3 Best Online Colleges in Philadelphia 2026

Online colleges are a great way for busy students to complete their degree programs. Many of the top accredited online colleges offer a range of programs throughout the U.S. that cover various disciplines.

This includes some of the best colleges and universities near Philadelphia. If you're a Philly native wanting to earn a degree online through a local school, keep reading to discover some of the best online colleges in and around Philadelphia.

Best Online Colleges in Philadelphia

There are a few colleges in Philadelphia that offer a wide variety of online programs. We've featured these programs below. All programs featured hold regional accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

1. Drexel University

Drexel University is a private nonprofit research university in Philadelphia. Over 150 online degree and certificate programs are available in fields such as:

• business administration
• computer science
• healthcare
• special education

The university offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees to online students as well as a range of certificate programs.

2. Peirce College

Peirce College is a private nonprofit college in Philadelphia primarily focused on adult education. It offers numerous online degrees in areas of study like:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• human resources management
• information technology

Peirce offers associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees through its online education format. Additionally, graduate certificates, and other professional certificates, are also available through online learning.

3. Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University is a private nonprofit research university in Philadelphia. Students here can pursue several online bachelor's degree programs in fields such as:

• business administration
• health services
• human resources management
• information technology

The university also offers nearly 20 master's degree programs, as well as a handful of doctoral programs and certificate programs.

Other Online Degree Programs

While there are only a few colleges in Philadelphia that offer a range of online degrees, there are several more throughout the state. Below, we've listed some additional colleges in Pennsylvania that offer online degrees. Again, all programs featured hold regional accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

DeSales University

DeSales University is a private nonprofit Catholic university in Center Valley, PA. It offers multiple online degrees in areas of study like:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• human resource management
• information technology

The university also offers several online master's programs and a few online doctoral programs. Additionally, both undergraduate and graduate certificates are available through online courses.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Millersville University of Pennsylvania is a public university in Millersville, PA. It offers online bachelor's degrees in disciplines like business administration, nursing, and public relations.

Millersville also offers multiple master's degrees and doctoral degrees online. Some bachelor's programs are degree completion programs, meaning you must have an associate degree or a sufficient number of transfer credits.

Misericordia University

Misericordia University is a private nonprofit Catholic university in Dallas, PA. It offers several undergraduate and graduate programs online in fields such as:

• business administration
• healthcare management
• information technology
• social work

Some programs are also available in a hybrid format, in which students take some online courses and do some of their coursework in person.

Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus is the online campus of Pennsylvania State University, one of the state's public university systems. It offers programs exclusively for online learners in areas of study, including:

• energy and sustainability
• healthcare administration
• information technology
• psychology

The online school offers associate degrees through doctoral degrees. It also offers certificate programs and stackable credentials.

Penn West Global

Penn West Global is the online campus of Pennsylvania Western University, another public university system in the state. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields, such as business administration, criminal justice, education, and nursing.

Students can earn associate degrees through doctoral degrees at this online college. Undergraduate and graduate certificates are also available.

Seton Hill University

Seton Hill University is a private nonprofit Catholic university in Greensburg, PA. It offers online programs in areas of study like:

• business administration
• education
• healthcare administration
• human resources management

Students can earn bachelor's and master's degrees and certificates online through Seton Hill. The master's degree programs do not require prospective students to take the GRE or GMAT.

Wilson College

Wilson College is a private, nonprofit Christian college in Chambersburg, PA. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields like:

• graphic design
• healthcare
• liberal arts
• supply chain management

The university offers only bachelor's and master's degrees online. Some programs are also offered in a hybrid format.

How We Rank Schools

We rank online colleges based on their accreditation, affordability, and student success outcomes. Each school highlighted here offers high-quality online programs designed to meet the needs of working adults and transfer students in the Philadelphia area.

• Accreditation: All featured institutions are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), ensuring they meet rigorous academic and institutional standards.
• Location: These colleges are located in or near Philadelphia, giving students access to local campus services and regional career connections while studying online.
• Affordability: The schools maintain competitive tuition rates and provide access to financial aid, scholarships, and employer reimbursement programs.
• Student outcomes: Graduates benefit from respected credentials, professional development resources, and alumni networks that support advancement in industries like business, healthcare, and technology.

How Much Does College Cost in Philadelphia?

The cost of attending college in Philadelphia depends on whether you enroll at a public or private institution. Public universities in Pennsylvania generally charge lower tuition for in-state residents, while private schools may offer larger scholarship packages to help offset costs.

Undergraduate tuition at public colleges typically ranges from $8,000 to $12,000 per year for Pennsylvania residents. Private universities may cost between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, though many students use financial aid and grants to make their education more affordable.

Are There Online Colleges in Philadelphia?

Yes, Philadelphia is home to several accredited colleges that offer online programs. Schools like Drexel University, Peirce College, and Thomas Jefferson University provide online degrees across a range of fields, from healthcare and business to technology and education.

Students who prefer flexible learning can also explore statewide options such as Penn State World Campus or Penn West Global. These programs allow Pennsylvania residents to complete fully online degrees while staying connected to trusted regional universities.

FAQs About Online Degree Programs in Philadelphia

Philadelphia students have many flexible online education options that make balancing school, work, and life easier. Below are answers to a few common questions about earning your degree online, choosing a program, and finding support.

Is There Financial Aid for Online College?

Financial aid is available for online college programs. Often, online students qualify for the same financial aid packages as on-campus students. To find out what you qualify for, you'll start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

Your financial aid may include scholarships, grants, work-study, and student aid. Some colleges offer financial assistance specifically for online students to increase affordability.

Is an Online College Degree Worth It?

For many students, an online degree is worth it. Online degrees give you a flexible way to earn your degree, even if you're working full-time or caring for family members. However, every person is different, and whether or not an online degree is worth it will depend on your specific situation and intended career path.

How Do Online Students Stay Connected to Campus Resources?

Online learners at Philadelphia colleges still have access to the same support services as on-campus students. This often includes virtual tutoring, library databases, academic advising, and career counseling.

Many schools also offer online orientations, discussion boards, and student organizations to help learners feel part of the campus community. These resources create a sense of connection and make it easier to stay motivated throughout your program.

Learn More About Your Online Degree Options

If you're ready to earn an online degree, check out the colleges and universities featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools for more information on admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.