The value of a college degree is more apparent than ever. On average, a college graduate with just a four-year degree will earn twice as much as a student who does not attend college. In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that people with bachelor’s degrees earn almost 2 million dollars in a lifetime, associate’s degrees nearly 1.5 million, and high school diplomas earn a mere million. That equates to over a million dollars more in earnings over a single graduate’s lifetime.
With that argument in place, it seems silly not to pursue the dream of higher education. However, it can be expensive. Many students face insurmountable student loan debt as a result of this endeavor. This fear is justified and can prevent qualified and motivated students from achieving at their highest levels.
However, public institutions tend to cost significantly less than private colleges. When compared to on-campus options, online degrees usually cost even less and allow students to complete classes more quickly and from home (thus saving money and time). An online degree also allows adult students who are already working remain in profitable (and sometimes necessary) jobs while they pursue an education.
Pursuing an online degree from a New Mexico institution is highly advantageous. Online higher education opportunities are booming within the state, largely due to a population that is widely spread out over a large geographic area. These programs present convenient, flexible options for students wishing to study nearly any degree program.
What are the best online colleges in New Mexico?
With all these advantages, why wait? Review the list of the top online undergraduate schools in New Mexico now, and get signed up. Although many of these institutions offer flexible start dates and times, most fall terms begin soon. So get smart and get going now!
Our rankings are based on institutional excellence, student satisfaction, and return on tuition investment. Our data aggregation uses statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics, Payscale, U.S. News & World Report, and student ranking sites.
1
University of New Mexico
Overview
The University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico offers a wide range of online undergraduate programs. These programs emphasize lifelong learning and professional development. Courses are offered in two formats: synchronous (fixed meeting times) and asynchronous (without fixed meeting times).
Program Features
In addition to several new programs (Chicana and Chicano Studies, Native American Studies, Psychology, RN to BSN), the university offers several online-only bachelor’s programs, including majors in:
- Business Administration
- Communication
- Dental Hygiene
- Integrative Studies
- Liberal Arts
- Radiological Sciences
- Chicana and Chicano Studies
Notables
The university’s online degree programs offer a highly flexible program for students in a variety of life situations. They are offered in seven or eight week course formats. Students have the option of continuing on to a Master’s degree at the University of New Mexico, as well, with offerings available in Construction Management, Organization, Information, and Learning Sciences, and more.
2
New Mexico State University
Overview
New Mexico State University, in Alamogordo, New Mexico, offers innovative online courses. These programs harness web-based technologies, interactive television, faculty interaction, and off site classes. Although some degree pathways do require brief on-campus residencies, most can be completed entirely online.
Program Features
Students can earn a 100% completely online bachelor’s degree through New Mexico Statue University Alamogordo Community College and New Mexico State University Las Cruces in a 2+2 degree format. Available online programs include:
- Sociology
- Business Administration
- Marketing
Various associate and certificate programs exist as well.
Notables
Students at New Mexico State University benefit from a highly interactive online community. Students are able to access admissions, counseling, financial aid, tutoring, and other services entirely online. However, it should be noted that all distance courses are charged a course delivery fee of $35 in addition to regular tuition and fees.
3
Eastern New Mexico University
Overview
Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico offers a huge array of distance learning program for which students never need to step foot on campus. These programs allow students to utilize technology to create partnerships, make connections, and learn from top-notch instructors in a flexible format. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission as of 1922.
Program Features
All programs can be completed entirely online, unless otherwise noted. Although a vast array of programs exists within several different departments, a few majors offered online at Easter New Mexico University include:
- Aviation Science
- Career and Technical Education
- Communicative Disorders
- Criminal Justice
- Religion
- Sports and Recreation Planning
- Personal Financial Planning
Various graduate degrees in education, business, and the arts and sciences are also offered online for students wishing to continue their education at Eastern New Mexico.
Notables
Students are given access to a variety of online resources just as they would if they were taking classes on campus. Eastern New Mexico faculty deliver courses using Mediasite, a live lecture capture system that allows the student to virtually enter the classroom. Courses are accessible twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
4
Western New Mexico University
Overview
Western New Mexico University, located in Silver City, New Mexico, offers a convenient, affordable, and individualized degree program for any student looking to study online. Though the university’s online programs are relatively new, they have been in the business of educating students since 1893.
Program Features
Over 200 online classes are available, each offering its students significant and quality education in the field. Sample degree pathways include bachelors in:
- Criminal Justice
- English
- Business
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Nursing
- Rehabilitation Services
- Early Childhood, Secondary, and Special Education
The university also offers several associate’s and graduate degrees as well, including terminal degrees in education.
Notables
Online students at Western New Mexico University have access to the same resources as on-campus students. They are able to utilize Smarthinking, a 24/7 electronic tutoring services. These tutors provide assistance with specific assignments in writing, math, biology, and other courses. Students can also access the university library system, Miller Library.
5
New Mexico Highlands University
Overview
New Mexico Highlands University is located in Las Vegas, New Mexico. It was established in 1893 and offers bachelor and master degrees in a variety of disciplines. The university has an established reputation for its affordability, and commitment to diversity, research, and real world experiences.
Program Features
Although the school only offers a handful of fully online programs, the degrees available to students are highly profitable, integrative, and in-demand.
Programs available to distance learning students include:
- Business (MBA)
- Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction
- Master of Arts in Education: Rehabilitation Counseling
- Master of Arts in Education: Special Education
- Nursing RN to BSN
Notables
Highlands University’s programs are affordable and self-paced. They allow students to advance by helping them to develop 21st century skills. As a result of small (15-35 student) class sizes, graduates have landed successful, high paying jobs at Nike, Microsoft, the Peace Crops, and Merrill-Lynch. The university has repeatedly been listed as one of the most affordable public universities in the country by U.S. News and World Report.
6
University of Phoenix-New Mexico
Overview
The University of Phoenix offers a range of degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. Programs are ideal for students just beginning their online education, or for those looking for continuing or terminal advancement. Each program is closely aligned with industry standards and customized to help each student make the most of his or her education.
Program Features
The University of Phoenix–New Mexico specializes in helping online students foster a love of learning. Although the university offers several non-education based programs, many of its most popular degree pathways focus on educating educators. Students don’t take “fluff” courses at The University of Phoenix; each class helps prepare students for a career outside of the classroom. Potential online bachelor degree options include:
- English
- Business
- Accounting
- Education
- Environmental Science
Notables
For students looking to advance their education, The University of Phoenix also offers online doctor and master degrees. Throughout the duration of any level of education at the university, students are matched with and taught by seasoned industry professionals to help them develop skills and pursue successful careers.
7
University of the Southwest
Overview
The University of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico was founded relatively recently, in 1962, yet already has a strong reputation as a leading online course provider. It was recently ranked as providing a Top Online Education Program and Top Online Business Program by U.S. News and World Report. Additionally, the university has a variety of programs designed to help military veterans make the transition from service to further education.
Program Features
The school is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of colleges and Schools and offers several fully online graduate and undergraduate degrees. Several popular degrees include:
- Psychology
- Business Administration (both B.A. and M.B.A. available)
- Criminal Justice
- Education (various concentrations; Masters of Science only)
Notables
The University of the Southwest is unique in that it is a private, four-year Christian university. Because it is built on such a strong foundation of Christian values and servant leadership, all programs are comprised of dedicated staff working to help each student reach his full potential. Community involvement and leadership are strong components of every program offered by the university, even those online.
8
National American University-Albuquerque
Overview
National American University operates three online colleges with a vast array of associate, bachelor, and master’s degree programs. These degrees are customized to suit individual students’ career plans and help them enter directly into the workforce.
Program Features
In addition to the standard-length programs offered by National American, they also offer intensive accelerated programs that enable a student to complete a bachelor’s degree in twelve to eighteen months. Major choices include:
- Aviation Management
- Business Administration (with various emphasis options available, such as Retail Management and Marketing)
- Construction Management
- Criminal Justice
- Emergency Medical Services
- Healthcare Management
- Information Technology
- Organization Leadership
In addition to these undergraduate programs and a large quantity of others not listed, National American offers multiple masters’ programs well.
Notables
National American was founded in 1941 with the goal of helping veterans obtain quality business training. They wanted to help veterans returning home from World War II to become quickly reestablished in the educational system. To this day, the university operates with the mission of helping working adults obtain a pathway to learning when it might not otherwise be possible. The university achieves this goal by providing access to high-quality, hands-on, and technologically-sound instruction at an affordable price and flexible pace.
