Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE COLLEGES IN ALABAMA

Find the best online colleges in Alabama ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs.

Best Online Colleges in Alabama

Sort by:
  1. University of Alabama
  2. Auburn University
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham
  4. Samford University
  5. University of South Alabama
  6. University of Alabama in Huntsville
  7. Troy University
  8. Jacksonville State University
  9. University of North Alabama
  10. Athens State University
  1. University of Alabama
  2. Auburn University
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham
  4. Samford University
  5. University of Alabama in Huntsville
  6. University of South Alabama
  7. Troy University
  8. Jacksonville State University
  9. Faulkner University
  10. University of North Alabama
  1. Heritage Christian University 100%
  2. University of North Alabama 96%
  3. Troy University 95%
  4. Auburn University at Montgomery 92%
  5. University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
  6. Samford University 83%
  7. Faulkner University 82%
  8. University of Alabama 80%
  9. University of Alabama in Huntsville 78%
  10. Jacksonville State University 78%
  1. Talladega College 22 to 1
  2. Auburn University 20 to 1
  3. Jacksonville State University 19 to 1
  4. Alabama A&M University 19 to 1
  5. University of Alabama 19 to 1
  6. University of North Alabama 18 to 1
  7. University of Alabama at Birmingham 18 to 1
  8. University of West Alabama 18 to 1
  9. University of Alabama in Huntsville 17 to 1
  10. University of South Alabama 16 to 1
  1. Samford University $36,725
  2. Faulkner University $23,920
  3. Oakwood University $20,040
  4. Talladega College $13,866
  5. Heritage Christian University $11,632
  6. Stillman College $11,392
  7. University of Alabama $11,100
  8. Auburn University $10,392
  9. University of North Alabama $10,200
  10. University of Alabama in Huntsville $10,120
  1. Samford University $21,265
  2. Talladega College $16,000
  3. Faulkner University $15,325
  4. Oakwood University $13,680
  5. University of Alabama $11,100
  6. Amridge University $10,800
  7. University of Alabama in Huntsville $10,632
  8. Auburn University $10,386
  9. Alabama A&M University $10,128
  10. Jacksonville State University $9,840
  1. Heritage Christian University
  2. Herzing University
  3. Amridge University
  4. University of West Alabama
  5. Stillman College
  6. Faulkner University
  7. Auburn University at Montgomery
  8. Oakwood University
  9. Talladega College
  10. Alabama A&M University
  1. Heritage Christian University
  2. Amridge University
  3. Athens State University
  4. University of West Alabama
  5. Stillman College
  6. Herzing University
  7. Oakwood University
  8. Alabama A&M University
  9. Talladega College
  10. Auburn University at Montgomery
  1. Auburn University 44%
  2. Stillman College 65%
  3. University of South Alabama 65%
  4. Oakwood University 68%
  5. Alabama A&M University 68%
  6. University of West Alabama 69%
  7. Jacksonville State University 78%
  8. University of Alabama in Huntsville 78%
  9. University of Alabama 80%
  10. Faulkner University 82%
  1. Heritage Christian University 8 to 1
  2. Oakwood University 11 to 1
  3. Amridge University 12 to 1
  4. Faulkner University 13 to 1
  5. Samford University 14 to 1
  6. Athens State University 14 to 1
  7. Auburn University at Montgomery 15 to 1
  8. Stillman College 15 to 1
  9. University of South Alabama 16 to 1
  10. Troy University 16 to 1
  1. Athens State University $7,230
  2. Auburn University at Montgomery $8,232
  3. Alabama A&M University $8,610
  4. University of South Alabama $8,616
  5. University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,832
  6. Amridge University $9,000
  7. University of West Alabama $9,100
  8. Troy University $9,312
  9. Jacksonville State University $9,990
  10. University of Alabama in Huntsville $10,120
  1. Heritage Christian University $4,482
  2. University of North Alabama $6,600
  3. University of West Alabama $6,678
  4. Auburn University at Montgomery $7,812
  5. Athens State University $8,352
  6. University of South Alabama $8,424
  7. University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,424
  8. Troy University $8,550
  9. Jacksonville State University $9,840
  10. Alabama A&M University $10,128

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Alabama

Online students and traditional students alike have a lot of options in the state of Alabama. The 54 colleges and universities in Alabama allow students to pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in many fields all over the state, as well as through a variety of excellent online degree programs. Some of the most notable degree areas include law, nursing, biology, history, engineering, and religious studies.

Students in Alabama can study any of these subjects either online or through online courses. If you’re looking for educational flexible education, Alabama has over 20 colleges and universities offering online degree programs.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Students hoping to obtain a four-year degree at a larger university can attend one of the two largest - as well as rivalry - schools, the University of Alabama and Auburn University. Both schools’ tuition is about $11,000, though the University of Alabama’s student population, at nearly 36,000 students, is larger than Auburn’s.

Students also have the option of attending one of Alabama’s 18 private higher education institutes, many of which have religious affiliations. Tuition costs vary widely, from $4,000 per year to $36,000 per year. Student populations also vary widely, from less than 100 students to as many as 15,000 students.

Additionally, students who need more flexibility can take advantage of the satellite campuses, like at the University of North Alabama. Alabama also has a larger number of online college offerings. With 70 online degree programs offered at the University of Alabama alone, in-state residents have a lot of degree options, both for a traditional and online education.

For die-hard football fans and lovers of sweet tea, obtaining a higher education degree in Alabama can seem like an obvious choice. The Yellowhammer State, however, is also home to a unique mixture of coastal, mountainous, and swamp environments, making it a great choice for students who love soaking up the outdoors.

And if you’re looking for a mix of the campus experience and online education, many schools in Alabama have hybrid programs. With a hybrid program, you can take both online courses and classes on campus.


What are Alabama’s Colleges & Universities?


Alabama’s Best Overall

Best Online Colleges in Alabama
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Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2023

  1. #1

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,940
    Expenses: $20,084
    Starting Salary: $51,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Food and Nutrition
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Development and Family Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Life
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Environmental Sciences, Consumer Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Consumer Affairs
    • Family Financial Planning and Counseling
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Environmental Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Commerce and Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • General Business
    • Management
    • Accounting
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 25/ 125
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Cost of Degree: $8,832
    Expenses: $20,077
    Starting Salary: $48,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting

    Concentrations

    • Financial Management Concentration
    • Investments and Institutions Concentration
    • Real Estate Concentration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Community Health and Human Services

    Concentrations

    • Human Services
    • Community Health
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Care Management

    Concentrations

    • Concentration Tracks
    • Clinical Manager
    • Pre-professional
    • LongTerm Care Administration
    • Fast Tracks
    • Health Informatics
    • Healthcare Quality and Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120-125
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Industrial Distribution

    Concentrations

    • Engineering or Medical Equipment and Supplies
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management

    Concentrations

    • International Business Dynamics
    • Management Planning and Control
    • Operations Management
    • Project Managemen
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems

    Concentrations

    • Data Analytics
    • Cybersecurity Management
    • Operations Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing

    Concentrations

    • Marketing Management
    • Retail Marketing Management
    • Digital Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  3. #4

    Samford University

    Birmingham , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Samford University

    Cost of Degree: $36,725
    Expenses: $17,209
    Starting Salary: $59,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1101/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $9,116
    Expenses: $14,589
    Starting Salary: $46,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA/BS in Interdisciplinary Studies

    Concentrations

    • Administrative Sciences
    • Appliied Arts
    • Applied Sciences
    • Community Services
    • Human Services
    • Liberal Studies
    • Professional Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 59
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  5. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1328/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Alabama in Huntsville

    Cost of Degree: $11,878
    Expenses: $18,000
    Starting Salary: $52,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS/BA in Professional Studies

    Concentrations

    • Engineering Technology
    • Organizational Studies
    • Leadership Strategies and Dynamics
    • Technology
    • Science and Society
    • General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 26
    • Completion time: 12 months
    • Format: Online
  6. #7

    Troy University

    Troy , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Troy University

    Cost of Degree: $9,312
    Expenses: $13,665
    Starting Salary: $41,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality Management

    Concentrations

    • Hospitality
    • Sport and Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Global Studies

    Concentrations

    • Accounting and Finance
    • Data Analytics
    • General Business
    • Human Resource Management
    • Information Systems
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Risk Management Insurance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geographic Information Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interpreter
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science, Applied Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Occupational Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Political Science

    Concentrations

    • American Politics and Public Administration
    • International Politics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Science

    Concentrations

    • General Social Science
    • Geography
    • Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in History

    Concentrations

    • American and Latin American History
    • European/Asian/African History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Resource Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  7. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Jacksonville State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,952
    Expenses: $12,038
    Starting Salary: $38,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice

    Concentrations

    • Law Enforcement
    • Offender Rehabilitation
    • Corrections
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Family and Consumer Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Human Sciences
    • Child Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Integrated Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Management with a Minor in Public Safety Telecommunications, Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 129
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  8. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,220
    Expenses: $12,030
    Starting Salary: $42,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Health Science
    • Required Credits: 117
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Hospitality and Events Management
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Computer Information Systems
    • Economics
    • Finance
    • Professional Management
    • Professsional Marketing
    • Computer Science
    • Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 108
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Spanish
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  9. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Athens State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,540
    Starting Salary: $42,400

    Online Degrees

    BS in Advanced Manufacturing Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Occupational Health and Safety Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Acquisition and Contract Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management of Cybersecurity Operations
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management of Technology
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Education

    Concentrations

    • Military Instructor
    • Early Instructor
    • Secondary Instruction
    • Post-Secondary Instructor
    • Instructional Design
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Individualized Degree Program
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religion
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Science

    Concentrations

    • Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  10. Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    27%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    931/17

    Career Outlook for degree at Alabama A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $10,024
    Expenses: $14,210
    Starting Salary: $35,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  11. #12

    Talladega College

    Talladega , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Talladega College

    Cost of Degree: $13,886
    Expenses: $13,834
    Starting Salary: $23,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Information System
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  12. #13

    Oakwood University

    Huntsville , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oakwood University

    Cost of Degree: $20,040
    Expenses: $18,584
    Starting Salary: $37,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Church Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  13. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Auburn University at Montgomery

    Cost of Degree: $9,100
    Expenses: $12,598
    Starting Salary: $38,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing (Bsn To Msn)
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  14. #15

    Faulkner University

    Montgomery , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Faulkner University

    Cost of Degree: $23,920
    Expenses: $14,420
    Starting Salary: $40,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Biblical Studies
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Counseling Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Forensic Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General/Clinical Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health And Rehabilitation Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Humanities
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  15. #16

    Stillman College

    Tuscaloosa , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Stillman College

    Cost of Degree: $11,392
    Expenses: $16,660
    Starting Salary: $33,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 114
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  16. #17

    University of West Alabama

    Livingston , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    930/19

    Career Outlook for degree at University of West Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $10,990
    Expenses: $12,636
    Starting Salary: $40,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Development
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Integrated Marketing Communications

    Concentrations

    • Integrated Marketing Communications Program Requirements
    • Graphic Design
    • Sports Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education: Collaborative Teacher, K-6/6-12
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Sport Management

    Concentrations

    • Business Administration
    • Multidisciplinary
    • Required Credits: 120-123
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
  17. #18

    Amridge University

    Montgomery , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Amridge University

    Cost of Degree: $9,950
    Starting Salary: $47,600

    Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Development
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Ministry/Bible
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  18. Other Rankings

    Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Networking
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Programming
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice

    Concentrations

    • Homeland Security And Counterterrorism
    • Management And Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resources
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology

    Concentrations

    • Data Analytics Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 36 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Medical Assisting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Medical Office Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    BS in Project Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Software Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 32 months
    • Format: Online
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Best Christian Online Colleges in Alabama

  1. #1

    Samford University

    Birmingham , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Samford University

    Cost of Degree: $36,725
    Expenses: $17,209
    Starting Salary: $59,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Oakwood University

    Huntsville , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oakwood University

    Cost of Degree: $20,040
    Expenses: $18,584
    Starting Salary: $37,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Church Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  3. #3

    Faulkner University

    Montgomery , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Faulkner University

    Cost of Degree: $23,920
    Expenses: $14,420
    Starting Salary: $40,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Biblical Studies
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Counseling Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Forensic Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General/Clinical Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health And Rehabilitation Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Humanities
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  4. #4

    Amridge University

    Montgomery , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Amridge University

    Cost of Degree: $9,950
    Starting Salary: $47,600

    Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Development
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Ministry/Bible
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
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Best Online HBCUs in Alabama

  1. Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    27%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    931/17

    Career Outlook for degree at Alabama A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $10,024
    Expenses: $14,210
    Starting Salary: $35,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Talladega College

    Talladega , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Talladega College

    Cost of Degree: $13,886
    Expenses: $13,834
    Starting Salary: $23,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Information System
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  3. #3

    Stillman College

    Tuscaloosa , AL

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Stillman College

    Cost of Degree: $11,392
    Expenses: $16,660
    Starting Salary: $33,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 114
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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