Inside the Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Convenient for any student who needs flexibility, online programs give access to quality higher education at affordable tuition rates. Ohio colleges have no shortage of online degree programs to choose from, so separating the best from the rest is critical.

The best online colleges in Ohio offer online programs that mirror the rigor and quality of their in-person options. They also boast small class sizes, access to financial aid, and extensive student services that span from career training to mental health services. This page ranks the best online colleges in Ohio and digs deep into the various types of online programs available. It also looks at accreditation and career opportunities and offers quality resources to assist in your college search. Get started on your path to earning your college degree online in Ohio.

Best Online Colleges in Ohio: 2024 Rankings

The following list of the top online colleges in Ohio prioritizes affordable schools with healthy financial aid services and favors schools with low student-to-teacher ratios, extensive student support services, and a variety of academic programs at varying degree levels. Check out these 2024 rankings to see which Ohio schools stand above the rest.

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools
or
Select a StateOhio
About the Ranking
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
1. Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
• Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
2. Assign Weightings
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
• Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
• For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
Affordability
• Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
• Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
Support Services
• Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
• Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
• 1

  Ohio State University-Main Campus

  Columbus, Ohio

  Public $$$

  Whether you want to advance your career, pivot into a new field or profession, or expand your existing skills, The Ohio State University (OSU) has an online degree to suit your needs. These high-quality online programs don’t just prepare graduates with the technical know-how and hard skills. They also build vital soft skills such as interpersonal relations, communication, and negotiation that you’ll need to be thoroughly career-ready. The Ohio State faculty and instructional designers periodically review each online course to ensure the material is interactive and engaging. The OSU online experience also offers affordable tuition rates; online students are eligible for additional financial aid and scholarships.

  Program Highlights:

  Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences

  • Credits: 120
  • Length: 4 years
  • Cost: $389.63-$589.63/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Master of Public Administration and Leadership

  • Credits: 32
  • Length: 1.5 years
  • Cost: $755.75-$955.75/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Doctor of Nursing Education

  • Credits: 50
  • Length: 4 years
  • Cost: $972.50-$1,172.50/credit
  • Mode: Fully online plus clinical hours
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  19/1

• 2

  University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  Cincinnati, Ohio

  Public $$

  The University of Cincinnati (UC) offers flexible online bachelor’s and master’s programs that are designed to fit the work and life schedules of busy professionals. With both full- and part-time study options, you can choose the schedule that works best for you. Whether you’re attending UC Online as part of an undergraduate or graduate program, you’ll find courses tailored to the needs of online students, professors with a passion for teaching, and helpful academic advisors. Dedicated student success coordinators are also available to assist students in getting the most out of their UC Online experience, selecting appropriate classes, and understanding the school’s online learning tools.

  Program Highlights:

  Bachelor of Arts in Communication

  • Credits: 60-120
  • Length: 2-4 years
  • Cost: $549/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Master of Health Informatics

  • Credits: 33
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $754-$769/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Master’s of Science in Business Analytics

  • Credits: 33-41
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $1,000-$1,015/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: AACSB

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  19/1

• 3

  Ohio University-Main Campus

  Athens, Ohio

  Public $$$

  No matter your goals or educational accomplishments, Ohio University (OU) offers affordable and flexible programs to support your future academic and career goals. If you’ve earned some undergraduate credits but walked away from your studies for a time, OU has six bachelor’s completion programs to help you finish your degree. If you’re just starting college, there are seven online bachelor’s degree programs to choose from. There are also over 35 graduate degrees available online for professionals who want to expand their skills and credentials. Most of these programs are entirely online, but OU also offers hybrid courses. Students can choose the method that best suits their learning style and availability.

  Program Highlights:

  Master of Accountancy

  • Credits: 30-45
  • Length: 20 months
  • Cost: $954/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: AACSB

  Master’s in English

  • Credits: 32
  • Length: 16 months
  • Cost: $508-$527/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Master of Arts in Organizational Communication

  • Credits: 30
  • Length: 18-24 months
  • Cost: $508-$527/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 4

  Kent State University at Kent

  Kent, Ohio

  Public $$$

  From bachelor’s to master’s degrees, you can earn your first—or next—degree anytime, anywhere, through Kent State University’s (KSU) online programs. Kent State is a pioneer of online education and offered its first online programs over 15 years ago. Since then, KSU has developed over 50 flexible and convenient program options to provide a diverse, global student body with the opportunity to earn a Kent State degree. Online students have the quality of a KSU education combined with the flexibility of studying on their own terms. Plus, they can count on support from expert faculty members, online tutoring services, and the Kent Career Services Center.

  Program Highlights:

  Bachelor of Science in Public Health

  • Credits: 120
  • Length: 4 years
  • Cost: $559-$569/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Online Master of Arts in Art Education

  • Credits: 34
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $550-$560/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: NASAD

  Master of Arts in Media and Journalism, Journalism Education concentration

  • Credits: 33
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $550-$560/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  21/1

• 5

  Hiram College

  Hiram, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$$$

  At Hiram College, you can have an online education that aligns with your life while advancing your career. With the ability to complete coursework and connect with classmates anytime and anywhere, you don’t have to give up on your current life and obligations to support your dream of a degree. Each online major is designed with a comprehensive curriculum, extensive hands-on opportunities, and intensive classroom learning experiences. You’ll build personal relationships with professors and peers in Hiram’s small classroom settings. Plus, the programs are aligned with the skills needed in today’s fast-paced professional world and in-demand careers, ensuring that students will be in high demand after graduation.

  Program Highlights:

  Accounting and Financial Management Degree

  • Credits: 124-128
  • Length: 4 years
  • Cost: $315/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Supply Chain Management Degree

  • Credits: 116-125
  • Length: 4 years
  • Cost: $315/credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  11/1

• 6

  University of Toledo

  Toledo, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  21/1

• 7

  Gods Bible School and College

  Cincinnati, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  9/1

• 8

  Mount Vernon Nazarene University

  Mount Vernon, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 9

  University of Akron Main Campus

  Akron, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 10

  Miami University-Oxford

  Oxford, Ohio

  Public $$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 11

  Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

  Bowling Green, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  19/1

• 12

  Sinclair Community College

  Dayton, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  17/1

• 13

  Youngstown State University

  Youngstown, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  18/1

• 14

  Lorain County Community College

  Elyria, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  15/1

• 15

  Wright State University-Main Campus

  Dayton, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 16

  Clark State Community College

  Springfield, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 17

  Cleveland State University

  Cleveland, Ohio

  Public $$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  15/1

• 18

  Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

  Cincinnati, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  13/1

• 19

  Shawnee State University

  Portsmouth, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 20

  Ohio University-Eastern Campus

  Saint Clairsville, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 21

  Ohio University-Southern Campus

  Ironton, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  17/1

• 22

  Lourdes University

  Sylvania, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  13/1

• 23

  North Central State College

  Mansfield, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 24

  Ashland University

  Ashland, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 25

  The North Coast College

  Lakewood, Ohio

  Private for-profit $$$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  3/1

• 26

  Ohio University-Zanesville Campus

  Zanesville, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  17/1

• 27

  Kent State University at Salem

  Salem, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  21/1

• 28

  Ohio University-Lancaster Campus

  Lancaster, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  19/1

• 29

  Kent State University at Tuscarawas

  New Philadelphia, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  22/1

• 30

  University of Cincinnati-Clermont College

  Batavia, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  23/1

• 31

  Zane State College

  Zanesville, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  20/1

• 32

  Kent State University at Ashtabula

  Ashtabula, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  22/1

• 33

  Miami University-Hamilton

  Hamilton, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  15/1

• 34

  University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College

  Blue Ash, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  20/1

• 35

  Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus

  Chillicothe, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  19/1

• 36

  Kent State University at East Liverpool

  East Liverpool, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  27/1

• 37

  Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences

  Canton, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  9/1

• 38

  Kent State University at Trumbull

  Warren, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  29/1

• 39

  Miami University-Middletown

  Middletown, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  21/1

• 40

  DeVry University-Ohio

  Columbus, Ohio

  Private for-profit $$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 41

  Kent State University at Geauga

  Burton, Ohio

  Public $$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  26/1

• 42

  Herzing University-Akron

  Akron, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  13/1

• 43

  University of Northwestern Ohio

  Lima, Ohio

  Private not-for-profit $$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  23/1

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools
or
Select a StateOhio
About the Ranking
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
1. Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
• Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
2. Assign Weightings
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
• Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
• For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
Affordability
• Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
• Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
Support Services
• Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
• Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
• 1

  James A. Rhodes State College

  Lima, Ohio

  Public $

  Rhodes State College offers 15 online degrees and certificates. Online programs are designed to fit into busy lives, so students can pursue their education while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities. Courses are delivered through Canvas, and faculty post course material that includes lectures, presentations, assignments, readings, quizzes, and tests. There are also opportunities to engage with instructors and classmates. Students receive support from faculty, advisors, counselors, IT, and more. Rhodes State College also offers hybrid programs where students take some trips to campus but complete assignments online.

  Program Highlights:

  Digital Marketing and Media

  • Credits: 62-65
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost: $185-$370/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Human Resource Major Associate of Applied Business

  • Credits: 62
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost: $185-$370/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Accounting Major

  • Credits: 64
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost: $185-$370/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  9/1

• 2

  Stark State College

  North Canton, Ohio

  Public $

  Stark State College offers a wide variety of online undergraduate degrees and certificates, and students have flexible schedules and maintain access to faculty and other college services. Courses are delivered through Blackboard, and some sessions are synchronous. Students also collaborate with classmates and instructors online along with submitting assignments and completing course materials virtually. 

  Program Highlights:

  Associate of Applied Business in Accounting

  • Credits: 63
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost: $189.60-$318.60/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and the Higher Learning Commission

  Associate of Applied Business in Judicial Court Reporting

  • Credits: 65
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost:$189.60-$318.60/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Associate of Applied Business in Finance

  • Credits: 63
  • Length: 4 semesters
  • Cost: $189.60-$318.60/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and the Higher Learning Commission

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  21/1

• 3

  Columbus State Community College

  Columbus, Ohio

  Public $

  Columbus State Community College offers more than 60 online degrees and certificates in fields like business management, health information management technology, and digital design and graphics. Students can take classes online, in person, or in a hybrid/blended format. Live Online courses include some real-time online instruction. Web–Online Technology courses don’t meet at scheduled times and use an asynchronous learning model that allows students to participate at times that work for them. Blended courses combine Live Online or Web-Online technology learning with an in-person component. Online courses are delivered through Blackboard, and students receive support through Blackboard, the IT support center, Online Student Success Guides, and more.

  Program Highlights:

  Associate of Arts in Anthropology

  • Credits: 60-65
  • Length: 5 semesters
  • Cost: $172.93-$353.70/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Criminal Justice Associate of Applied Science

  • Credits: 60-62
  • Length: 5 semesters
  • Cost: $172.93-$353.70/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Supply Chain Management Associate of Applied Science

  • Credits: 64
  • Length: 5 semesters
  • Cost: $172.93-$353.70/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  20/1

• 4

  Marion Technical College

  Marion, Ohio

  Public $

  Marion Technical College offers online degrees and certificates in Business Management, Health Information Technology, Human Resources Management, Office Administration, and Real Estate. Online learning gives students the opportunity to continue their education with minimal life interruption. Online learning is convenient, flexible, and accessible. Instructors teach on campus and online, so online students receive the same quality of instruction. Online classes use computer-based learning, teleconferencing, virtual classrooms, and more. There are deadlines but generally no requirement to be in class on a specific day or time. Students have rich discussions with people of all ages and backgrounds, which adds varying perspectives and enhances the learning environment.

  Program Highlights:

  Associate of Applied Business – Business Management

  • Credits: 61
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $200-$350/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Associate of Applied Science Health Information Technology

  • Credits: 62
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $200-$350/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Associate of Applied Business – Business Management Real Estate Option

  • Credits: 63
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $200-$350/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  10/1

• 5

  Terra State Community College

  Fremont, Ohio

  Public $

  Terra State Community College offers three degrees, two business certificates, and many online classes. Course structure varies by professor and course, but all are delivered through Canvas. Most have structured schedules for assignments, and all give students the flexibility to go through the content on their schedules. Students should expect to spend a couple of hours per credit on coursework each week. Online students have access to all college services as on-campus students, including tutoring and library services.

  Program Highlights:

  Associate of Arts Degree

  • Credits: 60-65
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $221-$410/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Health Care Administration

  • Credits: 62
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $221-$410/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Business Management

  • Credits: 61
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $221-$410/credit
  • Mode: Online
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 6

  Lakeland Community College

  Kirtland, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  12/1

• 7

  Owens Community College

  Perrysburg, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 8

  Washington State Community College

  Marietta, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  12/1

• 9

  Central Ohio Technical College

  Newark, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  14/1

• 10

  Cuyahoga Community College District

  Cleveland, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  16/1

• 11

  Northwest State Community College

  Archbold, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  24/1

• 12

  Hocking College

  Nelsonville, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  17/1

• 13

  Edison State Community College

  Piqua, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  24/1

• 14

  Southern State Community College

  Hillsboro, Ohio

  Public $

  Online Programs

  3

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  20/1

• 15

  Hussian College-Daymar College Columbus

  Columbus, Ohio

  Private for-profit $$$$$

  Online Programs

  Academic Counseling

  Yes

  Career Placement

  Yes

  Student/Faculty Ratio

  10/1

Online Learning Formats at Ohio Colleges

You can earn your Ohio online degree in multiple ways, so you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the various delivery modes. Be sure to assess your academic and scheduling needs to better help you find a school with virtual delivery options that suit you. The section below looks at the different types of online degree options to help you narrow down your choices.

Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended

Online programs can differ significantly, with fully online, hybrid, and blended learning involving different types of participation. Fully online programs typically have no in-person participation (i.e., they’re 100% online), though some do occasionally. Hybrid and blended programs, however, require significant in-person involvement. Hybrid programs, those where online elements fully or partially replace in-person instruction, are common for degrees that involve extensive technical training and laboratory work. Blended programs are those where online components work in conjunction with or supplement in-person instruction. When sifting through your list of prospective schools, be sure any potential programs offer the type of online delivery that meets your scheduling needs.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

For many students, online programs offer the flexibility they need to complete their degrees while managing the responsibilities of work and home. One of the main differences among online programs is whether virtual classes are synchronous with specific meeting times or asynchronous and self-paced. You may need more flexibility in when you attend lectures, so an asynchronous program might be best. Conversely, maybe you need the structure of scheduled, live lectures and a more collaborative atmosphere. In this case, a synchronous program will help you perform at your academic best. Below are examples of each type of programming to give you an idea of how they work.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time

Determining whether you want to enroll as a part-time or full-time student is dictated by how much of an academic workload you can handle. Full-time students (i.e., those enrolling in 12 or more credits per semester) graduate more quickly than part-time degree-seekers. For many adult and non-traditional students, though, a full-time academic schedule just isn’t manageable alongside professional and personal obligations. Fortunately, most schools offer part-time enrollment. The spotlights below give you an idea of how each type of enrollment status might work.

Accreditation for Online Colleges in Ohio

In addition to weighing the quality of programs, career services, and cost, you’ll also want to prioritize Ohio schools with institutional accreditation. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits Ohio colleges and universities, ensuring they offer quality academics, access to federal financial aid, and student services like career assistance, tutoring, and mental health counseling.

Alongside institutional accreditation, consider programmatic accreditation, especially if you plan to tackle a degree with specialized training. The best schools offering degrees in areas like business, engineering, and nursing hold programmatic accreditation from professional organizations. Not only does this indicate a quality program, but it can also determine whether you have access to various certifications and professional licenses.

Online College Degree Costs in Ohio

Online programs have some money-saving benefits you might not get in a traditional in-person program. As an online learner, you’ll save money on campus fees, housing, and travel. Additionally, most virtual learning programs offer enough flexibility to allow you to maintain a full-time job while completing online coursework. 

The price of online colleges in Ohio can vary dramatically. Private online programs traditionally cost more, while those at public universities are typically more affordable. The table below gives you an idea of the cost of getting an online education at one of the many quality schools in Ohio. 

Financial Aid for Ohio Online College Students

Whether you’re attending a public or private college, you have access to a long list of financial aid opportunities in Ohio. From private scholarships and grants to federal loans and work-study programs, you can dramatically reduce the financial pressure that comes with the rising cost of tuition.

Perhaps the most significant step concerning financial aid is your completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA applications are available annually from October 1st through June 30th but completing them as early as possible is vital because federal funding (e.g., loans, grants, and work-study) is limited. Schools also use this system to determine financial need and whether you can access institutional, need-based scholarships.

Ohio’s Department of Higher Education also offers significant financial assistance to in-state students. Check out the links below to review some of the state’s financial aid options.

• Ohio Scholarships
• State Grants & Scholarships
• Choose Ohio First Scholarship
• Second Chance Grant Program

Fastest-Growing Careers for Ohio’s College Grads

Choosing the Ohio online school that’s right for you is a big decision as is figuring out what degree to pursue. If you’re unsure about your future degree or career field, learning about high-demand careers is a good starting point. The data below tells you which jobs are in the highest demand in the Buckeye State.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics;  Projections Central

Resources & Support for Ohio Students