryville, Indiana. His famous secret recipe for chicken was developed over a 9 year period when he cooked at his own restaurant in Kentucky.

Dave Thomas

Dave Thomas, as everyone knows from the ubiquitous television ads, was the founder and CEO of the Wendy’s fast food chain. He dropped out of high school to work full time at a restaurant in Indiana, which he later considered the biggest mistake of his life. He officially graduated high school at age 61 in 1993 when he earned his GED after studying from home.

Andrew Carnegie

Andrew Carnegie was a wealthy industrialist who led the massive expansion of the steel industry in America in the late 1800s. He was born in Scotland and was introduced to books and writings by his uncle. He moved to America and made his fortune in the steel industry and eventually owned more iron and steel operations than any other individual. He became a philanthropist after retirement.

Amadeo Giannini

Amadeo Giannini was the founder of Bank of America. He was home schooled in San Francisco, California before attending college. He opened a bank for hard-working immigrants called Bank of Italy in 1904. After a time he had obtained over 500 branches in California. He approached the president of Bank of America and they merged and kept the name. Giannini is known as the inventor of many modern banking ideas and was one of the first to offer banking services to the middle class instead of only to the wealthy.

Adolph Ochs

In 1896, at age 38, Adolph Ochs purchased The New York Times, an ailing paper in New York that was losing money and had many competitors. It is now the largest local metropolitan newspaper, the largest online newspaper in America, and has won 106 Pulitzer Prizes, more than any other news organization. It has long been considered the paper of record in the United States of America. Ochs went back and forth between home schooling and public schools throughout his childhood.

Joseph Pulitzer

Speaking of the Pulitzer; the prize was founded by Joseph Pulitzer, another home schooler. His father was a businessman who moved the family to Budapest where he hired private tutors for his children. Their education included learning French and German. Pulitzer was a crusader against corruption throughout his journalism career. After his death a school for journalism and the Pulitzer Prize was established according to his wishes.

Horace Greeley

Fast food and journalism must go together. Horace Greeley was the founder and editor of the New York Tribune, the most influential newspaper from the 1840s through the 1870s. At age 14, Greeley declined a scholarship and dropped out of school. He became a printer’s apprentice in Vermont before moving to New York City. He became an editor and published the Tribune for the rest of his life.

Gloria Steinem

Gloria Steinem was the founder and editor of Ms. Magazine. From ages 10 through 17 she attended school on a sporadic basis. She was busy most of the time caring for her emotionally disturbed mother. Steinem was a writer and feminist throughout her career. She became a spokeswoman for the women’s liberation movement of the 1960′s and ’70′s.

Soichiro Honda

One of the only non-American home schoolers on the list, Soichiro Honda was the founder of Honda. He spent his childhood helping his father repair bicycles and had no formal education. He moved to Tokyo, Japan at age 15 to look for a job. At age 39 he founded the Honda Motor Company and just two years later was producing complete motorcycles. Now Honda sells more motorcycles than any other company in the world and is a top automobile manufacturer.

So what’s more important to you in choosing an online MBA degree program: high prestige or low cost? Choosing a highly regarded program will generally cost you more  pfront in tuition and fees, but may pay off with better job prospects and higher earnings in the long run. Choosing a less prestigious, lower ranked program will probably save you money in terms of tuition and fees, but may cost you more over time if you’re unable to get the position or salary you would be able to demand with a degree from a higher ranked program.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed either way. Many students graduate from the top MBA programs in the country and struggle for years to pay off their debt because they can’t land a job. Other students earn their degree from second and third tier programs and become CEOs of major corporations. Indeed, a recent study showed that less than half of the highest-paid CEOs have an MBA degree at all! Finding an online MBA program with the right balance between reputation and cost is key.

The programs in our best value online MBA ranking offer the best combination of prestige and affordability we could find. All of the business schools on our list are accredited by the AACSB (the premier accreditation for business schools) and are nationally ranked. They also all offer an online MBA for less than $50,000. With the hiring of MBAs on the rise and the average starting salary for an MBA graduate now over $91,000 (having risen each of the last three years), these programs may be an excellent investment in your future.

#1. Florida International University (Chapman Graduate School of Business)

The Chapman Graduate School of Business at top-ranked Florida International University in Greater Miami, FL is an AACSB accredited leader in international business and entrepreneurship.

Program information

FIU offers an online Corporate MBA Program. Taking two classes each term, this accelerated distance MBA can be completed in as little as 18 months of dedicated study. Admitted students will be assigned to a peer cohort that they will stay with for the duration for the program. No GMAT is required for admission and no travel is required.

Financial information

$37,500 will cover tuition and fees for the entire program. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#2. University of Massachusetts Amherst (Isenberg School of Management)

The University of Massachusetts Amherst in Amherst, MA is among the best public universities in the U.S. and the AASCB accredited Isenberg School of Management frequently earns top business school rankings.

Program information

UMass Amherst offers the Isenberg Online MBA for part-time students. The entire program can be completed in as little as two and a half years of part-time study. Students are allowed to take up to two courses before deciding whether the program is a good fit for them or not. An asynchronous class format allows students to access courses at their convenience. No travel is required.

Financial information

$27,750 will cover tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#3. Washington State University (College of Business)

The nationally ranked Washington State University College of Business in Pullman, WA brings over twenty years experience in distance education to its AACSB accredited online MBA program.

Program information

WSU’s Online MBA Program is designed to be completed in two years. With an emphasis on entrepreneurship, students in the program must complete a full business plan in order to graduate. WSU also offers the Online Executive MBA Program for student with significant business experience. Travel is not mandatory, but students may attend graduation ceremonies at WSU’s campus.

Financial information

$29,250 is enough to cover tuition and fees. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#4. University of Scranton (Kania School of Business)

The University of Scranton’s AACSB accredited Kania School of Management is a top-ranked Jesuit business school in Scranton, PA with an emphasis on ethics and responsibility.

Program information

The University of Scranton’s Online MBA Degree can be completed in about two years and requires a minimum of 36 credit hours. In addition to the general track, students may choose from concentration tracks in Enterprise Resource Planning, Healthcare Management, and Operations Management. No travel is required.

Financial information

$30,312 covers tuition and fees for the minimum 36 credit hours. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#5. Quinnipiac University (School of Business)

Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT has taken its AACSB accredited and nationally ranked School of Business to new heights with significant recent investments in academic infrastructure and facilities.

Program information

Quinnipiac University offers a 46 credit hour online MBA program for working adults. Students can choose from electives in Computer Information Systems, Finance, Health Care Management, General Management, and Marketing. An intensive Health Care Management Track is offered for those planning to enter management in the health care industry. No campus visits are required.

Financial information

$39,330 will cover your tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#6. University of Florida (Hough Graduate School of Business)

The University of Florida’s globally ranked Hough Graduate School of Business in Gainesville, FL was one of the first AACSB accredited business schools to put a complete MBA program online.

Program information

The University of Florida offers its Internet MBA Program in one-year (16 month) and two-year (27 month) options. The one-year option is only open to students who earned a bachelor’s in business within the last seven years. Both formats require students to travel to the University of Florida campus one weekend each term to meet with faculty and other students.

Financial information

$46,000 (1 yr.)/$52,500 (2 yr.) covers tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#7. University of Texas at Dallas (Jindal School of Management)

The AACSB accredited Jindal School of Management at the University of Texas at Dallas in Dallas, TX perennially ranks among the very best business schools in America.

Program information

UT-Dallas offers their Online Professional MBA as a part-time, 53 credit hour program. Students are given 24 hours of electives with which to craft their own specialization. Courses can be completed at the student’s own pace. No travel is required.

Financial information

$45,000 covers tuition and fees. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#8. Auburn University (College of Business)

Auburn University’s AACSB accredited College of Business in Auburn, AL has been moving up in the business school rankings in the last few years, establishing itself as a top public school for business degrees.

Program information

Auburn University offers a 36 credit hour Distance Learning MBA that can typically be completed within three years. All instructions, assignments and tests are identical to the campus-based MBA program. Students must attend a mandatory five day residency at the Auburn campus before graduating.

Financial information

$26,064 covers tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#9. Oklahoma State University (Spears School of Business)

The AASCB accredited Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK is an established leader in business education with a history of offering innovative distance learning opportunities.

Program information

Oklahoma State University offers its Distance Learning MBA as a part-time, 36-48 credit hour program. The curriculum emphasizes teamwork and team building throughout. Professional experience is preferred but not a requirement for admission. Travel is not mandatory, but graduates of the program are invited to campus for commencement ceremonies.

Financial information

$14,000 (in-state)/$37,000 (out-state) covers tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

#10. Florida State University (College of Business)

Florida State University’s AACSB accredited College of Business in Tallahassee, FL is among the highest ranked public business schools in the country with an excellent job placement and minority graduation record.

Program information

Florida State University offers its Online MBA as a 39 credit hour program designed to be completed in a little over two years. Students can specialize in Marketing, Management Information Systems, Real Estate, or Risk Management and Insurance. Travel is not required.

Financial information

$28,350 covers tuition. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

As a solid educational background is necessary for future career success, many students choose to expand their knowledge and skills through online early childhood education degrees. Since choosing an online degree program is often difficult, students must research and select programs which meet their personal preferences, educational goals, and specific needs. To assist in the process, we’ve created a list of the best accredited colleges and universities offering students the Top 10 Online Schools For Early Education Degrees. The following list is a great starting place for students to further educational and personal goals who are interested in future careers as early childhood educators within a variety of settings:

1. Ashford University

Ashford University was established in 1893 as the Mount St. Clare Academy within Clinton, Iowa. The university was founded as a boarding school for young women and developed to meet the educational needs of regional students. During 1918, the university was renamed Mount St. Clare College upon gaining recognition as a liberal arts institution. The university expanded many of its programs and became distinguished as a teacher’s college from 1932 until 1954. The university became coeducation during 1967 and also gained approval to award its first business degrees. In the years following, the university became well known for its academic excellence and continued to expand its campus and programs. The university was renamed the Franciscan University during 2003 and do to confusion with a regional school operating with a similar name, the university was quickly renamed the Franciscan University of the Prairies. Bridgeport Education purchased the university one year later due to financial difficulties and assumed its present name, Ashford University. Also during 2004, the university launched its first online degree programs. The university quickly developed and offered over 50 online and on campus degree programs. The university quickly recognized the demand for non-traditional students managing work and family responsibilities as they pursued educational, personal, and professional goals. Presently over 99% of Ashford’s students are enrolled within online degree programs. Students interested in the field of early education may find Ashford offers one of the top online degree programs in the field of early childhood education. Courses at a bachelor level include: introduction to early childhood education, nutrition and health of children and families, child development, language development in young children, children’s literature, survey of exceptional students, collaboration with parents and community, administration of early childhood education programs, early childhood curriculum, children and families in a diverse society, early childhood education, infant and toddler care methods, social and emotional growth of infants and toddlers, quality care environments for infants and toddlers, and infant and toddler learning and development. Ashford’s programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

Click here for more information regarding Ashford University’s online early childhood education degrees

2. Kaplan University

Founded as the American Institute of Commerce during 1937, the university was one of the first open admission, for profit institutions for higher learning. Shortly after founding, the university expanded its campuses, developed multiple degree programs, and was renamed Quest College. A 2004 merger with the Davenport, Iowa based Kaplan University caused the university to assume its present name. Currently offering instruction by 3,6000 licensed professionals, Kaplan enrolls 66,000 students within 10 locations based in Iowa, Florida, Nebraska, and Maryland. Kaplan also provides some of the best online programs available, particularly for students with an interest in early childhood education. Courses at a bachelor level include: sociology, introduction to early childhood education, early childhood development, early childhood curriculum planning, creative activities for young children, young children with special needs, interpersonal communications, observation and assessment in early childhood, children’s literacy, language development in the young child, curriculum development, learning through play in the inclusive classroom, introduction to psychology, and child safety, nutrition, and health. Kaplan offers students enrolled in the discipline of early childhood education one of the top degree programs available with flexible course scheduling, live seminars, audio lectures, and Power Point presentations. Kaplan’s programs are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the university is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Click here for more information regarding Kaplan University’s online early childhood education degree programs

3. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University (GCU) was founded during 1949, as a non profit, Christian university within Prescott, Arizona. Founders recognized the demand for a faith based institution for regional students of the Southern Baptist faith and opened its doors to its first 93 students. Despite initial financial difficulties, the university thrived and expanded its campus and academic programs. Within two years, the university moved its campus to Phoenix upon a donation of land given by the Southern Baptist Church of Phoenix. Under the leadership of church members and donations from Reverend Vaughn Rock and S.F. Hawkins, the university provided quality education to local students and became known as Grand Canyon College in 1984. The university suffered significant financial and organizational problems from 1994 until 2004. That year, the university was purchased by the California area company, Significant Education, LLC. Upon the transfer of ownership, the university became the first for profit Christian institution of higher learning within the U.S. Within five years, the university expanded its campus, assumed its present name, and instilled its first online degree programs. The university presently offers undergraduate and graduate degrees within fields like education, liberal arts, business and healthcare through it’s six schools including: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Doctoral Studies, the College of Education, the College of Fine Arts and Production, the College of Nursing, and the Ken Blanchard College of Business. Students interested in the field of early childhood education may participate in one of the top online degree programs offered through WSU’s online college of education. The program features bachelor level courses include: education foundations and framework; foundations of early childhood; cultural diversity in the classroom; child guidance; introduction to the exceptional learner; english language teaching; foundations and methodologies; educational psychology; child growth and development: health, safety, nutrition, and fitness management; environment, community, and culture; instructional technology; instructional teaching methodologies; language, math, science, social studies, and the arts; child psychology; early literacy development; classroom engagement and management; developmental and functional assessment; and student teaching: birth to preschool; student teaching K-3. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and provides one of the top early childhood education degrees to its on campus and online students.

Click here for more information regarding Grand Canyon University’s early childhood education degree programs

4. Post University

Post University was founded as Post College in Waterbury, Connecticut during 1890. As a private, for profit higher learning institute, Post quickly developed its first business school during 1896 which later became Post University’s Waterbury Business College. Post has offered students with family or job responsibilities the opportunity to expand educational, personal, and career goals through a variety of day, evening, and weekend courses since founding. Post has also expanded its campuses with locations in Meriden, Danbury, and Norwalk. During 1980, Post recieved approval to award its first bachelor degrees and developed many other degree programs. During 1990, Post became Teikyo Posst University upon its affiliation with the Tokyo Based Teikyo University. The affiliation ceased during 2004 and the university assumed its present name.Presently Post provides students seeking associate degrees within fields like accounting, business administration, business management, equine management, human services, and legal studies. Post also offers bachelor degrees for students interested in: business administration, accounting, biology, computer information systems, criminal justice, environmental science, equine management, legal studies, early childhood education, finance, psychology, sociology, and human services. Post also provides master degree programs in entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, leadership, corporate innovation, and human services. An on and off campus expansion following the purchase of the university by the Greenwich, Connecticut based Generation Partners provided the university with the ability to extend instruction internationally through its online degree programs. Since then, Post has grown to have one of the largest online student enrollments throughout the state of Connecticut, the U.S. and internationally. Post provides students with an interest in early childhood education one of the top online degree programs through associate degree level courses like: foundations in early childhood education, child development, creative activities, social studies in the early childhood education classroom, children’s literature and language arts, teaching the exceptional child, math, science and technology in the early childhood education classroom, safety and nutrition, elements of organization, and career and self awareness. Post’s online degree programs are accredited by The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education and provide students with one of the best paths to educational and professional success.

Click here for more information regarding Post University’s online early childhood education degree programs

5. Walden University

Walden University is a privately owned, for profit institution of higher learning founded by educators Bernie and Rita Turner. Owned by the Laureate Education, Inc, Walden specializes instruction through distance learning programs. Walden is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota’s Mills District and gives students a unique, highly personalized educational experience. The university was established to allow non-traditional students the ability to advance education while maintaining job or family responsibilities. During the 1970s, the Turners and the University of California at Berkeley’s Harold “Bud” Hodgkinson developed their plans for higher learning institute providing a student centric atmosphere based upon ideas of social change and education. Within one year, Walden offered its first school administration classes within Naples, Florida. By 1972, the school rapidly grew to offer 46 PhD and 24 EdD programs to its graduating class. Enrollment and expansion steadily increased as a reputable faculty provided quality education to its diverse students. Sylvan Learning Systems, Inc, purchased 41 percent of the university during 2001 and within one year gained control interest. The school changed its name to Laureate Education, Inc. led by Honorary Chancellor and former President Bill Clinton. Walden has since continued to deliver its standard of academic excellence as one of the best online schools and extends learning to over 47,000 students. Students interested in an online early education degree program may gain one of the best educational experiences at Walden. Courses at a bachelor level include: teacher as a lifelong learner and professional educator; today’s classroom and the diverse learner; effective practices: assessment, teaching, and learning; classroom management; seminar in professional, ethics, communication and collaboration in early childhood education; past, present, and future early childhood education; teaching reading; developmentally appropriate practices for infants and toddlers; play and learning for the preschool child; teaching mathematics; teaching across content areas; demonstration teaching within early childhood education; foundations in education research; and practical applications of educational research. Walden ‘s programs have been accredited since 1990 by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Additionally, many of the university’s programs are accredited individually making Walden one of the top online schools for early childhood education and other degrees.

Click here for more information regarding Walden University’s online early childhood education degree programs

6. University Of The Southwest

The University Of The Southwest is private, independent, and inter-denominational four year institute of higher education located within Hobbs, New Mexico. Founded in as the Hobbs Baptist College during 1956 by B. Clarence Evans, who also acted as first president, based as a “college for Christian Education.” The college originally provided two year degrees to its students through quality education programs devoted to faith, personal responsibility, and initiative within Christian principles and not within doctrinal uniformity. The college was one of the first Christian colleges to recognized diversity among the spectrum of spiritual and religious Christian traditions and concentrated in cultivating freedom of expression, the demonstration of faith through actions, and freedom of thought. After undergoing a name change during 1958, the college was recognized as the Mexico Baptist College and began awarding its first bachelors degrees. By 1961, the college had outgrown its original campus and constructed its present site on the Lovington highway. One year later the college became incorporated and expanded its vision to build a 21,000 square mile community serving students within New Mexico and West Texas. In the years following, the college developed many of its degree programs and evolved to provide various degrees to residential and non traditional students as an instructional college rather than a research college. The college provides instruction to a diverse student body focused upon community service, contributing to the common good, and free enterprise. During 2008, the university assumed its present name and currently offers many degrees within disciplines like: business administration, education, criminal justice, psychology, sport management, and counseling. Students with an interest in earning an online degree within the field of early childhood education may find one of the best programs available through the University Of The Southwest. Courses at a master’s level include: research in child growth, development, and learning; family and community collaboration; instructional strategies; learning and human development; assessment of children and evaluation programs; integrated early childhood curriculum; and infant and toddler early intervention. Online and on-campus programs offered at the University Of The Southwest are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and provide students with one of the top early childhood education degrees available today.

Click here for more information regarding The University Of The Southwest’s online early childhood education degree programs

7. Penn Foster University

Penn Foster University was founded as the International Penn Foster College during 1890 by Thomas J. Foster, a newspaper editor from Pennsylvania. As a for profit, distance learning institution of higher education, the university offered a diverse student body a unique learning environment. During 1977, the college changed its name to The Center For Degree Studies with its main headquarters located within Scranton, Pennsylvania. The college quickly grew to offer a variety of degrees in many disciplines through print, online, or a combination of both print and online studies. Students may earn associate degrees within business, early childhood education, engineering, computer science, technology, health care, criminal justice, or legal studies. During 2006, the university was renamed Penn Foster College and moved its main campus to Scottsdale, Arizona. During 2008 the university began awarding criminal justice and business management bachelor degrees. One year later The Princeton Review, an educational support and test company, assumed ownership of the university from the private equity firm, The Wicks Group. The college quickly developed its online degree programs to provide some of the best distance learning programs available. Students interested in an early childhood education degree may enroll in Penn Foster’s two year associate’s degree program. Courses at an associate level include: orientation to early childhood development; information literacy: fundamentals of early childhood education: essentials of psychology; health, safety, and nutrition for young children; art or music appreciation; child growth and development; curriculum for early childhood education; language and literacy development in young children; developing math and science skills in young children; art, music, and movement; English composition; computer applications; guidance in early childhood education; working with preschoolers; infant and toddler care; introduction to biology or earth science; interpersonal communication; working with children with special needs; field experience; play in the lives of young children; mathematical applications; the child, family, and community; cultural diversity in the early childhood program; and administration of an early childhood education center. Penn Foster provides students with a quality education accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council in one of the top online early childhood education degree programs.

Click here for more information regarding Penn Foster University’s online early childhood education degree programs

8. UMass Online

The University of Masachusetts (UMass) was established during 1863 within Amherst, Massachusetts, under the Morrill Land-Grant Colleges Act. Originally named the Massachusetts Agricultural College, the university began providing regional students instruction in “agricultural, mechanical, and military arts.” The university’s first president, William S. Clark, worked not only as an administrator but also as a professor of botany. Under Clark’s ambitious leadership, the college provided its first 50 students with instruction led by qualified staff. Since then, UMass has expanded to become New England’s largest public university. With a unique standard of academic excellence combined with its reputation as a forerunner in research, the university created one of the first adult bachelor degree completion programs during 1971 identified as “The University Without Walls.” Presently, UMass enrolls 27,000 students and staffs a faculty of 1,174 members. Offering over 86 undergraduate and 72 graduate programs to a diverse student body, UMass provides many of the best online and on campus degree programs available. Students seeking to expand knowledge in the field of early childhood education may find one of the top degree programs available through UMass Online’s bachelor of arts early care and education program. Courses include: multicultural education; reading methods; math methods; science methods; introduction to inclusion; observing and assessing children’s behavior; curriculum development and methods; classroom behavior management; and early childhood methods and curriculum. UMass’ programs of study are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and provide one of the top online degree programs necessary for future personal and professional success.

Click here for more information regarding UMass Online’s early childhood education degree programs

9. Kendall College

Kendall College is a for profit college located within Chicago, Illinois during 1934. Originally named the Evanston Collegiate Institute, the college was endorsed by one Swedish and one Danish Norwegian seminarians and the Scandinavian Conference of the Methodist Church during the Great Depression. The college operated through donations provided by Harry R. Kendall and George R. Kendall, founders of the Washington National Insurance Company. The college was developed to provide a quality education within a Christian environment in two seminaries and one preparatory school. The college allowed students without adequate funds in difficult financial times to meet educational and personal goals within a work study format to decrease students’ amount of education related debt. To honor the generosity of the Kendall family, the college was renamed Kendall College during 1950 and expanded many of its associate degree programs based in liberal arts to allow students to directly enter employment upon earning a degree. During the 1977, Kendall began offering its first bachelor degree programs and was formally recognized to award bachelor’s degrees in 1979. During 2003, Kendall invigorated its expansion by beginning the construction of a new location at Riverworks within Chicago at the former Sara Lee Research and Development center. The campus moved to the site during 2005 and has since created many dynamic programs, drawn international attention and secured its reputation providing one of the finest online degree programs available. Since then, Kendall became well known as one of the best educational institutes within the Midwest and is recognized as a leader within the discipline of Early Childhood Education within its School of Education. Kendall provides one of the top online degree programs in early childhood education in flexible two or four year programs based in the college’s history of providing academic excellence. Courses at a bachelor level include: introduction to early childhood education; introduction to psychology; child health, safety, and nutrition; child development; educational psychology; child, family, and community relationships; child, family, and community relationships; observation and assessment of the young child; developmentally appropriate practices for infants and toddlers; play and learning for the preschool child; language acquisition and development; children’s literature; technology in the classroom; the exceptional child; classroom management for the early childhood teacher; professionalism and the early childhood educator; effective practices in the diverse classroom; early literacy; literacy development; teaching mathematics; teaching science; and teaching social studies and arts. Kendall’s programs have been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1962. As an innovative college based upon the capitalization of service and professional leadership, Kendall provides students with an interest in early childhood education degrees access to one of the top online programs.

Click here for more information regarding Kendall College’s online early childhood education degree programs

10. Bellevue University

Founded during 1966, Bellevue University is a not-for-profit institution of higher education within Bellevue, Nebraska. Originally named the Bellevue Community College, the university was created by civic leader Bill Brooks and the local Chamber of Commerce to meet the educational needs of young adults within the growing city. The university created programs specifically geared toward adult learners and offered evening classes in three, 12 week long sessions in addition to daytime courses during its first year of providing instruction. Dr. Sam Sollenberger was named as the first president of Bellevue that same year and acted also as assistant dean of the College of Adult Education. During 1967, the school held its first commencement ceremony and awarded degrees to 37 students. During the following year, Bellevue grew tremendously under the leadership of its second president and history professor Richard Winchell. Winchell’s ambition increased student enrollment, developed and expanded degree programs, and attracted monetary donations to further the college’s campus and education growth. By 1974, Bellevue was the fourth largest private school within Nebraska and became Bellevue College. The college continued to expand throughout the 1970s and 1980s with the construction of addition on campus buildings, increased enrollment, and increased course offerings. Competition from other schools caused financial difficulty and uncertainty under the leadership of the college’s third president, Dr. John Muller. Facing possible closure due to an economic downturn and financial difficulties, Muller reorganized the school’s focus based upon service, entrepreneurism, and a quality educational experience, reduced faculty, and decreased enrollment. Despite the economic challenges, the university offered its first bachelor degrees in an accelerated format during 1987 and just three years later offered its first master’s degrees. During 1994, the university was renamed Bellevue University and gained world wide recognition for its “Invest in Success” campaign. The university saw rapid growth during the 1990s with an enrollment peaking at 39,000 students during the 2000-2001 term. The university’s innovative online degree programs reflect its tradition in growth, accessibility, and quality education necessary for future success. Students interested in pursuing an early childhood education degree online due to work or family responsibilities may find one of the top programs available at Bellevue. Courses at an associate level include: introduction to early childhood education; earning environments and social relationships; connecting with infants and toddlers; children’s creative activities; early childhood education practicum; family and community involvement; child health and safety; child development; language and literacy development; exceptional child; culture and human diversity in education; English composition; nutrition and the human body; psychology; introduction to sociology; and interpersonal communications. Bellevue offers one of the best means for students to increase knowledge and training necessary for future success through its innovative online early childhood education programs. Bellevue’s online and on campus programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and offer access to the top online degrees.

Click here for more information regarding Bellevue University’s online early childhood education degree programs

Ranking Methodology

So how did we determine which schools should be listed on the top 50 online colleges of 2012 list? All the schools listed here are accredited and offer a good quality program with state of the art technology to distance learners. Since a postsecondary education is an investment the student makes him or herself, we also looked at student satisfaction rates and teacher-to-student ratios when deciding which schools should be included. Cost, while an important consideration when choosing a school, was not the main focus and you will see a range of tuition fees in the schools we selected.

Our rankings of the top online colleges are designed to give the student a sense of relative quality among a vast sea of options when it comes to online schools. However, it is important to keep in mind that rankings always have a subjective element and the best college for you depends on your particular needs. Therefore it is recommended that you gather information, consult several different resources and consider rankings specific to the program in which you will earn your degree before making a final choice.

#1 California University of Pennsylvania

School Summary
CALU is an accredited university offering certificates, undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Tuition
Tuition rates for distance students range from $265-$650 per credit.

Unique Features
This school ranks very highly in student satisfaction surveys. Known for its rigorous curriculum, CALU allows online learners to do their coursework at any time of the day or night. Combining top academic quality and the flexibility that students want out of an online school, CALU is our pick for the best online college of 2012.

#2 Penn State World Campus

School Summary
Penn State is a nationally-recognized university which has been offering distance education programs since 1998. The Wall Street Journal gave it the No. 1 ranking for producing graduates who are both well prepared for their careers and likely to succeed.

Tuition
Tuition per semester is $6,121 for undergraduate students and $8,586 for learners attending grad school.

Unique Features
Courses are taught by instructors experienced in delivering an online education. Students have access to academic advising and career counseling services, as well as a research library. Rooted in a strong, traditional university, Penn State World Campus makes our list as one of the top online colleges.

#3 University of Massachusetts-Amherst

School Summary
UMass offers Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees. This school is highly selective when choosing applicants for admittance and offers a rigorous curriculum to students.

Tuition
Tuition and fees for undergraduate courses range from $125-$1980 per course. Graduate level courses cost $1,230-$2,250, depending on the program.

Unique Features
This public, not-for-profit school operates on a 15-week semester system. All students pay the same tuition, regardless of where they live. Learners have the flexibility to do their course work at a time which fits their schedule. In terms of getting an online degree that employers will love, it’s hard to beat the name recognition of UMass Online.

#4 Drexel University

School Summary
Drexel won the 2010 Sloan-Consortium Award for Excellence in Institution-Wide Online Education.

Tuition
Tuition for the MBA Anywhere program is $58,000. Undergraduate students pay $650 per credit. Students interested in pursuing a Master’s degree are looking at $1,000 per credit.

Unique Features
Over 90% of faculty members hold Doctorates. Students can take as many courses as they wish each term. Courses are 10 weeks in length and students can work at their own pace each week. Because of the quality of its teachers and its student-centric approach, we believe that Drexel University is one of the best online schools of 2012.

#5 Northeastern University

School Summary
Northeastern offers over 60 online programs in several different areas of study. This top 100 research university has a low student to teacher ratio and is selective about admissions.

Tuition
The cost of attending Northeastern ranges from $325-$1300 per credit hour. A fast-track Bachelor’s degree will cost $26,000, as opposed to $52,000 for a standard track degree. Masters’ degrees start at $17,560 and students in a Doctoral program would be looking at $13,910 and up.

Unique Features
Northeastern has been offering distance education program since 1974. Students have the flexibility to do coursework on their own schedule. Northeastern University offers one of the best values in online education today.

#6 Boston University

School Summary
Boston University was awarded the 2010 Silver Best-Practices Award for Distance Learning Programming from the United States Distance Learning Association. This school has a low student-to-teacher ratio and is selective about admissions.

Tuition
The cost per credit hour to attend Boston College online ranges from $362-$1276, depending on the program.

Unique Features
Courses start every seven weeks and new students can enroll at almost any time throughout the year. The course content may include online lectures, interactive animations, discussion boards and videos. It’s hard to go wrong with Boston University, which is why we’ve chosen it as one of the 10 best online colleges of 2012.

#7 Saint Leo University

School Summary
Saint Leo has been named as one of the Top 100 Degree Producers by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education. This school offers undergraduate (Associate’s and Bachelor’s) and graduate (Master’s) degrees online.

Tuition
Students pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree pay $470 per credit hour. Graduate students will pay $395-$630 per credit hour.

Unique Features
Enrollees complete a two-week, noncredit course called, “SLU 101: Strategies for Success” to familiarize them with the University’s online learning platform. Learning materials include textbooks, CD-ROM, audio and video formats. Attention to the particular needs of online students makes Saint Leo University a great online school.

#8 Western Governors University

School Summary
Western Governors University was awarded the 2010 Ralph E. Montgomery Award for Excellence in Online Education by the Sloan Consortium. Time Magazine referred to it as “the best relatively cheap university you’ve never heard of.”

Tuition
Students are charged a flat rate per six-month term of $2,890-$4,250.

Unique Features
WGU degrees are based on competency, as opposed to completing a set number of credit hours. Students are assigned a mentor to provide assistance as they progress through their studies. Because this emphasis matches the needs of employers, WGU is seen as an excellent online university and looks great on your resume.

#9 Colorado State University

School Summary
CSU Global is the first accredited fully online public university in the United States. It has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Tuition
Students enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program will pay $350 per credit and Master’s degree students are charged $450 per credit.

Unique Features
Tuition rates do not increase as long as a student is enrolled in a program. CSU Global offers the option of paying on a class-by-class basis. Because of their emphasis on cost control, combined with a quality education, we’ve placed CSU Global in our top 10 for 2012.

#10 Capella University

School Summary
Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. This school is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Tuition
The cost of tuition to attend Capella online is $275-$604 per credit.

Unique Features
Students start with an introductory course in online learning. Courses have set beginning and end dates. Learners are expected to devote 10 hours a week to their studies and to log in to classes between two and five times per week.

#11 Arizona State University

School Summary
Arizona State University has gained a well-deserved reputation for academic excellence, as well as using innovative learning technology. Its software is state of the art and students can access eight libraries to assist them in their coursework.

Tuition
All online students pay $442 per credit hour, regardless of where they live.

Unique Features
The online curriculum features the same high quality content as the on-campus version, and this makes it one of the top online distance learning programs in the country. ASU has entered into a partnership with Google to offer Apps for Education. Students can access due dates for courses and university deadlines from Google Calendar.

#12 American InterContinental University

School Summary
American InterContinental University offers a curriculum with the needs of working adults in mind. It has been honored as the “Best of the Best” in the Education and Academia category of the Computerworld Honors Program for 2009.

Tuition
The average tuition rate for this school is $20,292.

Unique Features
American InterContinental students can log in to the online platform at any time. A number of faculty members teaching online courses are industry experts with practical field experience.

#13 American Sentinel University

School Summary
American Sentinel University offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Masters and Doctoral degrees in healthcare, information technology and business. Applicants must be at least 23 years of age to be admitted.

Tuition
Tuition costs $14,000-$42,000 depending on the program chosen.

Unique Features
Learners who choose American Sentinel can access the services of a dedicated student success advisor. Classes are eight weeks in length, and a librarian is available on a 24/7 basis.

#14 Villanova University

School Summary
Villanova has been ranked as the No. 1 Regional University in the North by U.S. News & World Report. Bloomberg Business Week has ranked it as one of the top undergraduate schools in the country.

Tuition
Certificate programs start at $995 and go to $4,995 for an Advanced Master Certificate. The Master’s degree in Human Resource Development costs $930 per credit hour.

Unique Features
Lectures are conducted by way of streaming videos. Students can interact with instructors and each other by way of message boards, e-mail and live chat sessions making it one of the best universities for online learning.

#15 Devry University

School Summary
Devry has been offering degree programs for over 80 years. It has developed a reputation for offering an industry-based curriculum and high quality programs.

Tuition
Devry University online costs $33,828-$73,503 in tuition for undergraduate programs. Graduate degrees from Devry will run $24,800-$27,060.

Unique Features
Students enrolled at Devry have the option of completing a degree entirely online or combining some on-campus classes with their distance studies.

#16 Kaplan University

School Summary
Kaplan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) This school is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Tuition
Tuition for an Associate’s degree is $27,450 and a Bachelor’s degree will cost $54,900. Master’s degrees start at $15,400 and go up to $36,800, depending on the program. Tuition costs include textbooks and course materials.

Unique Features
New students can try a credit course for five weeks before deciding whether Kaplan is right for them. If the student decides to withdraw at that point, all he or she will owe is the application fee.

#17 Walden University

School Summary
Founded in 1970 by two teachers, Walden University’s programs were developed with the needs of working adults in mind.

Tuition
Students at Walden University pay $100 per credit hour for fundamental courses and $280 per credit hour for regular courses in an undergraduate degree program. Master’s degrees range from $440-$805 per credit hour, depending on the program. Doctoral programs cost approximately $4,600 per quarter.

Unique Features
The curriculum is set up to provide knowledge which students can apply directly to their workplace. Returning students get a discount on the cost of their tuition and the enrollment fee is waived.

#18 Champlain College

School Summary
Established in 1878, Champlain College was named as one of the “Top Up-and-Coming Schools in America” by U.S. News & World Report in 2010. It ranks high in student satisfaction and quality of its curriculum.

Tuition
Full-time students taking 12 credits per semester pay $7,697.50 to attend Champlain.

Unique Features
The school offers free academic support in Accounting and Math labs to students. A Writing lab is also available at no charge. Students enrolled at Champlain have the option to purchase or rent textbooks as needed.

#19 Rasmussen College

School Summary
Rasmussen College was founded in 1900 and has been providing career-focused education programs to adult learners ever since.

Tuition
Cost of tuition varies, depending on where the student resides and the program chosen. An undergraduate degree in Business costs $395 per credit hour.

Unique Features
Online tutoring is available to students, and technical support is offered on a 24/7 basis.

#20 Regis University

School Summary
Regis University has been offering online college degree programs since 1997. It has built a reputation for offering an excellent curriculum to distant students.

Tuition
Tuition rates at Regis cost between $395-$810 per credit hour.

Unique Features
This school offers eight-week courses, as well as a five-week, accelerated option. Students have the option of studying on their own or working with others in a group. The online curriculum is identical to the one used in the classroom.

#21 University of North Carolina

School Summary
The University of North Carolina is known for its outstanding online curriculum and affordable tuition rates.

Tuition
Tuition rates vary, depending on the program and start at $128.07 per credit hour for instate students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. Rates for out-of-state students start at $551.01 per credit hour. Students in graduate school will pay $210.79-$810.01 per credit hour, depending on whether they live in or out of state.

Unique Features
UNC online classes are taught by the faculty members who designed them. This school’s programs do not include “cookie cutter” courses. Instead, they offer a rich learning environment to distance learners.

#22 Full Sail University

School Summary
Full Sail University is one of the best media arts schools on the planet. It offers more than 20 undergraduate and graduate degrees online. The school has an open admissions policy and students are admitted to the school on a rolling basis.

Tuition
The cost of a Bachelor’s degree ranges from $56,500-$80,500. A Master’s degree program at Full Sail University costs $31,880-$35,280.

Unique Features
Tuition rates are locked in for the duration the program a student has enrolled in. The cost of tuition includes textbooks, manuals, any media and supplies needed for the program. Full Sail University is often considered the top online school for design.

#23 St Joseph’s University

School Summary
SJU is a school which was established in 1851. This private school has a reputation for academic excellence.

Tuition
Students enrolled in an undergraduate program at St. Joseph’s University will pay $36,480 per academic year. Graduate students pay between $1,164 and $3,125 per credit. The cost of enrolling in the 21 month E-MBA course is $63,165. The one-year year MBA program costs $54,390. Doctoral programs start at $578 per credit and go up to $865 per credit.

Unique Features
Students attending SJU online access their course materials from a virtual classroom and complete assignments as directed in the class schedule. Enrollees can communicate regularly with their instructors and classmates in online discussion forums and by e-mail. Online programs are not self-paced and students are expected to adhere to the class schedule.

#24 Colorado Technical University

School Summary
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This private, for profit school offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees online.

Tuition
Tuition costs to attend CTU online range from $27,450 for an Associate’s degree to $55,000 for a Bachelor’s degree. Tuition for a Master’s degree is approximately $28,000.

Unique Features
With Colorado Tech’s flexible pace, a student can complete a degree is as little as 17 months. Students can access a library and career services assistance. Technical support is available to distance students on a 24/7 basis.

#25 Post University

School Summary
Post University was founded in 1890 and has been offering online degrees since 1997. It has been ranked as one of the top 20 schools in the U.S. by the Online Education Database.

Tuition
Tuition is calculated based on the student’s state of residence and is approximately $13,260 per academic year for an undergraduate degree.

Unique Features
Post’s online courses are delivered in eight-week modules and programs start six times per year. Instructors hold advanced degrees and have real-world experience in their subject area.

#26 University of Phoenix

School Summary
Phoenix is the largest private university in North America. It offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Masters’s and Doctoral degrees and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition
The approximate cost per credit is $355.00.

Unique Features
All instructors at the University of Phoenix hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree. Students work on one course at a time and have the opportunity to work with classmates on team-based special projects. UoP offers the most comprehensive degree options in online education and are often considered the leading innovators in distance learning.

#27 Thomas Edison State College

School Summary
Thomas Edison State College was established in 1971 to meet the needs of adult learners. This public school is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Tuition
Students residing in state can choose to pay $5,322 per year, which covers the cost of up to 36 credits in the first year of learning. Tuition for subsequent years is $4,432. Out-of-state residents pay $7,837.00 for their first year of learning under the plan and $6,817 for subsequent years. Graduate tuition is $550 per credit attempted.

Unique Features
This school offers Associate, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs online. Students can also enroll in a number of graduate certificate programs.

#28 Thunderbird School of Global Management

School Summary
Thunderbird has been ranked as the best international business school in the world.

Tuition
The cost of enrolling in the Thunderbird distance MBA program is $44,855. This figure includes tuition for all courses as well as textbooks and case studies. It also includes onsite costs for attending orientation graduation on campus, as well as accommodation and some meals when attending international seminars on location.

Unique Features
Online Global MBA students complete 75 percent of their coursework online. The remaining 25 percent of the curriculum is conducted onsite at regional business seminars. Students can choose from a 19 or 28 month program. Thunderbird is one of the top online MBA programs in the world.

#29 Florida State University

School Summary
Florida State University is one of the top 50 public universities in the nation. It offers a high-quality, student centered learning environment.

Tuition
Students attending Florida State University online pay $260.50 per credit hour (this includes a $100 distance learning fee) for undergraduate programs. Florida residents enrolled in a graduate school program will pay $570-$844 per credit hour; non-Florida residents are charged $1209.84 per credit hour. FSU offers one of the top online distance learning programs from a public unviersity.

Unique Features
Personal support is available for distance learners studying at FSU. There is no distinction between the degree earns in an online program and the one offered on campus. Prospective online students complete an orientation program to become familiar with the university’s resources and procedures.

#30 Ashford University

School Summary
Ashford University has been helping students reach their educational goals since 1918. This private, for-profit school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Tuition
Students pay $390 per credit hour, plus a one-time Technology Services Fee of $1,290.

Unique Features
A student attending Ashford University online can complete the requirements for a degree in as little as 16 months. Classes run in five or six week blocks, and students can work on their educational goals at a time which is convenient for them.

#31 Keiser University

School Summary
Keiser is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers certificate, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business, IT, Legal and Criminal Justice.

Tuition
Students who choose Keiser will pay $25,000 in tuition for each year of their program.

Unique Features
Students enrolled at Keiser take one, four-week course at a time and write an exam before moving on to the next one. This approach allows students to focus on the material without juggling assignments from several courses at once.

#32 Concordia University Nebraska

School Summary
Concordia is ranked in the top tier of Midwest Regional Colleges by U.S. News & World Report. This private school was founded in 1894 by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

Tuition
Graduate students pay $380 per credit hour. MBA courses cost $420 per credit hour.

Unique Features
This school is known for its small class sizes. Its online Blackboard platform allows students to work on their course materials at any time of day or night.

#33 Rochester Institute of Technology

School Summary
RIT is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. It was awarded the Center of Excellence Award from the new media Consortium in 2008.

Tuition
Undergraduate programs cost $473 per credit hour. Graduate students studying part-time pay $963 per credit hour; full-time grad students pay $11,553 per quarter.

Unique Features
The school operates on the quarter system which allows students to start a program four times per year. Students can access an online bookstore as well as over 200 databases and library resources online. RIT is one of the best online schools for computer science and IT degrees.

#34 Purdue University

School Summary
Purdue University was founded in 1869 and is now a world renowned educational institution. U.S. News & World Report ranked Purdue at No. 18 on its list of the Best Public Universities in the country.

Tuition
Tuition rates very, depending on the program.

Unique Features
Online courses are set up to give students the flexibility to work at a time that is convenient for them. Interacting with instructors and fellow students is a major component of learning at this school. Coursework and exams are completed online.

#35 Gonzaga University

School Summary
Gonzaga University is ranked as the third Best University in the West by U.S. News & World Report. The school offers selected Masters and are into MSN degrees online.

Tuition
Graduate school courses at Gonzaga cost $805 per credit.

Unique Features
Class sizes are small to encourage interaction between instructors and students and to facilitate learning. Online courses are eight weeks in length as opposed to the 15-week schedule for on-campus programs.

#36 Fordham University

School Summary
In 2011, Washington Monthly ranked Fordham University as the 37th best school in the country. This private, not-for-profit, school is considered one of the best Catholic educational institutions in the world.

Tuition
Students attending Fordham online pay $714 per credit.

Unique Features
Fordham offers online Master’s degrees through its Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education. Online students have the opportunity to participate in group projects and conduct interviews as well as view lectures and presentations as part of their coursework.

#37 LeTourneau University

School Summary
LETU is a top-ranked online Christian college. Its employment placement rate for online graduates is a very impressive 94 percent.

Tuition
The cost to attend LETU online is $342 per hour.

Unique Features
LeTourneau online classes begin every six weeks. The learning pace of an online degree is faster than on campus but the curriculum is comparable.

#38 Brandman University

School Summary
Brandman is part of the Chapman University system. It offers undergraduate and graduate greetings in several areas of study, including an online MBA.

Tuition
Undergraduate tuition is $470 per credit. Students attending graduate school pay $570 per credit.

Unique Features
The school offers year-round sessions. Faculty members have real life experience. Personal and professional coaching is available to help students reach their goals.

#39 Georgetown University

School Summary
Georgetown is a very well-respected university which offers Masters Degree programs in Nursing online.

Tuition
This program costs $1,623.00 per credit hour.

Unique Features
The online program is presented in a seminar style. Students are highly encouraged to interact with each other and with faculty members. Along with online coursework, students complete a clinical component close to where they live. Georgetown is one of the top online nursing schools available.

#40 Fisher College

School Summary
Fisher College is a nonprofit school founded in 1903. It offers Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees, as well as a number certificate programs online.

Tuition
Students attending Fisher pay $285 plus $95 technical fee per credit hour. The cost for a three-credit course is $950.

Unique Features
Online courses from Fisher College have the same learning outcomes as their classroom-based counterparts. Students are required to participate in discussions as part of their course requirements.

#41 University of Notre Dame

School Summary
Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of Business offers executive certificate programs online. The University has been ranked as one of the top 25 higher learning institutions in the country.

Tuition
Notre Dame charges $1,980 per course. The cost of a three-course executive certificate is $5,940.

Unique Features
The executive certificate program can be completed in 25-30 hours. Students are given eight weeks to complete each course. Video CD-ROMs and a study guide are provided. Students and faculty can interact through online message boards, chat rooms and e-mail.

#42 New England College

School Summary
NEC is a private, not-for-profit educational institution. It was established in 1946 to provide postsecondary educational courses to servicemen and women after World War II.

Tuition
Online Bachelor’s degree programs at NEC cost $620 per credit. Master’s degree programs range from $590-$620, depending on the program

Unique Features
Admission to NEC’s online programs are based on the applicant’s Grade Point Average (GPA) and personal work experience. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission.

#43 Oregon State University

School Summary
Oregon State offers a wide variety of programs online. The school is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. OSU offers undergraduate and graduate level certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate and first professional degrees.

Tuition
Undergraduate students at OSU paid $240 per credit. Graduate courses cost for entered $478 per credit.

Unique Features
Online students receive the same degree as learners studying on campus, making a degree earned from OSU both a great value and highly respected by employers. Tutoring is available to online students enrolled at OSU online.

#44 Fort Hays State University

School Summary
Fort Hays State first opened its doors to students in 1902. This public school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. FHSU is listed as a “Best Buy” on GetEducated.com’s ranking for Masters degrees in Criminal Justice.

Tuition
The cost to attend FHSU is $174 per credit hour for undergrad programs. Graduate students are charged $235.50 per credit hour, and an MBA program costs $400 per credit hour.

Unique Features
Online courses at FHS are taught by the same faculty as the on-campus version. Students have the flexibility to take classes and exams at a time that fits their schedule.

#45 Westwood College

School Summary
Westwood College first opened its doors to students in 1953. It is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Tuition
Tuition costs range from $24,773-$74,494.

Unique Features
Online class sizes at Westwood are small to ensure that students get the attention they need from the experienced faculty. Tutoring is available at no charge and a career services team is available to help with finding work on graduation. These added services and attention to student needs make Westwood a great online college choice.

#46 Baker University

School Summary
Baker is a private university known for its small classes and rigorous coursework. It was founded in 1858 by Methodist ministers. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition
Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees cost $205 per credit. Graduate degrees cost $360 per credit, and postgraduate degree programs are billed at $490 per credit

Unique Features
Online courses are conducted in weeklong modules. Students have the flexibility to log in to their online learning platform at any time. A certain level of class participation is required to achieve a passing grade.

#47 Benedictine University

School Summary
Benedictine University is a regionally accredited school offering certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorates online. It is a private, top-tier university offering affordable programs.

Tuition
Students enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program pay $375 per credit hour for the first 60 credit hours. After that point, they are charged $550 per credit hour. Master’s degree programs cost $540 per credit hour. Doctoral programs are billed at $820 per credit hour.

Unique Features
A student attending Benedictine online can complete a bachelor’s degree in as little as 2 years. Programs are flexible to accommodate students’ busy schedules.

#48 Everglades University

School Summary
Everglades University has established itself as a solid choice for distance learners. It has a very low student-to-teacher ratio and a high graduation rate.

Tuition
Students pursuing an undergrad degree at Everglades University online will pay an estimated $13,396 in tuition per academic year. Everglades University offers one of the best values in online learning.

Unique Features
Courses are taught by qualified instructors who make a point of making the learning environment interesting and interactive. Lesson plans are available to students; assignments and class schedules are posted online. Students enrolled in courses have the option to participate in scheduled discussions and live chats, and to e-mail instructors with questions.

#49 Utica College

School Summary
Utica College ranks well for student satisfaction and affordability. This school has a very low student-to-teacher ratio.

Tuition
Undergraduate students pay $350-$400 per credit hour, depending on the program. Students enrolled in graduate school will pay $625-$890 per credit hour.

Unique Features
Utica College is one of the few institutions offering online Bachelor’s degree programs in cyber-intelligence and cyber-security making it one of the premier online schools for criminal justice programs.

#50 Virginia College

School Summary
Virginia College offers online programs in business, IT, healthcare, education and culinary arts. The school is accredited by ACICS (Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools).

Tuition
Students enrolled at Virginia pay between $36,960-$72,380 for an undergraduate degree (Associate’s or Bachelor’s program). Tuition for a Master’s degree will cost $30,296.

Unique Features
The cost of textbooks is included in the tuition. Virginia College offers career-oriented education from instructors with real-world experience. For those looking to advance their career, this is one of the best online college options available.

Electricians who specialize in maintenance repair work quickly to minimize interruptions in electrical services as they replace or upgrade existing electrical equipment and systems. Some electricians work within industrial environments and do complicated repairs and maintenance work. These electricians work closely with management, engineers, technicians, machinery mechanics, maintenance workers, and line installers or repairs replacing and maintaining electrical components, like motors, generators, controllers, and transformers, on industrial machinery or robots. Industrial electricians also propose plans to management when equipment malfunctions or is in need of repair to allow continued operation or decrease the risks of hazards from faulty machinery.

All electricians follow blueprints which map out the locations of panel boards, outlets, circuits, load centers, and other aspects of an electrical system. Electricians often help in the planning of electrical projects as well as the execution by installing components, connecting wiring, and placing circuit breakers, outlets, transformers, and other aspects of electrical systems. Electricians use a variety of tools, from simple screwdrivers, knives, pliers, saws, and wire strippers, to more complicated, like conduit benders, ammeters, drills, voltmeters, harmonic testers, and other safety or test devices. Electricians use simple tools when installing wiring and later test connections and ensure proper operation and safety with more complicated tools. Electricians frequently inspect all components and equipment within an electrical systems to ensure efficiency and prevent problems.

Electricians work within a number of indoor and outdoor environments, like private residences, construction sites, businesses, industrial complexes, and factories. Electricians have strenuous and often hazardous jobs. Electricians must be able to lift heavy objects, stand, stoop, kneel, and bend conduit as well as follow safety protocols to prevent electrical shock, falls, cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. Most electricians work 40 hours or more per week to accommodate clients with evening or weekend emergencies. Electricians who work within industrial organizations may work overtime hours during retooling or scheduled maintenance periods. Some electricians who work for larger organizations with 24 hour operations may work first, second, or third shifts.

Individuals must complete formal training, gain hands on experience, and fulfill licensing requirements as determined by state and employer regulations in order to qualify for employment as an electrician. High school students interested in establishing careers as electricians may prepare by participating in courses like science, shop, technical drawing, mathematics, physical education, business, and English. Many high school students also work as assistants to electricians to gain hands on experience. Upon earning a diploma or G.E.D., many students advance to apprenticeships, trade or technical school programs, community colleges, or universities to expand education.

Apprenticeship programs provide individuals with the ability to participate in classroom studies combined with hands on experiences. Most apprenticeship programs are sponsored by the National Electrical Contractors Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, Independent Electrical Contractors Association, or individual electrical contracting companies. Apprenticeships require students to invest a minimum of 4 years of training to gradually learn the most basic techniques to more complex information necessary to qualify for employment. Apprenticeship programs feature courses based in mathematics, electrical code requirements, blueprint reading, electrical theory, safety regulations, first aid practices, and communications. Apprenticeship programs generally provide paid on the job training working closely with more experienced electricians so students may apply information learned within classroom settings. Apprenticeship programs also feature the ability to specialize training in fields like soldering, fire alarm systems, elevators and cranes, or communications. Students within apprenticeships usually begin with simple tasks, like drilling holes, attaching conduit, or setting anchors, and then advance to measuring, fabricating, connecting, testing, or installing conduit, outlets, switches, and other components. Individuals who complete apprenticeships generally advance to employment as electricians.

Trade or vocational schools provide students with an extensive understanding of the knowledge and skills necessary to advance as electricians. Courses include: HVAC technician, basic designing and installing, basic programmable logic controllers, basic voice and data cable installation, commercial wiring, conduit bending, electrical estimating, electrical systems containing automatic transfer service, electrical theory, foreman training program, gas and oil burner control wiring, general maintenance, installation of multiganged meter equipment, introduction trade electricity, lead certification, low voltage license preparation, master electrician license preparation, motor and motor controls, national electric code, fire alarm installation, OSHA, fire alarm practical, security and fire alarm, techniques of the trade, understanding of the National Electric Contractors Association, and wiring and family dwellings. Individuals who complete training within trade or vocational schools often advance to certification and licensing programs

Associate degree programs offer students an expanded educational basis required to advance to careers as an electrician. Courses include: electrical foundations, introduction to residential wiring, basic wiring techniques lab, electrical foundations, residential wiring, transformers, advanced wiring, motor controls, motor theory, OSHA construction safety and health, industrial controls, motor drive systems, advanced industrial controls, renewable energy systems, advanced PLCs, photo-voltaic energy, renewable energy sources, environmental science, photo-voltaic energy, and renewable energy sources. Students enrolled within associate degree programs also complete laboratory and practical experiences to apply course theories in hands on settings. Graduates from associate degree programs generally advance to employment or continue studies within electrical engineering programs.

Bachelor degree programs within the discipline of electrical engineering offer students the ability to strengthen skills, expand education, and gain hands on experiences necessary to advance to a number of career options. Courses include: computers and programming, calculus, general chemistry, English composition, Western civilization, introduction to economics, oral communication process, calculus, Physics, digital hardware organization, fundamentals of circuit analysis, data structures, linear Algebra, differential equations, applied quantum physics, social forces, signals and systems, principles of electronics, microprocessors, advanced writing t-lines and electromagnetic fields, human values, electronic product design, and laboratory or practicum experiences to apply course theories to work experiences. Graduates who complete bachelor degree programs may advance to employment or higher degrees.

Master degree programs in electrical engineering gain the means of specializing knowledge and refining skills necessary to advance or establish their careers. Courses include: entrepreneurial engineer seminar, integrated circuit fabrication processes, principles and models of semiconductor devices, the Fourier transform and its applications, introduction to linear dynamical systems, introduction to VLSI systems, introduction to wireless personal communications introduction to statistical signal processing, computer systems architecture, introduction to computer networks, fundamentals of energy processes, advanced integrated circuits technology, digital MOS integrated circuits, RF integrated circuit design, VLSI signal conditioning circuits, VLSI data conversion circuits, nanophotonices, wireless communication, convex optimization, digital image processing, colloquium on computer systems, advanced processor architecture, topics in international technology management, topics in international advanced technology research, entrepreneurship in Asian high tech industries, feedback control design, micro/nano systems design and fabrication laboratory. Graduates who complete master’s degrees may advance to employment or continue studies within doctoral degree programs.

Doctoral degree programs offer candidates the ability to gain the education and skills necessary to qualify as experts in the field of electrical engineering. Courses include: testing of digital systems; introduction to semiconductor processing; statistical analysis; parametric/functional device testing; very large scale integrated circuit design; design and analysis of analog integrated circuits; modern communications circuits; computer aided circuit design; fiber optic systems; advanced communications systems; modern optics; digital signal processing; system modeling and simulation; advanced digital systems design; industrial co-op; special topics in design, simulation, and testing of electronic systems; special topics: DC-DC converter design and test; biomedical signal processing; biosensors and bioelectronics; dissertation research; dissertation; and graduate seminar. Graduates who complete doctoral degrees often advance to positions as educators, researchers, or consultants within colleges, universities, or self owned businesses.

Electricians are generally required to gain licensure upon completion of training programs as determined by state regulations. Licensing programs allow electricians to demonstrate their skills and knowledge of the field to gain the certification necessary to qualify as master electricians. Candidates must pass an examination which tests their understanding of the National Electric Code, local and state electric and building codes, and the electrical theory. Many states require electricians to gain specialized licensing to work for public organizations or for electrical contractors. Most states also require electricians to complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and seven years of work experience to qualify as master electricians.

Electricians have the ability to establish lucrative careers. Earnings for electricians are based upon several factors including: skill level, level of education, work experience, organization of employment, geographic location, and area of specialty. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports average hourly wages for most electricians range from $17.00 to $29.99 per hour. Electricians who work within electric power generation, transmission, and distribution earn $28.15 per hour. Electricians employed by local governments earn $25.66 per hour. Electricians within nonresidential building construction earn $22.21 per hour. Electricians who work within apprenticeships earn 30 to 50 percent of the salary a fully trained electrician earns and have the ability to receive pay increases as they advance skills throughout their training. Many electricians become members of unions which include: the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, the United Steelworkers of America, the International Union of Electronic, Electrical, Salaried, Machine, and Furniture Workers, and the International Union, United Automobile, Aircraft, and Agriculture Implement Workers of America.

Skilled electricians who meet formal training, licensing, and work experience requirements are expected to find favorable job prospects per reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Job growth in the field is predicted to increase by 12 percent through 2018. Candidates who demonstrate their knowledge, complete formal training, and are competent with voice, data, and video wiring are expected to find increased employability in comparison to candidates with less training and experience. Technological advances, population growth, increases in electricity consumption, the rise of green energy, and improvements within older structures will further job growth in the field. Employment is expected to remain stable for electricians though fluctuations in the economy could adversely affect the construction industry and number of jobs available to construction electricians. Maintenance electricians are expected to find steadier employment than those working within construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries due to cyclical economic fluctuations though increased employment opportunities within electrical consulting firms generally offset job losses and instability.

Experienced electricians often advance to supervisory or project management positions within construction, contracting, or other related businesses. Many experienced electricians also advance to positions as electrical inspectors. Electricians are required to continue education through their careers to remain current of any industry changes, safety protocols, manufacturing changes, or management issues. Electricians must be familiar with changes of the National Electric Code, maintain licensure, and acquire familiarity with changing industry or safety advances.