3 Best Online Colleges in Dallas 2026

Dallas is home to a growing number of accredited colleges and universities that make higher education more accessible through online learning. These programs are designed for students who want to earn a degree while balancing busy work schedules, family life, or other commitments.

Whether you’re starting college for the first time or returning to complete your degree, Dallas offers flexible online options to fit your goals. Keep reading to explore the best online colleges in the area and learn how virtual programs can help you advance your education and career.

3 Best Online Colleges in Dallas

There are few colleges and universities in and around Dallas that offer a robust selection of online degree programs. We've highlighted these programs below. Note that all programs listed are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

1. Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University (DBU) is a private, nonprofit, Christian university in Dallas. It offers online bachelor's degree programs in fields such as:

• business administration
• communication
• ministry
• psychology

Additionally, DBU offers a variety of online master's degrees as well as an online doctoral degree in educational leadership.

2. Nelson University

Nelson University, formerly known as Southwestern Assemblies of God University, is a private, nonprofit, Christian university in Waxahachie, TX, a city directly south of Dallas. It offers online programs in areas of study like:

• criminal justice
• education
• history
• leadership

The university primarily offers associate degrees and bachelor's degrees online but also offers a handful of master's degrees and a doctoral program through online learning.

3. Texas Woman's University

Texas Woman's University (TWU) is a public, co-ed university in Denton, TX, just north of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It offers a range of bachelor's degrees online in fields such as:

• criminal justice
• education, with multiple concentrations including special education
• healthcare administration
• human resource management

TWU also offers a variety of online master's degrees and PhDs. Some programs are fully online while others are hybrid, meaning some online classes and some in-person coursework.

Other Online Degree Programs

While there are only a few online programs in the Dallas area with a variety of degree options, there are several more throughout Texas. We've listed additional options below, all accredited by the SACSCOC.

Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University (ACU) is a private Christian university in Abilene, TX. It offers online programs in areas of study like:

• cybersecurity
• healthcare administration
• information technology
• organizational leadership

Online students at ACU can earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificates.

Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public research university in Huntsville, TX. It offers bachelor's degrees online in fields such as:

• criminal justice
• healthcare and nursing
• history
• psychology

SHSU also offers a range of master's programs, including Master of Business Administration and Master of Education degrees, doctoral programs, certificates, and professional development courses through its online education services.

Texas A&M University–Commerce

Texas A&M University–Commerce is a public university in Commerce, TX. It offers online programs in areas of study like:

• healthcare administration
• information technology
• organizational leadership
• supply chain management

The university primarily offers bachelor's and master's degrees online but also offers a handful of doctoral degrees and certificate programs.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public research university in Lubbock, TX. It offers bachelor's degrees online in fields such as:

• digital media
• education
• public relations
• renewable energy

TTU also offers online graduate programs and certificates. Some programs are completely through online courses, while others are hybrid.

University of Houston

The University of Houston is a public research university in Houston. It offers online degrees in areas of study like:

• business administration
• nursing
• psychology
• supply chain management

The university offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs online. Some of the online bachelor's degrees are degree completion programs, meaning you must first have an associate degree or transfer credits.

University of Texas

The University of Texas (UT) is a public university system based in Austin. It offers bachelor's degrees online in fields like:

• criminal justice
• humanities
• industrial technology
• sociology

The UT system also offers online master's degrees in fields like healthcare and special education, as well as online certificates and individual online courses.

West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University is a public university in Canyon, TX. It offers online degrees in areas of study like:

• criminal justice
• emergency management
• healthcare and nursing
• information technology

The university offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees online. It also offers certificates and individual online courses.

How We Rank Schools

We evaluate online colleges in the Dallas area based on accreditation, affordability, and student success. Each featured school offers flexible degree programs designed to help students balance education with work and personal responsibilities.

• Accreditation: All colleges listed are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring programs meet rigorous academic standards.
• Location: These institutions are located in or near the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, giving local students the option to study online while remaining close to campus resources.
• Affordability: The featured colleges maintain competitive tuition rates and provide access to financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans for online learners.
• Student outcomes: Graduates from these schools often go on to careers in business, education, and technology, supported by academic advising and career placement services.

How Much Does College Cost in Dallas?

Tuition costs in Dallas depend on whether you attend a public or private institution. Public universities generally offer more affordable rates for Texas residents, while private colleges often provide extensive financial aid to make tuition more manageable.

Undergraduate tuition at public universities in Texas typically ranges from about $8,000 to $11,000 per year for in-state students. Private colleges may cost between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, though most online learners can reduce costs through scholarships or employer tuition assistance.

Are There Online Colleges in Dallas?

Yes, several accredited colleges in and around Dallas offer fully online degree programs. Dallas Baptist University, Texas Woman’s University, and Nelson University provide online options across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

Many of these programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule. Learners can also explore additional online programs across the state through universities such as Texas Tech and Sam Houston State.

FAQs About Online Degree Programs in Dallas

Online degree programs in Dallas make higher education more flexible and accessible for students throughout North Texas. Below are answers to new questions about online learning, including admissions, scheduling, and career preparation.

How Do Admissions Work for Online Colleges in Dallas?

Most online colleges in Dallas follow a similar admissions process as their on-campus programs. You’ll typically need to submit an application, transcripts, and, depending on the degree level, test scores or a personal statement.

Many schools offer rolling admissions and multiple start dates throughout the year. This allows students to begin their program when it best fits their schedule instead of waiting for a traditional semester start.

Can You Work Full-Time While Earning an Online Degree?

Yes, online programs are designed to accommodate full-time workers. Classes are often asynchronous, meaning you can complete assignments and watch lectures on your own time.

Many colleges also offer accelerated or part-time formats that let you control your pace. This flexibility allows you to balance school with work, family, and other commitments without compromising academic progress.

Do Online Students Get Access to Career Services?

Online learners at Dallas-area colleges can take advantage of many of the same career resources as on-campus students. These services often include resume reviews, interview practice, and virtual job fairs.

Some schools also partner with local employers to offer internships or networking opportunities for online students. Career centers play a vital role in helping graduates transition into the workforce or advance in their current professions.

Earn Your College Degree Online Today

Start your path toward an online degree by exploring the online colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual colleges to learn more about their application and enrollment processes as well as what programs are available via online learning.