Best Online Community Colleges in New Hampshire
The following four community colleges grant online associate degrees and certificates in the state of New Hampshire. The cost per credit at each school is $215 per credit hour however, credit requirements vary by program and school. Manchester Community College - NH is ranked #1 and offers an online Associate of Science in Accounting and an Associate of Science in Management. NHTI-Concord's Community College offers 13 online associate degrees, the most on the list. Students can choose from degrees such as an Associate in Science in Accounting and an Associate in Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management.
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Overview Online Colleges Costs Popular Degrees Job Outlook FAQs| Rank | School | Annual Tuition | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester Community College - NH | $6,665 | Manchester | |
| White Mountains Community College | $6,450 | Berlin | |
| Nashua Community College | $6,665 | Nashua | |
| NHTI-Concord's Community College | $6,665 | Concord |
2020 Online Community Colleges in New Hampshire - Ranking Details
For each school, we conducted manual research to provide prospective students with more details about the schools' online programs. Explore online degrees offered and accreditation information below.
#1 Manchester Community College - NH
- Annual Tuition: $6,665
- Locations: Manchester
- Accreditation: NEASC CTCI
Manchester Community College seeks to offer a variety of options that include 100% remote access to online community college degrees and certificates, as well as hybrid online course offerings that feature a blend of both online and in-class participation. Students at MCC looking to complete a course of study that is entirely online can choose among Associate of Science degrees in Accounting and Management, as well as certificate programs in those same two disciplines. Distance learners have access to online tutoring, academic advising, technical support, and full access to library materials.
#2 White Mountains Community College
- Annual Tuition: $6,450
- Locations: Berlin
- Accreditation: NEASC CTCI
Students at New Hampshire's White Mountain Community College can leverage technology to pursue an education while balancing other responsibilities. The school's online division offers degree and certificate programs that are offered either partially or fully online. These options include Associate of Science degrees in Trades Management and Resort and Recreation Management, as well as Certificates in Library Technology and Water Quality Technology. Online coursework is delivered through the Canvas online learning management system and includes video conferencing components. Distance learners are not required to log in at specific times but may need to meet other course requirements as determined by the teacher. Students have access to online tutoring, technical support, and library resources.
#3 Nashua Community College
- Annual Tuition: $6,665
- Locations: Nashua
- Accreditation: NEASC CTCI
Students looking for distance education opportunities at New Hampshire's Nashua Community College have a variety of options from which to choose. An array of courses, degrees, and certificate programs are available, and both fully online and hybrid (some on-campus attendance required) are offered. Among the programs offered entirely online at NCC are Associate in Science degrees in Business Administration, Data Analytics, Computer Engineering Technology, and a Certificate in Computer Networking. Online courses offer a unique learning environment for the self-directed student capable of the discipline required to complete course objectives with minimal or no on-campus attendance requirements. Distance learners at NCC have access to an academic success center, online tutorials, and the bookstore.
#4 NHTI-Concord's Community College
- Annual Tuition: $6,665
- Locations: Concord
- Accreditation: NEASC CTCI
Located in the state capital, NHTI- Concord Community College has an online component that allows students to access and pursue their education from any location with internet access. An array of online associate degrees and certificates are available in fields such as business, education, criminal justice, and hospitality. Online coursework is delivered through the Canvas learning management system, with some classes using additional resources to supplement learning. Distance learners at NHTI have access to a host of resources, including academic advising, technical support, library resources, career services, and online tutoring.
Overview of Higher Education in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of the original 13 colonies and has a long history of quality education. Altogether, New Hampshire has nearly 200,000 college students. Between resident, non-resident, and online students, New Hampshire colleges awarded 33,990 degrees and 1,931 certifications in 2020.
There are 24 colleges in New Hampshire, and they offer nearly 400 undergraduate degree programs and nearly 200 graduate programs. Seven of these New Hampshire colleges are community colleges, twelve are private universities, and six are public universities.
The state of New Hampshire has a very strong online education program. All seven community colleges offer online associate and bachelor’s degrees, and both private and public universities offer undergraduate and graduate programs online.
What Colleges Are In New Hampshire?
New Hampshire divides its universities into three groups:
The University System of New Hampshire includes all public universities.
The state’s community colleges form the Community College System of New Hampshire.
Most university students in New Hampshire attend its private institutions, which are not collected under a larger umbrella.
Community Colleges
New Hampshire’s seven community colleges serve over 26,000 students annually through their 200 associate degrees and certificates. The community college system is fifty years old and continues to adapt to new technology and evolving student interests.
These colleges also offer financial aid. For example, the New Hampshire Community College System spent $1.3 million on financial aid during the 2021-2022 school year.
The state emphasizes how easy it is to transition between a 2-year community college and a 4-year university with New Hampshire's Transfer Pathways. This allows you to get the best college degree at an affordable price.
Read our article about the benefits of community college, and how it can help you save money in the long run.
Graduation Rates
New Hampshire has the 3rd highest college completion rate in the country. This includes their many online students. With their commitment to train 4,000 educators in online teaching, it’s easy to see why the state places so high. The state and its colleges offer a wide range of programs that help its graduates succeed after graduation.
Online Colleges in New Hampshire
Nearly every college in New Hampshire offers online degree programs. New Hampshire’s biggest industry is Smart Manufacturing/High Technology, and the state applies those skills to its educational institutions. The state’s institutions know that most of its students are out-of-state and online, so they emphasize their online programs.
In addition to degree programs online, New Hampshire colleges offer verified certificates, bootcamps, digital badges, and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). These programs increase an individual’s skills without having to earn an entire degree. Since 2019, New Hampshire has awarded approximately 10,000 of these digital badges. These non-degree credentials are not only popular in New Hampshire: There are 967,734 unique credentials across the United States.
Accreditation
When choosing a university, make sure to check their accreditation status. An institution becomes accredited after an independent agency determines whether it meets quality academic standards.
Schools may be accredited by the U.S. Department of Education or an organization such as the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Cost of Online Community Colleges in New Hampshire
New Hampshire community colleges — and especially their online programs — are the most affordable in the state.
All online courses are $215 per credit hour, which is lower than the regional New England cost of $323 per credit hour. In addition to lower rates, the Community College System offers financial aid for all students and half-price tuition for senior citizens. For the fourth year in a row, the Community College System voted not to increase its tuition rates.
Financial Aid for Online Students in New Hampshire
All of New Hampshire’s colleges are generous with financial aid. In 2020, community colleges provided $23,839,703 in financial aid. Public universities offered $205,805,547, and private universities offered $529,089,807.
Popular Online Bachelor’s Programs at New Hampshire Colleges
| Institution Type | Most Popular | 2nd Most Popular | 3rd Most Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Colleges | Nursing | Business Administration | General Studies |
| Public Universities | Business Administration | Psychology | Communication and Media Studies |
| Private Universities | Business Management | Health Professions | Psychology |
Business Administration/Management - A bachelor’s degree in business provides students with the ability to succeed in a variety of industries, as faculty teach them skills like problem-solving, data analysis, and project management. A degree in business administration or management can lead to a career as a bank manager, business/management consultant, or production manager, to name a few.
Communication and Media Studies - In today’s media-focused world, communication and media studies degrees provide students with the opportunity to learn about creating content for television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and the internet, which can potentially lead to a lucrative career. Communication and Media Studies degrees are also good for anyone interested in advertising, charity work, politics, culture, and education.
Psychology - The study of the human mind, psychology covers group dynamics, mental illness, brain anatomy, and intelligence. Even if you aren’t interested in becoming a psychologist or counselor, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can boost a career in sales, advertising, and other fields requiring communication and soft skills.
Nursing - The United States needs nurses — more than ever. Pursuing a degree in nursing allows you to work in medical clinics, hospitals, care facilities, and patients' homes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for registered nurses is over $77,000, and the job is projected to grow by 9% through 2030.
Curious to learn more about one of the most popular degrees among the state's community colleges? Check out our list of the best nursing degree programs in New Hamshire.
Employment Outlook for College Graduates in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Education predicts that 65% of jobs in New Hampshire will require a post-secondary degree by 2025. This includes credentials, certificates, and degree programs, all of which New Hampshire colleges offer online. New Hampshire community colleges offer vocational and associate degrees to help graduates find fulfilling and successful careers.
According to the New Hampshire Department of Education, the most sought after skills are communication, teamwork, sales, leadership, and problem-solving. With New Hampshire’s expansive technology industry, its colleges help their students learn and grow these skills. They also prepare students for New Hampshire’s most in-demand jobs: data analysis, AI, digital marketing, automation, business development, and mechanics.
FAQs About Online Colleges in New Hampshire
Are Online Degrees Respected?
Yes, online degrees are respected by most employers, and their popularity is only growing. An increasing number of colleges in New Hampshire and across the U.S. are incorporating distance education into their degree programs. So now, more than ever, employers see online programs as equivalent to traditional college degrees.
Does New Hampshire Have Good Online Colleges?
Absolutely. New Hampshire is one of the oldest states, and their history of education stretches far back. All 24 colleges in New Hampshire offer online degrees as well as credentials, non-degree programs, and career training courses.
Are There Scholarships in New Hampshire For Online College?
Yes, the state and colleges offer many scholarships and grants that give students the opportunity to afford a quality education. Online students are also encouraged to apply.
For more information, check out our 2022 Guide to Scholarships.
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