Best Online Colleges in Los Angeles 2026

Los Angeles is home to some of California’s most respected colleges and universities, many of which now offer flexible online degree programs. For students balancing jobs, families, or busy schedules, online learning provides a practical way to continue their education without leaving home.

Accredited online colleges near Los Angeles offer degrees in business, education, healthcare, and more, that help students across Southern California reach their goals. Keep reading to discover top online programs available through local and regional universities.

Online Degree Programs Near Los Angeles

Beginning a great career in your field of choice often starts with earning a bachelor's degree. If you live near Los Angeles or in the surrounding states and want to earn a degree online, explore some of the best online colleges in the area.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University is a private Christian school that has earned high rankings for career preparedness. College students interested in attending this school online can pursue bachelor's degrees like:

• Christian ministries, BA
• English, BA
• graphic design and digital media, BA
• public administration, BA
• public health, BS

Graduate programs from California Baptist University include MBAs in accounting and management and an MPA in public administration. The university offers online doctoral degrees in business administration, leadership studies, and medical science.

Other Online Degree Programs

Even though there's only one university with online degrees near Los Angeles, you can look into several other great programs that are in California and nearby.

California State University at East Bay

California State at East Bay offers multiple fully online bachelor's degree programs in areas of study like business administration, history, human development, and hospitality. Some programs include:

• accounting, BS
• health sciences, BS
• Asian-American studies, BA
• migration and globalization, BA
• computer science, BS

The school offers online master's degrees in healthcare administration, marketing analytics, and community mental health. Online education programs are also available at the graduate level. They include early childhood education and educational leadership.

Fresno Pacific University

Fresno Pacific University offers online degree completion programs in several fields. Learners can choose from bachelor's degrees like the following:

• liberal arts, BA
• criminology, BA
• social welfare, BA
• healthcare administration (business administration), BA
• early childhood development, BA

Online students can also find multiple online master's programs at the university. Graduate degrees are available in kinesiology, school counseling, teaching, special education, and school library and information technology.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers dozens of online degree programs for undergraduate students. A handful of the many bachelor's degree options include:

• organizational leadership, BA
• justice studies, BS
• engineering management, BSE
• user experience, BS
• communication, BA

ASU Online also offers more than 120 master's degrees and doctoral programs. Master's programs include global security, business analytics, and social work. Doctoral degrees are available in behavioral health, engineering, and leadership and innovation.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers plenty of programs for students who prefer online courses over on-campus learning. Students can choose from four-year undergraduate programs like the following:

• anthropology, BA
• communication studies, BA
• multidisciplinary studies, BA
• psychology, BA
• urban studies, BS

UNLV offers online graduate certificate programs in addiction studies and business analytics. Online master's and doctoral degrees are available in nursing, public health, and urban leadership.

Oregon State University

At Oregon State University, students can choose from more than 110 online programs. Bachelor's degrees like the following are available:

• French, BA
• crop and soil science, BS
• horticulture, BS
• supply chain and logistics management, BS
• zoology, BS

The university offers online master's degrees in business, education, environmental sciences, and public policy. Students can earn doctoral degrees in adult and higher education and counseling.

Eastern Oregon University

Students attending Eastern Oregon University who prefer online classes can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in various areas of study. Bachelor's degrees include:

• accounting, BS/BA
• English/writing, BS/BA
• health and human performance, BS/BA
• data analytics, BS/BA/BAS
• cybersecurity, BS/BA/BAS

An associate degree is available in early childhood education. Graduate degree seekers can enroll in master's programs in teaching, business administration, creative writing, and clinical mental health counseling.

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University is known as being an affordable online college and has been ranked one of the most cost-friendly schools in the state. It offers fully online coursework via dozens of undergraduate and graduate programs. Bachelor's degrees include:

• career and technical education, BSED
• psychological sciences, BS
• parks and recreation management, BS
• respiratory care, BS
• medical assisting, BS

Master's degrees are offered in strategic communication, cybersecurity, educational technology, geography, and science teaching. Students can also pursue a DMSC in medical science or a DNP in nursing practice.

Washington State University

Washington State University (WSU) offers the WSU Global Campus for students who want to earn their degrees from home. The university provides highly ranked 100% online bachelor's degrees like the following:

• history, BA
• human development, BA
• sociology, BA
• political science, BA
• psychology, BS

WSU Global Campus offers graduate degrees in agriculture, electrical power engineering, healthcare administration and leadership, and more.

University of Phoenix

Dozens of online degrees in business, education, communication, and more are available at the University of Phoenix. Online bachelor's degrees include:

• English, BA
• communication, BS
• data science, BS
• social work, BS
• management, BS

Enrollees can pursue master's degrees in health administration, elementary teacher education, and business administration. Online Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Management programs are also available.

How We Rank Schools

Our rankings highlight colleges that combine strong academic credentials with flexible online programs. Each featured school is accredited and offers degree options that support the needs of working adults and distance learners.

• Accreditation: All institutions are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies, ensuring quality education and eligibility for federal financial aid.
• Location: Schools included are based in Los Angeles or nearby states, giving local students convenient access to online and hybrid programs.
• Affordability: These colleges keep tuition competitive and often offer tuition assistance, scholarships, and payment plans for online students.
• Student outcomes: Graduates from these institutions typically find opportunities in education, business, healthcare, and technology, supported by active alumni networks and career services.

How Much Does College Cost in Los Angeles?

College costs in Los Angeles vary depending on the type of institution and program level. Public universities like California State University campuses usually offer lower tuition for in-state students, while private schools tend to have higher sticker prices.

Undergraduate tuition at public universities in the Los Angeles area generally ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 per year for California residents. Private colleges may charge between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, though most students can lower expenses through financial aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs.

Are There Online Colleges in Los Angeles?

Yes, several colleges and universities in Los Angeles provide fully online degree programs. California Baptist University, for example, offers a range of online undergraduate and graduate degrees designed for students balancing work and study.

Students can also explore online programs offered by nearby institutions such as Fresno Pacific University and California State University campuses. These programs allow Los Angeles residents to earn accredited degrees without commuting to campus, making higher education more flexible and accessible.

FAQs About Online Degree Programs in Los Angeles

Online learning continues to grow across California, offering students flexible and affordable ways to complete their education. Below are answers to common questions about online colleges and what students can expect from these programs.

Is There Financial Aid for Online College?

Yes, financial aid is often available to online learners. Schools like Cal State East Bay help students reduce tuition rates and other school costs by offering access to scholarships, loans, grants, and work-study jobs.

Qualifying for financial aid typically starts with filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Eligibility is usually granted to full-time, part-time, in-state, and out-of-state students. U.S. citizens and international students can receive aid. Transfer students usually also qualify.

Is an Online College Degree Worth It?

Yes, online degrees are worth it. They are great options for students who want a high-quality education from an accredited institution. These degrees allow students to learn from home and often provide flexible class schedules, which is great for busy learners.

Some worry that employers don't respect online degrees. However, studies show that many employers view the credibility of online degrees similarly to on-campus degrees.

How Do Online Classes Work at Los Angeles Colleges?

Online courses typically use video lectures, discussion boards, and digital assignments that you can complete on your own schedule. Many programs are asynchronous, meaning you can log in and study when it’s most convenient for you.

Some colleges may include live class meetings or on-campus experiences for certain subjects. This flexible setup allows students in Los Angeles to earn a degree while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

Find an Online College in Los Angeles Today

If you're ready to earn an online degree from an accredited online college near Los Angeles, explore the degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges directly to learn how their programs can help you reach your career goals.