Best Online Colleges in Utah

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 Utah

Salt Lake City, UT

$12363

67%

Serving nearly 30,000 students each year through a rich array of high-quality programs, the University of Utah tops our ranking of the best online schools in the state. Fully asynchronous courses at the university allow students to learn on their own schedule. Distance learners can earn either a bachelor's or master's degree in fields such as biomedical informatics, business administration, electrical and computer engineering, and nursing. All students at the U, regardless of how they study, enjoy free access to online tutoring in a wide variety of subject areas. The university also provides personalized writing and research assistance, 24/7 technical support, and career and mental health counseling services. In addition, student success advocates can help learners hone study and time management skills and connect students to additional resources available at the university. To apply to an undergraduate program, prospective learners must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Admission requirements vary across graduate programs, though most require a bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA.

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#2 Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

$6500

38%

Western Governors University was founded in 1997 to meet the unique needs of online learners. Today, the university offers dozens of fully online and accredited degrees, preparing graduates for diverse careers in business, teaching, information technology, and healthcare. Online programs at WGU are competency-based, which means students can advance through their coursework as soon as they demonstrate mastery of core concepts and skills. This self-paced style of learning -- combined with the university's generous credit transfer policies -- allow students to earn their degree faster. In addition, programs begin once every month, giving learners the flexibility to schedule their learning around busy periods at home or work. Undergraduate applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, though WGU does not require ACT or SAT scores. Some bachelor's programs, however, may require incoming students to take a collegiate readiness assessment. Applicants who do not pass this exam may need to enroll in a developmental writing course prior to entering a program.

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#3 Westminster College

Salt Lake City, UT

$23608

62%

Westminster College administers four online programs: a four-year bachelor's in business administration, a bachelor's completion program for registered nurses, and master's degrees in business administration and strategic communication. The college pairs all of its online students with a faculty mentor who helps them select courses, identify experiential learning opportunities, and explore various career paths. Online learning at Westminster is competency-based, and students must complete a series of projects to graduate. Business administration undergraduates, for example, may develop a business plan, deal with hypothetical ethical dilemmas, and conduct a financial analysis of an existing company. Because students work independently on these projects, they can move through their required sequence at their own pace. Applying to the business administration bachelor's program requires a high school diploma, a personal essay, and one letter of recommendation. Nursing students must hold an associate degree and a current license. Graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA.

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#4 Southern Utah University

Cedar City, UT

$14451

47%

Online students at Southern Utah University can pursue associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in disciplines such as accounting, cybersecurity and information assurance, elementary education, and public administration. All online programs at the university feature fully asynchronous coursework, and dedicated personal advisors help answer questions and direct online learners to a host of support services. The university's Finish Line Scholarship covers up to 100% of the cost of in-state tuition for four semesters and is open to both online and on-campus students. To qualify for this award, learners cannot have attended SUU within the past year and must be working toward their first bachelor's degree. Renewing the scholarship requires maintaining at least a 2.0 GPA. Undergraduate admission requires a high school diploma or GED. Applicants under the age of 24 must also submit ACT or SAT scores. Along with a bachelor's degree and entrance exam scores, some graduate programs at SUU may require several years of relevant professional experience.

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#5 Utah State University

Logan, UT

$12338

50%

Since launching its first online course in 1997, Utah State University has expanded its online offerings to include more than 500 individual courses and 33 unique degrees and certificates. Online programs of study at the university allow students to explore subjects such as agricultural science, communicative disorders and deaf education, public health nutrition, and rehabilitation counseling. Undergraduates at USU can further customize their learning by earning one of 20 fully online minors in fields such as applied economics, landscape architecture, and school library media administration. An additional seven online certificate and professional endorsement programs help working professionals develop new skills or qualify for licensure without interrupting their career. Applying to an associate or bachelor's program at the university requires high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher or school counselor. Graduate applicants must have a bachelor's degree and typically need to take either the GRE or GMAT.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of attending an online college in Utah?

Attending an online college in Utah offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing students to study at their own pace and balance their education with other commitments. Additionally, online colleges often offer a wide range of programs and courses, providing students with diverse options for their education. Lastly, online education can be more cost-effective as it eliminates the need for commuting or relocating.

2. How do I choose the best online college in Utah?

Choosing the best online college in Utah requires careful consideration of various factors. Start by researching the accreditation of the institution to ensure it meets the necessary educational standards. Additionally, consider the reputation of the college, the quality of its faculty, and the resources and support services available to online students. It is also important to review the curriculum and course offerings to ensure they align with your educational goals.

3. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to an online college in Utah?

Yes, many online colleges in Utah accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the specific transfer policies may vary between colleges, so it is important to check with the admissions office of the online college you are interested in. They will be able to provide you with information on the transfer credit evaluation process and any requirements or limitations.

4. How do online classes in Utah work?

Online classes in Utah typically utilize a learning management system (LMS) where students can access course materials, participate in discussions, submit assignments, and communicate with instructors and classmates. These classes are often asynchronous, meaning students can access the materials and complete assignments at their own convenience within specified deadlines. Some courses may also include synchronous components, such as live lectures or virtual meetings.

5. What technology and equipment do I need for online classes?

To participate in online classes in Utah, you will need a reliable internet connection and a computer or laptop. Additionally, you may need specific software or applications depending on the requirements of your courses. Commonly used software includes word processing programs, web browsers, and multimedia players. It is also recommended to have a headset or headphones with a microphone for better audio quality during virtual meetings or discussions.

6. How do online exams and assessments work in Utah online colleges?

Online exams and assessments in Utah online colleges can vary depending on the course and instructor. Some exams may be timed and proctored remotely, while others may be open-book or project-based. Assessments can include quizzes, essays, presentations, and group projects. The specific requirements and instructions for each assessment will be provided by the instructor within the course materials or syllabus.

7. Are online degrees from Utah online colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable and accredited online colleges in Utah are generally respected by employers. Employers often prioritize the skills and knowledge gained through education rather than the format in which it was obtained. However, it is important to choose an online college with a strong reputation and accreditation to ensure the value and recognition of your degree.

8. Can I receive financial aid for online college in Utah?

Yes, financial aid is available for eligible students attending online colleges in Utah. Students can apply for federal financial aid programs, such as grants and loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, some online colleges may offer scholarships or institutional aid specifically for online students. It is recommended to contact the financial aid office of the online college you are interested in for more information and guidance.

9. How do I access support services as an online student in Utah?

Online students in Utah have access to various support services to ensure a successful educational experience. Most online colleges provide virtual support through email, live chat, or phone for academic advising, technical assistance, and library resources. Additionally, online students can often participate in online tutoring, career counseling, and student organizations. The specific support services available may vary between colleges, so it is important to explore the resources provided by your chosen institution.

10. Can I still participate in extracurricular activities as an online student in Utah?

While online students in Utah may not have the same opportunities for in-person extracurricular activities, many online colleges offer virtual clubs, organizations, and events for students to engage with their peers. These virtual activities can include online discussions, virtual conferences, and networking opportunities. Additionally, some online colleges may have partnerships with local organizations or offer opportunities for online students to participate in community service or internships in their local area.