Best Online Colleges In Alabama

A ranking of the best online colleges in Alabama. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 24, 2023

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Alabama is a mix of stunning natural beauty and southern charm at the center of the southeast. The "Heart of Dixie" is home to extensive waterways connecting the Mississippi River Delta and the Gulf of Mexico.

From beach to Bayou, an Alabama soul burns brightly at every turn. A rich history of European, Native American, and African decent blends in this cultural epicenter of the Deep South.

Vibrant cities offering endless opportunity dot a landscape of heavily forested wetlands. Oak-lined streets tell a rich past that defines the entire country. The senses come to life as jazz-fueled cities offer the finest seafood amongst some of the kindest people around.

The set to such iconic pieces as “To Kill a Mockingbird” or “Forrest Gump”, Alabama’s subtropical climate is favorable throughout the year. A strong academic tradition spanning over 150-years encourages community growth in every direction.

The 21st century has revolutionized the way students around the world access a first-class education. 14 four-year public universities and 17 private institutions enable scientific, civil, and cultural achievement.

Specifically, the state has seen several of its 13 engineering programs rise in the top 100 rankings. Highly rated law and business degrees enable graduates to be the most competitive in the nation. Over the last decade, academic online options in the state have evolved into leading programs throughout the nation.

More accessible than ever before, an Alabama online degree fits the needs of students of all shapes and sizes. Challenging coursework, interactive lesson plans, and community support from top schools in Alabama are changing education. With so many options available, students have their pick of top-tier programs tailored to meet individual interests or skills. Now is the time to discover what this dynamic state offers.

What are the best online colleges in Alabama?

Higher education is a large step that is no laughing matter; therefore, it is always important to make a choice based on information from reputable sources.

Our top 18 ranking falls upon three variables; institutional accreditation, student feedback, and graduate success. Accreditation is dependent on factors including reputation, graduation rate, student/faculty ratio, entrance exam scores, and endowment.

Student feedback comes through a culmination of responses from student rating sites. Financial cost, including tuition cost and aid, weigh against the salary of graduates to determine graduate success. Data is from the National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS database, Payscale, individual college websites, and U.S. News and World Report.

Ranking

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Samford University

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Samford University offers 138 programs that meet the needs of a wide variety of degree-seekers. In addition to 1,726 distance learners currently enrolled at the school, learners also attend classes on the Birmingham campus. With many options, students can find a program to fit their unique interests and career goals.

Tuition rates vary depending on the degree type and enrollment option. Learners can apply for scholarships and grants to lower the net cost of their degree. The school's generous transfer credit policy also makes it easier for degree-seekers to complete a program.

Samford University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $32,000

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $32,000

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $17,754

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $17,754

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: Unknown

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,000
Out-of-state
$32,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,754
Out-of-state
$17,754
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
5,692
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

The University of Alabama

  • Tuscaloosa, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At The University of Alabama, degree-seekers can select from 214 subject areas. The Tuscaloosa campus operates in-person classes, and learners can also join 5,041 enrollees taking online classes. Students can find a program to reach their professional goals.

The degree level and type affect the tuition rate. Scholarships and grants help enrollees lower degree costs. The school's transfer credit policy can save degree-seekers a significant amount of time and money on their degree.

The University of Alabama at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $10,780

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $30,250

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $10,780

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $30,250

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 79%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $9,249

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Auburn University

  • Auburn, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Auburn University meets the needs of a variety of degree-seekers through its 242 programs. The school offers classes on its Auburn campus and online, with 8,306 learners choosing an online format. With many options, enrollees can find a program to meet their educational goals.

The school's tuition rate varies depending on the location and degree type. Scholarships and grants help learners lower their degree costs. A generous transfer credit policy helps those with prior college experience meet graduation requirements.

Auburn University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,816

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $29,448

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,828

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $29,484

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 72%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $8,028

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,816
Out-of-state
$29,448
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,828
Out-of-state
$29,484
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

University of Alabama at Birmingham

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Alabama at Birmingham grants degrees in 171 subject areas, appealing to a variety of students. From its Birmingham campus, the school offers in-person and online degrees, with a total online enrollment of 13,001 students. Learners can choose from many options depending on their interests, schedules, and career goals.

Tuition varies depending on the location and degree type. Degree candidates can use scholarships and grants to lower their degree costs. The school's transfer credit policy allows students to meet graduation requirements with prior college experience.

University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $8,568

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $20,400

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $8,100

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $19,188

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $7,605

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

University of Alabama in Huntsville

  • Huntsville, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Alabama in Huntsville grants degrees in 97 subject areas, appealing to a variety of degree-seekers. The Huntsville campus offers many program options, with additional online programs that enroll 3,306 learners. Students can choose from many options depending on their interests, schedules, and career goals.

The school's tuition rate varies by location and degree type. Learners can pay for tuition with loans, scholarships, and grants. Many of the school's programs also accept transfer credits, allowing degree-seekers to save money and time on their degree.

University of Alabama in Huntsville at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,730

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $22,126

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $10,632

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $24,430

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 94%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $9,013

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,730
Out-of-state
$22,126
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,632
Out-of-state
$24,430
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,988
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

University of North Alabama

  • Florence, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of North Alabama meets the needs of diverse students by offering 83 programs. The Florence campus offers in-person classes, and the school also welcomes 5,068 distance learners to its online programs. With many program options, degree-seekers can find the best fit for their unique needs.

The school's tuition rate varies depending on the enrollment option and degree level. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid make the degree more affordable. Learners with prior college experience can use transfer credits to meet graduation requirements.

University of North Alabama at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,600

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $19,200

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $6,660

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $13,320

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 96%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $6,706

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$19,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,660
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
7,702
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Jacksonville State University

  • Jacksonville, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Jacksonville State University offers a variety of options for degree-seekers, with 73 total degrees. The Jacksonville campus offers in-person programs, while the school also enrolls 6,329 learners in its online programs. Students prepare for diverse career paths in the school's many programs.

Tuition rates vary depending on the program enrollment and degree level. Loans, scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid help learners cover tuition. The school's transfer credit policy can save degree-seekers a significant amount of time and money on their degree.

Jacksonville State University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,720

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $19,440

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,600

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $19,200

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $8,257

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,720
Out-of-state
$19,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$19,200
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
9,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

University of Mobile

  • Mobile, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Mobile welcomes degree-seekers to 53 programs in popular fields. The school operates a main campus in Mobile and also counts 634 distance learners among its student body. Enrollees can find a program that fits their budget, schedule, and career goals.

The school's tuition rate varies depending on the location and degree type. Learners qualify for financial aid, including scholarships and grants, to lower their educational expenses. The school's generous transfer credit policy also makes it easier for degree-seekers to complete a program.

University of Mobile at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $22,250

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $22,250

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $8,880

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $8,880

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 96%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: Unknown

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,250
Out-of-state
$22,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,880
Out-of-state
$8,880
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
1,989
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Troy University

  • Troy, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Troy University welcomes degree-seekers to 91 programs in popular fields. In addition to 9,242 distance learners currently enrolled at the school, students can also attend classes on the Troy campus. Degree candidates can choose from many options depending on their interests, schedules, and career goals.

The degree level and type affect the tuition rate. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid make the degree more affordable. A generous transfer credit policy helps learners with prior college experience meet graduation requirements.

Troy University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,800

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $15,600

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,650

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $15,300

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 92%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $6,594

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,800
Out-of-state
$15,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,650
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,436
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Alabama A&M University

  • Normal, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Alabama A&M University meets the needs of diverse students by offering 61 programs. The Normal campus operates in-person classes, and learners can also join 1,315 enrollees taking online classes. Degree-seekers can find a program to reach their professional goals.

Tuition varies depending on the degree level and enrollment option. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid lower the net cost of a college degree. Students with prior college experience can use transfer credits to meet graduation requirements.

Alabama A&M University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $8,610

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $17,220

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $10,128

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $20,160

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 90%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $8,401

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,610
Out-of-state
$17,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,128
Out-of-state
$20,160
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
6,172
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

University of South Alabama

  • Mobile, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At University of South Alabama, degree-seekers can choose from 110 programs. From its Mobile campus, the school offers in-person and online degrees, with a total online enrollment of 7,081 students. With many options, enrollees can find a program that best fits their interests and schedule.

The school varies tuition based on degree level and type. Learners can use financial aid to lower their degree costs. Students with prior college experience can use transfer credits to meet graduation requirements.

University of South Alabama at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,896

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $15,792

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,956

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $15,912

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $7,187

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,896
Out-of-state
$15,792
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,956
Out-of-state
$15,912
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
14,397
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Spring Hill College

  • Mobile, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Spring Hill College offers 54 programs in diverse academic fields. The school offers classes on its Mobile campus and online, with 269 learners choosing an online format. Students can find a program that fits their budget, schedule, and career goals.

Tuition varies depending on the degree level and type. Degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant, at the accredited institution. Many of the school's programs also accept transfer credits, helping enrollees save money and time on their degree.

Spring Hill College at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $38,190

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $38,190

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $9,270

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $9,270

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: Unknown

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,190
Out-of-state
$38,190
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,270
Out-of-state
$9,270
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,290
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Alabama State University

  • Montgomery, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Alabama State University welcomes degree-seekers to 62 programs in popular fields. The Montgomery campus offers many programs, as does the school's online division, which adds 1,379 learners to the student body. Degree candidates can find a program that matches their unique interests and career goals.

The school varies tuition based on degree level and type. Learners cover the cost of tuition with loans, scholarships, and grants. Students with prior college experience can also apply transfer credits toward their program.

Alabama State University at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $8,328

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $16,656

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,416

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $14,832

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 95%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $8,378

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,328
Out-of-state
$16,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,416
Out-of-state
$14,832
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
4,190
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Judson College

  • Marion, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Judson College offers a variety of options for degree-seekers, with 24 total programs. The school enrolls learners on its Marion campus and also welcomes 81 distance learners to the student body. Learners can choose from many options depending on their interests, schedules, and career goals.

Tuition varies depending on the program and enrollment option. Degree-seekers qualify for financial aid, including scholarships and grants, to lower their educational expenses. Many of the school's programs also accept transfer credits, letting students take some basic courses at other institutions.

Judson College at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $17,240

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $17,240

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: Unknown

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: Unknown

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: Unknown

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,240
Out-of-state
$17,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
250
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Online Colleges In Alabama

Auburn University at Montgomery

  • Montgomery, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Auburn University at Montgomery, degree-seekers can choose from 76 programs. From its Montgomery campus, the school offers in-person and online degrees, with a total online enrollment of 2,458 students. With many options, learners can find a program that best fits their interests and schedule.

The school's tuition rate varies depending on the location and degree type. Scholarships and grants help enrollees lower their degree costs. Learners with prior college experience can use transfer credits to meet graduation requirements.

Auburn University at Montgomery at a Glance:

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,752

Undergraduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $17,424

Graduate Yearly Tuition In-State: $7,362

Graduate Yearly Tuition Out-of-State: $16,542

Percent of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 98%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded per Student: $5,308

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$17,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,362
Out-of-state
$16,542
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
5,188
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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