According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs requiring a postsecondary non-degree award will increase 11.5% by 2024. Associate degree jobs will increase by 8.7% in the same time frame.
The average annual tuition at a public four-year institution is $10,230 per year, according to the American Association of Community Colleges. Comparatively, annual tuition at public community colleges is just $3,600.
Individuals with an associate degree earn an average annual salary of $52,830. By comparison, the average yearly salary for individuals whose highest education level is a high school diploma is $36,100.
Community colleges primarily offer associate degrees and postsecondary certificate and diploma programs. However, in certain states, community colleges are also allowed to award bachelor’s degrees. This list includes schools that award bachelor’s as well as associate degrees.
We specifically reviewed the online offerings at community colleges, although many schools also offer in-person programs. Some of the courses at these institutions are hybrids, meaning they mix in-person and online learning. Some programs may also have in-person requirements for experiential learning, like internships or clinical residencies.
All of the schools on our list are regionally accredited. Certain programs may also have programmatic accreditation from specialized accrediting bodies.
We evaluated the schools’ online offerings based on cost, flexibility, reputation, and faculty. We gave each school an Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
Community colleges attract all kinds of students. They are ideal for students who want to enter careers that require an associate degree or are completing general education coursework before transferring to a four-year institution for a bachelor’s degree. Many individuals with established careers may attend community college to complete certificate or diploma programs to acquire new skills to advance in their field. Completing these courses online offers even greater flexibility and affordability.
If you are attending an online community college with the intention of transferring to another institution, you should confirm that the school is regionally accredited and find out which schools they have articulation agreements with. This will facilitate your application and transfer process when you’re ready to switch institutions.
Although in theory you can earn an online degree from anywhere, there are some restrictions on how distance education is provided. Before enrolling in a program, check with the National Council of State Authorization of Reciprocity Agreements to confirm that your school is authorized to grant degrees to students in your home state. Also, because community colleges are intended to specifically serve the community where they are located, tuition is typically lower for local students versus out-of-state students. This may apply even in online programs, so take a close look at tuition rates before enrolling.
Here are some questions to ask when researching Online Community Colleges:
Research admissions and financial aid requirements as part of your community college search process. This information is typically available on the school’s website, or you can contact their admissions and financial aid departments. If you are currently employed, talk to your employer about tuition assistance benefits.