10 Best Online Colleges for Asian Americans 2025

As the demand for flexible, accessible education grows, more students are turning to online colleges as a popular option. Asian American students face unique challenges and opportunities in higher education, so finding the right college can make a significant difference in achieving academic success and personal growth.

Whether you are looking to study Asian American studies, ethnic studies, or pursue other degree options, this guide will help you find the best accredited online colleges and universities with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of Asian American communities. Keep reading to learn about resources and quality programs from online colleges for Asian American students.

Best Online Colleges for Asian American Students

The online colleges below offer robust academic programs with strong support networks and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Most of these institutions cater to undergraduate students seeking a bachelor's degree; however, online degrees are available for graduate students too.

Explore the best online colleges for Asian American students.

1. Sacramento State University

Sacramento State University offers an undergraduate degree in Asian Studies, along with minors in Korean Studies and South and Southeast Asian Studies. Graduates of this program tend to work in government, business, or education.

The university's Asian Pacific Islander American Research and Resource Center provides Asian American students with alumni networks and scholarships. Notable scholarships include the Professor Thomas Swift Asian Studies and Mishra Family scholarships.

2. California State University Online

California State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Gender/Ethnic/Women's Studies with a concentration in Asian American Studies. This undergrad program emphasizes the importance of social justice and its significance in various cultural, historical, and political contexts.

In addition, many on-campus centers are available for Asian American students, such as the Asian and Asian American Studies Department on the Los Angeles campus. This department offers an Asian and Asian American studies program that teaches about the languages and culture.

3. Michigan State University

Michigan State University's Asian Pacific American (APA) Studies program focuses on Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) experiences. Online courses cover Asian American and Asian-Pacific-American history.

The university offers several APIDA resources, including career panels, an Asian Studies Center, and the AsiaNexus online platform. Students may also engage in organizations, such as the Chinese-American Student Coalition.

4. New York University

New York University (NYU) provides several resources for Asian American students through the Department of East Asian Studies and the Center for the Study of Asian American Health. The health center strives to reduce health disparities in Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian communities.

NYU also established an Asian/Pacific/American Institute where students and faculty can access research and public programs. The institute produces publications, exhibitions, and new research initiatives for researchers and students.

5. Southern New Hampshire University

In 2022, female Asian students achieved the highest graduation rate at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), with a rate of 75%. This likely results from the university's strong commitment to supporting Asian American students in reaching their academic and career goals.

SNHU highlights several funding opportunities for Asian American learners, such as Asian and Pacific Islander American and Asian American Journalists Association scholarships. There are also internships, such as the Diverse Voices in Science Journalism Internship, available to explore.

6. Rutgers University

Rutgers University offers an Asian American studies minor and certificate program. Students learn about Asian American migration, literature, art, and other topics.

The university's Asian American Cultural Center provides relevant programs and initiatives to the APIDA community. Learners can participate in events like the APIDA Gala and join organizations, such as the Asian Student Council.

7. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) offers a Master of Arts in Asian Studies through the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. This master's degree teaches students about Asian religious studies, international relations, and political science.

Medical students may also be interested in joining the Asian American Medical Student Group. The group shares the perspectives of students of Asian origin on medical issues affecting society.

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Asian American students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill can find resources at the Asian American Center. The center's mission is to help people understand Asian American peoples, cultures, and histories.

The university also offers the June Yom Student Award to Asian American students pursuing an unpaid internship or an academic or artistic project. It awards $2,500, and recipients must commit to engaging in the project's work for at least eight weeks.

9. San Jose State University

Over 36% of San Jose State University's student population is Asian. This significant percentage contributes to a vibrant campus community where students enjoy the university's strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Center for Asian-Pacific Islander Student Empowerment offers career advising, events, and the Asian Pacific Islander Empower Mentorship. This peer mentorship program is for first-time, first-year Asian American undergraduate students.

10. Rice University

Rice University boasts a high percentage of Asian American students, with 34% of its student body identifying as Asian. This strong presence of Asian American students contributes to the university's academic excellence and supports the development of a more globally aware and culturally competent student body.

Rice recently announced that Asian studies majors can now declare a major concentration in Asian languages. Some of these include Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

Our Ranking Criteria

We primarily based the ranking of the best online colleges for Asian American students on two key factors: the population of Asian American students enrolled at each institution and the resources available to support them. Colleges with a higher percentage of Asian American students typically have established support systems and a campus culture that recognizes the unique experiences of Asian American learners.

We also considered the availability of dedicated scholarships for Asian American students, along with student centers, counseling services, and student government associations that advocate for their needs. Institutions offering these resources demonstrate a deeper commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

FAQs About Degree Programs for Asian Americans

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about degree programs for Asian Americans.

What Percentage of Asian American Students Go To College?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the overall college enrollment rate in 2022 was higher for Asian students ages 18 to 24 than other racial groups at 61%. This study defines college enrollment as the percentage of those ages 18 to 24 enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs at two- or four-year institutions.

The higher enrollment rates for Asian American students in particular could reflect a range of factors. These may include cultural values emphasizing education, higher family expectations for academic success, and a growing number of resources supporting Asian American students in higher education.

Are There Scholarships for Asian American Students?

Many scholarships are available to help Asian American students cover college expenses. Community organizations, institutions, and government programs offer these programs. Some popular scholarships for Asian American students include:

• Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF)
• Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) Scholarships
• Upakar Foundation Scholarships for Indian Americans
• The South Asian Bar Association (SABA) Scholarship

These scholarships are a great starting point for Asian American students looking to reduce the financial burden of college. Each has different eligibility requirements, so review the details carefully and apply to as many as you qualify for.

What Are the Top-Ranked Online Colleges for Asian American Studies?

Several top-ranked universities offer strong and reputable online Asian American studies degrees. While Asian American studies may not always be offered as a standalone major in an online format, many universities offer interdisciplinary studies, ethnic studies, or related majors. Some top-ranked online colleges for Asian American studies include:

• San Francisco State University
• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• Portland State University
• California State University

These universities offer various online programs that can be tailored to include Asian American studies or ethnic studies. These programs allow students to access resources and coursework that explore Asian American histories, cultures, and contemporary issues.

Explore Online Programs

Earning a degree is the first step toward a fulfilling and profitable career. It teaches you the essential skills to succeed in your chosen field. Contact one of the featured institutions on Learn.org for more information.