8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts is home to over 50 colleges and universities. See what you can do with an online degree in Massachusetts.
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Updated January 13, 2023

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If you’re thinking about enrolling at a college in Massachusetts, you’re not alone. There’s a reason, after all, that Boston is called “America’s College Town.”

Boston, of course, isn’t the only hot spot for education in the state, but the city does boast the neighborhood of Kendall Square, which has been named “the most innovative square mile on the planet.” This innovative spirit bodes well for online education in Massachusetts, so if you’re thinking about getting an online degree here, you’re looking in the right place. Education in Massachusetts is really something of a historic tradition—the state boasts the oldest schools in the country!

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What kind of Online College in Massachusetts should you attend?

It seems like we've narrowed down a few factors: you want an advanced degree, you want to earn it in Massachusetts, and you want to attend online. Great! We can work with that!

Of course, in an online program, you don’t have to actually be living in the same city (or even the same state!) as the college you enroll in, but at many schools, tuition rates are discounted for in-state students, including for online programs. In addition, where you study also helps determine the educational and professional networks that will help you succeed later on. So, location might not be everything, but it does count for something.

How much money can you earn with a degree from an Online College in Massachusetts?

Let's establish one thing right off the bat: you won't earn any less money in the long run just because you earn a degree online . . . or more for that matter! The bottom line is that earning a college degree in Massachusetts is one way to guarantee a solid career and a secure income. Overall, the median income in Massachusetts is a solid $15k higher than the national average. But having an advanced degree just solidifies your chance to be in the top earning bracket.

In fact, our friends over at Payscale.com have figured out that the average person with a bachelor’s degree in Massachusetts earns anywhere from $62k to $71k. And folks with a master’s degree make an average annual salary of $81k. Those figures can fluctuate plus or minus a few thousand, but the big takeaway is that you’ll be earning a comfortable living in Massachusetts after you graduate.

What can you do with a degree from an Online College in Massachusetts?

Regardless of whether you earn it the "traditional" way or online, an advanced degree can open doors for you that you didn’t even know were closed. If you already have a sense for what industry or sector you want to go into, then full steam ahead! But if you’re having trouble deciding on a career, we're here to help!

The Boston Business Journal recently came out with a list of the top 25 most in-demand jobs in Massachusetts. This could be a perfect starting point for your big decision. You can breathe easy, then, knowing that your degree will lead you straight into a job when you graduate. Here’s a look at a few of the jobs from the list:

What are the Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts?

We’ve put together this ranking of the Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts with an eye toward helping out people who are common prospective online college students: working professionals with busy schedules who are also trying to balance a budget. So we’ve taken into account the academic quality of the online colleges in our ranking, but we’ve also kept an eye on price. More specifically, we’ve calculated a “return on investment” score, that weighs tuition against the expected early career income of graduates. That way, you can know if the money you pay up front will worth it later on. With that, scroll on down and feel free to explore!

Top 10 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Northeastern University, located in Boston, Massachusetts, guarantees flexibility through its online programs.

Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online community, where they connect with fellow distance learners and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through coursework, internships, and other hands-on opportunities. Enrollees can benefit from learning resources, academic advising, and career services throughout their studies.

Prospective applicants should meet with the admissions office to discuss enrollment requirements. Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid towards tuition and other educational expenses. The college reports that 78% of learners receive some form of financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,420
Out-of-state
$52,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,793
Out-of-state
$24,793
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
22,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts Lowell

  • Lowell, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Lowell provides online degree options for degree-seekers worldwide. Presently, the institution boasts 49 online programs, reaching 5,831 distance learners across the globe.

Students benefit from a supportive online learning community, where they connect with peers and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, participants can customize their coursework, select electives, and pursue experiential learning opportunities. The college connects degree-seekers with institutional resources geared towards student success, such as career services and academic advising.

To discuss admission requirements, degree eligibility, and other information, prospective applicants should meet with the admissions office. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to determine eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance. Approximately 90% of all enrollees are awarded some type of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,078
Out-of-state
$33,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,590
Out-of-state
$26,370
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
18,352
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

  • North Dartmouth, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is a public college that supports 34 online program options from its main campus in North Dartmouth, attracting 1,618 distance learners from across the globe.

After enrolling, students join a supportive online learning community where they connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Learners benefit from a well-rounded education, completing foundational and advanced classes. Enrollees can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive academic and career guidance.

Interested applicants can schedule a meeting with the admissions department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other information. Degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to determine eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance. Approximately 98% of all enrollees receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,833
Out-of-state
$29,578
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,390
Out-of-state
$29,578
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
8,154
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts Amherst

  • Amherst, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for students from all walks of life. The college supports 4,643 distance learners across 45 online programs.

Enrollees learn alongside peers in a virtual classroom environment, where they connect with faculty and staff. Participants receive a well-rounded education through general and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships. Degree-seekers can connect with academic advising, career services, and other resources to receive guidance throughout their studies.

Prospective enrollees can meet with the admissions department to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal aid. Around 90% of all incoming students receive some form of financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,014
Out-of-state
$29,529
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Westfield State University

  • Westfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Individuals seeking a premier distance learning education should consider Westfield State University. The public college provides learning opportunities to 2,396 remote degree-seekers across seven online programs.

Distance learners connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. While enrolled, participants can customize their coursework, select electives, and pursue experiential learning opportunities. The college can connect enrollees with academic advising, career services, and other learning resources.

Interested applicants can schedule a meeting with the admissions office to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other information. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. Of all enrollees, 86% benefit from financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,890
Out-of-state
$1,890
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
5,795
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Fitchburg State University

  • Fitchburg, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fitchburg State University is a wise choice for students seeking flexible online study. The public college provides learning opportunities to 2,683 distance learners across 11 online programs.

Enrollees learn alongside fellow degree-seekers in a virtual classroom environment, where they connect with faculty and staff. Participants receive a well-rounded education through general and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships. Throughout their studies, learners can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Prospective applicants can meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements and other application materials. The college makes internal and external funding opportunities available to students, with 91% of all enrollees receiving aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,186
Out-of-state
$3,186
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
7,251
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Fisher College

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

People seeking flexible online study should consider Fisher College. Students can choose from one of 31 online programs, and join its 997-person remote learning community.

Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online community, where they connect with fellow distance learners and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Participants benefit from a well-rounded education, completing foundational and advanced classes. The college can connect enrollees with academic advising, career services, and other learning resources.

To discuss admission requirements, degree eligibility, and other information, prospective students should meet with the admissions department. Applicants can connect with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities to make their education more affordable. Of all learners, 94% benefit from financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,997
Out-of-state
$30,997
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,872
Out-of-state
$25,872
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
1,628
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Worcester State University

  • Worcester, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Worcester State University offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for degree-seekers from all walks of life.

Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community, and connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, students complete industry-relevant coursework, with the option to pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities in preparation for their future career. Participants can also benefit from personal and professional development by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Prospective applicants should meet with the admissions department to discuss admission requirements. Learners seeking to defray educational costs can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. The college reports that 85% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,042
Out-of-state
$3,042
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
6,204
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Wentworth Institute of Technology

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Individuals seeking a premier distance learning education should consider Wentworth Institute of Technology. Students can choose from one of 8 online programs and join its 1,147-person online learning community.

Upon enrolling, learners connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, participants gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their industry of choice. While enrolled, degree-seekers can benefit from academic advising, career services, and other learning resources.

Prospective enrollees can meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information. Eligible students benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. About 100% of all incoming learners are awarded financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,970
Out-of-state
$34,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,700
Out-of-state
$37,700
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,449
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Boston University offers a variety of online programs suitable for many different types of learners. The college boasts 33 online programs, reaching 3,205 remote students worldwide.

Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online learning community, where they connect with fellow students and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Participants complete general education and advanced coursework, satisfy curriculum requirements, and pursue experiential learning opportunities relevant to their field. Throughout their program, enrollees can connect with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources to prepare them for success after college.

To discuss admission requirements, degree eligibility, and other information, prospective students should meet with the admissions department. Enrollees can meet with the financial aid office to explore scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid packages. The college reports that 55% of the student body receives some type of financial assistance.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#11 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Dean College

  • Franklin, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

People seeking a premier distance learning education should consider Dean College. The school supports the learners studying remotely in its virtual programs from its campus in Franklin, Massachusetts.

Students receive support throughout their studies, learning alongside peers in a virtual classroom environment. Participants can individualize their studies through course electives, minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships. Enrollees can also benefit from personal and professional development by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Interested applicants can meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. Qualifying learners can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid towards tuition and other educational expenses. Of all students, 95% benefit from financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,214
Out-of-state
$40,214
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
1,320
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#12 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Endicott College

  • Beverly, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Endicott College, located in Beverly, Massachusetts, provides online degree options for distance learners worldwide. Students near and far can join Endicott College's growing virtual community of 1,949 remote degree-seekers, across 21 online programs.

Enrollees attend remote lectures and learn alongside peers through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, students complete industry-relevant coursework, with the option to pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities in preparation for their future career. Participants benefit from academic advising, career services, and other learning resources.

Those interested in applying should meet with the admissions department to discuss application materials and admission requirements. To defray the costs of education, students can speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. The college reports that 95% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,304
Out-of-state
$33,304
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,555
Out-of-state
$12,555
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,741
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#13 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Framingham State University

  • Framingham, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Framingham State University offers a variety of distance learning opportunities across numerous programs. Degree-seekers can connect with 1,932 other online students across five online programs.

The institution supports one remote bachelor's degree program and four remote master's degree programs. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community and connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual learning environment. Participants benefit from a well-rounded education, completing foundational and advanced classes. Throughout their program, distance learners can connect with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources to prepare them for success after college.

Prospective students can schedule an appointment with the admissions department to ask about degree requirements and application materials. To offset the costs of a degree, applicants can inquire about funding opportunities through the financial aid office. On average, 93% of enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,680
Out-of-state
$7,050
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
5,456
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#14 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Bay Path University

  • Longmeadow, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bay Path University, a private college, supports flexible online learning opportunities for students worldwide. Learners can choose from one of 31 online programs and join its 2,057-person virtual community.

After enrolling, degree-seekers join a supportive online learning community where they connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, enrollees gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their industry of choice. While enrolled, participants can connect with career services, academic advising, and other learning resources to receive guidance during their studies.

To learn more about Bay Path University's degree requirements, interested applicants can meet with the admissions office. Enrollees can connect with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities to make their education more affordable. Approximately 95% of all students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,081
Out-of-state
$35,081
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,670
Out-of-state
$14,670
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
3,324
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#15 8 Best Online Colleges In Massachusetts

Cambridge College

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, Cambridge College supports a variety of online programs. Presently, the institution boasts four virtual degree options, reaching 734 distance learners across the globe.

Degree-seekers can choose from two online bachelor's programs and two online master's programs. Upon enrolling, students connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. Enrollees gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed after school by completing industry-relevant coursework, research, internships, and other learning opportunities. While enrolled, participants can connect with career services, academic advising, and other learning resources to receive guidance during their studies.

Those interested in applying should meet with the admissions office to discuss application materials and admission requirements. Applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid packages. On average, 33% of students receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,164
Out-of-state
$16,164
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,731
Out-of-state
$14,731
Retention Rate
22%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,356
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

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