Best Online Colleges with High Acceptance Rates
For busy adults looking to earn a degree, online education is more popular than ever. The payoff to pursuing higher education is clear: bachelor’s degree holders earn about 68% more per week than those with only a high school diploma, and virtual learning makes this career advancement all the more convenient.
This STEPS student guide highlights 25 accredited U.S. colleges with online bachelor’s programs and high acceptance rates. Advance your education and career with confidence by finding out about these schools and answers to common student FAQ.
Student FAQs About Colleges with High Acceptance Rates
Are online degrees accredited and respected by employers?
Yes — all the colleges listed are accredited institutions (either regionally accredited or equivalent), meaning their online degrees meet rigorous academic standards. Employers generally recognize and respect degrees from accredited schools, whether earned online or on campus. In fact, your diploma usually won’t state “online.” Just be sure to verify a school’s accreditation (you can check the U.S. Department of Education accreditation resources) to ensure your degree will be valued.
Does a high acceptance rate mean the college is “low quality”?
Not at all, since a high acceptance rate simply means the school admits a large percentage of applicants (often because they have a mission of access or larger class capacities). These colleges still uphold academic standards and quality instruction. Many are reputable public universities or well-established private colleges. The coursework and degree requirements are comparable to other schools. High acceptance colleges give more students (including those with non-traditional backgrounds or lower GPAs) a chance to succeed in college.
Can I transfer credits or an associate degree to finish my bachelor’s online?
Yes; in most cases, the majority of these online programs allow you to — even transfer online college credits. They often accept credits from community colleges, CLEP exams, prior college coursework, or even credit for work experience/military training. For example, some schools allow up to 90 transfer credits toward a 120-credit bachelor’s degree. If you already have an associate degree, you can usually enter as a junior. Be sure to request an official transfer evaluation — an academic advisor will help maximize your credit transfer so you can finish your degree faster.
How do online classes work for working adults — will I have to log in at specific times?
Online programs are designed to be flexible for busy adults. Most courses are asynchronous, meaning you do not have to attend live at set times. Instead, you’ll typically have weekly modules with lectures (recorded video or readings), discussion boards, and assignments or quizzes that you can do on your own schedule (e.g. evenings or weekends). Some classes might have occasional live webinars or group project meetings, but these are usually scheduled with student availability in mind. Overall, you can expect to spend 10–15 hours per week, per course, and you can log in whenever it suits your work and family schedule.
Do online students qualify for financial aid and student support services?
Yes; as an online student at these colleges, you are generally eligible for the same financial aid as campus students — including federal Pell Grants, loans, scholarships, and sometimes state aid (check residency rules). Each school’s financial aid office can assist online learners with the FAFSA and finding aid. Additionally, you’ll have access to support services like academic advising, tutoring, library resources, tech support, and career services. Many online programs even have dedicated success coaches. Be sure to take advantage of these resources — they’re there to help you graduate and advance your career just as an on-campus student would.
Top 25 Online Colleges with High Acceptance Rates (U.S.)
Choosing the right college can be overwhelming, especially if you’re balancing work, family, or a career shift. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the top accredited U.S. colleges with high acceptance rates and fully online public service degrees. Whether you’re aiming for a degree in criminal justice, an emergency management program, or a public administration degree, this list highlights schools that are designed with flexibility and affordability in mind.
To help you find the best fit, we focused on regionally accredited colleges offering at least one online bachelor’s degree in a public service field, along with a high acceptance rate (typically 80% or higher). We pulled all acceptance rates from the IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) and verified programs and tuition details directly from each school’s official website.
Below, you’ll find 25 colleges that stand out for their flexible learning formats, career-relevant public service degrees, and student-first approach to online education.
1 Arizona State University (ASU Online)
ASU Online is a highly flexible learning platform that brings Arizona State University’s innovative education to you. The university emphasizes interactive classes led by the same faculty as on campus, ensuring quality and engagement. You’ll find a supportive environment with success coaches and tech resources that make it easy to balance studies with life’s demands. ASU’s online programs are designed for working adults, offering multiple start dates and a rich digital campus experience.
Acceptance Rate: ~90%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 180+ undergraduate programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Public Service & Public Policy (various emphases)
- Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)
- B.A. in Community Advocacy & Social Policy
Average Cost: ~$570 per credit (ASU Online tuition)
2 University of Arizona (Arizona Online)
University of Arizona Online delivers a student-centered education with the flexibility to study anywhere. UA’s online programs mirror their on-campus quality, taught by the same faculty who are experts in fields like criminal justice, public policy and human services. The platform is designed to fit your schedule, with asynchronous courses and personalized support from enrollment through graduation. Students praise the accessible faculty and helpful advisors who keep them on track. Arizona Online prides itself on affordable tuition with no out-of-state surcharge, making a top-ranked UA degree attainable and geared toward your success and career advancement.
Acceptance Rate: ~85%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 50+ undergraduate degrees online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice Studies
- B.A.S. in Justice & Global Security
- B.A.S. in Human Services
- B.S. in Public Management & Policy (Public Administration)
- B.S.W. — Bachelor of Social Work
Average Cost: ~$525 per credit (Undergraduate Online)
3 University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
UMGC is a pioneer in online education, offering career-focused degrees with maximum flexibility. As a regionally accredited public university built for working adults, UMGC has an open admissions policy welcoming all qualified learners. Classes start monthly, and you can study at your own pace in a convenient 100% online format. UMGC provides strong support for online students — from tutoring to library services. With 30+ bachelor’s programs available (e.g. cybersecurity, homeland security, criminal justice, etc.), you can advance in public service fields on a schedule that fits your life. Affordable tuition and generous transfer credit policies further enhance accessibility at UMGC.
Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admission)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 30+ undergraduate degrees
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Homeland Security
- B.S. in Public Safety Administration (Emergency Management)
- B.S. in Legal Studies
- B.S. in Human Services
Average Cost: ~$312 per credit (in-state undergraduate)
4 Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU is known for its extremely flexible online programs and friendly support. The university allows you study on your terms — there are no set class times, so you log in when it works for you. The tone is personal and encouraging: advisors and faculty routinely check in to help you succeed. SNHU’s tuition is among the lowest nationwide. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or military service, SNHU’s accessible online format and comprehensive student support make finishing your public service degree achievable and rewarding.
Acceptance Rate: 96%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 150+ programs fully online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Human Services
- B.S. in Business Administration — Public Administration Concentration
- B.A. in Political Science (Government)
- B.S. in Justice Studies (Crime & Criminology)
Average Cost: $330 per credit (approx. $9,900/year)
5 Liberty University (Liberty Online)
Liberty University’s online programs combine a flexible virtual classroom with a Christian ethos and strong student support. Courses are mostly asynchronous, so you can attend class around your schedule. Liberty’s tuition has been frozen for several years and remains affordable. Students have access to resources such as tutoring, writing help, and a dedicated online advising team. If you’re looking for an accessible, values-based education that accommodates working adults, Liberty’s online platform is built to help you succeed academically and professionally.
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 130+ programs fully online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice — Homeland Security Concentration
- B.S. in Public Administration
- B.S. in Fire Administration
- B.S.W. — Bachelor of Social Work
- B.S. in Government — Public Policy
Average Cost: $390 per credit
6 Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global is Purdue’s accredited online branch tailored for adult learners. Coursework is designed to be interactive and applicable, often taught by practitioners. Purdue Global has a relatively open admissions policy, and the student support is hands-on: advisors help map out your plan, and professors are accessible virtually. With multiple start dates and an array of public service degrees, Purdue Global provides a convenient path to a respected degree, backed by Purdue’s commitment to quality.
Acceptance Rate: Essentially open; high acceptance for qualified applicants
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~30 undergraduate programs online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Public Administration
- B.S. in Fire and Emergency Management
- B.S. in Human Services
Average Cost: ~$371 per credit (varies by program)
7 American Public University System — AMU/APU
APUS, which includes American Military University and American Public University, specializes in flexible online education for service-minded adults. This regionally accredited system is known for serving military and public service professionals. The classes are asynchronous and designed for mobile-friendly learning, ideal for deployed service members or busy first responders. Most applicants with a high school diploma are accepted, and tuition is very affordable with generous military tuition discounts. APUS’s supportive online community and career-relevant programs make it a top choice for those pursuing public service careers via a convenient online format.
Acceptance Rate: Open Enrollment (~100%)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~45 undergraduate programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.A. in Criminal Justice
- B.A. in Homeland Security
- B.A. in Emergency and Disaster Management
- B.A. in Intelligence Studies
- B.S. in Security Management
Average Cost: $350 per credit
8 Sam Houston State University (SHSU Online)
Sam Houston State University, a Texas state institution, extends its renowned Criminal Justice and public service programs through SHSU Online. You’ll experience the same curriculum as on campus, but with the flexibility of fully online courses. Courses are typically semester-based but delivered asynchronously to fit your schedule. SHSU provides robust student support (online tutoring, academic advising, career services) in a personable, small-school way.
Acceptance Rate: ~95%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~20 programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Homeland Security Studies
- B.A.A.S. in Criminal Justice (for AAS holders)
- B.S. in Victim Studies
Average Cost: ~$244 per credit (Texas resident undergraduate)
9 Old Dominion University (ODU Online)
Old Dominion University’s ODUGlobal programs deliver a proven online learning experience with the resources of a large public research university. ODU has been educating distance learners for decades. In its online curricula, you’ll engage with professors in live-streamed or recorded lectures and collaborate with classmates via forums and web conferencing. The format offers flexibility plus some real-time interaction. Students can take advantage of many support services such as e-tutoring, writing labs, and dedicated academic advisors familiar with online students’ needs to help bolster your success during your studies.
Acceptance Rate: ~95%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 30+ undergraduate programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Cybercrime (Cybersecurity — Criminal Justice)
- B.S. in Human Services
- B.S. in Leadership (with public sector focus)
Average Cost: $360 per credit (in-state online undergrad)
10 Lamar University (LU Online)
Lamar University, part of the Texas State University System, offers a variety of online bachelor’s programs with an emphasis on flexibility and speedy completion. Many programs are delivered in accelerated 5- or 8-week course formats, allowing you to focus on one or two classes at a time and still move quickly. Lamar’s online classes feature engaging content and faculty feedback, all accessible through a convenient online portal. Students frequently mention the helpfulness of Lamar’s enrollment counselors and the ease of credit transfer.
Acceptance Rate: ~84%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~10+ programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Sociology
- B.A.A.S. in Applied Arts and Sciences (with public service focus)
- B.S. in Communication (Public Relations)
Average Cost: $248 per credit (Texas resident online)
11 University of North Dakota (UND Online)
The University of North Dakota offers a robust online learning experience, combining the convenience of anytime coursework with the community feel of a traditional campus. UND Online’s bachelor’s programs are taught by UND faculty and often include interactive elements like video lectures and discussion groups. Students appreciate the tight-knit feel and responsive professors. In-state tuition is extended to online learners in many cases, keeping costs reasonable.
Acceptance Rate: ~87%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~15 programs fully online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice Studies
- B.S. in Social Work (BSW) — Online option
- B.S. in Public Affairs (Emergency Management)
- B.S. in Political Science
Average Cost: ~$384.88 per credit (online undergrad)
12 University of Maine at Augusta (UMA Online)
As a state university, UMA combines affordability with a personal touch — classes are often small, and faculty are praised for being attentive to online students. UMA offers unique public service programs online, preparing students for government and nonprofit careers. The structure is flexible with mostly asynchronous formats, and UMA has decades of experience in distance learning, meaning the online platform is reliable and easy to use.
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions (100% for qualified Maine residents; very high for others)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 28 fully online programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Justice Studies
- B.S. in Public Administration
- B.A. in Mental Health & Human Services
- B.S. in Cybersecurity (public sector focus)
Average Cost: $260 per credit (in-state online); $390 per credit (out-of-state online)
13 Columbia College (Missouri) — Columbia College Global
Columbia College is a private nonprofit institution in Missouri. Columbia College’s online classes are typically 8 weeks long, allowing you to accelerate your studies. Students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio, even online, ensuring you get to know your instructors. The college is very transfer-friendly for those bringing credit from community college or military training. With flat tuition rates (no out-of-state upcharge) and a history of serving adult learners and military personnel, Columbia College Global provides a flexible and friendly online route to advance in public service careers.
Acceptance Rate: ~97%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 70+ programs online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.A. in Criminal Justice Administration
- B.A. in Human Services
- B.A. in Political Science (Public Affairs)
- B.A. in Public Administration
Average Cost: $375 per credit (undergrad online)
14 Thomas Edison State University (TESU)
TESU is a New Jersey public university known for its generous credit transfer and credit-by-exam options, which can significantly speed up your degree. The university has an open admission policy for adults 21 and older. Courses are asynchronous and start monthly in many cases. You’ll find TESU’s support services — from advising to online library access — are tailored to busy adults. If you have prior college, military, or professional credits, TESU can turn that experience into a respected bachelor’s degree in public service fields, all through a convenient online format.
Acceptance Rate: Open (adult learners are admitted with minimal barriers)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 100+ areas of study
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.A. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Homeland Security and Emergency Mgmt.
- B.S. in Human Services
- B.A. in Liberal Studies (Public Service Administration concentration)
Average Cost: $399 per credit (undergrad in-state); $519 per credit out-of-state
15 Excelsior University
Excelsior University (formerly Excelsior College) is a regionally accredited online institution focused on adult degree completion. Excelsior’s flexible transfer policies and multiple credit options (exam credit, portfolio assessment) make it ideal for those with prior learning. The university has affordable tuition scaled for part-time study, and courses are 8-weeks long, where you can take sessions year-round to move at your own pace. Excelsior University offers 24/7 tech support and faculty who understand the challenges of balancing school with work.
Acceptance Rate: Open Enrollment (accepts most applicants)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~40 programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in National Security (Homeland Security focus)
- B.S. in Health Sciences (Public Health focus)
- B.S. in Public Service (Customized via Liberal Arts)
Average Cost: $410 per credit (standard undergrad rate)
16 Troy University (TROY Online)
Troy University offers its strong programs in a flexible online format known as TROY Online. With five 9-week terms per year, Troy enables you to accelerate your studies and many students take classes year-round. Troy’s online courses often incorporate discussion boards and project-based learning, fostering a sense of community even from afar. The university’s heritage of serving military students means online support is top-notch, including a dedicated help desk and success coaches. Tuition is competitively priced and locked-in once you enroll.
Acceptance Rate: ~91%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 15+ programs online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice (Digital Forensics concentration available)
- B.S. in Political Science — Public Administration
- B.A.S. in Resource and Technology Management (Public sector leadership)
- B.S. in Psychology (Social Services focus)
Average Cost: $338 per credit (undergrad online)
17 University of Memphis (UofM Global)
UofM Global is the University of Memphis’s online division, bringing dozens of the university’s degree programs to students everywhere. Students will learn from the same professors and curriculum as on-campus students, but with the flexibility of online study. Classes follow a regular semester schedule with weekly deadlines, which helps many students stay on track. The university’s support system is extensive: online success coaches, virtual library access, and career services are all available.
Acceptance Rate: ~81%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 39 undergraduate programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.A. in Criminal Justice
- B.P.S. in Public Administration (Professional Studies)
- B.P.S. in Fire Administration (Professional Studies)
- B.A. in Liberal Studies (Government and Public Policy focus)
Average Cost: ~$16,400 per year for full-time undergraduate (approx. $450/credit)
18 Georgia Southern University (GS Online)
If you want a true public university experience — complete with school spirit and alumni network — in an online package, Georgia Southern University is a fantastic option to consider for your public service degree. Georgia Southern’s online courses are conducted in synchronous and asynchronous formats; some classes may have live webinars, while others are self-paced weekly. Students highlight the helpfulness of professors and the ease of interaction through the online learning system.
Acceptance Rate: ~91%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~10 programs fully online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice and Criminology
- B.I.S. in BIS — Public Administration or Public Health concentrations
- B.S. in International Studies (fully online option)
- B.A. in Political Science (some coursework online)
Average Cost: $182 per credit (undergrad online, in-state)
19 West Texas A&M University (WTAMU Online)
WTAMU, located in Canyon, Texas, brings its friendly, regional university feel to students online. Courses are typically 8-week accelerated sessions, allowing full-time working students to focus on fewer subjects at a time. WTAMU has a unique flat tuition rate for 100% online students that often undercuts standard non-resident pricing. As part of the Texas A&M system, WTAMU is respected and has solid support in terms of advising and career placement. It’s an excellent choice if you seek a cost-effective, fast-paced online education in criminal justice or public administration with a personal touch.
Acceptance Rate: ~96%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 40+ programs online
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.A.A.S. in Emergency Management Administration
- B.S. in Health Sciences (Public Health)
- B.B.A. in Law and Economics (pre-law public sector)
Average Cost: ~$300 per credit (undergrad online flat rate)
20 Colorado State University Global (CSU Global)
A 100% online state university, CSU Global is part of the Colorado State system created specifically for adult learners. Courses start every four weeks, so you don’t have to wait long to begin. CSU Global uses an interactive online platform with no set class times; weekly modules guide your progress, and instructors provide regular feedback on assignments. The university prides itself on affordable tuition that won’t increase once you enroll. CSU Global, you’ll find a career-centered approach — many programs integrate industry certifications — along with robust support like tutoring and a 24/7 helpdesk.
Acceptance Rate: ~96%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 15 programs (all online)
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Human Services
- B.S. in Healthcare Administration and Management
- B.S. in Project Management (Public Sector focus option)
Average Cost: $350 per credit
21 Franklin University
Franklin University is a private, nonprofit school in Ohio that has specialized in adult education for over 115 years. Franklin’s online programs are extremely transfer-friendly and flexible — perfect if you’re working full-time. Courses are offered in 6, 12, or 15-week formats, giving you options in how fast you progress. Franklin’s support structure is notably strong: each student gets an academic advisor, and there’s 24/7 tutoring. The tone of instruction is practical, often with real-world projects you can apply at work.
Acceptance Rate: ~100%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 30+ programs (fully online)
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration
- B.S. in Public Safety Management & Leadership
- B.S. in Emergency Management & Homeland Security (through Interdisciplinary Studies)
- B.S. in Social Sciences (Government focus)
Average Cost: $398 per credit
22 University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB Online)
UT Permian Basin, a member of the UT System, offers several accelerated online programs that cater to working adults. Courses are just 7 weeks long, and with multiple start dates, you could complete a full semester’s load in a fraction of the time. For example, UTPB’s online B.S. in Criminal Justice can be finished in as little as 12 months if you transfer credits and go full throttle. The online classes are rigorous yet manageable, with faculty providing timely feedback. Once admitted, you’ll pay one of the lowest tuition rates in the country for a university — they’re known for affordability. Resources like online tutoring, success coaches, and an extensive digital library ensure you never feel like you’re on your own.
Acceptance Rate: ~90%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: ~10 programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.A.A.S. in Industrial Technology (with safety management)
- B.S. in Psychology (for human services careers)
- B.A. in Humanities (Administration emphasis)
Average Cost: $297 per credit (flat undergraduate online rate)
23 Western Kentucky University (WKU Online)
WKU Online offers courses that are engaging, and many are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus in Bowling Green. WKU’s online platform is user-friendly and includes interactive elements like video lectures and group discussions to keep you connected. Online students benefit from in-state tuition rates regardless of residency. Academic advisors experienced with online adult learners will help map out your coursework term by term. If you need flexibility but still want the resources of a large public university — including career services and a broad alumni network — WKU Online is a strong contender to achieve your bachelor’s in a public service field.
Acceptance Rate: ~98%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 80+ online options (incl. concentrations)
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.A. or B.S. in Criminology
- B.P.S. in Organizational Leadership (Community & Nonprofit Leadership track)
- B.S. in Sociology (online option)
- B.S. in Workforce Administration (Public Sector concentration)
Average Cost: $385 per credit (undergrad online)
24 Grand Canyon University (GCU Online)
Grand Canyon University offers a faith-based, student-centric approach to online learning. GCU Classes are typically 7 or 8 weeks long, one course at a time, which many students find very manageable. Instructors integrate Christian worldview discussions with practical curriculum, especially in service-oriented fields. GCU’s enrollment process is fast with dedicated counselors to guide you. Online students at GCU have access to a wealth of resources — library services, tutoring, and career counseling — similar to on-campus students. The tuition is competitive for a private university, and GCU has not raised campus tuition in a decade.
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 100+ (includes all majors, many formats)
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Justice Studies
- B.A. in Government — Legal Studies or State & Local Public Policy
- B.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management
- B.S. in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Average Cost: $477 per credit (online undergrad)
25 Bellevue University
Bellevue University is a private, non-profit institution in Nebraska known for its focus on adult learners and online education. Courses are typically 6 weeks long and taken one at a time in Bellevue’s accelerated cohort format, meaning you progress through your program with a group of peers for support. This structure, plus extensive support services (24/7 tutoring, librarian chat, academic advising), helps Bellevue’s online students stay motivated and graduate at high rates. For cost, Bellevue offers a flat tuition for online undergrads and even a tuition guarantee that locks your rate.
Acceptance Rate: ~100% (open admission policy)
Number of Online Bachelor’s Programs: 50+ programs
Featured Online Public Service Degrees:
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Intelligence and Security Studies
- B.S. in Cybersecurity (for public sector cyber roles)
- B.S. in Emergency Management
- B.S. in Behavioral Science (Community Health)
Average Cost: $459 per credit