2023 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
As the seventh most populous state in the country, Ohio is home to over a hundred degree-granting colleges and universities. Our list below provides the best online colleges in Ohio based on Salary Score, encouraging students to plan for their future. Ohio has year-after-year tuition guarantees from all 13 of the state's public undergraduate universities, and there are a dozen online community colleges in Ohio. These facts make it a formidable choice for college students on a budget.
View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn more about OnlineU.
ADVERTISEMENT
Online Programs You May Be Interested In
Annual Tuition: $16,653
2 Programs (view all)
2023 Best Online Colleges in Ohio
Rank | School | Salary Score | Online Enrollment |
---|---|---|---|
Union Institute & University | 96 | 624 | |
University of Dayton | 62 | 1,083 | |
Ohio State University - Main Campus | 59 | 5,186 | |
University of Cincinnati | 56 | 9,073 | |
Franklin University | 55 | 6,358 | |
Xavier University | 53 | 606 | |
Ohio University - Main Campus | 53 | 7,383 | |
The University of Findlay | 52 | 559 | |
Case Western Reserve University | 51 | 555 | |
Ohio Dominican University | 49 | 180 |
#1 Union Institute & University
- Salary Score: 96
- Online Enrollment: 624
- Locations: Cincinnati
- Accreditation: HLC
Union Institute & University (UI&U) is a private, four-year institution located in Cincinnati, Ohio. UI&U offers various online programs that are 100% remote, including certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in majors such as education, leadership, social justice, mental wellness, public service, healthcare, and more. Bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and three years of full-time study. The master’s degree program requires 60 credit hours and usually takes students two years to finish. UI&U’s PhD programs take 2-3 years to complete and requires around 66 credit hours. With a 100% acceptance rate and a 72% graduation rate, UI&U allows students to transfer credits for a more affordable education.
UI&U uses Brightspace to manage classwork for both 100% online and hybrid courses. Online classes are asynchronous, meaning students can work at their own pace. UI&U provides 24/7 access to the digital library, one-on-one tutoring services, career and writing services, and mental health counseling. In addition, UI&U is committed to promoting social justice and equity. The university is a Hispanic Serving Institution, and 34% of students are Hispanic.
#2 University of Dayton
- Salary Score: 62
- Online Enrollment: 1,083
- Locations: Dayton
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Dayton (UD) is a private, Catholic institution with an 81% acceptance rate and a 79% graduation rate. The university offers 39 online degree, certification, and licensure programs. These degree programs include master’s degrees in business administration and educational leadership, doctoral degrees in law and leadership for organizations, and certificates in engineering management and Marian studies, among many others. UD’s master’s programs require 30 credit hours and take about two years to complete. Certificates may be added to master’s degree programs or completed on their own for 9 credits. This can be done in one semester.
At UD, students use the learning platform Isidore to access their coursework which is 100% online. UD offers three modalities for online students – synchronous, hybrid, and asynchronous. Synchronous classes meet via Zoom at a pre-scheduled time. Hybrid courses meet via Zoom, but about 30% of coursework is finished asynchronously. Asynchronous courses are entirely without live courses, and class time is replaced by online activities. UD believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to their education and provide resources to LGBTQ and minority students. Also, UD’s online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, and counselors.
#3 Ohio State University - Main Campus
- Salary Score: 59
- Online Enrollment: 5,186
- Locations: Columbus
- Accreditation: HLC
Ohio State University (OSU) is a public institution located in Columbus, OH. There are 47 online programs available for students, both in-state and out-of-state. However, non-resident students are subject to a surcharge. OSU offers certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and even online doctoral degrees. There are a wide array of subjects to choose from within healthcare, agriculture, public affairs, and science. Some options include an Environmental Assessment Certificate, an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education, and a Master of Arts in Bioethics.
Online courses are delivered through the popular LMS Canvas, allowing students to study on a flexible part-time or full-time schedule. Remote students also receive academic advising, career services, and telehealth services for in-state residents.
#4 University of Cincinnati
- Salary Score: 56
- Online Enrollment: 9,073
- Locations: Cincinnati (and 1 other)
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Cincinnati (UC) is a public institution located in the heart of Cincinnati, OH. Their program catalog features 53 online degrees in fields such as special education, nursing, management, and liberal arts. Additional examples include an Associate of Applied Business in Business Applications Technology, a Bachelor's in Social Work, and an Application Software Support Specialist Certificate. For advanced students, UC offers several master's, doctoral, and graduate certificates in a wide variety of fields, ranging from nutrition to taxation.
All online coursework is taken through the Canvas learning management system (LMS), which allows for a flexible online study experience. Distance learners may receive grants and financial support, along with personalized support and guidance that begins before a student enrolls.
#5 Franklin University
- Salary Score: 55
- Online Enrollment: 6,358
- Locations: Columbus
- Accreditation: HLC
Franklin University is a private university in Columbus, OH that specializes in online learning. In fact, nearly 80% of the student body takes online courses. Franklin's online degree programs cover a wide variety of fields — such as business, education, healthcare, social science, and technology. Within the business field alone, Franklin offers 18 online bachelor's degrees, where students can study sports, marketing, communications, and more. Master's and doctoral degrees are also included in their slate of offerings. Students may choose to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing or a Master of Science in Data Analytics.
Students can take online courses on a flexible schedule through the BlueQuill LMS, which includes a combination of live streams, pre-recorded lectures, interactive assignments, and online tests. Online students also have access to credit transfer support, along with free tutoring and writing research assistance, personal advising, and 24/7 digital libraries and catalogs.
#6 Xavier University
- Salary Score: 53
- Online Enrollment: 606
- Locations: Cincinnati
- Accreditation: HLC
Xavier University (XU) is a private, Jesuit institution that hosts online degrees at the bachelor's and master's levels. The school has an 84% acceptance rate and a 70% graduation rate. There is one online bachelor’s degree program in organizational leadership, which can be completed in three years and requires 87 credit hours. XU also has several master’s degree programs, including criminal justice, special education, and sports administration. The master’s degrees require around 30 credit hours and can be completed in 1-2 years. Online nursing specializations are also offered at XU, covering forensics, education, and family medicine.
At XU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and in an asynchronous format. Nursing students may be required to complete in-person practical hours. Xavier University offers access to the digital library, online tutoring, and academic advising. Also, XU hosts an LGBTQ+ alliance, a black student association, and other diverse organizations.
#7 Ohio University - Main Campus
- Salary Score: 53
- Online Enrollment: 7,383
- Locations: Athens
- Accreditation: HLC
Ohio University - Main Campus (OU) is a public university with an 89% acceptance rate and a 66% graduation rate. OU offers 56 online programs, including include online undergraduate and graduate programs: six online associate degree programs, six bachelor’s completion programs, seven full bachelor’s degree programs, and 35 online graduate programs. OU’s programs cover a range of fields including business management technology, human services, equine studies, and journalism. Both the associate degree programs and the bachelor’s completion programs can be completed in two years and require 60 credit hours. The full bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and can be completed in four years. Master’s programs require 47 credit hours, doctoral programs require 42 credit hours, and both can be completed in 2-3 years.
At OU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. OU provides online students with tutoring, academic advising, and access to the digital library. The university does its best to match students to the programs and learning still that will help them succeed after graduation.
#8 The University of Findlay
- Salary Score: 52
- Online Enrollment: 559
- Locations: Findlay
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Findlay (UF) is a private, Christian institution that cultivates potential in their students through academic excellence, transformative experiences, and the Christian faith. With a graduation rate of 62% and an acceptance rate of 84%, UF has several online degree options, from an online bachelor's completion program to an online doctorate. The bachelor’s completion program consists of the final 63 credit hours for a total of 124 credit hours and takes 2-3 years to complete. UF also offers a Doctor of Education requiring three years and 100 credit hours as well as Distance Doctor of Pharmacy, which can be completed in four years and requires 142 credit hours. Also, for students who already have a master's degree, UF has superintendent and principal license programs requiring 15 credit hours.
At UF, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely online. However, some courses require in person practical hours. Online students have access to the online library, tutoring services, and academic advising.
#9 Case Western Reserve University
- Salary Score: 51
- Online Enrollment: 555
- Locations: Cleveland
- Accreditation: HLC
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a private institution located in Cleveland, Ohio. CWRU offers seven online master’s degree programs. These are through three schools: the Case School of Engineering; Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences; and the Weatherhead School of Management. For example, CWRU offers online graduate degrees that include a Master of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Engineering. These programs require between 30 and 48 credit hours and take about two years to finish. CWRU has an acceptance rate of 30% and a graduation rate of 85%.
At CWRU, students use Canvas to access their coursework. These courses are usually synchronous, and students use Zoom to attend. Case Western Reserve University offers online students the ability to review pervious lectures through MediaVision Courseware, access to the digital library, and academic advising. CWRU emphasizes student organizations and experiential learning thorough research and internships.
#10 Ohio Dominican University
- Salary Score: 49
- Online Enrollment: 180
- Locations: Columbus
- Accreditation: HLC
The Ohio Dominican University (ODU) is a private, Catholic institution located in Columbus, Ohio. ODU is committed to intellectual, spiritual, and professional growth, and boasts organizations such as the Gay Straight Alliance, Black Student Union, and the ODU Environmental Club. The university offers online degrees at several levels, including one online associate degree in business, four online bachelor's degrees, and seven online master's programs. ODU’s bachelor’s degree programs include accounting, business administration, cross-disciplinary studies, and risk management & insurance. These programs require 111 credit hours and four years of dedication. The master’s degree programs — which include sports management, education, english, and theology — require 36 credit hours and can take students 16-24 months to complete.
The university has a 54% acceptance rate and a 48% graduation rate. It is notable that 100% of undergraduate students for the 2022-2023 school year received financial assistance. ODU offers remote students access to writing centers, tutoring services, and 24/7 access to the virtual library. Finally, at ODU, students use Brightspace to access their online coursework.
#11 Ohio University - Chillicothe Campus
- Salary Score: 48
- Online Enrollment: 873
- Locations: Chillicothe
- Accreditation: HLC
The Ohio University – Chillicothe Campus (OU Chillicothe) is a small, regional campus of Ohio University that offers 56 online programs: These include six online associate degree programs, six bachelor’s completion programs, seven full bachelor’s degree programs, and 35 online graduate programs. With a 100% acceptance rate and a 21% graduation rate, OU Chillicothe’s programs cover a range of fields, including business management technology, human services, equine studies, and journalism. Both OU Chillicothe’s associate degree programs and the bachelor’s completion programs can be completed in two years and require 60 credit hours. The full bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and can be completed in four years. Master’s programs require 47 credit hours, doctoral programs require 42 credit hours, and both can be completed in 2-3 years.
At OU Chillicothe, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. OU Chillicothe provides online students with tutoring, academic advising, and access to the digital library. The university does its best to match students to the programs and learning still that will help them succeed after graduation.
#12 Ohio Christian University
- Salary Score: 47
- Online Enrollment: 1,543
- Locations: Circleville
- Accreditation: HLC
Ohio Christian University (OCU) is a private, Christian university situated in Circleville, OH offering online degrees. They integrate faith with learning, even featuring a handful of ministry-based and theological online programs, such as a Master of Arts in Ministry and a Bachelor of Arts in Global Missions. Additional programs are in fields such as emergency management, healthcare, information technology, and finance. Some examples include an Associate of Science in Information Technology, a Bachelor of Arts in Business - Emergency Management, and a Certificate in Healthcare Management. Classes are 100% online through the Brightspace LMS.
OCU offers a Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) to assist students and their parents who have an income below $45,000 and don't immediately gain employment upon graduation.
#13 Mount Vernon Nazarene University
- Salary Score: 43
- Online Enrollment: 704
- Locations: Mount Vernon
- Accreditation: HLC
Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) is a private, Christian institution with an 87% acceptance rate and a 65% graduation rate. MVNU offers online degrees at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. With online bachelor’s degrees in fields such as marketing, Christian ministry, elementary education, and social work, prospective students have many majors to choose from. Online master’s degree programs include management, intervention specialist, ministry, organizational management, and finance. Required credit hours are the usual required amounts, with master’s degree programs taking around 19 months to complete and bachelor’s programs taking anywhere between two and four years, depending on the number of hours transferred.
At MVNU, online students use Moodle to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. MVNU offers its remote students access to its online library, one-on-one tutoring, and the university’s academic peer mentor program. Mount Vernon Nazarene University is committed to providing understanding and supportive interactions among a diverse student population.
#14 Tiffin University
- Salary Score: 41
- Online Enrollment: 1,139
- Locations: Tiffin
- Accreditation: HLC
Tiffin University (TU) is a private university in Tiffin, OH. They offer five online bachelor's degrees and five online master's degrees. For undergrads, there's a Bachelor in Business Administration and a Bachelor in Criminal Justice, along with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. TU even features an associate to bachelor's completion program. The school's master's programs cover fields such as education, science, and the humanities; their most advanced degree is the Doctor of Philosophy in Global Leadership and Change. Coursework for these online programs is completed through the LMS Moodle.
Tiffin University focuses on being an affordable option for students, with 80% of students taking advantage of at least one form of financial aid. Individual career coaching is available for online students as well, which includes resume and cover letter critiques, mock interviews, networking opportunities, and professional development workshops.
#15 Cedarville University
- Salary Score: 40
- Online Enrollment: 752
- Locations: Cedarville
- Accreditation: HLC
Cedarville University (CU) is a private, Christian university that integrates the bible into every course to equip students to answer God’s call. CU has online certificate and graduate programs, but no online undergraduate degree programs. The online certificate programs — including cybersecurity management and healthcare administration — require 36-39 credit hours and may be completed in 1-2 years. The master’s degree programs, such as biblical leadership and accounting, take 1-2 years to complete and require 36 credit hours. CU also offers both an MSN-to-DNP program and a BSN-to-DNP program, which require 75-79 credit hours. Either of these can be completed in four years and include 600 clinical hours. All students are required to complete a bible and theology course.
At CU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online students have access to CU’s digital library, academic advising, and tutoring services. Importantly, CU prohibits “same-sex dating behaviors” and medical or social gender transition, which means it is not an LGBT-friendly school.
#16 University of Toledo
- Salary Score: 40
- Online Enrollment: 2,567
- Locations: Toledo
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Toledo (UT) is a four-year, public institution that offers more than 50 online degrees and certificates. UT focuses on improving their students' ethics and social responsibility, creative and critical thinking skills, business acumen, and leadership abilities. Degree programs are offered online at all levels, including certificates, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs. They also offer both a BSN to DNP program and an MSN to DNP. Certificates require 15 credit hours and can be completed in one year. Online associate degree programs require 60 credit hours and can take up to two years. An online bachelor’s degree program at UT may take four years to complete and requires 120 credit hours.
UT Online uses Blackboard to provide access to asynchronous coursework. UT’s online students have full access to UToledo’s online resources, including eLibrary, IT Help Desk and eTutoring. The University of Toledo offers online students access to a success coach, advisors, and interactive faculty to guide students toward their goals.
#17 Kent State University at Ashtabula
- Salary Score: 40
- Online Enrollment: 1,296
- Locations: Ashtabula
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at Ashtabula is a small, public university located in Ashtabula, Ohio. The local community founded the Ashtabula regional campus of Kent State University. Kent State Ashtabula offers a wide range of online program options, from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The online program options cover a wide range of fields, including healthcare, journalism, and business, to name just a few. While an online associate degree requires 61 to 64 credits and takes two years to complete, an online bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours and can take around four years.
At Kent State Ashtabula, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is asynchronous and 100% online. Online students have access to academic coaching, all university libraries, and tutoring at the writing center. The university has a 100% acceptance rate and a 25% graduation rate.
#18 Bowling Green State University - Main Campus
- Salary Score: 39
- Online Enrollment: 2,461
- Locations: Bowling Green
- Accreditation: HLC
Bowling Green State University – Main Campus (BGSU) is a public institution that has a 79% acceptance rate and a 62% graduation rate. BGSU offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as online certificate programs. Bachelor’s degree programs, which include allied health, dietetics, and quality systems, require 122 credit hours and may be completed in four years. Students transferring with a completed associate degree are only required to complete 30 credit hours, which can be completed in 1-2 years. BGSU’s master’s degree programs, such as those concerning autism spectrum disorders, music education, and criminal justice, require 30 credit hours and take about 1-2 years to complete. Certificates require 15 credit hours and are typically completed in one year.
At BGSU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online students have access to the writing center, digital library, and BGSU’s academic advising. Bowling Green State University believe that reputation matters and is currently only 1 of 6 universities in the United States to have earned The Online Learner Support Certification from Quality Matters.
#19 Kent State University at East Liverpool
- Salary Score: 38
- Online Enrollment: 795
- Locations: East Liverpool
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at East Liverpool is a two-year, public institution with an acceptance rate of 100% and a graduation rate of 20%. Kent State East Liverpool offers online undergraduate degrees, including an Associate of Applied Business in either information technology or office technology. Both require 63 credit hours and take two years to complete. There are also several online bachelor’s degree programs, such as insurance studies and public health, which require 120 credit hours and can be completed in two years. Kent State East Liverpool was originally an academic center in the International Brotherhood of Pottery building, before becoming a regional campus of Kent State University in 1968.
At Kent State East Liverpool, students use Blackboard to access their 100% online coursework. In-person classes can be joined via Zoom, but all required work can be completed through Blackboard. All online students have access to all university libraries, tutoring services, and academic coaching.
#20 Ashland University
- Salary Score: 37
- Online Enrollment: 1,358
- Locations: Ashland
- Accreditation: HLC
Ashland University (AU) is a four-year, private institution with a 70% acceptance rate and a 66% graduation rate. AU offers 16 online undergraduate and graduate programs, including several nursing programs. Whole the online associate degree programs require 60 credit hours and take two years to complete, AU's online bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours, taking four years to complete. The online master’s programs can be completed in 12 months, as they require 30-36 credit hours. Online PhD programs, which are 100% online, can be completed in two years. AU’s majors cover diverse topics, such as addiction studies, criminal justice, theology, and homeland security, to name a few.
At AU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which can be completed 100% online, with the options to watch live lectures or take classes asynchronously. The school is committed to removing structural barriers and promoting diversity and growth. For example, AU offers online students counseling and tutoring services as well as access to its digital library.
#21 Franciscan University of Steubenville
- Salary Score: 35
- Online Enrollment: 917
- Locations: Steubenville
- Accreditation: HLC
The Franciscan University of Steubenville (Franciscan Online) is a private, Catholic institution, which equips students to integrate faith and reason into their personal and academic lives. Franciscan Online offers online degrees at the associate, bachelor's and master's levels. It has online associate degrees in theology and philosophy, both of which require 60 credit hours and take two years to complete. There are also online bachelor’s degree programs in philosophy, theology, management, and psychology. These remote programs can be completed in four years and require 124 credit hours, while online master’s degrees through Franciscan Online require 37 credit hours and one year to complete. These programs include a Masters of Arts in Catechetics and Evangelization, Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry, and Master of Arts in Catholic Studies.
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. Distance learners take courses via recorded lectures, live webinars, and resources from the university’s digital library. It's important to note that Franciscan University of Steubenville does not support LGBT relationships.
#22 Wright State University - Main Campus
- Salary Score: 34
- Online Enrollment: 1,528
- Locations: Dayton
- Accreditation: HLC
Wright State University – Main Campus (WSU) is a public institution in Dayton, Ohio with a 96% acceptance rate and a 46% graduation rate. At WSU, students can earn certificates and online degrees, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Certificate programs consist of four courses and takes one year to complete. The associate degree takes about two years to complete and requires 60 credit hours. Bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and 3-4 years of dedication. Finally, master’s degree programs require 33-46 hours, depending on the program, and can be completed in 1-2 years. WSU’s programs explore fields such as aerospace medicine, marketing, and liberal studies.
At WSU, online students use WSU’s learning management system, Pilot, to access their coursework, which is 100% online and may be either synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the course. Online students have access to math and writing tutors, as well as the digital library and academic advisors. WSU believes in innovation, diversity, and community.
#23 Walsh University
- Salary Score: 33
- Online Enrollment: 721
- Locations: North Canton
- Accreditation: HLC
Walsh University (WU) is a private, Catholic institution that aims to develop students’ minds, bodies, and spirits, and it is based in North Canton, Ohio. WU has an acceptance rate of 80% and a graduation rate of 59%. Their online degree offerings include bachelor’s degree programs, such as accounting, web design, and public health; master’s degree programs, such as education, marketing, and clinical mental health counseling; and post-master’s DNP programs. Bachelor’s degree programs require 119 credit hours and can be completed in about four years. The master’s degree programs require 36 credit hours and typically take around one year to complete. WU’s post-master’s DNP programs require 34 credit hours and 1,000 practical hours, which is what the AACN requires for licensure. Students typically take 2-3 years to complete their program, earning about 500 practical hours before completing their courses.
At WU, students use the Electronic Course Network to access their classwork, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online students have access to the university’s digital library, academic advising, and tutoring services. Walsh believes in helping students balance academic, spiritual, and social activities. They have a number of multicultural student organizations, but do not allow LGBT speakers or organizations on campus. This indicated that they are not an LGBTQ-friendly school.
#24 Kent State University at Trumbull
- Salary Score: 33
- Online Enrollment: 1,483
- Locations: Warren
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at Trumbull is a two-year, public school located in Trumbull, Ohio. It has a 100% acceptance rate and a 17% graduation rate. At Kent State Trumbull, online students can earn online degrees, such as an Associate of Applied Business with several concentration options, or a Bachelor of Science. The online associate degree programs — such as cybersecurity and business management technology — require 61 credit hours and take two years to complete. The online bachelor’s programs require 120 credit hours, can be completed in four years, and includes degrees in information technology, insurance studies, and public health, among others.
At Kent State Trumbull, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Kent State Trumbull also worked with the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to design the Public Safety Training and Police Academy, which trains individuals to become police or corrections officers.
#25 Kent State University at Kent
- Salary Score: 33
- Online Enrollment: 8,011
- Locations: Kent
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at Kent is a four-year, public institution with an 87% acceptance rate and an 80% graduation rate. The Kent State campus had its first academic school year in 1913, and has a long history of diversity, innovation, and student activism. Kent State offers several online degrees, including associate degrees in cybersecurity and environment management, which require 60 credit hours and can be completed in two years. There are also several online bachelor’s degree programs, such as insurance studies and public health, which require 120 credit hours and can be completed in four years. Kent State offers 10 certificates, including education, journalism, and wellness, which require 12 credit hours and can be completed in less than a year.
At Kent State, students use Blackboard to access their 100% online coursework. In-person classes can be joined via Zoom, but all required work can be done through Blackboard. At Kent State, online students have access to all university libraries, tutoring services, and academic coaching.
#26 Cleveland State University
- Salary Score: 32
- Online Enrollment: 1,518
- Locations: Cleveland
- Accreditation: HLC
Cleveland State University (CSU) is a public, research institution that offers online bachelor’s and graduate degrees, as well as certificate programs. The bachelor’s degree programs, including business, social work, and leadership, require 120 credit hours. These generally take students around four years to complete. Certificate programs, on the other hand, typically take 2-3 semesters and require only nine credit hours. CSU's online master’s degrees explore education, health care, social work, and cybersecurity, with each requiring around 30 credit hours. Distance learners can complete a master's in 3-5 years. Finally, CSU offers an online JD degree that requires 90 credit hours and can be completed in 3-4 years. Cleveland State University has a 91% acceptance rate and a 52% graduation rate.
At CSU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. However, it's impotant to note that some programs may require in-person practical hours. Online students at CSU have access to the university’s digital library, academic advising, and tutoring services. CSU provides students with the rigor and support of the classroom but also the flexibility and structure to balance school, work, and life.
#27 Kent State University at Salem
- Salary Score: 32
- Online Enrollment: 1,061
- Locations: Salem
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at Salem (Kent State Salem) is a two-year, public institution with an acceptance rate of 100% and a graduation rate of 23%. Kent State East Liverpool offers two online associate degrees and several online bachelor's degrees. The associate programs each require 63 credit hours and take at least two years to complete. The online bachelor’s degree programs, such as insurance studies and public health, require 120 credit hours. Students can complete these in around two years. Kent State Salem recently added a multimillion-dollar Health and Science Wing, and it is located in the center of downtown Salem, Ohio.
At Kent State Salem, students use Blackboard to access their 100% online coursework. In-person classes can also be joined via Zoom, but all required work can be completed through the Blackboard learning platform online. All remote students have access to all university libraries, tutoring services, and academic coaching.
#28 Wright State University-Lake Campus
- Salary Score: 30
- Online Enrollment: 415
- Locations: Celina
- Accreditation: HLC
Wright State University – Lake Campus (Lake Campus) is a public institution in Celina, Ohio with a 98% acceptance rate and a 20% graduation rate. At Lake Campus, WSU offers a range of online programs, including an Associate in Applied Business Technology, bachelor’s degree programs, and master’s degrees. Certificates, such as the ones for modern languages and aerospace medicine, take one year to complete, with just four required courses. The associate program requires 60 credit hours and takes about two years to complete. Lake Campus’ bachelor programs, including liberal studies and marketing, require 120 credit hours and can be completed in 3-4 years. The master’s programs take 1-2 years to complete and require 33-46 credit hours, depending on the program.
At Lake Campus, online students use Pilot, WSU’s learning management system, to access their coursework, which is 100% online and may be either synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the course. Online students have access to math and writing tutors, as well as the digital library and academic advisors.
#29 Kent State University at Geauga
- Salary Score: 29
- Online Enrollment: 1,580
- Locations: Burton
- Accreditation: HLC
Kent State University at Geauga is a two-year, public institution located in Burton, Ohio. The only higher education institution in Geauga County, the 3rd wealthiest county in Ohio, Kent State Geauga has a 100% acceptance rate and a 21% graduation rate. Kent State Geauga offers online degrees at the associate level in information technology and office technology, both of which require 63 credit hours and take two years to complete. There are also several online bachelor’s degree programs, such as insurance studies and public health, which require 120 credit hours and can be completed in two years.
At Kent State Geauga, students use Blackboard to access their 100% online coursework. In-person classes can be joined via Zoom, but all required work can be completed through Blackboard. At Kent State Geauga, online students have access to all university libraries, tutoring services, and academic coaching.
#30 Youngstown State University
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 1,794
- Locations: Youngstown
- Accreditation: HLC
Youngstown State University (YSU) is a public institution that focuses on online bachelor's and master's degrees. YSU offers a master’s of education in special education, teacher education, and educational administration, as well as a Master of Business Administration with specializations in marketing and healthcare management. With a 78% acceptance rate and a 42% graduation rate, YSU also has several post-master’s nursing certificates, such as the adult gero acute care np certificate and the nurse educator certificate. YSU’s master’s degree programs require between 30-36 credit hours and take about one year to complete. The certificate programs require between 15-19 credit hours and can be completed in 2-5 months.
At YSU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Through chat rooms, streaming video, and discussion boards, online studies can study on their own schedule. YSU provides students with a creative, integrated approach to education, scholarship, and service.
#31 Mercy College of Ohio
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 438
- Locations: Toledo
- Accreditation: HLC
Mercy College of Ohio is a private, Catholic institution that focuses on healthcare. It was a 41% acceptance rate and a 65% graduation rate. Mercy offers online degrees at various levels, including online bachelor’s degree programs, such as healthcare administration and medical imaging; graduate programs, such as nursing, and physician assistant studies; and certificates at the undergraduate and undergraduate levels. Bachelor’s degree programs take three to four years and require 108 credit hours, 84 of which may be transferred in from another school. Graduate programs require 70 credit hours and take four years to complete. These programs may require practical, clinical hours. Mercy also offers an online RN-BSN program and an RN-MSN program.
At Mercy, students use Canvas to access their coursework. Courses are 100% online and asynchronous, so students can work on their own schedules. Mercy offers tutoring, counseling, and advising for their online students.
#32 University of Northwestern Ohio
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 429
- Locations: Lima
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) is a four-year institution based in Lima. The college offers a fully online Master of Business Administration and several bachelor's degrees related to business, management, accounting, and more.
UNOH supports the technological needs of online students by providing free Microsoft Student Office 365 licenses and communication services through the UNOH mobile app. UNOH's online students can also access library services and writing assistance remotely, as well as purchase books online through UNOH’s partnership with Barnes & Noble.
#33 Antioch University Online
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 477
- Locations: Yellow Springs
- Accreditation: HLC
Antioch University Online (AU Online) is a private, four-year institution with a 51% graduation rate. AU Online offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. It has bachelor’s degrees in liberal studies, applied technology, and healthcare administration. AU Online’s master’s degrees, including business administration and non-profit management, require 36 credit hours and can be earned in about two years. The Doctor of Education in Educational and Professional Practice takes around three years to finish if students take two courses each term.
At AU online, students use Sakai to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. Online students can use AU’s digital library, tutoring services, and the writing center. AU is committed to meeting students’ needs and helping them succeed after graduation. AU Online believes that students should be evaluated as individuals using narrative assessment to provide meaningful and actionable demonstrations of learning.
#34 God's Bible School and College
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 178
- Locations: Cincinnati
- Accreditation: HLC
God’s Bible School and College (GBSC) is a Christian, private institution located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The school offers two- and four-year online degrees at these levels: associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s programs. Popular majors at the associate level include bible & theology, general business, and intercultural studies & world missions. These each require 60 credits. For the bachelor's degrees, students can choose from Christian ministry, integrative studies, and elementary education, which require 120 credits. Some of the 18-credit master's degrees include biblical studies, apologetics, and chaplaincy. Overall, GBSC has a 65% acceptance rate and a 45% graduation rate.
GBSC is “Biblically based and ministry oriented,” and it has strictly conservative values. For this reason, it is not an LGBT-friendly institution. At GBSC, students use the learning platform Buzz to access their coursework online, attend live class sessions, and turn in assignments. Online students have access to GBSC’s online library, student counseling services, and academic advising. GBSC is both regionally and nationally accredited.
Higher Education in Ohio
Ohio hosts 164 higher learning institutions that offer associate degrees and above. These schools include 60 public and 104 private institutions, most of them nonprofit. Ohio State University (OSU) is the state’s largest school with more than 45,000 undergraduates enrolled at the main campus alone.
Many Ohio colleges and universities provide online degree programs. These may be ideal for students who prefer to learn at their own pace and take classes around a full- or part-time work or family schedule.
Online Colleges in Ohio
In 2021, nearly 30% of Ohio's college students took online courses exclusively. This followed a large increase in the state's distance education enrollments over the previous decade, according to a report by the education research company Bay View Analytics.
Online education had been on the rise even before the COVID-19 pandemic because students are drawn to the convenience and flexibility of distance learning. Most Ohio online degree programs feature asynchronous classes, meaning that students can work on assignments and assessments at convenient times. As long as they respect due dates, distance learners can fit coursework into their busy schedules as they please.
There are institutions with online degrees at all levels of education in Ohio. The table below details some of the different credentials available online:
For degrees in other states, see OnlineU's best online college rankings by state or best online colleges by degree level.
FAQs About Online Colleges in Ohio
How Many Colleges Are in Ohio?
There are 164 degree-granting colleges in Ohio. Sixty of these are public schools and most of the rest are nonprofit private institutions.
What Are the State Colleges in Ohio?
Ohio has public community colleges, individual four-year colleges, and schools that are part of larger statewide systems. The public college groups include the Kent State system, the Ohio State University system, and the Ohio University system. Each of these groups has multiple campuses and at least some online degree programs.
How Much Is College in Ohio?
Costs for online Ohio colleges can vary widely by institution. Below, we've listed average costs for Ohio institutions in the 2020-2021 academic year. All data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics.
- Public four-year college, in-state resident: $10,049
- Public four-year college, out-of-state resident: $26,213
- Private four-year college: $35,352
- Public two-year college, in-state resident: $4,416
- Public two-year college, out-of-state resident: $7,888
Tuition reciprocity agreements may help you qualify for in-state tuition rates if you live in Indiana, Kentucky, or West Virginia.
What Are the Best Colleges in Ohio?
The list on this page ranks Ohio online colleges by their Salary Scores, which is our measure of how much their alumni tend to earn in the job market. But just because a college has good employment outcomes doesn't mean it's the right school for you. There are many factors that go into decisions about your education. You can read our Guide to Applying to Online College or University for ideas about how to choose a school.
Why Trust Us?
27 Data Researchers
60,000 Degrees Researched Annually
20,000 Hours Spent on Research Annually
Launching Rankings Since 2009