Best Online Colleges in Colorado (CO) in 2024: Find Top Schools

If you live in Colorado and you’re looking to earn your degree online, you don’t have to look far. Colorado is home to top-tier universities and community colleges that offer flexible, accredited online degree programs in just about every field.

But with so many quality online colleges in Colorado, how do you find the one that best meets your needs? This guide can help you find a program that fits your schedule, your learning needs, and your career goals. Start with our list of top schools below, and then continue reading to find other helpful information and resources that can help you know what to expect as an online college student in Colorado.

Top Colorado Colleges with Online Degrees: 2024

Your higher education journey often begins with finding the right school. The ranking below lists the best online colleges in Colorado to help you take your first steps. These schools offer quality academics, affordable tuition, varied online degree options, and ample support services. Continue reading to learn which Colorado colleges outshine the rest in 2024.

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools

1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, Colorado

Public $$
Colorado State University is dedicated to providing online education that is accessible and affordable, with graduate and undergraduate degree programs that have the same quality as those delivered on campus. When you enroll, you can take your coursework completely online; however, you will be expected to complete examinations in a proctored environment. Online students have access to a variety of services to help them succeed, including tutoring, library services, academic advising, and writing assistance. In addition, students who are veterans have access to services tailored to the specific needs of those entering college after their military service.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $476/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $476/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition
- Credits: 37
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $590/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

16/1
2
Colorado Christian University

Lakewood, Colorado

Private not-for-profit $$$$$
Colorado Christian University has helped thousands of nontraditional students earn their degrees on their own terms. The online programs the school offers allow students to work at their own pace, while still fully participating in courses and interacting with their peers and professors. By using the Blackboard learning management platform, Colorado Christian University students are able to participate in class discussions, watch course content, complete assignments, and collaborate with other students. In addition, students are able to receive an education grounded in the school’s Christian values, so no matter what degree program you enroll in, the class content is presented in a way that is consistent with biblical principles.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $494/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $494/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Arts in School Counseling
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $557/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
3
University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, Colorado

Public $$$
The University of Colorado Boulder is dedicated to offering online degree programs that are based on the same high education standards that all students deserve and those on campus have come to expect. In addition to ensuring that online content measures up to the school’s high standards, it also strives to provide online students with services that make the virtual learning process easier. Whether you enroll in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program at the school, you can easily complete your coursework with the click of a mouse and communicate with professors and other students. In addition, if you want to take a class that doesn’t count toward a degree, you have the option to enroll through Coursera, an online platform that offers University of Colorado Boulder classes taught by the same professors you’ll find in formal degree programs.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Corporate Communication
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $746/credit in state; $818/credit out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Science in Data Science
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,147/credit in state; $1,474/credit out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Science in Outdoor Recreation Economy
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $746/credit in state; $818/credit out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

18/1
4
University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, Colorado

Public $$
The University of Northern Colorado offers online degree programs through its Extended Campus, where you can receive the same education the school is known for in a unique virtual environment. This is because the school ensures online programs are effective through the Quality Matters standards that are used to review the design, development, and delivery of virtual degrees so they meet the school’s high expectations. As a result, students are able to confidently enroll in one of the school’s online graduate and undergraduate programs knowing they’ll get the same rigorous content that their counterparts receive on campus, while preparing for future career and education endeavors in a convenient online setting.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $513/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $403/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Arts in Teaching – Curriculum Studies
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $583/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

16/1
5
Adams State University

Alamosa, Colorado

Public $$
When you enroll in an online program at Adams State University, you’re able to conveniently take courses that are delivered in 16-week sessions in the traditional format and 8-week sessions in the fast track format. The school offers a range of degree options, including undergraduate degrees in teacher education, sociology, and business, as well as graduate degrees in music education, public administration, kinesiology, and counselor education. Courses are delivered in the Blackboard system that acts as your digital classroom, so you’re able to easily access lectures, communicate with teachers, and hand in assignments. In addition, if you need help outside of the classroom, you can take advantage of the school’s services for online students, such as advising and technical support.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $401.80/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $401.80/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Arts in Music Education
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $376.80/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

13/1
6
Colorado State University Pueblo

Pueblo, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
7
University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
8
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1
9
Fort Lewis College

Durango, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
10
Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

19/1
11
Colorado School of Mines

Golden, Colorado

Public $$$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1
12
Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, Colorado

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

18/1
13
Front Range Community College

Westminster, Colorado

Public $

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1
14
Community College of Denver

Denver, Colorado

Public $

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

19/1
15
DeVry University-Colorado

Westminster, Colorado

Private for-profit $$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

14/1
16
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

Lakewood, Colorado

Private for-profit $$$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

10/1
17
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Private for-profit $$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

31/1

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools

1
Lamar Community College

Lamar, Colorado

Public $
Lamar Community College offers low tuition, financial aid options and other services for students. LCC offers online coursers through CCCOnline, a consortium of Colorado community colleges. With online courses, students have greater flexibility to design their schedule and their coursework — and the tuition rate is the same as in-person classes. You’ll have the option to choose from certificates and associate’s degree programs. You can opt for an Associate of Arts degree in business, criminal justice, studio arts and more, each of which transfer easily to a four-year college. You can also seek an Associate of Applied Science that will prepare you for entry-level employment. Tracks for the AAS include construction trades, cosmetology and nursing.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts, Psychology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $167.85/credit
- Mode: Varies
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Science, Agriculture Business
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $167.85/credit
- Mode: Varies
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Construction Trades
- Credits: 65
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $167.85/credit
- Mode: In-person
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
2
Trinidad State Junior College

Trinidad, Colorado

Public $
Trinidad State College, nestled along the Rocky Mountains, was the first community college in the state. The school offers more than one hundred courses online, including accounting, sociology, psychology, economics and more. Some classes are taught by Colorado Community College instructors and others are taught online by Trinidad State instructors. While there is flexibility with certain online courses, the majority of degree programs are completed at the school’s Trinidad or Valley campus. You’ll find unique trade programs such as welding and trail building, alongside traditional studies in literature and history. Students in Colorado are also eligible for the College Opportunity Fund, a state-based benefit that helps you with the costs of school.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Agriculture Business
- Credits: 60
- Length: 4 semesters
- Cost: $153
- Mode: On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Early Childhood Teacher Education Associate of Arts
- Credits: 60
- Length: 4 semesters
- Cost: $153
- Mode: On-campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

11/1

Online Learning Formats at Colorado Colleges

The options for earning an online degree in Colorado are actually quite varied, so it’s important to find the one that fits how, when, and where you learn best. For example, will you choose a hybrid program or a fully online one? Is asynchronous learning a good choice for you or would a synchronous approach work better? Will you attend part-time or full-time? Keep reading to learn more about each of these learning modes.

Hybrid/Blended vs. Fully Online

Fully online programs are 100% virtual and usually don’t involve any in-person components. Hybrid and blended programs, on the other hand, have some face-to-face interaction. Hybrid programs allow learners to shift between learning modes, whereas blended models require set amounts of each type. Many colleges offer both styles because real-life interaction is indispensable in certain degree programs. Below are specific examples of quality online programs in Colorado that employ these learning styles.

If you’re interested in a career in social work, the Social Work MSW at Colorado State is a great choice. It can be completed in two or three years. If you already have a bachelor’s in social work, you can start your studies in the second year of the three-year program and integrate with the existing cohort. You can also combine your degree with one of five specialized certificates. Although most coursework is completed asynchronously online, you’ll meet on campus one weekend of each semester to collaborate with classmates and apply your learning. Synchronous online sessions take place on separate weekends each semester, and you’ll complete almost 1,000 hours of fieldwork through placement with a social work agency.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting at the Metropolitan State University of Denver (Fully Online)

The foundational business content of the Online Accounting BS at Metropolitan State University prepares students for almost any functional role in business, from existing positions in companies to entrepreneurship. Although this version of the program is fully online and requires no campus visits, the university also offers it in a hybrid format. Metropolitan State offers its online learners a wide variety of services, including a student success coach who provides you with personalized support throughout your program, enrollment management, financial services, tutoring and writing help, academic advising, counseling and wellness services, disability services, technical assistance, and Classroom to Career Hub (C2 Hub) career planning services.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

In asynchronous programs, learners complete work at their own pace within a framework of specified deadlines. In contrast, synchronous learning requires designated class meeting times, usually virtual but sometimes in-person. Asynchronous learning is a good fit for self-motivated students who prefer to think material through independently. Synchronous learning suits students who need more accountability or enjoy real-time interaction with instructors and peers. Review the Colorado online degree programs below to see how these learning modes are utilized in actual coursework.

Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration at Colorado Mesa University (Asynchronous)

Earning your Bachelor of Business Administration through Colorado Mesa University puts you on track to almost any career in business. Graduates work as bank vice presidents, advertising firm managers, and more. There are 10 concentration options to suit your specific goals. The finance concentration includes the option of enrolling in the MBA 3+2 concurrent enrollment program to earn both a BA and an MBA in five years. The fully online, asynchronous content delivery means you won’t have to meet with your class at specific times, but you’ll still be responsible for completing work by assigned deadlines. Strong computer and time management skills are necessary to succeed in this online program.

Master of Arts in Mathematics Teaching at the University of Northern Colorado (Synchronous)

The Master of Arts in Mathematics Teaching program at the University of Northern Colorado is for currently employed mathematics teachers in grades 7 through 12. It offers advanced training in both pedagogy and mathematics concepts and helps you improve student outcomes and advance your career. The program is divided into 18 hours of advanced math courses, nine hours of pedagogy training, and a three-hour master’s project where you focus on action-based research or advanced mathematics. Courses are synchronous, so you’ll virtually meet your classmates and instructors at specified times on the online course platform. Distance students have access to a variety of library services like virtual interlibrary loans and mailed loans of physical media such as DVDs, CDs, and books.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time

Attending full-time gets you your diploma faster, but it can be taxing if you’re balancing other responsibilities on top of school. The part-time options offered by many online colleges in Colorado enable busy learners to balance school with their other responsibilities and commitments, such as work, family, and volunteering. Some programs and schools even allow you to switch between part-time and full-time if needed. See the examples below to enhance your understanding of each of these enrollment types.

Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology at the University of Denver (Part-Time)

The University of Denver offers a Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology with a Concentration in Cybersecurity Management. This program prepares you to establish cybersecurity management programs, create frameworks for cybersecurity policy and risk management, and direct the protection of IT systems, data, and infrastructure. Graduates find work as chief information officers, information systems analysts, security analysts, and more. The program requires 48 credit hours and has a variety of flexible completion times available. A full-time schedule allows you to finish in as few as 18 months, but you can also opt for a part-time schedule and take as long as five years.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Colorado Technical University (Full-Time)

Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science completely online. With three concentrations to choose from, it’s designed for individuals who want to learn how to use algorithmic programming techniques to build computer software solutions. The program requires 183 credits with 132 dedicated either to the computer science core classes, computer science electives, or concentrations classes. Your assigned student success coach helps you every step of the way by answering questions, addressing concerns, and guiding you through program selection or changes. Online students can also use the CTU GetSet Student Community to connect with other students and find a peer mentor who shares and understands their unique challenges.

Accreditation for Online Colleges in Colorado

Attending a school with sound accreditation ensures you’ll receive a well-respected, quality education. Accreditation affects your eligibility for financial aid, licensure, certification, and transfer credits. The two types of accreditations are institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation covers the entire school, while specialized accreditation applies only to specific departments or programs within a college. The Colorado Department of Education provides a list of accepted regional accrediting organizations, including the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). See this guide to accreditation for more detailed information.

The Cost of Online College in Colorado

Attending college in Colorado online is usually more affordable than attending in person. You won’t have to pay for on-campus housing or meal plans, and you can avoid fees like those for parking and lab usage. To help determine the cost, many schools have detailed fee schedules and cost estimator tools. Also consider that some colleges charge out-of-state tuition for online programs, so attending an in-state school gives you access to resident rates. For a better idea of what earning your online college degree in Colorado might cost, check out the table below.

School Name	On-Campus In-State	On-Campus Out-of-State	Online In-State	Online Out-of-State
Adams State University	$12,152.06/year	$22,212.06/year	$9,859.20/year	$9,859.20/year
Colorado Christian University	$49,632/year	$49,632/year	$494/credit	$494/credit
Colorado State University	$30,449/year	$51,009/year	$476/credit	$476/credit
Regis University	$40,830/year	$40,830/year	$500-$927/credit hour	$500-$927/credit hour
University of Colorado	$11,502/year	$28,830/year	$367-$740/credit hour	$558-$847/credit hour

* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.

Financial Aid for Colorado College Students

Prospective students at online colleges in Colorado can benefit from a variety of financial aid programs available in the state. The Colorado Department of Higher Education has links to many of these resources, and some of those are detailed below to give you an idea of what kind of help is available.

Colorado’s College Opportunity Fund is a statewide trust fund that pays a portion of in-state tuition for residents. It can only be applied to undergraduate degrees at participating institutions.
The Colorado Second Chance Scholarship Program provides up to $5,000 per year to individuals who have been released from Division of Youth Services facilities within the last five years.
To be eligible for a need-based scholarship through the Denver Scholarship Foundation, you must be a qualifying graduate of a Denver public school.
If you are the dependent of a service member or law enforcement officer who was killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty, the statewide Dependent Tuition Assistance Program will pay a portion of your tuition. This benefit is also available to dependents whose parent was a prisoner of war (POW) or missing in action (MIA).

For additional financial aid resources, check out this guide to financial aid.

Top Careers for College Grads in Colorado

Colorado has some great online schools, but you might feel a bit lost if you’re still not sure which degree you should pursue. A good place to start is by investigating which fields are in the highest demand. The table below highlights careers that are expected to experience the most growth in the next decade.

Career	Job Growth (2020-2030)	Median Annual Earnings (2021)
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians	50.8%	$39,980
Genetic Counselors	50%	$99,600
Mathematicians	50%	$96,420
Veterinarians	49.8%	$98,690
Film and Video Editors	47.5%	$64,670
Interpreters and Translators	47.3%	$64,440
Physician Assistants	46.9%	$119,380
Statisticians	45.4%	$92,350
Operations Research Analysts	43.9%	$100,040
Nurse Practitioners	43%	$112,580

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics; Projections Central

Additional Resources for Online Students in Colorado

Colorado Department of Higher Education Social Determinants of Student Success

A collection of resources aimed at helping college students fight hunger and promote mental health. There is a list of Healthy Minds/Hunger Free designated schools, and you’ll find links to a variety of other food and social resources.

Colorado Mesa University Student Success Resources

The page includes a personal budget template, syllabus maps, a weekly time management grid and inventory, and to-do lists. Some are fillable without printing but make sure to save the file beforehand.

Employment First Colorado

The Colorado Office of Employment First collected resources to help you assess your talents, explore the state’s job market, and locate the educational programs you need to land a job in your desired field.

University of Colorado Boulder Student Success Tips for Remote/Hybrid Learning

This guide includes advice on learning to advocate for yourself if you’re struggling, assessing your study habits, and developing the right mindset for online learning.

University of Northern Colorado Academic Success Resources

This page includes infographics, worksheets, and articles on topics such as effective textbook reading, note-taking strategies, study schedules, and goal setting.

Best Online Colleges in Colorado