Online learning has changed the way people go to college, making it possible to earn a degree from anywhere while still managing work, family, or other responsibilities. Texas, one of the largest and most vibrant states in the country, has fully embraced this shift. Today, both major universities and smaller institutions across the state offer online programs that are just as rigorous, respected, and career-focused as those taught on campus.
That said, choosing the right online college is important. You don’t just want any program, you want one that gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, the affordability to fit your budget, and the quality education that ensures your degree carries real value in the job market. Keeping all of this in mind, we carefully reviewed multiple resources and rankings to bring you a list of the 10 best online colleges in Texas.
These schools stand out because they make it easier for students to balance education with everyday life, while still providing the same academic standards you’d expect on campus. Explore the list below to discover the best online colleges available to you in Texas.
Best Online Colleges in Texas
1. University of North Texas (UNT)
Based in Denton, UNT offers more than 90 online degree & certificate options, spanning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Many programs use flexible delivery—fully online, hybrid, or accelerated formats depending on the discipline.
One notable program is a fully online Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences (degree-completion) designed to accept numerous transfer credits and let students finish online. UNT supports online learners with student success coaching, tech support, and integrated peer mentoring.
2. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M’s distance education division provides online and hybrid degree and certificate programs aimed at professionals and nontraditional students. While many offerings focus on graduate and professional levels, undergraduates can also access online courses (though full online bachelor’s are more limited).
The school ensures that distance students receive the same academic standards and credential recognition as traditional students. Tuition for distance courses ranges between lower and upper bounds depending on the credit hour rate, making some programs more accessible.
3. University of Texas, Tyler
UT Tyler, based in Tyler, Texas, offers flexible, fully online undergraduate and graduate programs designed to fit into busy schedules. One stand-out is its Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences (BAAS) degree, a completion program where you can transfer up to 87 credits, take classes in short seven-week terms, and finish the rest completely online.
The university’s digital learning office supports students with 24/7 tech help and virtual interactions. Because of its mix of affordability, transfer flexibility, and strong online support, UT Tyler ranks among Texas’ top picks for online education.
4. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech (Lubbock, Texas) offers more than 40 online and distance degree and certificate programs, covering everything from general studies to professional degrees in fields like engineering, health, and education.
Its “distance education” model includes both fully online and hybrid options. The school’s strong reputation and breadth of offerings make it appealing to students who want the prestige of a large public university while studying from anywhere.
5. University of Houston
The University of Houston offers a robust online program portfolio, including fully online undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and hybrid programs. Some designated degrees fall under UH Extend, which features flat-rate tuition regardless of residency and minimal required fees—making affordability simpler.
Courses maintain the same rigor and faculty as on-campus classes, ensuring the degree’s value is consistent. Because of its flexibility, broad online catalog, and strong institutional reputation in Texas.
6. Texas State University
Texas State (in San Marcos, TX) provides online, extension, self-paced, and hybrid classes that let students learn at their own speed. They’re especially praised for their fully online bachelor’s and graduate degree options that combine accessibility with solid instructional quality.
The university is regionally accredited and frequently appears in rankings for “best online programs” thanks to the balance of affordability, variety, and support for distance students.
7. Tarleton State University
Tarleton has a strong history as part of the Texas A&M system, and its online programs reflect that reputation. Students can pursue bachelor’s or graduate programs in areas like applied sciences, business, and psychology.
Tarleton emphasizes student connection, offering interactive online classes rather than just recordings. For learners who want the flexibility of online study but still crave engagement and a community feel, Tarleton delivers.
8. Lamar University
Lamar, located in Beaumont, is recognized as one of the best online colleges in Texas for its fast-track online degrees in business, nursing, and education. Some programs can be finished in as little as 12 months, which appeals to working professionals who don’t want to spend years in school.
The courses are affordable compared to many public universities, and Lamar’s regional accreditation ensures that degrees carry real weight. The school’s mix of speed, cost, and professional focus makes it one of the more practical online options in Texas.
9. Sam Houston State University (SHSU)
SHSU in Huntsville has built a strong reputation for online learning, especially in criminal justice, business, and education. Their digital courses mirror the quality of their on-campus offerings, and students have access to the same support services.
Many programs are fully online, so you can earn a degree without ever setting foot in Huntsville. Regional accreditation plus years of ranking recognition make SHSU a dependable choice for students seeking flexible yet reputable online education in Texas.
10. University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
UTA, located in Arlington, has become a major name in online education, especially with its highly ranked nursing and education programs. The university offers a wide range of fully online bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are designed to fit the schedules of working adults.
Courses are delivered in accelerated formats, so students can complete classes faster while still receiving the same rigorous instruction as on campus.
FAQs About Online Colleges in Texas
1. Are online degrees from Texas colleges respected by employers?
Yes. Most online programs in Texas are offered by accredited universities, which means the degree is the same as one earned on campus. Employers usually care more about the accreditation and reputation of the school than the delivery format.
2. How much does it cost to attend an online college in Texas?
Tuition varies by school, but many online programs in Texas are designed to be affordable. On average, you can expect to pay between $7,000 and $12,000 per year for in-state tuition. Some universities also offer special tuition rates for online learners.
3. Can online students get financial aid?
Absolutely. Online students at accredited Texas universities qualify for federal financial aid, scholarships, and in some cases, state-based assistance. Always check with your school’s financial aid office to explore your options.
4. Do online programs in Texas offer the same majors as on-campus programs?
Many schools in Texas offer a wide range of majors online, from business, nursing, and computer science to education and liberal arts. However, some programs with heavy lab or clinical requirements may still require partial in-person attendance.
5. How flexible are online classes in Texas?
Flexibility depends on the school and program. Some colleges offer fully asynchronous courses, where you study at your own pace, while others may require scheduled online sessions. Either way, online learning is built to fit around your life.