8 Best Online Colleges for Students With Trauma/PTSD 2025

Any type of trauma can make coping with everyday situations difficult, especially if you're suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Those with trauma or PTSD are often also suffering from conditions like depression or social anxiety, making it hard to get through daily life.

If you want to earn a degree but are worried about how your trauma or PTSD may affect your studies, consider an online program. Many of the best online colleges for students with mental health issues provide services to help students reach their goals. Keep reading to discover some of the best online colleges for students with trauma/PTSD.

Online Degree Programs for People With Trauma/PTSD

Completing a college degree when you are also dealing with trauma or PTSD isn't easy. However, many colleges and universities offer flexible online programs that work well for those with mental health conditions. We've highlighted several of these accredited institutions below.

1. Arizona State University

At Arizona State University, students can earn online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in various subjects, such as business, healthcare, humanities, and technology. ASU is a public research university in Tempe, AZ.

Online programs at ASU have shortened terms at nearly eight weeks long, allowing students to focus on just a couple of courses at a time. The school also has a robust student services center that includes access to 24/7 counseling and mental health resources.

2. Columbia College

Columbia College is not only very veteran-friendly, but it also offers online counseling services and wellness resources to all students. Its online courses run on accelerated eight-week terms and students can transfer in previously earned college credits and receive credit for military or workforce training.

The public, nonprofit college is based in Columbia, MO, but has several campus locations nationwide. Its undergraduate and graduate programs are available in fields like business, criminal justice, education, and the natural sciences.

3. Davenport University

Davenport University is a nonprofit private institution based in Grand Rapids, MI. Its Online+ global campus features associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in subjects such as business, healthcare, and technology.

Multiple course formats, including asynchronous and synchronous options, allow online students to choose the format that works best for them. Additionally, the school's wellness center offers counseling and therapy services on campus and online.

4. Empire State University

Students at Empire State University can earn almost any of the institution's undergraduate and graduate degrees online. The school is part of the public State University of New York (SUNY) system and is located in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Customizable degree programs and credit for prior learning are just a few things that make this an excellent option for students with trauma or other mental health conditions. SUNY Empire takes student wellness very seriously and offers multiple resources for those struggling with mental health or substance abuse.

5. National University

National University was designed by veterans, for veterans and service members, although it accepts civilian students into its on-campus and online degree programs as well. The private nonprofit school is based in San Diego and offers online degrees in areas of study like liberal arts, healthcare, psychology, and tech.

Most courses are offered in four-week and eight-week terms and admission is open year-round. The university also offers numerous mental health resources as well as a variety of resources specifically for military members.

6. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a nonprofit private institution in Manchester, NH. It offers in-person programs but is best known for its offerings of over 200 online undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Terms at SNHU are eight weeks long and students can transfer up to 90 college credits into bachelor's degree programs. The university also awards college credit for military experience and provides an array of student support services, including an online wellness center.

7. UMass Global

Through UMass Global, students can earn online associate, bachelor's master's, and doctoral degrees in topics like business, education, humanities, and science. UMass Global is affiliated with the public University of Massachusetts System, but it's a private institution based in California.

The school's self-paced MyPath programs are a great option for students struggling with PTSD or other mental health conditions. Students receive a custom curriculum based on their prior learning experiences and progress through courses at their own pace, with no set deadlines.

8. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers multiple fast paths to credit, including accepting up to 90 transfer credits for bachelor's programs and awarding credit for things like military training and credit by exam.

UMGC is the online campus of the public University System of Maryland. Its online undergraduate and graduate degrees cover numerous fields of study, such as business, healthcare, liberal arts, and technology.

Benefits of Earning Your Degree Online as a Student With Trauma/PTSD

Many students with trauma or PTSD prefer an online learning environment because they can study at home, where their surroundings are more predictable and easier to control. This reduces the risk of them having panic attacks or flashbacks in front of other students.

Additionally, many online programs allow students to work at a slower pace. Most have part-time options, and these programs often have shorter terms, so students take fewer classes at one time.

The flexible scheduling of online programs is another bonus. Most courses have set due dates but students can log in at any time during the week to complete their coursework. This allows students to work when they're in their best headspace.

Tips for Earning Your Degree Online as a Student With Trauma/PTSD

There are a few things that students with trauma/PTSD can do to help them navigate their online learning. These include:

• Take advantage of the accommodations available to you: You may be entitled to accommodations, such as extended due dates or more time on tests, that can help you succeed.
• Create a study schedule: You can't always control your mental health, but creating a schedule gives you a guideline to stick to as you complete your courses.
• Look for military-friendly schools: Of course, veterans and service members are not the only people with trauma and PTSD. However, military-friendly colleges often offer extensive services for students with these conditions.
• Utilize wellness resources: Explore the mental health services your college offers and utilize these as needed.

Above all else, one of the best things you can do as an online student with trauma/PTSD is to communicate with your professors and academic advisors. They're typically understanding and can help you if any problems arise.

Additionally, good professors may be able to provide trigger warnings for certain topics. While trigger warnings sometimes get a bad reputation, they can be very helpful. For example, if you suffer from PTSD due to domestic violence and you're taking a social work class, your teacher may be able to give you a heads-up when the topic is coming up so you can better prepare yourself.

What Are the Best Majors for a Person With Trauma/PTSD?

There are numerous majors that people with trauma or PTSD may choose to pursue. Those with military training may pursue a major that aligns with their experience, as they can often earn credit for their training.

Many students with trauma choose helping professions, like counseling or social work. Their unique perspective often enables them to better connect with the people they care for.

Find an Online Degree Program Today

If you're ready to earn a degree despite your trauma or PTSD, explore the online programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools today for more information on the support services they provide.