Phillip EdwinTexas offers a strong and growing landscape for online education, with the state’s colleges and universities providing flexible, accessible programs designed for working adults, military personnel, and students who need to balance their education with other life commitments.
These schools offer a wide range of programs across diverse fields, including nursing, education, business, and criminal justice, with formats ranging from fully asynchronous to hybrid options. Online enrollment in Texas has grown significantly, with institutions like Lone Star College-Online increasing enrollment by 48% in just three years, reflecting the high demand for virtual learning options .
Top 25 Online Schools In Texas
1. The University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson)
UT Dallas ranks as the No. 1 online college in Texas according to CollegeRanker’s current rankings, with a 75% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $68,227 a decade after enrolling . The school has a net price of $18,267 and a median student debt of $18,000, which translates to a favorable 0.26x debt-to-earnings ratio. UT Dallas is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and computer science, and its location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex provides students with extensive networking and career opportunities.
2. The University of Texas at Arlington (Arlington)
UTA ranks No. 7 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 55% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $63,199 ten years after enrollment. The university has a net price of $13,951 and a median debt of $17,527, reflecting a 0.28x debt-to-earnings ratio. UTA offers over 30 online programs focused primarily on nursing and education, including an online BSN, RN-to-BSN, and a fully asynchronous DNP program, with many programs featuring accelerated 5-8 week courses. Over 90% of UTA’s online nursing students graduate and pass the NCLEX on their first attempt, one of the top rates in Texas.
3. The University of North Texas (Denton)
UNT’s online programs have earned national recognition in multiple categories, with its online bachelor’s programs ranking No. 25 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in 2025. UNT offers 90 online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, with particular strength in education, where its online master’s programs in education rank No. 3 nationally for curriculum and instruction. The university’s online MBA program is also recognized, ranking No. 75 nationally, and its online criminal justice master’s program is No. 24 in the United States . UNT’s online programs emphasize flexibility with accelerated options designed for working professionals.
4. The University of Texas at Tyler (Tyler)
UT Tyler ranks as the No. 2 online college in Texas according to CollegeRanker, with a 51% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $57,053 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $13,323 and a median debt of $17,137, with a 0.3x debt-to-earnings ratio. UT Tyler offers affordable online nursing programs and is an accessible option for students seeking flexible online education with strong career outcomes.
5. Texas Woman’s University (Denton)
TWU ranks No. 3 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 47% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $56,544 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $11,963, making it one of the more affordable options, with a median debt of $19,218 and a 0.34x debt-to-earnings ratio. TWU offers a variety of online graduate programs, including an MBA program that can be completed in as little as 15 months for approximately $20,000, with no GMAT or GRE required and nine specialized areas of study, all fully online.
6. The University of Texas Permian Basin (Odessa)
UTPB ranks No. 6 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 42% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $56,073 ten years after enrollment. The school has a net price of $12,723 and a median debt of $17,750, with a 0.32x debt-to-earnings ratio . UTPB is recognized for its affordability and strong return on investment, with programs that serve the Permian Basin region of West Texas.
7. Texas State University (San Marcos)
Texas State ranks No. 9 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 56% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $56,906. The school has a net price of $16,805 and a median debt of $21,000. Texas State’s McCoy College of Business offers an innovative Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program that is fully online and accelerated, preparing experienced professionals for leadership and executive roles through advanced research methodologies. The DBA curriculum emphasizes applied research and business analytics and is the most affordable DBA offered in Texas.
8. Texas A&M University-College Station (College Station)
Texas A&M ranks No. 10 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with an 84% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $72,097 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $21,315 and a median debt of $17,804, with a 0.25x debt-to-earnings ratio. Texas A&M’s online offerings include a strong MS in analytics program with over 90% of students graduating, though the school offers only one online bachelor’s degree program, limiting undergraduate options. Online learners have access to support services including an online career center and writing center tutoring.
9. East Texas A&M University (Commerce)
East Texas A&M ranks No. 4 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 44% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $50,296 a decade after enrolling . The school has a net price of $11,841, making it an affordable option, with a median debt of $20,500 and a 0.41x debt-to-earnings ratio . East Texas A&M serves the North Texas region with accessible online education across various disciplines.
10. LeTourneau University (Longview)
LeTourneau University ranks No. 8 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 60% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $57,103 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $28,185 and a median debt of $26,000, with a 0.46x debt-to-earnings ratio. LeTourneau is a private Christian university offering online programs with a focus on technology, engineering, and business education, providing a faith-based approach to online learning.
11. University of Dallas (Irving)
The University of Dallas ranks No. 18 among Texas online colleges according to CollegeRanker, with a 53% acceptance rate and graduates earning a median of $58,285 a decade after enrolling. The school has a net price of $22,610 and a net price above the state average. As a private Catholic university, UD offers online programs that emphasize liberal arts and ethical leadership, providing a values-centered education for working adults.
12. Concordia University Texas (Austin)
Concordia University Texas ranks No. 19 among Texas online colleges according to CollegeRanker, with a 91% acceptance rate and graduates earning a median of $60,883 a decade after enrolling . The school has a net price of $23,131 and a strong social mobility score of 85/100 . Concordia is a private Lutheran university offering online programs that integrate faith and learning, with a focus on accessible education for working adults in the Austin area and beyond.
13. The University of Texas at San Antonio (San Antonio)
UTSA ranks 49th nationally and 5th in Texas on Newsweek’s Top Online Colleges list, climbing 44 spots from its #93 position in 2025. The university currently offers 11 fully online programs and has seen online enrollment more than double in the last five years to over 1,300 students. UTSA online students are 35% parents, 40% seeking career changes or promotions, and 60% employed full-time, reflecting the university’s commitment to serving working adults. The university’s online programs are taught by the same world-class faculty who teach on-campus courses, with access to comprehensive student support services including advising, tutoring, and career services.
14. Lone Star College System (Houston)
Lone Star College System ranks No. 20 nationally and No. 3 in Texas on Newsweek’s 2026 Top Online Colleges list, a significant achievement for its fully virtual campus, LSC-Online . Launched in 2022, LSC-Online serves 5,400 students and has seen enrollment increase by 48% from fall 2022 to fall 2025. System-wide, nearly 45% of courses are online, with 46% face-to-face and 9% hybrid. LSC-Online provides wraparound support services to ensure students feel connected and supported, with faculty dedicated to meeting students where they are through flexible scheduling.
15. Sam Houston State University (Huntsville)
Sam Houston State ranks No. 11 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 55% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $54,211 . The school has a net price of $16,404 and provides online programs serving the Huntsville and North Texas region . SHSU offers a variety of online programs with a focus on criminal justice, business, and education, providing accessible education for working professionals.
16. Texas A&M University-Texarkana (Texarkana)
Texas A&M University-Texarkana has expanded its online degree offerings to 23 programs that can be completed entirely online, serving working adults, military personnel, and students in rural areas. The university has launched a new online-only website to help prospective students view degree offerings, apply for admission, and learn about scholarship opportunities. TAMUT’s expansion addresses the needs of the estimated 2.6 million working-age adults in Texas who have completed some college credits but never earned a degree. President Dr. Ross Alexander emphasizes that the online programs make a Texas A&M degree truly flexible, attainable, and affordable.
17. Western Texas College (Snyder)
Western Texas College ranks No. 8 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 56% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $42,508 ten years after enrollment. The school has a remarkably low net price of $3,562 and a median debt of $7,515, with an excellent 0.18x debt-to-earnings ratio. WTC is a community college offering affordable online programs with strong career preparation and is one of the most cost-effective options in the state.
18. Odessa College (Odessa)
Odessa College ranks No. 5 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 32% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $42,026. The school has a low net price of $6,368 and a median debt of $7,750, with an excellent 0.18x debt-to-earnings ratio. Odessa College provides accessible and affordable online education for students in West Texas seeking flexible learning options.
19. McLennan Community College (Waco)
McLennan Community College ranks No. 7 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 37% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $39,163. The school has a net price of $5,051, making it one of the most affordable options, with a median debt of $10,500 and a 0.27x debt-to-earnings ratio . MCC provides accessible online education for students in Central Texas seeking career preparation and workforce training.
20. Brazosport College (Lake Jackson)
Brazosport College ranks No. 20 among Texas online colleges according to CollegeRanker, with graduates earning a median of $45,910 a decade after enrolling and a net price of just $4,732, well below the state average. The school has a value per dollar score of 91/100, reflecting its exceptional affordability and strong return on investment . Brazosport College serves the Gulf Coast region with accessible online education focused on career preparation and workforce training.
21. Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches)
Stephen F. Austin State University ranks No. 16 among Texas online colleges according to CollegeRanker, with a 94% acceptance rate, graduates earning a median of $49,634 a decade after enrolling, and a net price of $14,260. The school has a strong social mobility score of 83/100, reflecting its commitment to advancing students from diverse backgrounds . SFASU offers online programs serving the East Texas region with accessible education across various disciplines.
22. Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls)
Midwestern State University ranks No. 22 among Texas online colleges according to CollegeRanker, with a 94% acceptance rate, graduates earning a median of $55,747 a decade after enrolling, and a net price of $11,656, well under the state average. The school has a social mobility score of 82/100 and academic quality score of 62/100, demonstrating its commitment to accessibility and student advancement. MSU Texas offers online programs serving the North Texas region.
23. Sul Ross State University (Alpine)
Sul Ross State University ranks No. 4 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 29% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $41,871 ten years after enrollment. The school has a net price of $13,286 and a median debt of $15,900, with a 0.38x debt-to-earnings ratio. Sul Ross State serves the West Texas region with accessible online education and career preparation.
24. Dallas College (Dallas)
Dallas College ranks No. 10 in Texas for online education according to CollegeRanker, with a 34% graduation rate and graduates earning a median of $41,714 . The school has a net price of $3,214, making it one of the most affordable options in the state, with a median debt of $9,500 and a 0.23x debt-to-earnings ratio . Dallas College offers highly affordable online nursing programs and other career-focused education.
25. Amberton University (Garland)
Amberton University offers affordable online programs specifically designed for working adults with flat tuition of $325 per credit hour for the 2026-2027 academic year for all students, regardless of residency or program level . The university offers 100% online options across both bachelor’s and master’s degrees with four 10-week academic sessions per year, allowing students to start in winter, spring, summer, or fall .
Amberton may accept up to 87 transfer credit hours for undergraduate students and up to 12 graduate transfer credit hours, helping students finish their degrees faster . Approximately 80% of Amberton graduates earned their degree by taking some or all classes online, and courses are taught by practitioner-faculty who are professionals active in their fields .
Comparison Table
| No | School Name | Location | Graduation Rate | 10-Year Median Earnings | Net Price | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UT Dallas | Richardson | 75% | $68,227 | $18,267 | #1 online college in TX, strong STEM and business programs |
| 2 | UT Arlington | Arlington | 55% | $63,199 | $13,951 | #1 in TX for nursing/education, accelerated online programs |
| 3 | University of North Texas | Denton | 60% | $57,010 | $15,649 | #3 online graduate education, 90 online programs |
| 4 | UT Tyler | Tyler | 51% | $57,053 | $13,323 | #2 online college in TX, affordable nursing programs |
| 5 | Texas Woman’s University | Denton | 47% | $56,544 | $11,963 | MBA in 15 months for ~$20,000, no GMAT/GRE |
| 6 | UT Permian Basin | Odessa | 42% | $56,073 | $12,723 | West Texas focus, affordable online education |
| 7 | Texas State University | San Marcos | 56% | $56,906 | $16,805 | Most affordable DBA in TX, fully online |
| 8 | Texas A&M University | College Station | 84% | $72,097 | $21,315 | Top graduate outcomes, high graduation rate |
| 9 | East Texas A&M University | Commerce | 44% | $50,296 | $11,841 | Affordable North Texas online education |
| 10 | LeTourneau University | Longview | 60% | $57,103 | $28,185 | Faith-based, technology focus |
| 11 | University of Dallas | Irving | N/A | $58,285 | $22,610 | Catholic liberal arts, strong social mobility |
| 12 | Concordia University Texas | Austin | N/A | $60,883 | $23,131 | Lutheran faith-based, 91% acceptance rate |
| 13 | UT San Antonio | San Antonio | N/A | Varies | Varies | 49th nationally, #5 in Texas, 11 fully online programs |
| 14 | Lone Star College System | Houston | N/A | Varies | Varies | #20 nationally, #3 in Texas, 5,400 online students |
| 15 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | 55% | $54,211 | $16,404 | Criminal justice and education focus |
| 16 | Texas A&M-Texarkana | Texarkana | N/A | Varies | Varies | 23 fully online degree programs |
| 17 | Western Texas College | Snyder | 56% | $42,508 | $3,562 | Excellent debt-to-earnings ratio (0.18x) |
| 18 | Odessa College | Odessa | 32% | $42,026 | $6,368 | Low net price, accessible education |
| 19 | McLennan Community College | Waco | 37% | $39,163 | $5,051 | Most affordable option, 0.27x debt/earnings |
| 20 | Brazosport College | Lake Jackson | N/A | $45,910 | $4,732 | Exceptional value score (91/100) |
| 21 | Stephen F. Austin State | Nacogdoches | N/A | $49,634 | $14,260 | Strong social mobility (83/100) |
| 22 | Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls | N/A | $55,747 | $11,656 | Accessible North Texas online education |
| 23 | Sul Ross State University | Alpine | 29% | $41,871 | $13,286 | West Texas focus, accessible education |
| 24 | Dallas College | Dallas | 34% | $41,714 | $3,214 | One of the most affordable options |
| 25 | Amberton University | Garland | N/A | Varies | Varies | $325/credit, 80% online graduates, 10-week sessions |
Success Tips for Choosing an Online School
Start by identifying your career goals and choosing a school with strong programs in your field of interest. For nursing and education, UT Arlington is a top choice with over 30 online programs and accelerated 5-8 week courses.
For business education, Texas State’s McCoy College offers a fully online DBA program that is the most affordable in Texas.
Consider the cost and return on investment; schools like Amberton University offer flat tuition of $325 per credit hour with four annual start dates, while community colleges like Western Texas College and Dallas College offer net prices under $4,000.
Evaluate the program format and your schedule; many online programs are asynchronous, allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace, while others may require occasional synchronous sessions or in-person components.
Look for programs that offer strong student support services, including tutoring, career services, and academic advising, as these resources are critical for online student success.
Finally, verify the school’s accreditation and program-specific accreditations, such as AACSB for business programs or CCNE for nursing programs, to ensure the quality and recognition of your degree.
Closing
Texas offers a comprehensive and diverse selection of online schools, from top-ranked public universities like UT Dallas and UT Arlington to affordable community colleges and specialized private institutions. Whether you are seeking a bachelor’s degree, a graduate degree, or a certificate, the state’s online programs provide flexibility, affordability, and strong career outcomes. With institutions like Lone Star College-Online seeing dramatic growth in enrollment and universities like UT San Antonio recognized nationally for their online offerings, Texas is at the forefront of online education innovation.
Note that all information, including rankings and program details, is subject to change, so it is essential to verify current details directly with each school and through official sources like U.S. News & World Report and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.