An estimated 40% of Nevada college students took at least one class online in 2019. Earning your degree online from a Nevada college is an excellent choice whether you’re looking to change careers, earn an advanced degree, or just start your higher education journey. These programs can be more affordable and flexible than in-person programs. Plus, studying online gives you access to a broader range of program options.
This guide to the best online colleges in Nevada for 2024 gives you all the information you need to find the school and online degree program that’s right for you.
Top Online Colleges in Nevada for 2024
College is a major investment of your time, energy, and hard-earned cash into a degree that hopefully pays off in an exciting career. It can be tough to keep track of all your options for earning an online degree in Nevada and even tougher to figure out which one offers the best quality education.
To help you narrow your choices, we’ve listed the best online colleges Nevada has to offer based on academic quality, cost, flexibility, and student support, among a host of other factors. Read on to learn about your top options for online colleges in Nevada for 2024.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- 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.
- Assign Weightings
- 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.
- 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.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Las Vegas, NevadaPublic $$
The University of Nevada-Las Vegas recognizes that a traditional classroom environment doesn’t suit everyone’s needs. That’s why it offers fully online degrees that can be conveniently accessed whenever students have time to study. Online degree options allow students to meet the commitments of their everyday lives while also earning degrees for the future. At UNLV, most bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are made up of asynchronous courses. That means that students don’t have to commit to set class times. Instead, they can log on and complete coursework whenever it works for their busy lives. While residents of Nevada are eligible for in-state tuition discounts, out-of-state residents enrolled exclusively online may also qualify for a nonresident tuition discount.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $256-$537.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Master of Science – Emergency and Crisis Management
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $314-$659.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Master of Science – Educational Psychology
- Credits: 33
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $314-$659.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Elko, NevadaPublic $
Great Basin College brings online learners over 70 diverse, fully online degree programs with affordable tuition. With over 4,000 online students enrolled across the country, GBC is equipped to provide distance education to diverse students nationwide. These fully online courses provide entirely web-based instruction, which offers busy students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree no matter where they’re located. While a typical undergraduate learning environment traditionally requires at least partial on-campus instruction, that isn’t always convenient for today’s learners. Great Basin’s bachelor’s programs offer much more flexibility and accessibility than traditional four-year, campus-based bachelor’s programs.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in English
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $192.50-$285/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Bachelor of Arts in Social Science
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: Cost: $192.50-$285/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services
- Credits: 120
- Length:4 years
- Cost: Cost: $192.50-$285/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Las Vegas, NevadaPublic $
If you’re a working professional or raising a family, taking the time to earn your bachelor’s degree isn’t easy. That’s why the College of Southern Nevada Online makes education available to all learners via their online degree programs. With 100%-online instruction, you can take classes whenever it works for you, learning at your own pace. At CSN, if you’ve signed up for an online program, that’s exactly the same as signing up to earn a degree at the on-campus location. The coursework assigned to online students is just as rigorous and credible as the on-campus version. The main point of difference is that instead of committing to attending class at a set time in a specific location, you consume asynchronous lectures and complete assignments on your own time.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration
- Credits: 121
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $122.75-$260/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Bachelor of Applied Science in Project Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $122.75-$260/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
21/1
-
Reno, NevadaPublic $$
At the University of Nevada-Reno, students can earn their master’s degrees in a flexible way that’s convenient for their busy schedules. Each online course of study at UNR is professionally informed, with rigorous coursework and educational standards. Students learn from the same well-regarded faculty as their peers in on-campus programs. As these programs grow, course instructors and faculty constantly evaluate course content for effectiveness, research new educational methods and strategies, and survey professionals in the field for real-world insights. As a result, these online degrees instill in graduates the professional skill sets to make a lasting impact in their professional fields and their future careers.
Program Highlights:
Master of Accountancy
- Credits: 30-48
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $750/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $850/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Master of Public Health
- Credits: 45
- Length: 24 months
- Cost: $730/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: CEPH
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Reno, NevadaPublic $
Truckee Meadows Community College’s online bachelor’s degrees help students achieve their educational goals on their own unique schedules. By attending courses online through the school’s WebCollege software, it’s possible to earn college credits anywhere and at any time. While students are free to complete coursework and assignments at their own pace, assignment due dates still apply, and each course should be finished by the end of the semester. If you choose to complete a degree with TMCC online, you only need an internet connection and adequate free time that works with your schedule. If you decide to transfer to another school, online courses are treated exactly the same as traditional coursework and are eligible for transfer credit.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Applied Science, Emergency Management and Homeland Security
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $118-$277.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN
- Credits: 120
- Length: 12 months-2 years
- Cost: Cost: $118-$277.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
21/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
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).
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
Affordability
Support Services
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
Online Learning Modes: What’s Popular in Nevada?
There are many ways to earn your online degree in Nevada. Online courses and programs come in various formats to suit students’ logistical needs and learning styles. Before you commit to a program, though, you must understand what your coursework will look like and which course format works best for you. To get you oriented, the most common forms of online learning in Nevada are described below along with programs that show you how the various options might work.
100% Online vs. Hybrid or Blended
Some students want a fully-online program that doesn’t require any in-person learning. Others welcome in-person interaction from time to time. Nevada has both kinds of programs.
Fully-online programs are just what they sound like with all coursework completed via computer. No travel or small talk required. Many students prefer the convenience of learning from home, but the lack of personal connection can feel isolating for some. For them, both hybrid and blended programs involve some time on campus. Hybrid programs typically consist of a mix of courses, some fully online and some entirely in-person. So, your U.S. Constitution class might be online, but your Intro to Anatomy class is on-site. Blended courses are individual classes that mix online and in-person learning. For example, your Nutrition 101 class may be primarily online, but you’ll go to campus for a few in-person labs throughout the semester.
To help you determine what is right for you, explore the examples of each course style below.
BAS, Emergency Management and Homeland Security at Truckee Meadows Community College (Blended/Hybrid)
Truckee Meadows Community College offers many of its online programs either fully online or in a hybrid format. This allows students to mix and match their coursework to suit their learning styles and scheduling needs. Students in the Emergency Management and Homeland Security BAS program, for example, come to campus for courses like Introduction to Exercise Design and Evaluation or Critical Infrastructure and Resource protection, where the opportunity to engage in real-life simulations and problem-solving adds more depth to the course content. The hybrid format for this online degree program is ideal for students looking to enter the workforce right away since its combination of hands-on learning with flexible online coursework allows students to graduate in as little as four semesters.
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Fully-Online)
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, hosts one of the largest online learning programs in the state, making it an excellent option for students looking to study 100% online. Programs like the online BA in Psychology offer the same high-quality education as an on-campus program. Psychology students at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas graduate with a solid foundation in many sub-fields of psychology and are prepared for graduate studies in a related field. Courses are primarily asynchronous but have open communication with faculty and peers through the school’s WebCampus platform. Additionally, online students can access an expansive virtual library and one-on-one advising.
Understanding Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
When and how you’ll manage your coursework is an important consideration when selecting a program. Typically, fully online courses are set up in either an asynchronous or synchronous format.
An asynchronous format means you don’t have to log in to class on a specific day or time. Instead, you’ll have a combination of video lectures, readings, or other assignments you’re responsible for each week. Although you’ll still have deadlines to stay on top of, you can complete your work at your convenience. Asynchronous courses are great for students balancing busy schedules, but they require a lot of organization and self-motivation.
Synchronous courses, on the other hand, do have set meeting days and times. You’ll log into a virtual classroom and interact with professors and classmates in real-time. You’ll also still have readings and homework to complete outside class meeting times. Synchronous courses are great for students needing structure, especially for challenging classes, with opportunity to interact regularly with instructors.
Though many Nevada schools offer some synchronous learning options, there is nowhere in the state where you can complete your degree in a fully synchronous format. Below are examples of each program style to give you a feel for the pros and cons of each.
Casino Management, AAS at the College of Southern Nevada (Asynchronous)
The College of Southern Nevada’s many excellent asynchronous course options are great examples of the format’s benefits. The school uses the Canvas online learning platform to help students access course material, communicate with classmates and instructors, and keep up with deadlines. This and other cutting-edge technology keep students connected and engaged with the school community. Since many of Southern Nevada’s programs, like the Casino Management, AAS, are geared toward industry employees, the school’s 100% asynchronous format ensures that students can complete their schoolwork when it works best for their schedules. Additionally, students are encouraged to bring their real-world experiences and questions into the classroom to make their coursework as relevant to their goals as possible.
Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice at Western Nevada College (Synchronous)
Western Nevada College stands out for its many synchronous course options. In most cases, they’re available alongside asynchronous versions of the same course. This means students can elect which learning style works best for them based on the course and add synchronous online courses into the mix to bring a nice change of pace. For example, students in the AAS in Criminal Justice Program can take required courses like Intro to the Administration of Justice and Police in America in a synchronous format. Many Western Nevada College students appreciate the opportunity to connect with their classmates and professors in real-time, especially when grappling with important and complex material.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time
Whether you’re looking to dip your toe in the water of higher education or dive headfirst into your degree, Nevada has online degree programs to match your pace. Most programs in the state allow students to enroll either part-time or full-time. Whichever route you choose, you’ll have plenty of program options open to you.
Typically, attending part-time is a great option if you’re trying to incorporate school into an already busy lifestyle. Part-time students can take as little as one course per term. While attending part-time does mean your degree will take longer, it can be more manageable for working students. On the other hand, full-time students can complete their degrees quicker by fully immersing themselves in their studies. Below are excellent examples of each type of program.
Bachelor of Arts in English at Great Basin College (Part-Time)
When it comes to online learning in Nevada, Great Basin College has you covered. The school caters to over 4,000 online students as well as in-person students in ten different Nevada counties. Great Basin’s online programs, like the BA in English, work for students with a wide range of needs. Required classes are offered regularly, and you’ll have plenty of options to choose from to meet program requirements. Programs are flexible and ideal for part-time students. So, whether juggling work and family responsibilities on top of your educational goals or just wanting to take things slowly, part-time programs like the BA in English at Great Basin College could be a great fit.
RN to BSN at Touro University Nevada (Full-Time)
Touro University hosts some of the best healthcare provider education programs in Nevada, and the school’s RN to BSN online program is no exception. Because the RN to BSN program is tailored to the needs of nurses who are working full-time, the curriculum makes a full course load feasible on top of work responsibilities. As a result, registered nurses can earn their BSNs in just one year when studying full-time. Although you’ll be studying online, Touro makes sure you never feel alone. As an online student, you’ll have convenient options to connect with faculty and other students through a top-tier online learning platform.
Accreditation for Nevada’s Online Colleges
The easiest way to ensure that your online program is just as high quality as an in-person one is to confirm that the school you’re considering is accredited. The accreditation system is overseen by the US Department of Education and designed to maintain quality standards at colleges and universities nationwide.
In Nevada, accreditation means the school should be certified by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. In some cases, like with technical or theological programs, the school is overseen by an industry or discipline-specific organization. In either case, find where your school lists its accreditations and check them against the database of approved accreditors maintained by the US Department of Education. If the accreditation checks out, you can be sure you are attending a high-quality online program.
What Your Online Degree in Nevada Could Cost
Nevada is home to some of the lowest tuition rates in the country. As a resident, you’ll save even more by cashing in on in-state tuition discounts. Additionally, choosing to attend school online can lower your enrollment fees even further.
For several reasons, online degree programs in Nevada can be cheaper than in-person programs in the state. First, on-campus students must pay additional fees for facilities, activities, etc., and these fees typically don’t apply to remote students. Second, since you aren’t commuting, you can save money on travel expenses by studying from the comfort of your own home.
The table below compares tuition for online and in-person students at a few of Nevada’s excellent schools to give you an idea of what to expect in terms of cost.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Nevada, Las Vegas | $9,012/year | $25,644/year | $8,286/year | $25,242/year |
| University of Nevada, Reno | $3,012/year | $18,725/year | $3,012/year | $20,261/year |
| Great Basin College | $2,886/year | $10,787/year | $2,886/year | $4,242/year |
| College of Southern Nevada | $3,440/year | $11,340/year | $2,826/year | $12,082/year |
| Touro University Nevada | $17,310/year | $17,310/year | $10,290/year | $10,290/year |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for Nevada Online College Students
Students in Nevada are eligible for a mountain of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. A good first step for cutting your tuition bill is learning the ins and outs of school funding through this guide to financial aid and this guide to scholarships. Next, research financial aid opportunities at your school of choice. Most schools offer scholarships and other forms of financial aid based on need or academic achievement.
Once you have those bases covered, start looking for scholarships elsewhere. While there are plenty of opportunities nationwide, seeking scholarship opportunities in the state is worth your while because they may be less competitive. Nevada makes it easy to find funding, and the resources below are a great place to start your search.
Hot Careers in Nevada for Online College Grads
If you’re sold on the benefits of a college degree but don’t know what program is right for you, try narrowing down your options by thinking about in-demand career options. Consider the careers in the table below as you seek to make the most of your online education. These fastest-growing occupations in Nevada are all solid choices in terms of job growth and potential earnings.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | 100% | No data available |
| Geographer | 100% | No data available |
| Nurse Practitioner | 60.9% | $123,680 |
| Physical Therapist Assistant | 51% | $49,870 |
| Logistician | 50.8% | $64,910 |
| Recreation and Fitness Studies Teacher | 50% | No data available |
| Residential Advisor | 45.8% | $31,570 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | 43.1% | $108,770 |
| Gaming Manager | 42.5% | $94,820 |
| Respiratory Therapist | 41.8% | $76,500 |
More Resources for College Students in Nevada
Nevada Gear Up helps students prepare for college by providing resources on Nevada colleges, application and financial aid counseling, college visits, and mentoring alongside a host of other programs and events.
Washoe High Schools College and Career Center
Whether or not you are a current high school student, this site is a valuable resource, especially with its calendar of application deadlines and other important dates for all Nevada colleges.
Five Tips for an Amazing Online Semester from Nevada State College
No matter where you enroll, this helpful resource from Nevada State College provides a foolproof plan to help you succeed in your studies.
Online Student Essentials from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas has broken down the steps for online class success into a simple checklist.
Resources from the Nevada State Treasurer
This page is a great place to learn about state-led college savings programs. You also find information about two significant scholarship opportunities: The Governor Guinn Millenium Scholarship and the Kenny C Guinn Memorial Scholarship.