The Most Popular Accredited UUÖ±²¥s in 2025
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Popular Schools Overview Choosing a School FAQsOur list of the most popular accredited online colleges highlights institutions with the highest online enrollment, based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Discover a variety of colleges offering online degree programs at every academic level and find the one that's right for you.
Key Takeaways:
- The first six online schools on our list each have over 50,000 distance learners enrolled.
- Southern New Hampshire University Online dominates the landscape with an online enrollment of 157,898 students, which positions it in the #1 spot, highlighting its extensive reach and accessibility.
- Georgia Institute of Technology has the best median graduate earnings on our list — $100,403 — placing it in the top 1% of schools nationwide for this metric.
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The Most Popular Accredited UUÖ±²¥s in 2025
- Online Enrollment:
Why we like them: SNHU offers a selection of over 200 online degree programs, catering to various fields such as accounting and finance, art and design, business, criminal justice, education, and engineering. Its programs are designed for career advancement, being both affordable and accredited without mandatory entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE. The institution supports learning with career-focused curriculums and encourages transfer of up to 90 undergraduate credits.
- Online Enrollment:
Why we like them: WGU's competency-based education approach enables you to progress through courses as quickly as your skills and knowledge allow, potentially accelerating your path to degree completion. WGU provides an array of accredited online bachelor's and master's degrees across fields such as business, education, technology, and nursing, with various certification options available for further specialization. The institution is notably accredited by NWCCU, ensuring high educational standards. Additionally, WGU supports military learners by accepting GI Bill benefits and offers dedicated resources to veterans and active-duty personnel.
- Online Enrollment: OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ' >
- Online Enrollment: OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ' >
- Online Enrollment: OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ' >
- Online Enrollment:
Why we like them: UMGC offers a vast array of over 135 online degrees and certificates designed to enhance your professional skills in fields like business, cybersecurity, and teaching. We also appreciate how the university recognizes prior education, military, and professional experience through transfer credit options. UMGC provides career-focused online degrees at various levels, including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs, with no in-person attendance required.
- Online Enrollment: OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ' >
- Online Enrollment: 3.73 out of 5, underscoring PG's commitment to quality online education.
Why we like them: PG delivers an online learning experience tailored for working adults, combining flexibility with extensive support. With 24/7 access to a range of interactive resources, students can complete classes around demanding schedules. The online classroom is user-friendly and built to foster engagement through discussion boards, seminars, and real-time support. Purdue Global’s diverse faculty bring industry insights into the virtual classroom, and students benefit from resources like a comprehensive digital library and career services, all designed to support personal and professional growth from enrollment to graduation.
- Online Enrollment:
Why we like them: Capella offers a virtual learning experience designed for busy professionals who need adaptable study options. With its self-paced FlexPath and structured GuidedPath, Capella empowers students to tailor their education to their schedules, helping them reach career milestones efficiently. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Capella’s programs in fields like business, nursing, and social work are additionally recognized by specialized accrediting bodies, affirming high standards. Capella provides ample support, career-ready skills, and the assurance of quality, equipping students to advance toward their professional goals with confidence.
- Online Enrollment:
Johns Hopkins University () has over 28,000 online learners currently enrolled, making it a popular choice. Another compelling aspect is its strong median earnings, reaching $94,499. This situates it in the top 2% for median salary nationally — an A+ Salary Score. Furthermore, the university boasts a notable graduation rate of 94% and a 91% recommendation rate, highlighting its academic efficiency and student satisfaction.
Why we like them: JHU extends its academic programs beyond the traditional campus, offering a wide selection of online degrees, certificates, and individual courses. Through schools like the Krieger School of Arts & Sciences, Whiting School of Engineering, and Bloomberg School of Public Health, students can engage in fields from public health to international studies and advanced engineering. With options through platforms like Coursera, learners can also explore free courses on relevant topics, including data analysis and patient care. These online options cater to both professionals and lifelong learners, enabling access to a premier education from virtually anywhere.