As one of the most populated states in the country, Texas is home to many colleges and universities. For the sake of this ranking, we focused our attention on the online colleges in Texas. Through research and data collection with NCES College Navigator, as well as other reputable online sources, we found some of the best online colleges in the state that offer online degrees for undergraduates.
20 Accredited Texas Online Colleges Methodology
We reviewed over 100 colleges and universities in Texas that offer online bachelor’s degree programs. We narrowed our search by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or nationally accredited institutions), college and/or program rankings with at least one major publication (focusing primarily on U.S. News and World Report), affordability, and the number of online undergraduate programs. We then listed the online colleges according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 20 best online colleges in the state of Texas.
#20 – University of Dallas
Irving, Texas
Landing a spot on our list of top online colleges in Texas is the University of Dallas. The school offers four online master’s programs designed for those seeking leadership roles in ministry. As a top-ranked Catholic institution, University of Dallas has fostered theological education and boasts a prestigious graduate theology program. Students have the option of earning master’s degrees in one of the following areas:
- Catechetical Ministry
- Catholic School Leadership
- Pastoral Ministry
- Theological Studies
Tutoring services may be available to online students. Also, two higher education certificate programs are also available and can be completed entirely online. Aside from online graduate degrees, University of Dallas ranks with major college education publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, UD’s rankings include #6 in best regional universities in the West and #9 in best value schools. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is 33%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $46,864
#19 – Abilene Christian University
Abilene, Texas
Abilene Christian University is one of the leading accredited online colleges that ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings list the school as #16 in best regional universities in the West, #7 in best colleges for veterans, and #4 in best undergraduate teaching schools. As for online studies, Abilene Christian has also received many rankings. U.S. News and World Report lists the school’s online bachelor’s programs for undergraduate students among the top 350 in the country. From nursing to global services and management, Abilene Christian has something for everyone in higher education, including working professionals. Also, like other top online schools, the university is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. As such, it offers plentiful resources and financial aid for low-income families as well as other online learners.
Undergraduate Tuition: $14,520
#18 – Houston Baptist University
Houston, Texas
One of the top online Texas schools, Houston Baptist University offers both undergraduate and graduate online programs for college credit. In fact, there are 10 undergraduate online programs and nearly twice that number in online graduate degree programs. For online students, choices include bachelor’s credentials in:
- Biblical Studies
- Criminal Justice
- General Business
- Management
- Nursing
- Psychology
While the school is set in urban Houston, the total undergraduate enrollment is just 2,321. Aside from the large number of online offerings, HBU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 61st best regional university in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #178 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs. Academic advising is available to online learners, so students graduate job-ready. HBU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College. Percent online enrollment is 35%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $35,500
#17 – Concordia University
Austin, Texas
A leader in educational quality for online learning, Concordia University is a private institution in suburban Austin. The Texas college ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 94th-122nd best regional university in the West. It also ranks 109th in top performers on social mobility. As far as online degree offerings, Concordia is extremely forward-thinking. In fact, every online program uses the same curriculum students experience on campus. Technology is state-of-the-art, and classes are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus students. Featured online programs for undergraduates include:
- Business
- Communication
- Computer science
- Criminal justice
- Psychology
For those interested in graduate school, Concordia offers several online master’s programs in business and education. Transfer credits may be accepted. Concordia University Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is 58%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $34,500
#16 – LeTourneau University
Longview, Texas
A top Texas college, LeTourneau University prepares students with hands-on online learning that serves as practical applications for real-world experiences. At LETU, online students encounter a faith-focused curriculum guided by experienced faculty. Most of the undergrad programs are offered online. Popular programs include online bachelor credentials in:
- Accounting
- Business management
- Computer Information Systems
- Education
- Psychology
- Theological Studies
There are also several online graduate programs available. These include master’s programs in business, clinical mental health counseling, healthcare administration, and more. LeTourneau ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent rankings include #30 in best regional universities in the West, #32 in best colleges for veterans, and #23 in best value schools. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is 60%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $33,490
#15 – Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, Texas
Dallas Baptist University offers a Christ-centered education whether you pursue online or on-campus programs. At the foundation of all online classes and curriculum is a faith-based focus. DBU also offers a large number of undergrad programs online, including associate degree and bachelor’s degree programs. Online students may earn BA or BS degrees in disciplines like:
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Psychology
- Sociology
Online bachelor’s credentials in business are also available. These business degrees include the BBA and BBS. DBU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 288th best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #223 out of 1,200 surveyed programs. DBU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is approximately fifty percent.
Undergraduate Tuition: $33,620
#14 – Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, Texas
At the Southwestern Assemblies of God University, there are more than 70 associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees available online campus or online. For undergraduates, popular programs featuring online classes include:
- Counseling
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Human Services
- Psychology
- Social Work
Over 60% of students are enrolled online. All classes are designed for flexibility, and online tutoring may be available. This means online students may work while earning their degree. As a fully accredited and top-ranked institution, Southwestern Assemblies boasts school awards and recognition from major publications. In fact, SAGU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 94th-122nd best regional university in the West and 34th best top performer on social mobility. The school also offers affordable tuition rates for online and in-person classes.
Undergraduate Tuition: $17,404
#13 – Texas A & M University
College Station, Texas
In terms of an online course of study, Texas A&M University ranks among the top choices for affordability and program offerings. Through TAMU Distance Education School, out-of-state students can achieve a top-tier education without having to move or travel to campus. Currently, one undergraduate degree is available. Still, 49 graduate degrees and 32 certificates may be completed online, including several master’s programs. Texas A&M is considered a top-ranked research institution. In fact, TAMU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #68 in best national universities and #89 in best value schools. Also, several of the school’s online graduate programs have received top 10 rankings from U.S. News. TAMU also lands a spot on our list of best online schools for affordability. Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is 42%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,239
#12 – University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
University of North Texas (UNT) ranks among the cheapest online colleges in Texas. Not only does the school offer a wide array of online graduate programs, but nine undergrad programs are also available online. Popular undergraduate offerings include:
- Criminal Justice
- Information Science and Applied Technology
- Rehabilitation Studies
UNT is regionally accredited and ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #281 in best national universities and #140 in top public schools. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #74 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is 66%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,090
#11 – The University of Texas
Arlington, Texas
At the University of Texas at Arlington, also known as UTA, undergraduate programs are offered as accelerated programs. This means that online students complete their degree program more quickly than they would in a traditional, on-campus program. With 100% online coursework and multiple start dates, the programs are flexible and designed to meet the needs of working and out-of-state students. Some of the programs you will find online at UTA include bachelor’s degrees in nursing and public health. For those interested in pursuing graduate degrees as University of Texas students, several online master’s programs are available in:
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
UTA ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. It’s also fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Percent online enrollment is approximately 30 percent.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,727
#10 – Prairie View A & M University
Prairie View, Texas
For colleges in Texas that are both affordable and offer online undergrad programs, Prairie View A&M University is a top choice. Online education programs are available in:
- Business Administration
- Counseling
- Educational Administration
- Juvenile Justice
In addition to these online programs, there are also many online courses available in fully online, hybrid, or two-way video formats. Prairie View’s affordable tuition costs for undergraduates earns it a spot on our list for best online Texas colleges. Also, the school is ranked with U.S. News and World Report as the 94th-122nd best regional university in the West. Prairie View A&M is less selective, with an acceptance rate of 74%. Online college enrollment for undergraduate students is nearly 60 percent. Financial aid counseling may be available to help minimize college costs associated with online programming.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,299
#9 – Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
At Midwestern State, online students have access to several undergraduate and graduate programs. For the sake of this profile, we will focus solely on undergraduate programs comprised of online courses as opposed to on campus classes. These include bachelor’s credentials like nursing, RN to BSN, radiologic studies, and the general BAAS or Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences. These programs are offered online and taught by the same experienced faculty who instruct on campus. Aside from online bachelor’s programs, Midwestern State also offers 10 online master’s programs. Midwestern State’s online college is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It is also ranked with major publications. In fact, recent rankings for Midwestern include #77 in best regionally accredited schools in the West. Online enrollment is approximately 70%.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,954
#8 – Texas Tech University
Lubbock, Texas
For affordability and program number, Texas Tech University earns a top spot on our list of best online colleges in Texas. TTU offers an impressive total of 17 online bachelor’s programs in a range of disciplines. Popular online education options at TTU include:
- Applied Leadership
- Digital Media and Professional Communication
- Education
- Political Science
- Wind Energy
These programs are led by the same faculty who instruct on the TTU campus and are ideally designed for working and busy individuals as well as transfer students. In addition to the large number of online programs for undergraduates, TTU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #213 in best national universities and #107 in top public schools. The schools is also fully accredited to offer online degrees by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Online enrollment amongst undergrads is over 70 percent.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,852
#7 – University of Houston
Houston, Texas
The University of Houston offers access to four online bachelor’s programs. These programs offer flexible online courses. This makes it easier for distance learners to balance work, responsibilities, and education goals. Online bachelor’s credentials may be earned in nursing (RN to BSN), psychology (both BA and BS), and retailing and consumer sciences (BS). There are also several hybrid bachelor’s credentials offered. These degrees may be earned in nursing, psychology, and retailing and consumer science. Online master’s programs for online graduate students are also available through the university system. University of Houston ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 179th best national university and 90th best value school. Distance learners will be happy to know that the school is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. For undergrads, online enrollment is over 70 percent.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,699
#6 – Texas Southern University
Houston, Texas
Texas Southern University is a public institution with an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 7,600. Online bachelor’s degree programs are available from this accredited school in undergraduate majors like:
- Administration of Justice
- Emergency Management and Homeland Security
- General Studies
- Healthcare Administration
These programs are conveniently structured for distance learners to earn the equivalent of an on-campus degree. They accommodate both working students and individuals balancing life responsibilities with educational goals. TSU is a fully accredited institution affiliated with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Online student pay an undergraduate tuition of less than $10,000 per year. The school ranks with U.S. News and World Report among top national universities. It’s also been named #43 in best historically Black colleges and universities. Prospective students may qualify for financial aid, and online student services are available to support student success.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,173
#5 – Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, Texas
Stephen F. Austin State University is home to online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school offers cheap online bachelor’s degree programs for working and busy students, and no prior college experience is necessary. Online offerings for prospective students include bachelor’s credentials in disciplines like:
- Business Communication and Corporate Education
- General Business
- Human Sciences
- Human Development and Family Studies
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Nursing
Several distance programs are also available for graduate students. The school, a top public institution located in Nacogdoches, ranks with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #299-#381 in best national universities and best online programs for undergraduates. Online learners qualify for career services just like in state students.
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,600
#4 – Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Sam Houston State earns a top spot on our list of Texas colleges for both affordability and number of offerings for online learners. In fact, SHSU offers 18 online bachelor’s degree programs for undergraduate applicants in areas like:
- Communication Studies
- Health Care Administration
- Homeland Security Studies
- Nursing (BSN)
- Sociology
- Victim Studies
Aside from the large number of online degrees for distance learners, SHSU also offers online undergraduate minors to help students tailor their degree toward an area of interest. Sam Houston State is not only affordable, but also accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Rankings list SHSU #249 in best national universities and #123 in top public schools. Financial aid may be available to distance learners.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,960
#3 – Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Lamar University costs less than $9,000 per year to attend and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs online. Undergraduate degrees are offered 100% online and designed for working and busy online learners. These programs include bachelor’s credentials in:
- Business Administration
- Criminology
- General Studies
- Sociology
There are also several online degree programs and graduate certificate programs available. Lamar has received full accreditation and rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #299-#391 in best national universities. Also, the online undergraduate degree programs rank #223 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. Academic advising and career services are available to online students.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,690
#2 – Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
Texas Woman’s University, founded in 1901, enrolls approximately 10,000 undergrads and is located in Denton, Texas. Several online degree options make it possible for working students to balance life responsibilities. For undergraduate distance learners, Texas Woman’s offers online bachelor’s degrees in:
- Dental Hygiene
- General Studies
- Health Studies
- Nursing
- Sociology
Aside from accreditation, the online college ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent school rankings include #299-#391 in best national universities and #82 in top performers on social mobility. Interested students should inquire about financial aid opportunities and career services. Standardized test scores may be considered for admission.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,394
#1 – Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Angelo State University ranks in our #1 spot for Texas colleges with distance learning programs, thanks to its academic quality and flexibility. Angelo State offers several online degree options for undergraduates. Students may earn a bachelor’s degree online in:
- Border and Homeland Security
- Border Security
- Criminal Justice
- Intelligence and Analysis
- Social Work (BSW)
Nearly half of undergraduate students are enrolled online. To ensure quality education for its college graduates, Angelo State is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online college ranks #92 in best regional universities in the West and #83 in top performers on social mobility. Additionally, the online programs for undergrads rank #275-#361 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. Angelo State is our #1 pick for most affordable and best online colleges in Texas. Financial aid may be available to qualified students, and online students pay in-state tuition.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,186
CVO Staff
- Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online
- Cheap Online Colleges
- Best Online Colleges
- Highest Paying Bachelor’s Degrees
- Best Value Business Degree Programs
- Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology
- Best Online Bachelor’s in Social Work
- Online Christian Colleges
This concludes our list of the 20 best online colleges in Texas.