The best online colleges for veterans understand and recognize the significance of the sacrifice of military personnel. That is why these military-friendly schools offer a wide range of online programs that help them receive an education and enter the civilian workforce once they have returned home. These top colleges are honoring their country’s commitment to service members and military veterans by offering them the education they deserve. They provide the resources they need to succeed and attain their professional goals.
The best online colleges for the military understand that veterans have families and other obligations, along with serving their country. Therefore they offer many benefits like affordability and flexibility, making it easy for veterans and active military personnel to attend college and complete their education. The flexibility allows all military veterans the ability to work at their own pace and attend class from anywhere in the world. In most cases, they choose the asynchronous format for their online degree programs so that they can study as per their schedule.
The best colleges for the military also offer personalized support along with a flexible online platform so that they can balance your education, family, military duty, and career goals. These colleges understand that veterans’ lives can be demanding, even after they have retired from the military. Therefore, they offer flexible online degree programs to allow them to work with their teachers and classmates around their schedules. This way, they can balance life, work, and study well.
The goal of the best colleges for military veterans is to provide a comprehensive academic resource for military veterans, reservists, active service members, and military dependents across the country. When they choose the best college for military credit transfer, students can earn credits for their military and work experience. They can save money with reduced tuition and benefit from a $0 application and transfer credit fees. What’s more, with these best colleges for military veterans, students will get specialized military advisors who will support them through graduation from their online programs.
In this article, we have listed the top 30 best colleges online for veterans. We have considered the different types of online degree programs and online courses they offer, tuition assistance and other benefits for service members and veterans, and affordability. We have also considered accreditation, faculty experience, and recognition of each university. For the sake of this ranking, we have listed the schools based on their affordability, considering the undergraduate cost. Some schools offer discounted tuition for veterans, while others offer them at an in-state student rate.
#30 Utah State University
Logan, UT
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Points: 6
A Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon participant, Utah State University is a public land-grant research university that has evolved from a small-town college to a thriving research university respected worldwide. It has been offering online bachelor’s programs for veterans (including military programs) since 2005. It is Utah’s largest public residential campus and one of the largest online degree providers as well. Military affiliated students can choose from an array of online degrees and other academic opportunities. Online programs for military members include:
- Aerospace Studies (Air Force ROTC)
- Business Education (BS)
- Economics (BA, BS)
- Law and Constitutional Studies (BA, BS)
- Physics (BA, BS)
Online bachelor’s programs suited for military spouses may also be available. The school ranked #5 public universities in the nation in “National Universities Rankings 2017” by Washington Monthly.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $687.93
#29 Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
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Points: 7
A military friendly school, Arizona State University is a public research university and one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the U.S. Arizona State University students and faculty work with NASA to develop and lead innovations in space exploration. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans and other military-affiliated students include the following online bachelor’s programs:
- Architectural Studies BSD
- Actuarial Science BS
- Science, Technology and Society BS
- Global Management BGM
- Interdisciplinary Studies BA
The U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as the country’s most innovative school. Its nationally ranked programs (including online bachelor’s degree programs) inspire the top-qualified graduates and more than 50 of the country’s top corporations to hire them. To complement the GI Bill, ASU also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program for military and veteran students.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition costs per credit: $561
#28 Washington State University Global
Pullman, WA
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Points: 7
Washington State University is a non-profit public research university that has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since the late 90s. The top-tier institution has been inspiring greatness in students since 1890. It offers the best of education to military personnel as well as civilian students around the globe who demand highly engaging and transformative higher education. Online programs for military affiliated students as well as student veterans who have completed thier military training include:
- Data Analytics BS
- Criminal Justice and Criminology BA
- Human Development BA
- Hospitality Business Management BA
- Biology BS
These online bachelor’s programs for veterans are designed for students who prefer a flexible format to learn wherever there is an internet connection. Military tuition assistance may be available in addition to the GI Bill.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Undergraduate tuition costs per credit: $541.50
#27 Charleston Southern University
Charleston, SC
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Points: 8
Charleston Southern University is a private institution and the Lowcountry’s only Christian university. It has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2009. Students come from all over the country and from diverse backgrounds to attend this dynamic learning community. A committed faculty dedicated to student success helps students achieve their personal and career goals. Online bachelor’s degree programs for members and retirees of military service include:
- Applied Computing (BA) Cybersecurity Emphasis
- Professional Studies (BS)
- Supply Chain Management (BS)
- Criminal Justice (BS)
- Healthcare Administration (BS)
The school is focused on providing excellence in academic programs, including online bachelor’s programs for veterans, to maximize student learning. All eligible online degree students are covered by the school’s Yellow Ribbon Program, which can be added to GI Bill benefits.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition costs per credit: $490
#26 Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
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Points: 8
Regent University was founded in 1978 and has consistently ranked as one of the top colleges in Virginia. It also ranks among the top national universities per the U.S. News & World Report. It offers many associates, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, all taught from a Christian perspective. Students can choose from over 150 areas of study, including divinity, communication, and the arts, business, cybersecurity, and technology. Online bachelor’s degree programs for military service members and veterans of military training include:
- B.A. in Communication Studies
- B.A. in Government – International Relations & Foreign Policy
- B.S. in Computer Engineering
- B.S. in Criminal Justice – Corrections
- B.S. in Cybersecurity
The school is committed to academic excellence and preparing online bachelor’s students to excel in mind and spirit. In addition to the GI Bill, Regent’s Yellow Ribbon funding applies to all eligible students pursuing online degrees.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition costs per credit:$450
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#24 University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS
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Points: 9
Ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Southern Mississippi is a public, student-centered, doctoral-granting research university. It offers varied bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees online and on campus. The University is dedicated to scholarship and learning and nurtures student success through its distinctive and competitive educational programs. Students benefit from excellence in teaching, research, creative activities, outreach, and service. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Applied Technology BAS
- Construction Management BS
- Industrial Engineering Technology (Logistics) BS
- Management BSBA
- Public Health (Allied Health) BS
The welcoming environment prepares military and veteran students to embark on successful and meaningful life endeavors. The university offers limited tuition assistance for military members pursuing online degrees through the Yellow Ribbon program, complementing the GI Bill.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$383.59
#23 Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
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Points: 9
Kansas State University is a public land-grant research university that has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2015. It started in 1863 as the state’s land-grant college and was the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas. Online degree programs for veterans include:
- Animal Sciences and Industry BS
- Professional Aviation BS
- Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems BS
- Applied Business and Technology BS
- Nutrition and Health BS
The school fosters excellent teaching, research, and service for military members that develops highly skilled and educated professionals worldwide. It is dedicated to the education of undergraduate and graduate students and improvement in the quality of life. Students pursuing online degrees are eligible for up to $2,000 per year in tuition assistance in addition to the GI Bill through the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$375
#22 Penn State-World Campus
University Park, PA
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Points: 9
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus allows learners to earn the prestigious Penn State degree online. With more than 125 years of experience in distance education, Penn State offers more than 150 programs for students all over the world, including online bachelor’s programs. It focuses on flexibility, convenience, and quality in delivering accredited degrees and certificates online. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Accounting BS
- Business BS
- Criminal Justice BS
- Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations BS
- Information Sciences and Technology BS
The centralized online delivery unit of Penn State works with various academic units and colleges to offer these varied programs to military members pursuing online degrees.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $362
#21 Removed by editor.
#20 University of Illinois-Springfield
Springfield, IL
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Points: 9
Ranked among the top 30 regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Illinois Springfield is a public university that has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since the late 90s. It offers working professionals, veterans, and others immense flexibility and convenience with the same high quality as the on-campus coursework. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- BS in Management Information Systems
- Political Science BA
- Bachelor of Public and Nonprofit Administration
- B.B.A.
- BA in Communication
With 52 online programs, including numerous online bachelor’s degree programs, students have the choice to complete a degree, learn new skills, or find a new profession. UIS provides its students in online bachelor’s degree programs with cost-efficient ways to earn online degrees from anywhere in the world.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$362
#19 University of Alabama-Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
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Points: 10
A top national university, according to U.S. News & World Report, the University of Alabama-Birmingham focuses on building a new future through new ideas and initiatives in the classroom and practical experiences. It has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 1999. It offers world-class, socially conscious education to diverse students globally to prepare the next generation of leaders. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Accounting BS
- Community Health and Human Services BS
- Finance BS
- Health Care Management BS
- Information Systems BS
There are many degrees and certificate programs for working adults and veterans to choose from as they look to earn college credit. They can take advantage of the flexible online format to complete their education at their own pace. In addition to the GI Bill, UAB’s Yellow Ribbon program entitles all eligible military members to tuition assistance as they pursue online degrees.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$357
#18 Boise State University
Boise, ID
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Points: 10
A GI Bill-eligible school, Boise State University serves over 26,000 students in the state, nationally, and globally, including active-duty students and veterans. The public institution has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2007. The school is witnessing exponential growth and is known for its groundbreaking research and academic programs. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans and active duty personnel include:
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- BA in Digital Innovation + Design
- BS in Cyber Operations and Resilience (uCORe)
- Multidisciplinary Studies BA
- Integrated Strategic Communications BA
The committed faculty are dedicated to student success and are re-imagining higher education. It offers close to 200 programs of study, including 14 doctorate degrees and numerous online bachelor’s degree programs, making it one of the best online colleges for veterans in our ranking. U.S. News & World Report has also called the school a top national university.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$350
#17 Colorado State University-Global
Aurora, CO
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Points: 10
Colorado State University-Global, a public GI Bill-friendly institution, is committed to advancing student academic and professional success. It is a leading provider of innovative, higher learning opportunities for modern learners around the world, including active-duty students. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Bachelor’s in Business Management
- Bachelor’s in Computer Science
- Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration and Management
- Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Professional Studies
Designed for working adults, it is an excellent platform for active military personnel and veteran students alike. The 100% online learning environment means students don’t have to put life on hold to pursue an online bachelor’s degree. Colorado State University is a leading national university, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $350
#16 University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
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Points: 10
A top national university, according to U.S. News & World Report, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee is a public urban research university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. It is the largest university in the Milwaukee metropolitan area and has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since the 90s. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Community Engagement & Education (CEED) BS
- Information Science & Technology (IST) BS
- Applied Mathematics & Computer Science BS
- Architectural Studies BS
- Psychology BS
The school is focused on providing an affordable, world-class education to students globally. As one of the nation’s top research universities and the best online colleges for veterans, it brings discoveries to market and prepares students for the global economy by partnering with leading companies in Wisconsin and beyond. Limited tuition assistance for military members pursuing online degrees is available through the Yellow Ribbon fund in addition to the GI Bill.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$337
#15 University of Missouri
Columbia, MO
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Points: 11
GI Bill-eligible, The University of Missouri Online is a steadfast innovator in digital education. The public institution has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since the early 2000s. It combines the strength of experience with a relentless commitment to stay on the cutting edge to offer an education that transforms student lives. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Business administration BS BA
- Criminal justice and criminology BA
- General studies BGS
- Educational games and simulation design BES
- Cybersecurity (computer science) BS
All Missouri Online classes are recorded and archived so online bachelor’s students can access lecture material whenever they wish. The school is a Yellow Ribbon participant and supports military affiliated students as well as military spouses. U.S. News & World Report has identified the University of Missouri as one of the country’s best national universities.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $321.30
#14 Ball State University
Muncie, IN
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Points: 11
Another Yellow Ribbon participant and a top national university, according to U.S. News & World Report, Ball State University is focused on empowering students with high-quality educational choices. The public institution has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2001. Online students enjoy all the advantages of a Ball State degree, like a highly trained faculty, quality courses, and flexibility, all at an affordable price. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans and active-duty students include:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (Autism) BA BS
- Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies
- Criminal Justice and Criminology BS
- Bachelor’s in Business Administration
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management BS
The award-winning programs offer online bachelor’s students quality and value and respect their huge commitment of time, money, and effort. Financial aid may be available for other military-affiliated students and military spouses in addition to the GI Bill.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$320
#13 CUNY School of Professional Studies
New York, NY
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Points: 11
CUNY School of Professional Studies is a leading school for adult education in the City University of New York system. The public institution has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs for over a decade. It offers immense flexibility and student support to help active-duty members and veterans, as well as military spouses, complete their degrees on time. Online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans include:
- Communication and Media BA
- Disability Studies BA
- Human Relations BA
- Liberal Studies BA
- Business BS
All online classes are recorded and archived so students can access them anytime, anywhere. It ranks #6 in the nation on the 2021 U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans. Financial aid may be available.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $305
#12 University of Nebraska-Omaha
Omaha, NE
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Points: 12
Ranked among the best national universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public research university founded in 1908. It offers online bachelor’s students engaging, relevant, and rigorous coursework that prepares them to excel in the future. They learn from an expert faculty with years of experience in their fields. Online programs for veterans include:
- Criminology & Criminal Justice BS
- Emergency Management BS
- Gerontology BS
- Human Resource Management BSBA
- Library Science BSED
The flexibility and affordability offered by the university for its online bachelor’s students make it possible for students to earn a degree from anywhere in the world. It is especially beneficial for active duty and veteran military students juggling demanding careers with other life responsibilities. The school offers financial aid in the form of tuition assistance to all eligible students through the Yellow Ribbon fund.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$259
#11 University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
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Points: 12
A leading national university, according to U.S. News & World Report, the University of Arkansas is a public land-grant research university and the largest university in Arkansas. As one of the nation’s top public research universities, the school is focused on presenting solutions, ideas, and collaborations to make communities and economies stronger. Online programs for veterans include:
- Communication BA
- Interdisciplinary Studies BA
- BSBA
- Human Development and Family Sciences BS
- Supply Chain Management BS
Among the best online colleges for veterans, the school envisions a better world and is determined to build it through the many opportunities and skills for student success. It has consistently ranked among the nation’s top public research universities and best values. Limited tuition assistance is available through the university’s Yellow Ribbon fund to complement the GI Bill.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$255.51
#10 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL
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Points: 12
A top-ten regional university according to U.S. News & World Report, Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide is a private university that offers many undergraduate and graduate degrees with a special focus on aviation and aerospace programs. It offers state-of-the-art online technology that offers students the flexibility of learning from anywhere and anytime. Online programs for veterans and military-affiliated students include:
- Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
- B.S. in Emergency Services
- Business Analytics BS
- Aeronautics (BSA)
- Safety Management BS
Among the top online colleges for veterans, the university is the largest accredited university system specializing in aviation and aerospace. It offers a first-rate education to active service members and veterans, among others. The school provides limited tuition assistance through the Yellow Ribbon fund. Other military education benefits may also be available for online college programs, including GI Bill eligibility.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $250
#9 George Washington University
Washington, DC
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Points: 12
One of the leading online colleges for veterans, George Washington University is a private federally chartered research university. It is the largest institution of higher education in the District of Columbia and has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since the late 90s. Online degree programs for veterans and military affiliated students include:
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in Clinical Health Sciences
- Homeland Security Bachelor’s Degree Completion program
- RN – BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in Global Leadership in Disaster Response
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in Biomedical Informatics
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the school offers immense potential for international engagement. Online bachelor’s students learn from the best and also get unparalleled access to leading international institutions, global media outlets, multinational corporations, and the governments of many countries via their embassies. GWU participates fully in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $250
#8 Indiana University-Online
Bloomington, IN
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Points: 12
Indiana University Online is home to top-ranked business and music schools. The school is a Yellow Ribbon program participant and has helped students create brighter futures and offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2008. It is focused on driving innovation, from breakthroughs in cancer research and DNA technology to trailblazing cultural programs and resources. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans and active duty students include:
- Applied Health Science, BS
- Artificial Intelligence, BA
- Business Administration, BS
- Informatics, BS
- Mathematics, BS
The school offers some of the best online degree programs, including online bachelor’s, to better prepare online students for the careers of tomorrow. Financial aid and other military education benefits may be available to active military service members enrolled in online college programs.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$235.59
#7 Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
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Points: 13
Oregon State University is a public land-grant research university that was founded more than 150 years ago. It offers more than 200 undergraduate degree programs and many graduate and doctoral degrees. As an international public research university, it attracts students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans and active duty students include:
- Agricultural Sciences (B.S.)
- Anthropology (B.A./B.S.)
- Biohealth Sciences (B.S.)
- Business Administration (B.A./B.S.)
- Business Analytics (B.S.)
The school is diverse and welcoming and committed to building a smarter, healthier, prosperous, and more just future. Oregon State offers limited tuition assistance through the Yellow Ribbon program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $219.33
#6 Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
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Points: 13
Fort Hays State University initially began as a teacher’s college but then expanded to become one of the leading educational institutions in the state. The regional comprehensive public university has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2000. Programs for veterans and active duty students include:
- Geosciences BS
- Geography/GIS BS
- Organizational Leadership BS BA
- Computer Science BS
- Criminal Justice BS BA
The school is focused on developing the engaged global citizen-leaders the world needs today. The high-quality academic programs, unmatched affordability, and robust student support make it a great choice for veterans and adult learners. All eligible student veterans are offered funding through the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$181.46
#5 University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK
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Points: 14
A Yellow Ribbon program participant, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university that has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2003. Founded in 1890, the public institution existed in Oklahoma Territory near Indian Territory for 17 years before both became the state of Oklahoma. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans and active duty members include:
- Bachelor of Arts – Integrative Studies
- Bachelor of Arts – Lifespan Care Administration
- Bachelor of Arts – Organizational Leadership
- Bachelor of Science – Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Science – Aviation
OU Online is designed for students who cannot attend classes full-time or in person. Taught by the same world-class faculty and industry leaders, students receive the same high-quality education and degree as on-campus students. Additional financial assistance may be available to some student veterans who elect an online degree program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $164
#4 University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
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Points: 14
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public land-grant research university founded in 1863 as an agricultural college. UMassOnline was created in 2001 to meet the online educational needs of students globally by offering accredited educational programs. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans include:
- BA in Liberal Arts
- BA, Advocacy and Social Justice Studies Concentrations
- BA, Arts Management Concentrations
- BA, Criminal Justice Concentrations
- BA, Health Studies Concentrations
The university offers more than 4000 online courses offered annually and over 200 degree programs and certificates online. The school’s mission is to help busy professionals, lifelong learners, and students worldwide continue their education and enhance their careers. UMass- Amherst offers tuition assistance for all eligible students through the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$125
#3 Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, FL
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Points: 15
Daytona State College is a public college and part of the Florida College System. It has been offering online bachelor’s degree programs since 2006. The College is the premier source for education and advanced training in Central Florida and offers over 100 certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degree programs. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans include:
- BAS in Supervision & Management
- B.S. Electrical Engineering Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor’s Secondary Chemistry Education
- B.S. Engineering Technology
DSC graduates serve in varied fields like healthcare, business, emergency services, education, engineering technology, hospitality, computer science, and more. Limited funding for student veterans is available for the school’s Yellow Ribbon program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition per credit:$120.34
#2 University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
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Points: 15
The University of Florida is a public land-grant research university and a senior member of the State University System of Florida. It has been offering high-quality education since 1853. Students learn from some of the top faculty in the country. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans include:
- Anthropology BA
- Computer Science BS
- Criminology BA
- Geology BA
- Sport Management BS
The school is known for its high-end research and a uniquely collaborative environment that attracts students from all over the country.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition per credit: $111.92
#1 University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
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Points: 16
The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a metropolitan research university that fosters social mobility while developing the skilled talent needed to advance professionals and businesses globally. It boasts high-quality instructors, resources, and support for students to achieve their education goals online. Online bachelor’s programs for veterans include:
- Psychology BS
- Nursing BS
- Health Services Administration BS
- Criminal Justice BA/BS
- English BA
The school is focused on solving tomorrow’s greatest challenges through a commitment to academic, inclusive, and operational excellence. Fully online bachelor’s students get one-on-one support from application to graduation by an online success coach. There are many education benefits offered to veteran students, and some eligible students will qualify for UCF’s Yellow Ribbon program.
Fast facts:
- Format: Online/On-campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Undergraduate tuition costs per credit: $105.07
More About Best Online Colleges for Veterans
What education benefits do the best colleges online for military personnel offer?
The best colleges for the military offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs for veterans to meet diverse student needs. Most of these schools have a special veteran support department that provides detailed information on the programs as well as unique education benefits. They also provide details on financial aid and support vet students with military training. These schools recognize and honor their service and sacrifice for the nation. The best colleges for the military also offer personalized support. These departments are dedicated to providing the resources they need to succeed and attain their professional goals. These best online schools for veterans offer a wide range of degree programs that help them receive an education and enter civilian life and the workforce once they have returned home.
An online college degree paves the path to a bright and successful future, especially for veterans who want to resume normal life after returning from military training. Choosing an online, flexible program has helped expand the access of veterans and active military personnel to more schools. They can serve on their tours and simultaneously complete their degree through these programs for veterans. The flexible online platform helps them balance education, family, military training, and career goals. These colleges understand that veterans’ lives can be demanding, even after they have retired from the military and transitioned to civilian life.
Online education is gaining popularity for students who are working or taking other courses. They are also great for active duty service members and veterans who want to get back into academia and finish their education. The best online colleges for the military provide the flexibility to study from anywhere and around their schedules, among other education benefits. However, students who choose the online program from the best online schools for veterans must ensure that they apply to accredited schools because that will ensure quality education.
There are many benefits of attending online military-friendly colleges for active duty personnel and veteran students alike. But finding a trustworthy and flexible online learning option that suits all of a military student’s needs can be challenging. They need a quality education that will help them easily balance their service and stand them in good stead with future employers once they return to civilian life. Getting a degree from an accredited and recognized institution is therefore very important.
What will you learn in online military-friendly colleges?
The best online colleges for veterans offer a wide range of programs for veterans and active military personnel. Degrees offered online can include:
- Associates – An associate degree is an undergraduate degree with a level of qualification above a high school diploma, GED, or matriculation. It is awarded after a course of post-secondary study lasting two to three years and helps students move on to a bachelor’s degree. These degrees can also be obtained at local or out-of-state community colleges.
- Bachelor’s – A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree awarded by colleges and universities. It is awarded upon completion of a course of academic study lasting over four years. These include Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Business Administration degrees.
- Master’s – A master’s degree awarded upon completion of an advanced academic course of study. It allows students to demonstrate their knowledge in a specific field of study.
- Doctorate – A doctorate or doctoral degree is an academic degree that is a research degree in most countries. It qualifies students to work in a specific profession or teach at the university level.
- Certificate – A certificate program is a short academic program that can be completed in a year or less. They provide specialized training for students who already hold diplomas or vocational courses for students who want to get into a specific job quickly.
- Diploma – A diploma program helps students focus on specific skills. They are short courses of study that lead to vocational, undergraduate, and graduate credentials.
- Non-Degree Courses – Non-degree courses are short courses that do not provide students with a degree, certificate, or qualification. But they provide students with additional knowledge in the fields they are interested in.
- Graduate Certificates – A graduate certificate usually represents the completion of specialized training at the college or university level.
Online undergraduate and graduate programs and certificate programs for veterans are designed to make it easy for all military students to earn the degree they need. With military benefits and special tuition rates, they can do so on a schedule and budget that fits all their needs.
How can service members choose the best college for military credit transfer?
It is important for active duty personnel and veteran students to research and find out which is the best college for military credit transfer. Most schools that offer military or veteran benefits include a high percentage of credit transfers. Students can not enjoy the advantage of an affordable tuition rate but also complete their online college degree sooner than later.
Are the best colleges for active duty service members and military veterans accredited and recognized?
The best online colleges for military service members and veteran students who have completed military training are all accredited by an authorized organization. Accredited online colleges ensure that a quality academic institution awards the degree earned and the degree is recognized by all. Online programs for veterans have grown in demand and popularity over the years, but not all are on equal footing when it comes to quality education. Students have to make sure that the university or online college they decide to attend is accredited. If it is prestigious and recognized by all other higher education institutes and employers, then students have made the right choice.
Accredited best online schools for service members and veterans have been a boon for students who would have otherwise been unable to get a college education while they are serving the country. Even after they are no longer in military training, it can be hard to get back into a mainstream career without a college degree. Some need to get into the workforce right after serving; some live in rural or remote areas that face a lack of good colleges, while others may not be able to afford the high cost of college. But with schools offering special rates for veterans of military service, including military tuition assistance and the flexibility to attend from anywhere, these challenges for military personnel can be overcome.
Many military service members and veteran students have personal constraints as well that prevent them from attending college full-time, like caregiving for a family member or recovering from a war injury that prevents them from participating in mainstream academics.
Why is accreditation important for a military-friendly school?
Accredited online military-friendly schools and colleges are the best choices for service members and veterans because they hold recognition and approval from professional organizations. They offer accredited degrees that improve job prospects for all students who need that extra help to get started in mainstream life and excel in it.
Accreditation can be defined as a “seal of approval” from an authority site or a recognized organization that certifies that the college offers a quality academic experience. The best colleges online for active duty service members and veterans undergo a review process conducted by several non-governmental and nonprofit organizations.
Students need to do thorough research before investing time and money into any online college or online program for veterans. An excellent way is to find out if the best online colleges for veterans are offering fully accredited online degrees. Accreditation makes a program credible, and ensures the quality of the program and course delivery. The accreditation process is quite thorough and rigorous, so one can be assured that the best colleges online for military personnel are offering quality education. It improves the overall value of the degree and job prospects once service members return to civilian life.
Active-duty personnel and veterans can also research the program-specific accreditations offered by an independent, nonprofit agency. Many are regionally accredited colleges online, while others call themselves nationally accredited online colleges. These reflect the programmatic excellence of accredited online military-friendly schools and colleges. It also ensures that the program and university both meet national quality standards. Veterans and active military students can expect a high-quality degree with top-notch course delivery in these programs. Choosing accredited programs for military and veteran students can also ensure that you’re eligible for military tuition assistance programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs too, such as the Veterans Educational Assistance Program.
How are the best online schools for veterans different from traditional schools?
While many schools offer special tuition rates for active-duty personnel and veterans, there is a significant difference between attending a traditional school and one of the best online colleges for veterans. Campus-based courses require that students attend class a certain number of times every week and at specific times. It may be easier for students who are service members to schedule virtual classes, especially if they are asynchronous, around the rest of their responsibilities.
Some military-friendly schools have synchronous classes for their online college students, which means that students attend scheduled meetings in chat rooms, but even those are quite flexible, thus allowing students to pursue other courses or work. Veteran students enjoy the flexibility to work toward their degree on their own time, at their own pace.
Another important factor to consider when looking for online programs for veterans is how quickly students are hoping to finish their degrees. Students working full-time or who have other obligations may have the ability to take on more coursework each semester through an accelerated option and complete their degree sooner than they would have done on a traditional campus. This way, they can enter the workforce sooner once they return to civilian life.
The best colleges online for veterans and active-duty personnel have dedicated staff to oversee and manage the process and all the necessary paperwork for veterans and active military students. This team of experts is always at hand to help veterans, guide them to the right online programs and offer support right through their graduation. They not only ensure that they get high-quality education but also help them with placement advice later in their educational journey.
How much do the best colleges for the military cost?
Online military-friendly colleges offer affordable rates for veterans and active military personnel. In most cases, a veterans’ educational assistance program cost ten percent less than the in-state tuition rates.
How to choose the best colleges and programs online for veterans?
Many factors help veteran students determine the right online military-friendly colleges for them. Here are some things to look out for when choosing online programs for veterans and service members.
Accreditation – Accreditation certifies that a school offers a quality academic experience. Best online colleges for the military must meet and maintain strict quality standards set by these third-party agencies. Accreditation offers high credibility to the degree and can impact their financial aid eligibility, employability, graduate program choice, and credit transfer options.
Recognition – How well a school is recognized nationally or regionally can impact the future of the student. If he or she belongs to a particular region, then getting a degree from high-ranked military-friendly online colleges can help their job prospects in the area. If military students are keen to explore jobs nationally, then they can look for the best colleges for military personnel that are mentioned in national rankings like Forbes or the US News and World Report.
Cost – The cost of programs for veterans is an important factor for all students, but veterans can rest easy with special tuition rates and many aid options, like a veterans education assistance program. With such assistance, they do not have to worry about huge student debt. The best online colleges for veterans offer military discounts for students who served in any branch of the military. These schools may also offer discounts for the dependents of military students, such as their children or spouses and veterans, and those currently enlisted. All students need to do is show proof of their service or their family member’s service to qualify for a discount.
Some schools also offer free tuition to qualifying veterans who do not have available funds via the GI Bill or any other federal education program. Veterans may receive one month of free tuition for each month of their service for up to four academic years at state-supported military-friendly online colleges.
Courses & Concentration Availability: Students need to check and review the courses offered by the best online colleges for veterans. They should first select the degree level and then scan the courses offered in them. This would include core courses, majors as well as electives or concentrations. The choice of concentration means specialized study within a degree-seekers’ chosen major. It also includes internships, group projects, and capstone projects. Online college students should choose a program for veterans with a concentration that fits their future career goals.
Program delivery and flexibility: Veteran students looking for the best online colleges for veterans should find out whether they can study online 100% or if there are campus visit requirements. They also need to see how flexible the format is, whether synchronous or asynchronous. The next thing to check is whether the military-friendly school has accelerated degree options or flexibility to phase the delivery to a longer time if they need it. They also need to ensure that the online college honors their service time which means their research should include the best college for military credit transfer.
Sources
- Best Accredited Online Colleges
- Top Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees
- Cheapest Online Colleges
- Best Online Associate Degree Programs
- Free Online Colleges
- Online Christian Colleges
- Top Online Community Colleges
- Best Online Colleges in Florida
- 25 Best Online Colleges for Military Spouses
- Best Colleges Near Me Online (Alabama through Missouri)
- Best Online Colleges Near Me (Montana Through Wyoming)
- 10 Things for Veterans to Consider When Going Back to School
- 100 Best Online Colleges and Universities