For students looking to earn an education from one of the best online colleges in Texas, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks that are non profit institutions. These best Texas online colleges have all been selected based upon their average tuition price, as well as the amount and type of programs available.
Ranking the Best Online Colleges in Texas
#1. University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas at Arlington was first established in 1895. Originally known as Arlington College, the University of Texas at Arlington is a public research university located in Arlington, Texas. Originally part of the Texas A&M University System, the University of Texas at Arlington became a University of Texas System member in 1965.
Featured Programs
Today, the University of Texas at Arlington enrolls a student body of almost 44,000 students. Many of these students are enrolled in online courses at the University of Texas at Arlington. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas at Arlington with accreditation. Over 100 different degree programs are offered online to students by the University of Texas at Arlington. These programs include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. These degrees cover business, education, engineering, liberal arts, nursing, science, social work, and more.
Accreditation: The University of Texas at Arlington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#2. Texas Tech University
Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech University was first established in 1923. Formerly known as the Texas Technological College, Texas Tech University is now the seventh-largest school in Texas. Currently, Texas Tech University enrolls a student body of over 40,000 students.
Students at Texas Tech University can choose from over eighty different online degree programs offered entirely online. Online degrees at Texas Tech University include bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral programs, and certificate programs. Texas Tech University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Online students at Texas Tech University pay a rate similar to the school’s in-state tuition rate, helping to make Texas Tech University one of the more affordable online colleges in the region.
Accreditation: Texas Tech University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#3. Texas A&M University-Commerce
Founded in 1889, Texas A&M University-Commerce is one of the state’s most prominent public research universities. A member of the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M University-Commerce is one of the oldest and largest universities in Texas. Currently, Texas A&M University-Commerce enrolls a student body of over 12,300 students.
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers a wide-ranging selection of online degree programs. As the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides, these programs are all backed by the institution’s accreditation. Online degree types offered by Texas A&M University-Commerce include bachelor’s, master’s, and certification programs. Students can choose from almost seventy different online degree programs offered by Texas A&M University-Commerce. These degrees are all priced competitively and affordably.
Accreditation: Texas A&M University-Commerce is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#4. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University was founded in 1898. A Christian liberal arts college, Dallas Baptist University is located in Dallas, Texas. Originally known as the Decatur Baptist College, Dallas Baptist University has grown to become one of the state’s largest and most popular private universities. A total of over 4,400 students are currently enrolled at Dallas Baptist University.
Aspiring online students should consider choosing from Dallas Baptist University’s online degree selection. Students at Dallas Baptist University can choose from a catalog of over seventy different online degree programs. These programs include certification programs, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees. Dallas Baptist University also offers many accelerated degree programs for students who want to complete their online education even faster. All of these programs have received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Accreditation: Dallas Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#5. Sam Houston State University
Founded in 1879, Sam Houston State University is a public university located in Huntsville, Texas. The third-oldest public university in the state, Sam Houston State University is part of the Texas State University System. A total of over 20,000 students are enrolled at the school.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided institutional accreditation to Sam Houston State University. Students at Sam Houston State University can choose from over sixty online degree programs. These programs include associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and even doctoral programs. The majority of these programs can be completed entirely online, but some require visits to the Sam Houston State University campus. Sam Houston State University offers its tuition at a competitive rate.
Accreditation: Sam Houston State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#6. Texas Woman’s University
Texas Woman’s University was founded in 1901 as a public university. One of the few public universities not affiliated with any of the public university systems in the state, Texas Woman’s University was recently made coeducational in 1994. Texas Woman’s University is located in Denton, Dallas, and Houston, Texas. Over 15,000 students are enrolled at Texas Woman’s University.
Students at Texas Woman’s University can choose from a large selection of online degree programs. These programs have been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Currently, there are about fifty online degree programs. These programs include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. The vast majority of these online degree programs are in nursing or health sciences, although the school offers several business-related online degrees.
Accreditation: Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#7. Lamar University
Located in Beaumont, Texas, Lamar University was first founded in 1923. A public university, Lamar University was once the flagship university of the Lamar University System. Now a Texas State University System member, Lamar University enrolls a student population of just under 17,500 students.
Lamar University students can select from the school’s wide array of online degree programs. Currently, Lamar University offers over fifty different online degrees to choose from. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Lamar University with accreditation for its programs. Types of degrees offered online by Lamar University include online bachelor’s, online master’s, and certification programs.
Accreditation: Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#8. Abilene Christian University
Originally founded in 1906, Abilene Christian University is a private Christian University located in Abilene, Texas. Originally known as the Childers Classical Institute, Abilene Christian University is now one of Texas’ largest private universities.
Enrolling a student body of over 5,300 students, Abilene Christian University offers its students a great selection of online degrees. Currently, students at Abilene Christian University can choose from over forty different online degrees. Online degrees offered by Abilene Christian University have been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students at Abilene Christian University can enroll in an online master of business administration, an online bachelor in marketing, an online doctor of nursing practice, and many other online programs at Abilene Christian University.
Accreditation: Abilene Christian University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#9. LeTourneau University
Located in Longview, Texas, LeTourneau University was first founded in 1946. LeTourneau University is a private Christian university. Originally known as the LeTourneau Technical Institute, LeTourneau University is now home to over 3,000 students.
LeTourneau University offers more than thirty-five online degree programs to its students. Students at LeTourneau University can select from both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided LeTourneau University with accreditation. Some of the online degrees at LeTourneau University include an online bachelor’s in business administration, an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity, an online MBA program, and many others.
Accreditation: the Commission accredits LeTourneau University on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
#10. West Texas A&M University
A member of the Texas A&M University System, West Texas A&M University is a public research university. Founded in 1910, West Texas A&M University was originally known as West Texas State Normal College. Today, West Texas A&M University is located in Canyon, Texas, and enrolls a student body of just over 10,000 students.
West Texas A&M University offers students a wide selection of online degree programs to choose from. These programs are offered in various online formats: 100% online, Fully Online, and Hybrid/Blended. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are among the online offers at West Texas A&M University. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided West Texas A&M University with accreditation. Online degrees at West Texas A&M University include communication studies, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, and many others.
Accreditation: West Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#11. Stephen F. Austin State University
Established in 1923, Stephen F Austin State University is located in Nacogdoches, Texas. A public university, Stephen F Austin State University was originally founded as a teacher’s college. Now, Stephen F Austin State University enrolls a student body of over 13,000 students.
Students at Stephen F Austin State University can enroll in the school’s over thirty online degree programs. This wide selection of degree programs has helped Stephen F Austin State University to earn a place among the top online colleges in Texas. These online degree programs include associate’s, bachelors, and master’s degree programs. Stephen F. Austin State University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The online degrees offered at Stephen F. Austin State University can be completed entirely online.
Accreditation: Stephen F Austin State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#12. Tarleton State University
Founded in 1899, Tarleton State University is one of the founding institutions in the Texas A&M University System. A public university, Tarleton State University now enrolls over 13,000 students today. Originally known as John Tarleton Agricultural College, Tarleton State University has grown to become one of the top Texas online colleges.
Over thirty different online programs are offered to students at Tarleton State University. These programs include undergraduate programs and graduate programs alike. Some of the degrees offered include an online master’s in management, an online bachelor’s in business administration, an online bachelor’s in information technology, and many others. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Tarleton State University with accreditation for this program of study. Tarleton State University offers a wide range of different fully online degree programs to students at a very affordable tuition rate helping the school to rank among our top online accredited colleges in Texas.
Accreditation: Tarleton State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#13. University of Houston Clear Lake
Founded in 1974, the University of Houston Clear Lake is located in Pasadena and Houston, Texas. A public university, the University of Houston Clear Lake enrolls a student body of nearly 9,000 students. The University of Houston Clear Lake is a member of the University of Houston System.
One of the top Texas online colleges, the University of Houston Clear Lake, offers over thirty different online degree programs. These programs include certification programs, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Houston Clear Lake with accreditation for its programs. Some of the online degrees offered at the University of Houston Clear Lake include an online MBA degree, an online bachelor’s in anthropology, an online master’s in environmental science, and many others.
Accreditation: The University of Houston Clear Lake is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#14. Wayland Baptist University
Founded in 1908, Wayland Baptist University is one of the top online non profit colleges in Texas. A private college, Wayland Baptist University is located in Plainview, Texas. Currently, almost 6,500 students are enrolled at Wayland Baptist University.
Wayland Baptist University students can select from over thirty different online degree programs. These programs include online certificates, online bachelor’s programs, online master’s degrees, and an online doctoral program. Wayland Baptist University has received accreditation for its Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Online degrees offered by Wayland Baptist University include an online doctor of management, an online master of business administration, an online bachelor of psychology, and several other online degree programs.
Accreditation: Wayland Baptist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
#15. Houston Baptist University
Located in Houston, Texas, Houston Baptist University was first founded in 1960. Having operated for over six decades, Houston Baptist University has grown to become one of the most prominent private universities in the area. Currently, Houston Baptist University enrolls a student body of just under 4,000 students.
Students at Houston Baptist University can select from a wide-ranging selection of online degree programs. Many of these online degree programs are made available entirely online. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Houston Baptist University with accreditation. Students can choose from online doctoral programs, online master’s programs, and online bachelor’s programs. Over thirty different online degree programs are made available to students. Houston Baptist University prices its tuition at a competitive and affordable rate.
Accreditation: Houston Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#16. South Texas College
South Texas College is located in McAllen and Rio Grande Valley, Texas. Founded in 1993, South Texas College is a public community college with robust online courses. A smaller college, South Texas College is also home to the North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative.
Students at South Texas College can enroll in nearly 30 different entirely online degree programs. Currently, South Texas College enrolls a student body of approximately 31,000 students. South Texas College is a great option for students looking to enroll in one of the best online non profit colleges in Texas. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided South Texas College accreditation for this program.
Accreditation: South Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#17. University of Texas at Austin
Located in Austin, Texas, the University of Texas at Austin is a public research university. Founded in 1881, the University of Texas at Austin is the flagship of the University of Texas System. Currently, the University of Texas at Austin enrolls a student body of over 51,000 students.
Students at the University of Texas at Austin can choose from a large selection of online degree programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas at Austin with accreditation for its online degree selection. Dozens of programs are offered to students online, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Tuition rates are offered at a competitive price point helping the University of Texas at Austin rank among the top online accredited colleges in Texas.
Accreditation: The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College.
#18. University of Texas at El Paso
Founded in 1914, the University of Texas at El Paso is a public research university. Located in El Paso, Texas, the University of Texas at El Paso is a member of the University of Texas System. The school is home to over 25,000 students making it one of the largest universities in the state.
The University of Texas at El Paso offers students a large selection of online degree programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas at El Paso with accreditation for this degree program. Tuition rates at the University of Texas at El Paso are very competitive, which has helped the University of Texas at El Paso rank among the top online colleges in Texas. Currently, students can choose over two dozen different online academic programs. These online degrees include both undergraduate and graduate offerings, including master’s degrees in nursing.
Accreditation: The University of Texas at El Paso is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College.
#19. Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock Christian University is located in Lubbock, Texas. A private Christian university, Lubbock Christian University was founded in association with the Churches of Christ. Originally founded in 1957 as the Lubbock Christian College, Lubbock Christian University has grown to have a student body of about 1600 students.
Lubbock Christian University offers a small catalog of their degrees to students online for those interested in pursuing an online degree. Students at Lubbock Christian University can choose from many online degree programs, including undergraduate and graduate degree offerings. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Lubbock Christian University with accreditation for its degree programs. Lubbock Christian University has earned its place among our top online non profit colleges in Texas due to its online selection and affordable tuition rates.
Accreditation: Lubbock Christian University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#20. University of Texas at Tyler
Founded in 1971, the University of Texas at Tyler is a public university. A University of Texas System member, the University of Texas at Tyler is located in Tyler, Texas. Approximately 10,000 students attend the University of Texas at Tyler.
University of Texas at Tyler students can select from a wide array of online academic programs to choose from. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas at Tyler with accreditation for its online programs. Students can currently select from 24 different online degree programs. These programs include doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degree programs. Some of the online degrees offered by the University of Texas at Tyler include an Online Master of Education in Special Education, an online nursing RN-to-BSN, and a Ph.D. in Nursing. These programs are offered entirely online and are priced competitively.
Accreditation: University of Texas at Tyler is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#21. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Located in Corpus Christi, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is a public university and Texas A&M University System. Currently, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi enrolls a student body of almost 12,000 students.
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi offers students 21 fully online degree programs to choose from. These programs include certification programs, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with accreditation for this program of study.
Accreditation: Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#22. Midland College
Midland College is a public college first established in 1972. Located in Midland, Texas, Midland College was initially founded as the Midland campus of the Permian Junior College system. Today, Midland College enrolls a student body of over 7,400 students.
Students at Midland College can select from dozens of online degree programs. Midland College offers online degrees to students in disciplines including business, information technology, health, STEM, and many others. Tuition rates at Midland College are very affordable. These low tuition rates have helped Midland College to earn its place among the top online accredited colleges in Texas. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Midland College accreditation for its academic programs.
Accreditation: Midland College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#23. University of Texas Permian Basin
Founded in 1973, the University of Texas at the Permian Basin is a public university and part of the University of Texas System. Located in Odessa, Texas, the University of Texas at the Permian Basin is one of the top online schools in the state. The University of Texas Permian Basin is well known for its STEM degree programs.
Currently, the University of Texas Permian Basin enrolls a student body of approximately 7,700 students. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas Permian Basin with institutional accreditation. Students at the University of Texas Permian Basin can enroll in eighteen different entirely online degree programs. The University of Texas Permian Basin is a great option for students looking for one of Texas’s most affordable online colleges.
Accreditation: University of Texas Permian Basin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#24. Southwestern Adventist University
Founded in 1893, Southwestern Adventist University is a small private university located in Keene, Texas. Southwestern Adventist University is a private university that is associated with the Adventist church.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Southwestern Adventist University with accreditation for its online degree programs. Currently, Southwestern Adventist University enrolls around 1,000 students. Students at Southwestern Adventist University can choose from over a dozen online degree programs offered by the school. Tuition rates are very competitive at Southwestern Adventist University, helping the school rank among Texas’s top online colleges.
Accreditation: Southwestern Adventist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#25. University of the Incarnate Word
Founded in 1881, the University of the Incarnate Word is located in Alamo Heights and San Antonio, Texas. The University of the Incarnate Word was originally founded by the Catholic group the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. Today, the school still operates as a Catholic university and enrolls a student body of over 10,000 students.
Students at the University of the Incarnate Word can choose from a selection of online degree programs. The online degrees offered by the University of the Incarnate Word are backed by the school’s institutional accreditation as provided by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students can choose from many undergraduates and graduate degree programs to pursue online. The tuition rates at the University of the Incarnate Word are competitive with other colleges and universities in the area.
Accreditation: The University of the Incarnate Word is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#26. Schreiner University
Located in Kerrville, Texas, Schreiner University is a small private university. Originally known as the Schreiner Institute, Schreiner University was first established as a military school in the Presbyterian tradition. Today, Schreiner University has grown to enroll a student body of just over 1,300 students.
Students at Schreiner University can select from a focused catalog of online degree programs offered at the school. As the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides, these programs are backed by the school’s institutional accreditation. These online degree programs include both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Schreiner University has earned a place among our top online colleges in Texas due to its affordable tuition rates and its selection of online offerings.
Accreditation: Schreiner University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#27. University of North Texas
One of the top accredited online colleges in Texas, the University of North Texas, was first established in 1890. Located in Denton, Texas, the University of North Texas is a public research university. Enrolling a student body of over 40,000 students, the University of North Texas is the flagship university in the University of North Texas System.
The University of North Texas boasts a robust online offering for students. Currently, students at the University of North Texas can choose from 86 online program options. Many of these degrees come in an accelerated format allowing students to complete their degrees more quickly. Nearly 89,000 students are currently enrolled in online courses at the University of North Texas. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of North Texas with accreditation. Online degrees at the University of North Texas include certifications, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Accreditation: The University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#28. Midwestern State University
Originally known as Wichita Falls Junior College, Midwestern State University was first founded in 1922. A public university, Midwestern State University, is one of four public universities not affiliated with any of the university systems in the state. Midwestern State University is located in Wichita Falls, Texas. A total of over 6,100 students are enrolled at Midwestern State University.
Students at Midwestern State University can choose from a sizable catalog of online degrees offered by the school. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Midwestern State University with accreditation for its online programs. Midwestern State University offers students a limited selection of online degree programs to enroll in. Tuition rates are very competitive at Midwestern State University, helping the school rank among the top accredited online colleges in Texas.
Accreditation: Midwestern State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#29. Baylor University
One of the oldest operating institutions in the state of Texas, Baylor University has earned its reputation as being one of the state’s most prominent private universities. Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor University was first established in 1845. Today, Baylor University has grown to enroll a massive student body of over 19,500 students.
Baylor University students can choose from a focused selection of online graduate-level degree programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Baylor University with accreditation for its programs. These online graduate programs are designed for working professionals to help them take their education to the next level. Baylor University offers these programs at a competitive tuition rate. Degrees offered by Baylor University online include a Doctor of Nursing Practice, a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, a Doctor of Education, and many others.
Accreditation: Baylor University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#30. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Located in Belton, Texas, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is a private Christian university. Predating Texas’ statehood, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor was originally founded as the Baylor Female College. The school has now grown to enroll nearly 4,000 students and is associated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
Students looking to enroll in an online degree should consider the selection offered by the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. The University of Mary-Hardin Baylor offers a very focused selection of four online degree programs. These programs are offered entirely online. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided accreditation for these programs. These degrees are an online Master of Science in Sports Administration, an online MBA program, an online Master of Science in Information Systems, and an online Master of Science in Accounting.
Accreditation: The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
NPCO Staff
Related:
Largest Nonprofit Online Universities
Top Scholarships for Online Students
Affordable Nonprofit Online Colleges
