The College Consensus ranking of the Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts combines the results of the most respected college ranking systems with the averaged ratings of thousands of real student reviews from around the web to create a unique college meta-ranking. This approach offers a comprehensive and holistic perspective missing from other college rankings. Visit our about page for information on which rankings and review sites were included in this year’s consensus rankings.
The Best Online Colleges & Universities in Massachusetts category is limited to schools in Massachusetts offering at least three fully-online degree programs at any level. Schools that did not qualify for a Consensus Score were ranked by their Student Review score.
If you’re interested in traditional campus-based schools, check out our ranking of the Best Colleges in Massachusetts. You can also find out more about college financial aid with our list of the Top Massachusetts Scholarships.
Online Learning in Massachusetts
People from all walks of life benefit from online education. One example is working adults. Traditional college classes can take place at any time of day, usually during regular working hours. For adults with 9 to 5 jobs, these hours just don’t work for them. They need an option like a Massachusetts online school to get an education with flexible hours. Another example is people with children, such as stay-at-home moms. Children’s needs don’t fit into regular class schedules, either. For adults with jobs and children, Massachusetts online colleges may provide the only way to get an education while balancing all of the rest of life’s demands.
Some adults choose online colleges because they don’t feel comfortable fitting into the traditional college campus environment. Most students on a college campus will be in their late teens to early twenties. For those who have more life experience, these campuses can be daunting. An online degree is a great way to grow academically while maintaining a certain level of comfort, even for seniors who want a new challenge.
What Kinds of Degrees Can I Earn Online in Massachusetts?
You can earn all kinds of Massachusetts online degrees. When you look up your options, you’ll see that you have choices ranging from online associates programs to online doctorate programs. If you’re searching for something like online Masters programs in Massachusetts, you won’t be disappointed. You can also find certificate programs. Massachusetts has a highly competitive job market, so the more educated you become, the more you can compete. If you already have an Associates degree, for example, then getting a Bachelors online is an excellent idea. Getting an advanced degree can help you get raises and promotions within your career.
How Can I Save Money on an Online Degree in Massachusetts?
Anybody who has a good internet connection and enough self-motivation can benefit from Massachusetts online school. However, some people benefit more than others. For some, Masachusetts online colleges make the best choice because the traditional college format just doesn’t work for them. Online college provides the comfort and flexibility that these participants need to make the most of their educations. Some people choose online education to save money. In general, online education is less expensive than on-campus education. Online school gives these students a way to earn their degrees in the most cost effective way possible.
You have lots of options to help you save money on your degree. You can start by looking for the most cost-effective schools. Public universities generally offer lower tuition rates than private schools have, so paying for college is much less painful. That’s definitely important in a state like Massachusetts, where the cost of living is high. The UMass online tuition, for example, is far lower than that of most private universities in Massachusetts. You can also save money by starting your degree at a community college. Look for Massachusetts community colleges online. Even compared to other public schools, community colleges offer relatively low tuition rates. Once you’ve finished your Associate’s degree or finished your general education courses, you can move on to a Bachelors degree completion program from a four-year school.
Of course, you can also search for scholarships. Many online programs offer academic scholarships and need-based scholarships. A lot of schools also have specific scholarships for veterans. If you’re interested in a particular school, take some time to look up their scholarship opportunities.
Are There Online Public Universities in Massachusetts?
Even though New England is primarily known for its small liberal arts colleges, there are lots of online public universities in Massachusetts. They often get just as much recognition and respect as their private school equivalents, but they generally have lower tuition costs. Many of these public schools are in the University of Massachusetts system. Take UMass Lowell online, for example. UMass Lowell online has won several awards and recognitions. It offers lots of flexibility, resources, and options. This program isn’t limited to Associates or Bachelors degrees, either. Many people seek out US Lowell online when they want to earn an advanced degree.
There’s also UMass Amherst online, which is also in the University of Massachusetts system. Umass Amherst online has a program called “University Without Walls,” designed specifically for nontraditional students. UMass Amherst online degrees offer a wide range of options. However, they really shine when it comes to business and nursing degrees. This school makes a good choice for those who are interested in management, accounting, or healthcare.
By the way, when you want the cost-effectiveness of a public university but also want some of the benefits of a private school, choosing a school that’s a small part of a university system can give you the best of both worlds. On the one hand, you do get to save money on your education (and keep those student loans low). You also get all of the resources that come from attending a large school. However, when your education comes from a smaller campus, you often get the more personal feel of attending a private school. You’ll likely have small class sizes and the chance to get to know your educators.
Related Rankings:
Best Online Colleges & Universities
