10 Best

STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math, is a common buzzword these days. Today, with the world relying on technology for various purposes, STEM fields are in high demand. Many colleges and universities offer these degrees on campus and online.

For a lot of students, online learning is the best option. Keep reading to discover the ten best STEM colleges in the U.S. that offer online programs.

Top Online STEM Degree Programs

STEM is a wide field, so various colleges and universities now offer online STEM degrees � with many STEM colleges offering financial aid. Below, we've listed ten of the best online STEM colleges, considering factors like the range of fields available, the reputation of the institution, and the online-friendliness of its programs. All colleges and universities listed below are regionally accredited.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a public research university in Tempe, Arizona. It offers many online STEM degrees, with some of its most popular being in fields like:

• biology and biological sciences
• information technology project management
• nursing and healthcare
• software engineering

Each program features custom-built classes and innovative coursework to make online learning flexible and intuitive. Some programs offer online labs, while others require a handful of in-person lab days.

2. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private university based in Daytona Beach, Florida, focused primarily on aerospace and aviation. It offers online programs through its Worldwide campus.

The university offers online degrees in areas of study such as:

• aeronautics
• aviation business administration
• software engineering
• uncrewed and autonomous systems

3. Florida International University

Florida International University is a public research university in University Park, Florida. It offers a variety of online bachelor's degree programs in STEM fields like:

• biological sciences
• computer science
• nursing
• sustainability and the environment

Undergraduate students in online courses learn from the same faculty that teach on-campus programs. Courses are fully online and flexible, allowing students to learn on their schedule.

4. National University

National University is a private university headquartered in San Diego, California. It caters its higher education opportunities to working adult students, which includes offering a variety of online degree programs.

STEM programs offered online at National University include bachelor's degrees in:

• cybersecurity
• information systems
• mathematics
• psychology

5. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a public research university in Corvallis, Oregon. It's known for its research in animal science, marine science, and radiation.

Online students at OSU can earn bachelor's degrees in a variety of STEM fields, including:

• agricultural sciences
• geography and geospatial science
• mechanical engineering
• zoology

6. Purdue Global

Purdue Global is the online branch of Purdue University, a public university system in Indiana. The flagship campus in West Lafayette is known for a multitude of research projects in fields like agriculture, engineering, and healthcare.

Through the online school, students can get their STEM education in fields like:

• cloud computing and solutions
• fire science
• health sciences
• sustainability

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private university in Manchester, New Hampshire. It's best known for offering a wide range of online degrees, including degrees in STEM fields like:

• geoscience
• information security
• psychology
• software development

SNHU has been offering online degrees for years and has tailored its programs to be flexible for busy students. Many programs offer specializations and hands-on learning opportunities so you can be prepared for your ideal real-world career.

8. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona is a public research university in Tucson, Arizona. It runs many research programs, but most notable are its astronomy and aerospace programs, which work closely with NASA on numerous projects.

While the university doesn't currently offer any of the astronomy or aerospace programs online, it does offer various online education programs in STEM fields, including degrees in fields such as:

• bioinformatics
• environmental science
• geographical information systems
• neuroscience and cognitive science

9. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public research university in Gainesville, Florida. The institution is home to multiple research facilities covering topics from agriculture to aerospace.

Many of its online bachelor's degrees are focused on biology and earth science, with majors in fields like:

• entomology and nematology
• environmental management
• geology
• microbiology and cell science

10. Washington State University

Washington State University is a public research university in Pullman, Washington. Its research focuses primarily on agriculture but also food science, veterinary medicine, and sustainability.

Online learners earn their degrees through WSU's global campus. Undergraduate degrees are available in STEM fields like:

• data analytics
• environmental and ecosystem sciences
• management information systems
• social sciences

Best STEM Degrees To Earn Online

Colleges and universities offer a variety of STEM degrees online, but some are better suited for an online format than others. Below, we've given a brief overview of some of the best online bachelor's and master's degrees in STEM fields.

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Bachelor's degrees in computer science focus on computers and computational systems. Many of these programs offer specializations, which may include:

• computer programming
• information security
• machine learning
• software engineering

A degree in computer science can lead to a number of careers, like software developer, systems analyst, or computer programmer. Many of these jobs are currently in high demand.

Bachelor's Degree in Data Science

Data science is a field that involves gathering, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data, as well as creating and maintaining the systems and databases to process and store this data. Data science degrees lead to roles like:

• applications architect
• data analyst
• data scientist
• database administrator

Because many industries use data science, those with data science degrees work in numerous fields. These include business, e-commerce, healthcare, transportation, and more.

Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology

Information technology degrees teach students about various computing concepts and how to use them to support business operations. Like computer science degrees, many IT degrees have specializations, such as:

• cybersecurity
• data analytics
• project management
• software development

Those with IT degrees have job titles like computer systems analyst, information security analyst, computer network administrator, and database administrator.

Master's Degree in Engineering Management

Engineering degrees are more often offered online as graduate programs. A master's degree in engineering management will prepare you for leadership roles in engineering fields like:

• chemical engineering
• civil engineering
• electrical engineering
• mechanical engineering

Most students pursue these graduate degrees after they've earned their Bachelor of Science in engineering and have some experience in the field. Some go on to earn doctoral degrees, including PhDs.

Master's Degree in Health Informatics

Health informatics is a field that is focused on the most effective ways to use biomedical data. It combines multiple STEM fields, including health science, data science, and computer science.

These degrees sometimes offer specializations, such as bioinformatics, clinical research informatics, and public health informatics. With this degree, you can pursue roles in research and healthcare administration.