Best Online Colleges in Houston 2026

Many students want to pursue higher education, but it can be hard to balance college with a busy life. This is where online programs can be a huge help, as their flexible scheduling allows you to complete coursework on your own time.

If you live in the Houston area, there are several local colleges that offer online programs. Keep reading to learn more about colleges near Houston.

Best Online Colleges in Houston

There are several colleges and universities in the Houston area, but only a few offer a wide variety of online undergraduate and graduate programs. We've featured these schools below.

1. Lamar University

Lamar University is a public university in Beaumont, a Texas city just east of Houston near the Louisiana border. It offers several online bachelor's degrees in areas of study like:

• criminal justice
• engineering
• human resource management
• sociology

The university also offers online master's degrees, particularly in business administration and education. Online certificate programs are also available.

2. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public research university in Huntsville, TX, straight north of Houston on Interstate 45. It offers online degrees in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• curriculum and instruction
• healthcare administration

Online students can earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees through SHSU. The university also offers online certificates and professional development courses.

3. University of Houston

The University of Houston is a public research university system based in Houston. It offers over a dozen online bachelor's degrees in areas of study like:

• business management
• psychology
• retailing and consumer sciences
• supply chain management

Some bachelor's programs are degree completion programs, meaning you need to have an associate degree or a certain number of transfer credits. Students can also earn graduate degrees in business, education, engineering, and social work through online education programs.

Other Online Degree Programs

While there are only a handful of robust online programs in the Houston area, there are plenty more not too far away. We've listed some additional online programs below.

Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is a private, nonprofit, Christian university in Abilene, TX. It offers online bachelor's programs in fields such as:

• criminal justice
• healthcare administration
• information technology
• ministry

Additionally, several master's degree programs are available online through ACU as well as doctoral degrees in education and nursing practice.

Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University is a private, nonprofit, Christian university in Dallas. It offers online programs in areas of study like:

• business administration
• communication
• ministry
• special education

The university offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. A small number of undergraduate certificates are also available to online learners.

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a public university system based in Baton Rouge, LA. It offers over 150 online programs in fields such as:

• criminal justice
• emergency management
• health sciences
• social science

LSU also offers online associate degrees, master's degrees, and a Doctor of Education, as well as undergraduate, graduate, and technical studies certificates.

Nelson University

Nelson University, previously known as the Southwestern Assemblies of God University, is a private, nonprofit, Christian university in Waxahachie, TX. It offers numerous online undergraduate degrees in areas of study like:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• education
• human services

Additionally, several master's degrees as well as a Doctor of Ministry are available online. Some programs may offer both online classes and in-person coursework.

Texas A&M University–Central Texas

Texas A&M University–Central Texas is a public university in Killeen, TX. It offers online bachelor's degrees in fields such as:

• aviation science
• human resources management
• information technology
• management

The university also offers nearly 10 master's degrees online, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Education (MEd).

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public university system with its flagship campus in Lubbock, TX. It offers a variety of online programs in areas of study like:

• business administration
• human sciences
• renewable energy
• social sciences

Online students can earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees online at TTU, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates, career certificates, and microcredentials.

Texas Woman's University

Texas Woman's University is a public university in Denton, TX, that, despite its name, is co-ed. It offers bachelor's degrees online in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• education
• health sciences

A variety of online master's degrees and PhDs are also available through TWU, as are individual online courses. Some degrees are hybrid, meaning you do some coursework online and some face-to-face.

How We Rank Schools

We rank Houston’s online colleges by focusing on accreditation, affordability, and student success. These factors ensure that learners have access to trusted, high-quality programs designed for flexibility and career advancement.

• Accreditation: All featured institutions are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), confirming that their degrees meet national academic standards.
• Location: Each school is located in or near Houston, allowing students to access local campus resources even while studying online.
• Affordability: The universities highlighted here maintain competitive tuition rates and offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plan options for online learners.
• Student outcomes: Graduates from these schools often pursue successful careers in business, education, and technology, supported by internship programs and strong regional employer ties.

How Much Does College Cost in Houston?

Tuition in Houston varies depending on the type of school and degree level. Public universities generally provide the most affordable options, especially for Texas residents who qualify for in-state tuition.

Undergraduate tuition at public schools in the Houston area typically ranges from $8,000 to $11,000 per year for in-state students. Private universities may charge $25,000 to $35,000 annually, though most students qualify for financial aid, grants, or scholarships that can significantly lower overall costs.

Are There Online Colleges in Houston?

Yes, several accredited colleges in and around Houston offer online degree programs. Schools such as Lamar University, Sam Houston State University, and the University of Houston provide flexible options for undergraduate and graduate students.

These programs allow you to complete coursework from anywhere while staying connected to local faculty and campus resources. Many also offer hybrid formats, so students can mix online and in-person learning if they prefer.

FAQs About Online Degree Programs in Houston

Online education gives Houston students the chance to earn accredited degrees without sacrificing flexibility or quality. Below are answers to common questions about financial aid, accreditation, and the credibility of online programs.

Is There Financial Aid for Online College?

Students can often receive the same types of financial aid for online college as they would if they were studying in person. Your first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Financial aid may be in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, or student loans. Some schools offer scholarship programs specifically for online students.

Are Online Degrees Respected?

Yes, most employers today view online degrees as equally credible to those earned on campus, especially when they come from regionally accredited universities. As online education has grown, major employers have recognized that these programs require the same academic rigor, skills, and commitment as traditional coursework.

Many Houston-area schools, such as the University of Houston and Sam Houston State University, design their online programs to mirror on-campus offerings. Graduates benefit from the same faculty, curriculum, and networking opportunities, ensuring that their degrees carry the same value in the workplace.

How Hard Is It To Earn a College Degree Online?

How hard it is to earn a college degree online depends on your preferred learning style and the major you're pursuing. Often, online programs are easier because they offer flexible scheduling, meaning you can enroll full-time or part-time and do your work around your schedule.

However, some students find it harder to keep themselves disciplined without face-to-face interaction. If you want to earn an online degree but are concerned about staying on top of coursework, reach out to your college's student success center or support services.

Find an Online Program Today

If you're ready to earn an online degree, check out the accredited online colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools today to learn more about the online programs they offer, the application and enrollment processes, and financial aid opportunities.