Discover a list of 21 accredited distance learning universities that offer a wide range of degree options and are at the forefront of advancing education through online programs. These universities have met high standards of quality and excellence, ensuring students receive a recognized and valuable education while studying at home.
Whether you’re looking to advance your career or continue your education, these accredited distance-learning universities offer flexible and convenient options for students to learn from their homes.
The accredited distance learning universities on this list have been carefully selected to provide students with a comprehensive and quality education, they offer a diverse range of degree programs, from associate’s to doctoral degrees, in various fields of study, and with the convenience of online learning and the assurance of accreditation, you can be confident that you are getting a valuable education that employers and other institutions will recognize.
Introduction to Distance Learning Education
Distance learning education delivers instruction and content through technology, allowing students to complete their studies remotely at their own pace. It includes online classes, degree programs, and hybrid programs combining online and in-person instruction.
With the advent of technology, it has become a viable option for students to study from home and further their education. Distance learning universities allow students to take classes and earn degrees remotely. This flexibility allows students to balance their personal and professional lives while pursuing educational goals.
With an increasing demand for flexible and accessible education options and the wider availability of internet access, distance learning education has become a viable alternative to traditional on-campus education. However, distance learning universities must be accredited to ensure the quality and recognition of the education received.
Advantages of Accredited Distance Learning Program
The distance learning program has several advantages over traditional on-campus education:
- Flexibility: It allows students to complete their studies at their own pace and on their schedule. This is particularly useful for working individuals, having family responsibilities, or living in remote areas.
- Convenience: It allows students to study from home and anywhere with internet access, eliminating the need to commute or relocate.
- Cost-effectiveness: It is often less expensive than traditional on-campus education, as it eliminates the need for transportation, room and board, and other expenses associated with on-campus living.
- Wide variety of options: It provides a wide range of program options, including many that might not be available at traditional on-campus institutions.
- Accessibility: It opens up educational opportunities for individuals who would otherwise face barriers to attending traditional on-campus institutions.
- Personalization: It allows learners to personalize their education as per their learning style and need.
- Opportunity for self-motivated learners: It is designed to be self-directed, allowing self-motivated learners to excel.
- Potential for enhanced interaction: With the use of technology, it can improve the interaction between learners and educators, allowing for greater collaboration and communication.
The Need for Accreditation in Distance Learning Universities
Accreditation is a crucial aspect of distance learning education as it ensures that a university meets specific quality standards regarding its curriculum, faculty, and student support services.
It also verifies that the university has undergone a thorough review process and has been deemed to provide a valid education, making the degree recognized by other institutions and employers and students eligible for financial aid.
The following is a list of the significance of accreditation of distance learning courses offered by a university:
- Accreditation ensures that the distance learning university meets specific quality standards regarding its curriculum, faculty, and student support services.
- Accreditation verifies that the university has undergone a thorough review process and has been deemed to provide a valid education.
- Accreditation makes students eligible for federal financial aid and other forms of financial assistance.
- Other institutions and employers recognize a degree from an accredited distance learning university, making it more likely to be accepted for further education or employment opportunities.
- Accreditation gives students confidence that they are receiving a valuable and recognized education.
- Accreditation is important for distance learning universities because it establishes an institution as reputable and trustworthy.
- Accreditation also helps to safeguard students from fraud and deception, as unaccredited institutions may not have met the standards for quality education.
- Accreditation ensures that the distance learning institution is held accountable for the education it provides and that it is subject to regular evaluations and reviews.
Overview of Top 21 Accredited Distance Learning Universities
Are you ready to take the next step in your education but want to maintain your current job and personal responsibilities? Explore the world of online education through the list of universities below that have met high standards of quality and excellence.
Western Governors University (WGU)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) is an accredited distance learning university. It has a unique, competency-based education model that allows students to advance through their studies by demonstrating their mastery of a subject, enabling them to progress at their own pace and complete their degrees more quickly than at a traditional on-campus university.
WGU offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, education, healthcare, information technology, and nursing. It provides personalized support through academic mentors and has partnerships with companies and organizations that provide students real-world experience, internships, and job opportunities.
The university’s accredited distance learning programs are developed by an academic team and delivered through the WGU student portal and mobile application in an online format. It is often included in lists of top online universities for its affordability and innovative approach to education.
Southern New Hampshire University Online
SNHU The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
SNHU’s approved distance learning program offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, education, liberal arts, healthcare, and technology. The online program is designed to be flexible, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log in times, making it convenient for working students.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) provides various student services and resources to support online students, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and technical support. SNHU also has the option for prior-learning assessment, which allows students to earn college credit for their work experience, helping them to finish their degree more quickly and reduce costs.
University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix’s distance learning courses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
It offers business, education, healthcare, information technology, nursing, and psychology degree programs. It is known for its flexibility and convenience, with classes in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times.
The university also provides a variety of student services and resources to support online students, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and 24/7 technical support. Additionally, the University of Phoenix is one of the largest recipients of veterans’ education benefits through the G.I. bill.
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, both online and on-campus. The university’s distance learning programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and are a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
GCU offers degree programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, information technology, nursing, and psychology. It strongly emphasizes Christian values, which are reflected in the curriculum and the university’s mission.
GCU’s online program is designed to be flexible and convenient for working students, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times. The university also provides various student services and resources to support online students, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and 24/7 technical support.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs both online and on-campus. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Liberty University’s distance learning courses offer over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a wide range of fields, including business, education, healthcare, law, and theology. The university is known for its strong emphasis on Christian values.
Strayer University
The university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as Business, Accounting, Computer Science, Education, Health Services, and Law. The programs are designed to provide flexibility and convenience for adult learners, with many of them being tailored to meet the needs of working professionals.
Strayer University’s online programs are fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the curriculums are designed to be interactive and engaging. The online students have access to the same resources and support services as on-campus students, including academic advising, library services, and career services.
In addition to degree programs, Strayer also provides non-credit online learning options such as MOOCs, professional development, and certifications, which are designed to help individuals gain new skills, update current ones and advance their career.
Walden University
The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Walden University’s online program offers a wide range of degree programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, information technology, and psychology. The university is designed to meet the needs of working students, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times.
Online students at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and continuous technical support. These services are designed to help students succeed academically and navigate the university experience.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a public institution that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and is a member of the University System of Maryland (USM).
UMC’s online program is designed to be flexible and convenient for working students, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times. The university offers various degree programs in business, education, healthcare, information technology, and public administration.
It serves a diverse student population, including traditional students, working adults, military personnel, and veterans. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees and focuses on meeting the needs of working adults, with a lot of its programs offered in accelerated formats and flexible scheduling.
UMGC has a strong reputation for providing its students with high-quality online education and support services.
American Public University System
American Public University System (APUS) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It is geared toward the military, veterans, and public service professionals.
American Public University system is one of the largest recipients of tuition benefits through the G.I. bill and other veterans education benefits programs. It is known for supporting the military and veterans student population, reflected in its curriculum, professors and student services, and collaborations with military organizations and agencies.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University’s (ASU’s) distance programs offer a variety of hybrid and blended programs, which combine online and on-campus learning. These programs provide the best of both worlds, allowing students to enjoy the flexibility of online learning while also having access to an on-campus program’s resources and networking opportunities.
ASU offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, education, healthcare, and the liberal arts. The university is known for its vital research programs and commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
Capella University
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) member.
Capella University’s online program is designed to be flexible and convenient for working students, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times. The university offers over 190 degree programs in business, education, healthcare, information technology, psychology, and public safety.
Capella’s academic programs are designed to meet the needs of working professionals with the option to personalize their learning experience and choose the pace at which they complete their degree.
The University of Arizona Global Campus
The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
The university is an online university that is affiliated with The University of Arizona. It offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs in multiple fields.
UAGC’s online program is designed to be flexible and convenient for working students, with classes offered in an asynchronous format and no set log-in times. The university offers over 70 degree programs in business, education, healthcare, information technology, and psychology.
The George Washington University
The George Washington University (GWU) offers a variety of online degree and certificate programs through its GWU Online division. The programs are designed for working professionals and other adult learners seeking to advance their education and career.
The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs in business, Healthcare, Law, Public Administration, I.T., and Education.
GWU’s distance programs are fully accredited and are held to the same standards as the on-campus programs. The curriculum is designed to be interactive and engaging, and students can access a wide range of resources and support services, including academic advising, library services, and career services.
The university also provides opportunities for networking, interaction, and collaboration with other students, professors, and alumni by using online tools and platforms.
Columbia Southern University
Columbia Southern University (CSU) is a distance-learning university that provides online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university’s mission is to provide students with a flexible, affordable, and accessible education that can help them advance their careers.
CSU offers more than 30 degree programs in a wide range of fields, including business administration, criminal justice, healthcare management, and fire science. Some of the university’s most popular programs include its Bachelor of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, and Doctor of Business Administration.
Rasmussen University Online
Rasmussen University Online offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across several fields of study, such as business, healthcare, technology, and design.
It provides students with the flexibility to take classes from anywhere, and at any time, through its online platform. The institution provides a wide range of academic programs, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level courses across a diverse array of disciplines such as healthcare, technology, education, business, criminal justice, and beyond.
Post University Online
Rasmussen University was founded in 1900 and initially provided career-focused programs in fields like nursing and technology. Today, it offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs across several areas of study, such as business, healthcare, technology, and design.
Rasmussen University Online allows students to take classes from anywhere, at any time, through its online platform. The school offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in various subjects, including healthcare, technology, education, business, criminal justice, and more.
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University (JHU) offers a variety of distance learning options for students through its JHU Online division. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs and non-degree options, such as professional development courses and continuing education courses.
The Middle States Commission fully accredits the distance courses offered by JHU on Higher Education, and they are designed to provide students with the same quality education as their on-campus counterparts. The curriculum is based on the same rigorous standards and is taught by the same esteemed faculty. JHU online students can access various resources and support services, including academic advising, library, and career services.
Florida International University
Florida International University (FIU) offers a variety of online degree and certificate programs through its FIU Online division. The programs are designed for working professionals and other adult learners seeking to advance their education and career. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs in business, Computer Science, Engineering, Education, Health, and Law.
FIU’s distance programs are fully accredited and are held to the same standards as the on-campus programs. The curriculum is designed to be interactive and engaging, and students can access a wide range of resources and support services, including academic advising, library services, and career services.
In addition to degree programs, FIU also provides non-credit online learning options such as MOOCs, professional development, and certifications, which are designed to help individuals gain new skills, update current ones, and advance their careers.
Saint Leo University Online
Saint Leo University Online provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs delivered online. These programs are designed to give students the flexibility and convenience of studying at their own pace while still providing access to the same high-quality education and resources as traditional on-campus programs.
The online degree programs offered by the university include business, criminal justice, education, information technology, health care, psychology, and Social Work. The university also provides several professional certificates and non-degree programs for students who wish to improve their skills or advance their careers.
The university’s online programs are designed to be interactive and engaging, with a curriculum delivered through various formats, including live online classes, recorded lectures, and interactive course materials. Online students have access to the same support services as on-campus students, including academic advising, career services, and library resources.
Colorado State University
Colorado State University (CSU) offers more than 200 academic programs across eight colleges, including a highly-ranked business school and engineering program.
The is committed to providing high-quality education while also making a positive impact on the world. The university strongly emphasizes sustainability and has been recognized as a leader in this area, focusing on environmental stewardship, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
CSU is fully accredited and held to the same standards as its on-campus programs. The online programs at CSU are designed to provide students with flexibility and convenience while still providing a high-quality education and a strong sense of community.
The curriculum is designed to be interactive and engaging, with opportunities for students to collaborate with their classmates and engage with the material in a meaningful way. Additionally, online students have the same access to resources and support as on-campus students, including academic advising and student services.
Thomas Edison State University
The Middle States Commission fully accredits Thomas Edison State University’s(TESU) online courses on Higher Education, which offers a variety of degree programs through its TESU Online division, designed for adult learners and working professionals looking to advance their education and career.
The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs through TESU Online, including popular fields such as business, healthcare, and technology.
TESU’s online programs are designed to be flexible and self-paced, allowing students to work on their studies around their busy schedules. It uses a competency-based education model, which means students can earn credit for knowledge and skills acquired through work experience and other non-college activities.
Graduation Rates and Job Outcomes for Graduates
Graduation rates and job outcomes for graduates of accredited distance learning universities can vary depending on the institution, the program, and the student population.
In general, graduation rates for online students are lower than those for traditional on-campus students. Online students often have more competing demands on their time, such as work and family obligations, and may find it more challenging to stay engaged with their studies.
Additionally, some students may need help finding an online learning format conducive to their learning style, which can impact their ability to complete their degree.
As for job outcomes, it depends on the field of study and the reputation of the accredited distance learning school. Accreditation is essential for any student looking to go to online universities because it assures the university has met specific standards of quality and that employers and other institutions will recognize the degree obtained.
Distance learning programs with the same accreditation as their on-campus equivalents should be looked at the same way by employers, and graduates should have similar career opportunities.
It is important to note that while the degree may be the same, the mode of delivery of the education, online, could be an additional factor that could be considered by employers when assessing the candidate, as it could require different skills and abilities such as self-discipline, time management, and technological literacy.
Conclusion and Future of Distance Learning Education
Distance learning and online education have come a long way in recent years. They have become increasingly popular options for students seeking a flexible and convenient way to further their education. Accreditation is a critical factor in determining the quality and credibility of an online or distance learning program.
The future of distance learning education looks promising as technology continues to advance and more universities offer online programs. The number of students enrolled in online and distance learning programs will continue to grow in the coming years, driven by factors such as increased access to high-speed internet, the growing popularity of massive open online courses (MOOCs), and the ongoing need for lifelong learning in today’s rapidly changing economy.
With the option to study from home, accredited distance-learning universities provide a flexible, accessible, and high-quality education making it possible to earn a respected degree from the comfort of one’s home.
