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Compare Catholic College Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Catholic College Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

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Compare Catholic College Programs
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Best Online Catholic Colleges in 2025
Compare Catholic College Programs
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Catholic colleges offer high-quality degree programs, small class sizes, and an institutional culture influenced by Catholic values like faith, service, and intellectual rigor.

Many religious orders operate Catholic colleges, drawing students of all religious affiliations and backgrounds. Intelligent.com compiled this list of the best online Catholic colleges to help students identify which of these institutions is the best fit. This article also includes information on the pros and cons of attending an online Catholic college and how to choose the right one for you.

The Top 50 Online Catholic Colleges

Best Online Catholic Colleges badge
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Saint Louis University
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Creighton University
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Georgetown University
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Marquette University
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Boston College
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Santa Clara University
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Villanova University
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Loyola Marymount University
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University of San Diego
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Saint Mary's College
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Molloy College
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Mount St. Mary's University
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Lewis University
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University of Portland
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Gonzaga University
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Loyola University Maryland
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University of Dallas
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University of Scranton
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Mount St. Joseph University
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Saint Xavier University
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Fordham University
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Franciscan University of Steubenville
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University of Dayton
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Rockhurst University
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Niagara University
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Misericordia University
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Saint Joseph's University
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University of Mary
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The College of St. Scholastica
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Notre Dame of Maryland University
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University of Saint Francis
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Fairfield University
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Duquesne University
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Brescia University
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University of San Francisco
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Newman University
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The Catholic University of America
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Carlow University
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Holy Family University
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University of St. Francis
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Assumption University
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Chaminade University of Honolulu
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University of St. Thomas, Minnesota
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Loyola University Chicago
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Immaculata University
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University of Saint Mary
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DePaul University
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Walsh University
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Saint Francis University
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Seton Hall University

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How we rank schools

Our research for this list focused on finding the best online Catholic colleges in the U.S. This meant evaluating schools based on the factors most important to students and their families, including quality of programs, reputation, faculty, research, student life, graduation and retention, and cost.

A key indicator of quality for higher education institutions is the type of accreditation a school has. All of the programs on our list are regionally accredited, which means they achieve high-quality standards in post-secondary education. These schools are typically eligible for all federal financial aid programs, and credits are more easily transferred to other institutions.

We evaluated each program based on flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.

What You Should Know About Online Catholic Colleges

Catholic colleges and universities are private higher education institutions operated by the Catholic Church, usually through specific Catholic religious orders. Hallmarks of a post-secondary Catholic education include an emphasis on faith, academic freedom, intellectual rigor, intercultural dialogue, liberal arts, and holistic education.

In general, Catholic colleges welcome students from all religious backgrounds, including those who don’t practice a religion. Some schools require students to participate in Catholic services, while others do not.

Although Catholic colleges resemble Christian universities in some ways, they differ in their religious affiliation, academic and intellectual frameworks, and observation of religious practices and sacraments. Theology courses at Catholic colleges, which may or may not be mandatory, often explore a variety of faith traditions, such as Judaism, Buddhism, and other Christian denominations, and their influence on history, literature, and philosophy.

The religious orders that run Catholic colleges also influence the school’s structure and requirements. Some key Catholic orders operating colleges in the U.S. include the Jesuit, Benedictine, Dominican, Franciscan, Sisters of Mercy, and Sacred Heart.

Pros and cons of attending an online Catholic college

Pros

  • tickSmall class sizes

    Catholic colleges tend to be smaller than public and non-secular private schools, with an average enrollment of 3,650 students, according to the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities. Therefore, students at these types of institutions can expect more personalized attention and support from faculty members and university staff. This can be particularly beneficial in an online course, where there are fewer limits on enrollment.

  • tickEmphasis on community service

    Service is a key tenant of Catholicism, and most Catholic colleges offer a variety of opportunities for community engagement. Depending on the school, community service may be required or optional. Service and engagement opportunities may include working within the community where the college is located or where remote students live or traveling to domestic or international locations to engage with other communities that need support.

  • tickFlexibility

    Attending an online program gives students more flexible schedules and living arrangements. Online programs, especially those delivered asynchronously, allow students to access lessons and assignments whenever it is most convenient for them. Students also have the opportunity to enroll in academic programs that may not be available to them at schools in their area. Additionally, students can save money by living in an area with a lower cost than where their school is located.

Cons

  • tickHigher cost

    All Catholic colleges are private institutions, as public colleges cannot be religiously affiliated. Tuition at private colleges is often higher than at public universities. For example, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in the 2022-23 academic year, average annual undergraduate tuition was $9,750 at four-year public colleges, compared to $38,421 at four-year private schools. Students considering an online Catholic college should carefully review tuition and fees and explore all available financial aid opportunities.

  • tickInstitution's values may not align with yours

    While every Catholic college operates independently and establishes its own policies and rules for students, they still generally follow established Catholic doctrine on a variety of issues. Before enrolling at a Catholic college, review their code of conduct and positions on issues that may be important to you, to ensure you’re aligned.

How to Choose the Online Catholic College That’s Right For You

Clarify your education and career goals

Before you begin researching online Catholic colleges, take some time to reflect on your educational and career needs and goals. Clarifying what you’re seeking in terms of degree type, major, and curriculum will help you narrow down your options to the schools and programs that meet your needs.

If you need help determining what career field or area of study is right for you, taking a career assessment or personality test can help you find career paths and areas of study that align with your interests and aptitudes.

This is also an ideal time to consider your logistical needs. For example, are you seeking a synchronous online program with classes that meet virtually at designated times, or do you need an asynchronous program to access lessons and assignments according to your schedule? Will you enroll in a program full-time or part-time? What is your budget and how much financial aid will you need?

Research schools and programs

Establishing these criteria early in the process will help you narrow your options once you begin exploring your options for online Catholic colleges.

A key piece of information to gather during your initial research phase is the accreditation status of any colleges you’re considering. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for high-quality education and awards legitimate recognized degrees. Only students enrolled at accredited schools can be considered for federal financial aid. A school’s accreditation status can also affect future employment and educational opportunities.

Most schools publish their accreditation status and other essential information on their website. Students can also contact the school’s admissions office to speak to an admissions counselor or participate in virtual open houses or information sessions to get a more in-depth look at a school.

Other helpful questions to ask during the research process include:

  • Are there any requirements for attending Catholic services or following Catholic religious practices?
  • How do online students interact with classmates and faculty?
  • Are classes delivered synchronously or asynchronously?
  • Who are the faculty and what are their qualifications?
  • Are there any experiential learning components, like internships?
  • What networking opportunities are available to online students?
  • What support services does the school provide to online students?

Review admissions and eligibility requirements

During the research process, gather information about the application processes and eligibility requirements for the schools and programs you’re considering. These processes vary by school, so if you have questions, contact the college’s admissions office to clarify application materials and deadlines.

A standard undergraduate application consists of:

  • Completed application and required fees
  • Official high school transcript showing proof of graduation or a GED
  • Letters of recommendation
  • An essay or personal statement
  • A resume
  • SAT or ACT scores (if required)

Applications for graduate programs are similar, although there may be more eligibility criteria, like a minimum undergraduate GPA or a specific undergraduate degree. Programs may also require that students submit GRE or GMAT scores.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

The last step is determining how you will pay for your degree program. Review information about the school’s tuition, fees, and available financial aid options. This information is typically available on a college’s website, but you can also speak to a financial aid counselor if you have questions.

Students who want to be considered for need-based financial aid, such as federal student loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study, must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Institutions use this information to determine eligibility for this kind of financial aid. There are also merit-based scholarships, grants, and fellowships for high-achieving students from schools and external organizations.

Ask your employer if they offer tuition assistance benefits for students who plan to work while attending an online Catholic college. Veterans or active-duty military members should explore tuition discounts and GI Bill benefits. It’s also common for schools to offer payment plans so students can pay tuition in installments.


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