Updated: Sep 12, 2023, 10:35am
Earning a college degree is one of the best ways to boost earning potential. On average, workers with a bachelor’s degree make $30,000 more than those with a high school diploma, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But both first-time college enrollees and returning students face barriers related to time, money and location.
Thankfully, online colleges in Arizona make higher education more achievable for learners who need more flexibility. Students can choose from dozens of degrees, concentrations and minors, most of which can be completed 100% online. Often, distance-learning classes feature the same professors as in-person courses do.
Keep reading to learn about the top five online colleges in Arizona and how to make a distance-learning bachelor’s degree attainable for you.
Our Methodology
Best Arizona Online Colleges
Should You Enroll in an Online College in Arizona?
With a plethora of online programs, online Arizona schools offer a more accessible way for nontraditional learners to earn a college degree. However, distance learning isn’t the right choice for everyone. Consider the following factors before enrolling:
- What’s your learning style? To thrive as an online learner, you must be self-motivated, organized and committed to your education. Without peers and professors to keep you on track, it’s up to you to stay the course. Some programs incorporate synchronous classes or group projects, but distance learners must take responsibility for completing coursework on time.
- How much time can you commit? Distance learners often juggle home, family and work responsibilities in addition to their schoolwork. Online programs tend to have more flexibility, especially when they provide asynchronous or evening classes.
- What’s your budget? While tuition varies by program, online classes tend to be less expensive. Often, universities extend in-state tuition rates to all distance learners, including those who reside out of state. Online students may pay some additional technology fees, but they typically save on campus-related fees, in addition to housing and travel costs.
Best Online Colleges By State
- Best Online Colleges In California
- Best Online Colleges In Florida
- Best Online Colleges In Georgia
- Best Online Colleges In Indiana
- Best Online Colleges In Kentucky
- Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts
- Best Online Colleges In Michigan
- Best Online Colleges New Hampshire
- Best Online Colleges In New Mexico
- Best Online Colleges In New York
- Best Online Colleges In North Carolina
- Best Online Colleges In Ohio
- Best Online Colleges In Oklahoma
- Best Online Colleges In Pennsylvania
- Best Online Colleges In South Carolina
- Best Online Colleges In Tennessee
- Best Online Colleges In Texas
- Best Online Colleges In Virginia
Accreditation for Online Colleges in Arizona
When searching for online programs, prioritize reputable, accredited schools. Institutional accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards for academics, student outcomes, financial management and faculty.
Accreditation comes from third-party accrediting bodies that have been approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education. Arizona’s online colleges typically seek accreditation from WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Accreditation may also apply to individual degree programs. Programmatic accreditation certifies that a program’s curriculum meets industry standards for excellence. Some graduate programs and professional credentials require applicants to graduate from accredited programs. Enrollees should research whether their field requires this level of accreditation.
Arizona online universities should list their institutional and/or programmatic accreditation on their website. You can also visit CHEA’s website to search for accredited colleges and programs via the organization’s directories.
How To Find the Right Arizona Online College for You
Applying to college can feel overwhelming, especially with so many degrees available online. Narrow down your choices by considering a few factors.
First, research whether the university offers the same classes and professors as an in-person degree. Some online colleges in Arizona employ the same faculty for both their remote and their on-campus programs, while others run their distance learning degrees differently. While you can get a quality education either way, it’s good to know how the program is structured.
Consider Your Future Goals
Next, plan out how your degree fits into your career goals. Some online universities offer extensive options for majors, minors and concentrations, allowing you to deepen or broaden your education as needed.
Also, determine whether your career requires licensure. Not all teaching programs, for example, lead to licensure in Arizona, and they may not meet licensure requirements for other states. In some cases, licensure programs involve in-person internships or clinical rotations. Consider whether these commitments are feasible for your schedule.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Tuition at the best online universities in Arizona ranges from $450 to $661 per credit. Most undergraduates must complete 120 credits to graduate, putting their tuition total between $54,000 and $79,320.
On average, tuition and fees for a four-year degree from an Arizona public school cost $45,640, according to National Center for Education Statistics data for the 2020-21 academic year. A private school bachelor’s degree totals $52,432 on average. Some of our ranked schools exceed that amount.
However, distance learners typically save money on housing, transportation and campus-related fees. Online programs are often transfer-friendly, meaning students can complete most of their foundational coursework at a less expensive community college before transferring into a four-year program.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to find out if you qualify for federal student aid, such as grants and loans. Undergrads can also search for scholarships through their schools or external organizations. Popular forms of tuition assistance often include:
- Grants: Typically gifted based on financial need and do not require repayment
- Scholarships: Awarded based on academic merit, field of study, demographic information or personal history, which do not have to be repaid
- Work-study programs: Arrangements that allow students to earn a minimum income, often on campus, while balancing their course load
- Loans: Widely available aid that must be repaid
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Arizona Online Colleges
Is ASU Online fully online?
Yes, students enrolled at Arizona State University Digital Immersion complete all of their coursework online. Most courses are delivered asynchronously, so students can finish their assignments at their own pace.
How fast can I finish ASU Online?
ASU offers accelerated online programs, which students can complete in as little as two and a half years. The typical bachelor’s degree takes four years to complete, but part-time learners may need more time.
Is the University of Arizona online accredited?
Yes, the University of Arizona holds accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission.