10 Best Online Colleges for Students With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 2025

For students managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), finding the right online college is important for succeeding academically. With programs that offer flexible study options and comprehensive mental health support, students with OCD can find the resources they need to succeed academically while managing their mental health.

From individualized support to accessible mental health resources, these online schools for students with mental health issues empower students to balance their academic and personal well-being.

Online Degree Programs for People With OCD

These accredited online colleges provide flexible degree programs with a supportive environment to support the needs of students with OCD.

1. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers a range of degree programs along with dedicated counseling and psychological services, including resources for international students. Students with OCD can receive accommodations like extended deadlines for quizzes, assignments, and projects or access specialized tutoring services to support their learning experience.

2. UMass Global

UMass Global offers competency-based programs that allow students to work at their own pace, a feature well-suited for students with OCD. The university provides peer support groups and directs students to valuable mental health resources, creating an environment where students can focus on their studies in a manner that fits their learning style.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers a comprehensive wellness center licensed as an educational health center, providing individual and group counseling services for students. SNHU's flexible courses and supportive wellness programs are ideal for students with OCD who need mental health support alongside academic flexibility.

4. Walden University

Walden University offers a Student Assistance Program that focuses on supporting students' mental well-being, including that of their household family members. Free virtual counseling sessions with licensed counselors are available 24/7 through ComPsych, providing continuous access to support during mental health crises or everyday challenges.

5. Purdue Global

Purdue Global partners with Uwill to provide students dealing with OCD access to therapists and licensed counselors based on their specific needs. The university's counseling and psychological services ensure that students have ongoing mental health support throughout their academic journey.

6. University of Phoenix

At the University of Phoenix, personalized support is available through a combination of learning teams, counseling services via the Life Resource Center, and access to webinars and assessments tailored to OCD and related mental health issues. This support network aids students in managing their studies effectively.

7. National University

National University provides a tailored online learning environment with short, focused courses that students can complete one at a time. This structure reduces the stress of multitasking and is beneficial for students with OCD who prefer focusing on one subject at a time. The dedicated wellness staff ensures students have the mental health support needed to succeed academically.

8. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers both self-paced courses and structured semester options, allowing students with OCD to choose the format that best fits their needs. The counseling center offers mental health screenings and on-call counseling for urgent needs, creating a supportive environment for students managing OCD.

Learn more: What Are Online Self-Paced Programs?

9. Maryville University

Maryville University's counseling center provides 24/7 support, including consulting sessions and help with connecting students to therapists based on location, insurance, and mental health needs. This access to counseling services ensures that students with OCD have the assistance they need at any time.

10. Capella University

Capella University's competency-based programs allow students to progress at their own learning pace, making it easier for students with OCD to manage their studies. The school offers academic coaches and program advisors to keep students on track and provides online groups where students can connect for additional support.

Benefits of Earning Your Degree Online as a Student With OCD

Earning a degree online offers unique benefits for students with OCD, providing flexibility and access to support that can help them thrive academically.

Self-Paced Programs

Many online degree programs, such as those at UMass Global and Capella University, are competency-based programs, meaning they allow students to work at their own pace. This structure helps students with OCD manage their coursework in a way that best suits their needs and learning styles.

Expanded Choices

Online degrees reduce the need for campus commutes but expand the options available to students across the country. Many colleges offer comprehensive mental health services tailored to students with OCD, providing more opportunities for personalized support.

Tips for Earning Your Degree Online as a Student With OCD

Navigating an online degree program while managing OCD can be challenging, but implementing these strategies can help ensure a smoother, more balanced experience.

Take Advantage of Accommodations

Understanding the accommodations available to you, like those at the University of Arizona Global Campus, is essential. Setting up accommodations can help reduce academic stress and create a more manageable workload.

Explore New Coping Methods

Using mental health apps such as SilverCloud, Headspace, and other on-demand therapy resources can aid in developing coping strategies and provide additional mental health support as needed.

Build a Strong Support Network

Having a dependable support system is crucial for balancing school, personal life, and managing OCD. Many online colleges offer counseling, peer support groups, and 24/7 mental health resources, helping students stay connected and supported throughout their studies.

What Are the Best Majors for a Person With OCD?

Students with OCD may find majors that offer flexibility, focus, or a manageable workload to be the best fit. Fields like psychology, creative writing, and art can be well-suited to students who benefit from creative expression or focused, single-subject work.

Find an Online Degree Program Today

Explore your options and select an online college that offers the flexibility, support, and resources necessary to help you succeed while managing your mental health.