The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Updated October 10, 2023
Massachusetts's online colleges offer degree programs that suit the needs and goals of learners of all backgrounds.
Massachusetts is an especially fruitful place to pursue education and professional training. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates a strong correlation between education and employment opportunities, and the Bay State consistently outperforms other states in these areas.
As virtual learning continues to grow in popularity, many schools in Massachusetts have expanded online offerings that allow students to earn degrees in a flexible, convenient format. This guide explores common questions related to earning an online degree in Massachusetts, including a ranked list of the best options for prospective degree-seekers. We consider prominent degree types offered by these schools, along with their delivery methods.
Read on to learn more about the best online colleges in Massachusetts and how they can help you pursue your dream career.
The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The public institution's 45 online degree options include offerings at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the school's campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. Graduates of the school's programs obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.
University of Massachusetts Amherst at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,643
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 15%
Admission Rate: 64%
#2 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Campus
Northeastern University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Boston, Massachusetts, campus. Career services programs such as academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers achieve their professional goals. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completion of their program.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Northeastern University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,324
Admission Rate: 18%
#3 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Boston University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 33 online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
From its Massachusetts campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.
Boston University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,205
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 24
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%
Admission Rate: 19%
#4 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA - 4 years
- Campus
Harvard University ranks among the best online colleges. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.
From its Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. Upon completing their program, graduates receive an accredited degree.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Harvard University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,815
Admission Rate: 5%
#5 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts Lowell
Lowell, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tcampus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefit many students. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
The school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
University of Massachusetts Lowell at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,831
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 26%
Admission Rate: 73%
#6 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bay Path University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. The private institution makes 31 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.
The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Longmeadow, Massachusetts, campus, whom online learners can contact. Online support from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Bay Path University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,057
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 48%
Admission Rate: 72%
#7 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
North Dartmouth, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is an attractive choice. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Massachusetts campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Completing their academic program grants graduates an accredited degree.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,618
Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 25%
Admission Rate: 75%
#8 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts Boston
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts Boston is a leader in online education. A total of 16 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this public institution. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
The school supports online learners with academic and career services. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their program, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare learners for success after graduation. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
University of Massachusetts Boston at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,202
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%
Admission Rate: 76%
#9 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, Lesley University is an attractive choice. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from 24 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. Graduates of the program obtain a bachelor's degree with full accreditation.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Lesley University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 922
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 24%
Admission Rate: 75%
#10 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Bentley University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bentley University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. The three online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.
The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Waltham, Massachusetts, campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Bentley University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 88
Online Master's Programs: 3
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%
Admission Rate: 47%
#11 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Endicott College
Beverly, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For many online degree-seekers, Endicott College is an attractive choice. The 21 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
The physical campus in Beverly, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers also have the option to connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.
Endicott College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,949
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 30%
Admission Rate: 69%
#12 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Fisher College
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online degree-seekers should consider Fisher College. The private institution offers 31 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
From its Boston, Massachusetts, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Fisher College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 997
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 86%
Admission Rate: 69%
#13 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Westfield State University
Westfield, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Westfield State University offers a high-quality online college experience. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
Online learners benefit from support from academic and career services offices at the school's Massachusetts campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Westfield State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,396
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%
Admission Rate: 87%
#14 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Lasell University
Newton, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A quality online college education is available at Lasell University. The private institution offers eight online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.
The physical campus in Newton, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Students also gain first-hand experience in their field through internship programs. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.
Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Lasell University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 640
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%
Admission Rate: 84%
#15 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Assumption College
Worcester, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Assumption College. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this private institution. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Worcester, Massachusetts, campus are available to help online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.
Assumption College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 216
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 17%
Admission Rate: 81%
#16 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fitchburg State University is a leader in online education. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 11 options through this public institution. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
Career and academic service associates located at the Massachusetts campus also assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. The programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Fitchburg State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,683
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%
Admission Rate: 88%
#17 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Framingham State University
Framingham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Framingham State University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Students who enroll at the public institution can choose From five online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.
Online learners not located near the Massachusetts campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Framingham State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,932
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 7%
Admission Rate: 74%
#18 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Brandeis University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. The school, a private institution, hosts eight programs for remote learners at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
The physical campus in Waltham, Massachusetts, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Brandeis University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 380
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 7%
Admission Rate: 30%
#19 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 19 online degree opportunities to choose from at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
The academic and career advisors located at the Massachusetts campus are also available to assist online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Upon completing their program, graduates receive an accredited degree.
Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 998
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%
Admission Rate: 49%
#20 The Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts
Nichols College
Dudley, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nichols College is a fantastic choice for online learners. A total of nine online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.
Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Dudley, Massachusetts, campus. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completion of their program.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
Nichols College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 470
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 39%
Admission Rate: 80%
Online Colleges in Massachusetts Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Massachusetts based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
Employment in Massachusetts
The overall unemployment rate in Massachusetts rests at 9.6% as of September 2020. According to BLS data, the annual mean wage for all workers in the state is $65,680. Meanwhile, the cost of living index is 127.2, compared to the U.S. average for all states, which is 100. This means Massachusetts residents have higher living expenses than residents of most states.
To help you identify good career options, we've curated the fastest-growing, highest-paying roles employing more than 15,000 people in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. At the time of publication, many of the most highly-compensated roles were not projected to see an increase in employment opportunities in Massachusetts between 2018 and 2028, so many of them were left off the list.
Most of the listed professions correlate with major industries in Massachusetts, as reported by the BLS New England Information Office. These industries include construction and manufacturing, finance, trade and transportation, information, and health or education services. Many of the best online colleges in Massachusetts offer programs in these areas.
| Careers | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,180 | 9.4% |
| Financial Managers | $153,650 | 13.1% |
| Marketing Managers | $144,000 | 6.8% |
| General and Operations Managers | $137,870 | 5.6% |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $132,960 | 9.5% |
| Management Analysts | $110,390 | 10.9% |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | $106,610 | 5.3% |
This list of the fastest-growing careers only includes roles employing more than 1,000 individuals in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
| Careers | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Statisticians | $119,620 | 31.3% |
| Information Security Analysts | $106,550 | 29.1% |
| Operations Research Analysts | $90,960 | 23.9% |
| Software Developers, Applications | $115,270 | 23.4% |
| Respiratory Therapists | $74,280 | 21% |
Online Associate and Graduate Degrees
Colleges and universities offer many educational pathways to meet the needs of aspiring professionals, including those interested in earning online degrees in Massachusetts.
Distance learners usually choose to pursue an online learning model because of personal preference, existing work schedules, or the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the best online colleges in Massachusetts offer expanded distance learning options to accommodate more degree-seekers. Learners with previous academic experience can easily transfer their credits to most online colleges and universities, reducing their time to degree completion.
Online programs use delivery methods that offer added flexibility for students. For example, learners with full schedules may find asynchronous delivery — courses that are accessible anytime, from anywhere — more useful, while others prefer programs with structured, synchronous sessions.
Online learners in Massachusetts have access to many majors and areas of study. For example, those interested in pursuing a two-year course of study can earn associate degrees in business, information technology, or the liberal arts, among others.
Graduate students enjoy similar offerings: Available specializations include business administration, cybersecurity and information assurance, and applied behavior analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Online College Cheaper in Massachusetts?
College can cost less for learners who earn online degrees in Massachusetts, but tuition rates vary by school. Costs generally depend on the type of school (public or private) and whether it offers in-state tuition rates to online students.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Massachusetts?
Online learning typically takes less time than on campus programs in the Bay State, but it depends on the student and program. In an accelerated program with the right transfer credits, for example, learners can complete an undergraduate degree in just over a year.
What Is the Most Popular Degree in Massachusetts?
Business management and marketing, social science, and the humanities rank among the most popular fields of study in Massachusetts.
Does an Online Degree Have the Same Value as an On-Campus Degree?
Employers typically consider online degrees to be as prestigious as their traditional equivalents, but prospective learners should always vet potential schools. Understanding how online learning works and what to expect will also help make the experience more rewarding. For many, increased popularity and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic have normalized online education.
Is Massachusetts a Good State For Higher Education?
Yes. Massachusetts performs very well in terms of state support for higher education. It consistently ranks as the most educated state in the U.S. and enjoys a high concentration of colleges and universities.
Are Online Colleges in Massachusetts Accredited?
The best online colleges in Massachusetts hold regional accreditation. Prospective learners should always conduct additional research to ensure they earn their credentials from pograms that have been vetted by the proper agencies.
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