Best Online Colleges in Michigan

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI

$16408

92%

The oldest institution of higher education in the state, the University of Michigan provides innovative and exceptional learning experiences through an array of online courses, credentials, and degrees. Online learners at U-M explore a variety of subjects, including applied data analytics, dental hygiene, energy systems engineering, and population and health sciences. Nine bachelor's and master's degrees are available entirely online in an asynchronous format, though some programs may require students to complete field experiences in their own communities. The same faculty who instruct on-campus students lead all online classes. The university's bachelor's in dental hygiene is a degree completion program, meaning prospective students must generally already hold an associate degree to apply. Admission requirements for graduate programs vary, but most require applicants to have a bachelor's degree and some professional experience in their field. Graduate applicants may also need to submit two letters of recommendation and GRE or GMAT scores.

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#2 University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI

$20904

62%

The University of Detroit Mercy hosts nine fully online master's programs in disciplines such as product development, nurse leadership, applied data analytics, and computer and information systems. Students can also pursue online post-baccalaureate and graduate certificates to develop additional skills in business turnaround and nursing education. Detroit Mercy has a faculty-to-student ratio of 15-to-1, and the university intentionally keeps online classes small in order to help students build relationships with their classmates and instructors. In addition, all online courses integrate both experiential learning opportunities and the values of faith, compassion, and justice that lie at the heart of a Jesuit education. Admission requirements vary across programs, but graduate applicants must have, at minimum, a bachelor's degree. Some programs may also require up to five years of professional experience in a relevant field. Prospective master's students must additionally submit at least one letter of recommendation and a personal statement.

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#3 Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor, MI

$18963

59%

Spring Arbor University currently offers 14 degrees fully online. Along with undergraduate programs in nursing and social work, the university awards online master's degrees in fields such as business administration, special education, and strategic communication and leadership. Additional programs in healthcare and business are also available in a hybrid format. Spring Arbor is a Christian university that aims to connect the world of knowledge to the world of faith. Undergraduate applicants must have a high school diploma and take either the ACT or SAT. Aspiring graduate students generally need a bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. They must also submit two letters of recommendation and a writing sample. Although the university does not currently provide institutional funding to graduate students, incoming undergraduates can apply for scholarships on the basis of academic achievement, transfer status, racial or cultural background, and financial need.

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#4 Northern Michigan University

Marquette, MI

$14005

49%

Learners at Northern Michigan University can select from more than two dozen fully online degrees in areas such as hospitality and tourism management, applied workplace leadership, higher education and student affairs, and ski area business management. In addition to the flexibility and convenience of distance education, NMU offers one of the lowest tuition rates in Michigan. Online minors and certificates allow students to further customize their learning experience at the university. For instance, undergraduates can prepare for specialized careers through supplemental coursework in loss prevention management or psychology, while students seeking of the university's master's degrees in education can concurrently pursue an endorsement in either learning disabilities or reading instruction. Applying to NMU as a first-year student requires a high school diploma with a GPA of 2.25 or higher. In addition, undergraduate applicants must receive a score of at least 19 on the ACT or at least 990 on the SAT. Graduate applicants must submit college transcripts, GRE or GMAT results, and letters of recommendation.

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#5 Walsh College

Troy, MI

$18480

45%

Walsh College launched its first virtual course in 1998. Today, the college offers nine fully online business-focused degrees, including a bachelor of business administration that students can personalize through add-on majors in finance and marketing. Graduate students can also customize their MBA experience, either through concentrations or by seeking a dual degree in human resources management or information technology leadership. Walsh makes business education as accessible as possible. For instance, the college does not require prospective graduate students to take the GMAT. Once admitted, students can enroll in classes throughout the year and advance through their coursework entirely at their own pace. The college's bachelor's degree completion programs require at least 60 transferable credits from another accredited institution. Undergraduate applicants must also maintain at least a 2.0 GPA in their prior coursework. Graduate programs require a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75, though the college may provisionally admit applicants who do not meet this requirement.

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#6 Grand Valley State University

Allendale, MI

$16175

65%

Each year, more than 24,000 students learn at Grand Valley State University, many in fully online degree and certificate programs. While the majority of the university's distance education offerings serve graduate students, GVSU offers one online bachelor's degree completion program in integrative studies with an emphasis in leadership. Online students who already hold an associate degree can earn a bachelor's through this program in as few as 19 months. Online classes at GVSU are not self-paced. Rather, students learn alongside a cohort of classmates and occasionally must participate in synchronous activities such as group projects or exam study sessions. Students can complete most coursework whenever is most convenient for them. To enter the bachelor's degree completion program, prospective students must have earned at least 60 credits at another accredited college or university. Graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0, along with three letters of recommendation. Prospective master's students who do not meet this GPA requirement may instead submit results from the GRE or GMAT.

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#7 Siena Heights University

Adrian, MI

$19317

43%

Siena Heights University currently enrolls roughly 800 online students from 36 states across the country. SHU's distance education programs are specifically designed for adult learners and allow students to either quickly complete a bachelor's degree or seek a master's in business administration, healthcare leadership, or higher education leadership. Enrolling in an online degree completion program at SHU typically requires an associate degree or at least 60 transferable credits from another accredited college or university. While online undergraduates may qualify for state and federal financial aid, the university only awards scholarships to on-campus students. Graduate admission requirements can vary considerably across programs. For example, students who hope to earn a master of science in nursing must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and at least one year of professional experience as a licensed nurse. To enter the MBA program, however, applicants can have a bachelor's degree in any field, and the university does not require the GMAT.

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#8 Northwood University-Michigan

Midland, MI

$24286

55%

With a mission to develop the future leaders of a free-enterprise society, Northwood University offers online master's degrees in business administration, finance, and organizational leadership. Adult learners can also earn a bachelor's in business administration at the university, with optional concentrations available in accounting, franchising management, and marketing. Both online and on-campus MBA students at Northwood may qualify for up to three scholarships worth $1,200 each. The Early Decision Scholarship provides aid to incoming students who submit their application at least three months prior to enrolling, while the GPA Scholarship offers support to students with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.25. Finally, the Leadership Scholarship is awarded based on volunteer and community service. To complete your bachelor's at Northwood, you must already hold an associate degree. All graduate applicants must participate in an admissions interview, and those with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or lower must also submit a writing sample. The school does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

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#9 Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI

$15219

51%

More than 90% of Western Michigan University graduates find work or enroll in graduate school within just three months of earning their degree. Equipped with the training they receive in fully online programs, WMU students go on to work in fields such as aviation management and operations, interdisciplinary health services, information security, and workforce education and development. The university provides online bachelor's and master's degrees, along with nine graduate certificates in applied hydrogeology, gerontology, and kinship care. Regardless of their program, all online learners can remotely work with career development advisors, book Skype appointments with the university's writing center, and review a library of academic success resources. Applicants to a bachelor's program at WMU must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and typically must also take either the GRE or GMAT. All admitted students receive automatic consideration for merit- and need-based financial aid.

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#10 Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI

$16684

79%

In addition to more than 100 individual online courses, Michigan State University offers fully online bachelor's and master's degrees in biomedical laboratory operations, electrical and computer engineering, adult and lifelong education, and youth development. The university also hosts hybrid doctoral programs in education and nursing. Students in most programs can watch lectures, collaborate with their classmates, and complete assignments entirely on their own schedule. However, some classes may require live participation in lab work or exams. Online students can access all of the same resources available to on-campus learners, including the university's Spartan Success internship and mentorship program. First-year applicants must have a high school or GED diploma and submit either ACT or SAT scores. While MSU does not set strict academic requirements for admission, the average incoming student has a high school GPA between 3.5 and 4.0 and an ACT score between 23 and 29 or an SAT score between 1130 and 1310.

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#11 Baker College

Flint, MI

$12983

13%

Baker College makes dozens of its associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees available online to serve the needs of working professionals. Programs of study open to online learners include business intelligence, cloud security risk management, game software development, and industrial and organizational psychology. While online students can complete all of their coursework at a distance on their own schedule, online classes at the college are not self-paced. Students regularly engage with their classmates and instructors in order to explore new perspectives, hone interpersonal and group facilitation skills, and grow their professional network. Online students may also complete some of their coursework at one of the college's 11 locations across Michigan. Undergraduate applicants must have a high school or GED diploma. Although the school does not explicitly require ACT and SAT scores for admission, prospective students must demonstrate their readiness for postsecondary study through exam scores, prior college experience, or academic success in high school.

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#12 Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI

$13123

46%

For most online programs at Oakland University, students pay the equivalent of in-state tuition no matter where they live. To help further reduce the cost of continuing your education, the university also awards scholarships to incoming students who excelled academically, graduated from a public high school in Michigan, or served in the armed forces. Oakland hosts an online bachelor's degree completion program for registered nurses and a full online undergraduate program in environmental health and safety. Distance learners may also pursue master's and doctoral degrees in reading and language arts instruction, engineering management, and nursing practice. While the university's degree completion program requires at least 60 transferable college credits and a nursing license, applicants to the environmental health bachelor's program need only a high school diploma with a GPA of 3.2 or higher and satisfactory scores on either the ACT or SAT. Graduate applicants must have a bachelor's degree, and some programs also require relevant professional experience.

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#13 Cornerstone University

Grand Rapids, MI

$20475

53%

Cornerstone University, a Christian institution located in Grand Rapids, provides online degrees in business, education, human services, and ministry. Students can begin their postsecondary studies by choosing from two online associate degrees or develop additional expertise in their field through online master's, doctoral, and graduate certificate programs. The university also offers individual online courses for students who want to examine a specific topic without formally applying to a program. Online courses at Cornerstone cover subjects such as Old and New Testament studies, coping with grief and loss, and natural resources management. Current educators can also take single courses in instructional strategies and education leadership to meet their professional development requirements. Applying to the university as an undergraduate requires a high school diploma with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applicants must also receive a score of at least 19 on the ACT, at least 1000 on the SAT, or at least 64 on the Classic Learning Test.

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#14 Schoolcraft College

Livonia, MI

$7704

17%

Schoolcraft College works exclusively with students seeking an associate degree. Some programs are designed to lead directly to employment, while others cater to learners who hope to transfer their credits to a four-year college or university. Fully online programs of study at the college include small business administration, computer and information systems, and fire and emergency services. Additional degrees in business information technology, cosmetology management, and homeland security feature minimal on-campus requirements. Most online courses at Schoolcraft are self-paced and allow students to complete assignments and take exams whenever they feel ready. Students can also enter and exit many online classes on their own schedule, without needing to wait for a designated enrollment period. Schoolcraft operates under an open admission policy, meaning it admits all students regardless of their prior academic achievement. Applicants must submit high school or GED transcripts, and those who have not taken either the ACT or SAT may need to sit for a placement exam.

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#15 Henry Ford College

Dearborn, MI

$3469

A public community college in Dearborn, Henry Ford College primarily administers associate and workforce development programs, though online students may also pursue a bachelor of science in the culinary arts. Additional online programs prepare learners to enter or advance in professional fields such as automotive service management, fitness leadership, graphic design, and supply chain management. The nature of the online experience at HFC depends on the course you choose to take. Some instructors require students to synchronously participate in class discussions, while others post recordings of their lectures online and ask students to reply on their own schedule. Online classes follow the same schedule as those offered on campus, and all students must meet the same assignment deadlines. Incoming students must have a high school or GED diploma. They must also take a course placement exam before registering for classes, though the college waives this requirement for students who have taken either the ACT or SAT.

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#16 Concordia University-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI

$25137

26%

Founded in 1962 and affiliated with the Lutheran Church, Concordia University Ann Arbor offers online and accredited degrees in accounting, communications and public relations, nonprofit management and leadership, and sustainability management and analytics. Online students at the university may also earn a graduate certificate to demonstrate expertise in fields such as risk management or sports and entertainment businesses. The university's Uncommon Scholarship program provides financial support specifically to adult and online learners. These scholarships -- ranging in value from $150 to $500 per three-credit course -- are open to employees of certain corporate, school, and church partners, as well as Concordia alumni. Admission to a bachelor's program at the university requires a high school GPA of at least 2.5 and either an ACT score of at least 19 or an SAT score of at least 940. Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Concordia does not require prospective master's students to take the GRE or GMAT.

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#17 Madonna University

Livonia, MI

$16524

69%

Online students at Madonna University can choose from 30 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in fields such as accountancy, criminal justice leadership and intelligence, higher education administration, and nursing home management. The university also offers a fully online associate degree in general studies for students who want to quickly prepare for entry-level jobs or begin working toward the requirements of a four-year undergraduate program. Founded in 1937 by the Felician Sisters, Madonna provides a liberal arts education informed by the values of faith and service. Each year, students at the university spend roughly 27,000 hours volunteering in Michigan and around the world. To apply to Madonna as an undergraduate, you must have a high school diploma with a GPA of at least 2.8. In addition, prospective first-year students must receive a composite score of at least 18 on the ACT or at least 960 on the SAT. All admitted students receive automatic consideration for a variety of merit-based scholarships, and Madonna provides aid specifically to graduates of Catholic high schools.

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#18 Wayne State University

Detroit, MI

$13287

47%

Online undergraduate programs at Wayne State University prepare students for careers in social work and mortuary science. The university also awards fully online master's degrees in sports administration, theater and dance, library and information science, and criminal justice. All online coursework at Wayne State can be completed at a distance and asynchronously, though students may need to take proctored exams at a testing site in their area. Through the university's Discover Detroit Scholarship, out-of-state students can qualify for the equivalent of in-state tuition if they have a high school GPA of at least 3.5 and an ACT score of at least 24 or an SAT score of at least 1160. Wayne State also provides aid to community college students with at least 24 transferable credits and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Undergraduate applicants must submit high school transcripts and entrance exam scores. Prospective graduate students need a bachelor's degree, along with results from either the GRE or GMAT.

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#19 Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI

$14675

58%

Central Michigan University offers more than 30 fully online degrees in fields such as fashion merchandising and design, public and nonprofit administration, entrepreneurial ventures, and nutrition and dietetics. Online classes run for eight, 12, and 16 weeks, giving students the option to quickly advance through a program or deeply explore a particular subject. Online learners enjoy a wealth of support services at CMU. For instance, the university's Online Ally program pairs students with peer mentors who help them develop time management skills, try out new study tactics, and connect with other academic resources. Online students can also remotely access writing assistance, math tutoring, and career counseling services. The university takes a holistic approach to admissions, looking at transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, recommendations, and community service activities. The average admitted undergraduate student has a high school GPA of 3.41, an ACT score of 23, and an SAT score of 1103. Personal essays are encouraged but not required.

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#20 University of Michigan-Flint

Flint, MI

$10906

44%

University of Michigan-Flint was founded in 1956 to bring high-quality educational opportunities to the residents of Flint and the surrounding area. Today, students around the world can learn at the university through 20 fully online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in healthcare administration, substance use treatment and intervention, inclusive education, and computer science and information systems. Nine additional degrees at UM-Flint are available in a hybrid format, requiring visits to campus every four to six weeks. Online students at the university receive 24/7 technical support, as well as tutoring, academic advising, financial aid counseling, and research assistance through the university library. All online instructors at UM-Flint also receive specialized training in leading distance education courses. Applying to the university as an undergraduate requires a high school diploma with a GPA of at least 2.7 or a GED with a minimum score of 170. Applicants must also receive a score of at least 17 on the ACT or 920 on the SAT.

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#21 Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, MI

$14090

40%

Founded in 1849 as a teachers college, Eastern Michigan University now hosts over 350 undergraduate and graduate programs in diverse fields of study. More than 20 degrees and certificates at the university can be completed entirely online, giving students a flexible education to prepare for careers in information assurance and cyber defense, technology management, early childhood education, and quality management. Regardless of their location, online students at EMU pay the same tuition and fees as Michigan residents. Online learners can also apply for a host of institutional scholarships, including multiple awards for transfer students who have excelled academically in their prior college-level courses. First-year applicants must share their high school transcripts and results from either the ACT or SAT. EMU does not set minimum requirements for admission, though the average incoming freshman has a high school GPA of 3.28, an ACT score of 22, and an SAT score of 1100.

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#22 Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI

$17139

67%

Online and fully accredited programs at Michigan Technological University prepare graduates for careers in electric power engineering, health informatics, applied science education, and integrated geospatial technology. The university also boasts a faculty-to-student ratio of just 12-to-1, ensuring that all learners receive personalized attention and support to succeed. Michigan Tech offers both online undergraduate and graduate degrees, along with a variety of professional certificates. Additionally, 4+1 programs give students the option to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in just five years. Students on these accelerated tracks must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0, and they do not need to take the GRE. To apply to a standard undergraduate program at the university, you will need a high school or GED diploma. While all applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores, Michigan Tech does not set minimum requirements for these entrance exams. Nearly 90% of students admitted to the university receive some form of financial aid.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in Michigan?

Some of the best online colleges in Michigan include the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Western Michigan University, Central Michigan University, and Oakland University.

2. Are online degrees from Michigan colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable Michigan colleges are generally respected by employers. It is important to choose an accredited institution and ensure the program aligns with your career goals.

3. How do I choose the right online college in Michigan?

When choosing an online college in Michigan, consider factors such as accreditation, program offerings, faculty qualifications, student support services, and tuition costs. It is also helpful to read reviews and speak with current or former students.

4. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to an online college in Michigan?

Many online colleges in Michigan accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the specific transfer policies may vary, so it is important to check with the college you are interested in to understand their requirements.

5. Are online courses in Michigan colleges self-paced?

Online courses in Michigan colleges can vary in terms of pace. Some courses may be self-paced, allowing students to complete assignments and exams at their own convenience, while others may have specific deadlines and structured schedules.

6. How much does it cost to earn an online degree from a Michigan college?

The cost of earning an online degree from a Michigan college can vary depending on the institution and program. Tuition rates may differ for in-state and out-of-state students. Additionally, factors such as financial aid, scholarships, and the number of credits taken per semester can affect the overall cost.

7. Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available for online students in Michigan?

Yes, many online colleges in Michigan offer scholarships and financial aid options for eligible students. It is recommended to explore the financial aid resources provided by the specific college you are interested in and complete the necessary applications.

8. Can I receive the same support services as on-campus students while studying online in Michigan?

Online students in Michigan often have access to similar support services as on-campus students. These may include academic advising, career counseling, library resources, technical support, and online tutoring services.

9. Are online degrees from Michigan colleges as rigorous as traditional on-campus degrees?

Online degrees from reputable Michigan colleges are designed to be just as rigorous as traditional on-campus degrees. The curriculum and learning outcomes are often the same, and online students are expected to meet the same academic standards as their on-campus counterparts.

10. Can I pursue a graduate degree online from a Michigan college?

Yes, many Michigan colleges offer online graduate degree programs. These programs provide flexibility for working professionals or individuals who prefer the convenience of online learning while pursuing advanced degrees.