Best Online Colleges in San Diego
Multiple colleges in and around San Diego offer online degree programs that allow students to earn their degrees in a flexible format that works for them.
Many people want to pursue higher education, but it can be tricky to do so when you work full-time, take care of a family, or just have a busy life. Online programs offer a great opportunity to earn your degree in a flexible format.
California is a hub of tech, so it's no surprise that several colleges and universities in San Diego offer online programs. Keep reading to discover some of the best colleges near San Diego with online degrees.
Best Online Colleges in San Diego
Students in San Diego who want to attend an online college, but still want a campus close by, have several different options. Below, we've featured San Diego colleges that offer some of the best online degree programs.
1. California State University
California State University is a public university system in California with a campus in San Diego. It offers bachelor's degrees online in areas of study such as:
- business administration
- computer science
- criminal justice
- social work
The Cal State system also offers a range of master's degree programs for online students. Online doctoral degrees in nursing, education, and health sciences are also available.
2. National University
National University is a private nonprofit university based in San Diego. It offers online programs in fields like:
- business management and administration
- criminal justice
- English
- healthcare and nursing
The university offers nearly 50 online bachelor's degrees and about the same amount of online master's degrees. It also offers about two dozen online doctoral degrees and a handful of online associate degrees.
3. Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University is a private nonprofit Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. It offers bachelor's degrees online in areas of study such as:
- business administration
- child development
- criminal justice
- health communication
The university also offers a number of master's degrees through its online education programs, as well as online Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees and several certificates and credentials.
Other Online Degree Programs
There are many other online degree programs near San Diego that you can enroll in. Below, we've listed some of the best.
1. Antioch University
Antioch University is a private, nonprofit university with four campuses throughout the U.S., including one in Los Angeles and another in Santa Barbara. It offers nearly a dozen online bachelor's degrees in fields like:
- environmental studies
- healthcare administration
- literature and creative writing
- management
The university also offers online master's degrees in fields like allied health and business administration. An online Doctor of Education is available as well.
2. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a public research university in Tempe, AZ. It offers over 300 online degrees in areas of study such as:
- business administration
- computer science
- criminal justice
- education
ASU offers bachelor's degrees online, as well as graduate programs, including a handful of doctoral programs. Online certificate programs are also available.
3. California Baptist University
California Baptist University is a private Baptist Christian university in Riverside, CA. It offers about two dozen online bachelor's degrees in fields like:
- business administration
- criminal justice
- cybersecurity
- psychology
Additionally, Cal Baptist offers nearly 20 online master's degrees and eight doctoral degrees through online learning.
4. Oregon State University
Oregon State University is a public research university in Corvallis, OR. It offers dozens of online bachelor's degrees in fields such as:
- agricultural science
- engineering
- fisheries, wildlife, and conservation sciences
- public policy
Additionally, OSU offers about two dozen online master's degrees in similar fields and a small number of online doctoral degrees.
5. The Master's University
The Master's University is a private nonprofit Christian university in Santa Clarita, CA. It offers over a dozen online bachelor's degree programs in fields like:
- biblical studies
- business management
- digital arts
- journalism
Students can also find a small number of online master's degrees at the university. Online high school dual credit programs are also available.
6. UMass Global
UMass Global is a private, nonprofit affiliate of the University of Massachusetts. It's based in Aliso Viejo, CA, and offers solely online courses and degrees in areas of study such as:
- business administration
- healthcare
- information technology
- social work
The online college offers associate degrees through doctoral degrees, as well as certificates, credentials, and individual courses. Some programs are available through the university's self-paced MyPath format.
7. University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a public research university in Las Vegas. It offers several online bachelor's degrees in fields like:
- anthropology
- business administration
- criminal justice
- healthcare
In addition, UNLV also offers a handful of online master's degrees and graduate certificates.
FAQs About Online Degree Programs in San Diego
Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about online degree programs in San Diego.
Is There Financial Aid for Online College in San Diego?
You can use financial aid for online colleges just like you can for on-campus programs. To apply for financial aid, you'll first need to fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Choosing an in-state program or bringing in transfer credits can help lower your tuition costs. Additionally, some colleges have financial aid specifically for online students. Reach out to your college's financial aid or student support offices to learn more.
Is Online College in California Worth It?
Whether or not an online college in California is worth it depends largely on your career goals. Many students find that earning a degree, whether online or in person, improves their job prospects.
When choosing an online college in California, ensure that it holds accreditation through the Commission Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Are There Online Community Colleges in San Diego?
All of the following community colleges in the San Diego Community College District offer online classes or degrees:
- San Diego City College
- San Diego Mesa College
- San Diego Miramar College
- San Diego College of Continuing Education
Some of these schools don't market their programs as fully online, but based on the courses a student chooses, the programs may end up being completely online.
Find an Online College in San Diego Today
If you're ready to earn an online degree from a college in or around San Diego, check out the accredited online colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual colleges today to learn more about enrollment, start dates, and coursework.