10 Most Popular Online Colleges In Indiana

Key Takeaways

• Indiana’s public universities charge $7,986–$9,575 annually for in-state tuition, well below national averages and out-of-state rates up to $35,000.
• Ball State University pioneered online education in 1999 and now offers 113 programs to nearly 10,000 students.
• Roughly 53% of Indiana students take at least one online course, reflecting strong statewide adoption of flexible learning.
• The 21st Century Scholarship can cover up to 100% of tuition at public colleges or partial costs at private institutions, making Indiana’s online degrees highly affordable.

Indiana’s online higher education system has grown into one of the Midwest’s most accessible and affordable pathways to earning a degree. With options that stretch from major urban centers like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne to smaller towns across the state, Indiana’s accredited institutions make quality education available to learners wherever they live. These programs provide flexible access to bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctoral degrees designed to fit around work and family life.

The state has long been a leader in online learning innovation. Ball State University was among the first in the nation to launch a fully online master’s program back in 1999, setting a standard that others quickly followed. Today, roughly 53% of Indiana students take at least one online course, highlighting how digital education has become a mainstream choice for Hoosier learners.

Indiana’s online colleges are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring academic quality and credit transferability. With in-state tuition averaging between $7,986 and $9,575, these institutions deliver strong value, while programs like the 21st Century Scholarship make higher education even more affordable. Whether you’re pursuing a career in business, healthcare, technology, or education, Indiana’s online universities offer flexible, accredited programs designed to help you reach your goals.

Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges In Indiana

Indiana’s accredited online college network features some of the nation’s most affordable and respected universities. The following ten institutions combine strong academic quality, comprehensive online support, and flexible learning environments that align with Indiana’s workforce and community needs.

Indiana University–Bloomington

Indiana University–Bloomington is the state’s flagship public university and Indiana’s #1 online college, known for its robust academic community and nationally recognized faculty.

Main Online Programs

IU Bloomington offers 30 online degree programs serving 8,390 distance learners. Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees across a variety of disciplines with full access to campus resources and online student support.

Pros

• Strong online community supporting academic and professional networking
• Research opportunities with faculty mentors
• Comprehensive advising, tutoring, and career counseling
• Job fairs and employer connections for career advancement
• 84% of students receive financial aid
• 90% retention rate, the highest among Indiana institutions

Cons

• High out-of-state tuition ($35,140 versus $9,575 in-state)
• Only 19% of total enrollment is online
• Competitive admission at the flagship university

Average Annual Tuition

$9,575 — flagship university quality with exceptional retention and support.

Ball State University

Ball State University in Muncie is a pioneer in online education, launching one of the nation’s earliest fully online master’s degrees in 1999 and maintaining one of Indiana’s largest digital learning communities.

Main Online Programs

Ball State offers 113 online programs serving 9,809 distance learners, featuring flexible coursework, professional skill development, and full access to digital library resources.

Pros

• Historic leader in online education since 1999
• The broadest selection of online programs in the state
• Strong academic advising and customizable study paths
• Internship opportunities integrated into coursework
• Virtual classrooms connecting peers and faculty

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state
• Costs vary depending on the program

Average Annual Tuition

$9,358 — pioneering online education with extensive program variety.

Grace College And Theological Seminary

Grace College in Winona Lake combines Christian values with rigorous academics, offering small class sizes and a supportive community for online learners.

Main Online Programs

The college provides 16 online programs serving 389 distance learners, including general education, business, and theology, with access to dedicated academic advisors.

Pros

• Supportive Christian learning environment
• Emphasis on communication and professional relationship building
• General education courses strengthening critical thinking and soft skills
• Internship and research opportunities for practical experience
• Flat-rate tuition regardless of residency

Cons

• Smaller scale with limited program diversity
• Higher tuition than public universities
• Religious focus may not fit all students

Average Annual Tuition

$24,078 — affordable Christian college with strong support and seminary options.

Purdue University

Purdue University in West Lafayette is a world-renowned research institution offering top-tier online programs backed by faculty expertise and industry relevance.

Main Online Programs

Purdue offers 35 online degree programs serving 10,129 students. Programs emphasize research and hands-on learning, including internships and project-based coursework.

Pros

• Globally recognized research university
• Largest online enrollment in Indiana
• Comprehensive academic advising and career support
• Strong STEM programs and research opportunities

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher
• Competitive admissions
• Primarily campus-focused, with 22% online enrollment

Average Annual Tuition

$9,208 — prestigious research university with exceptional retention and reputation.

Bethel University

Bethel University in Mishawaka is a private Christian institution offering faith-based online degrees designed to integrate learning and career development.

Main Online Programs

Bethel offers 16 online programs to 475 students nationwide, emphasizing collaboration and experiential learning supported by comprehensive career services.

Pros

• Videoconferencing tools encourage strong peer connections
• Experiential learning with internship opportunities
• Extensive career services, including workshops and resume coaching
• Consistent tuition regardless of residency

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to public institutions
• Smaller online student population

Average Annual Tuition

$28,700

Oakland City University

Oakland City University is a private institution in southwestern Indiana known for its small class sizes and personalized online learning environment.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 10 online programs enrolling 143 learners, combining general education with career-focused coursework to help students develop both technical and interpersonal skills.

Pros

• Personalized attention from instructors due to small class sizes
• Virtual classroom environment encouraging collaboration and discussion
• Academic advising tailored to student goals
• Internship and research opportunities
• Consistent tuition for all students regardless of residency

Cons

• Small online enrollment limits peer networking opportunities
• Limited program variety
• Private tuition is higher than public options
• Minimal online student percentage overall

Average Annual Tuition

$24,300 — small-scale online college offering individualized support.

Saint Mary-Of-The-Woods College

Saint Mary-Of-The-Woods College near Terre Haute is a private institution that provides a supportive online learning community for students pursuing both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Main Online Programs

The college offers 33 online programs across liberal arts, business, education, and health fields, emphasizing academic rigor and personalized advising.

Pros

• Wide variety of online programs
• Active online student community with email and video collaboration
• Individualized study plans and advisor support
• Internships and research opportunities
• Institutional and federal grants are available for financial aid

Cons

• Highest tuition among Indiana’s private institutions
• More costly than comparable public programs

Average Annual Tuition

$29,950 — extensive online selection with strong student support.

Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)

IUPUI combines the academic strengths of Indiana University and Purdue University, offering diverse online programs based in the state’s capital.

Main Online Programs

The university provides 46 online programs enrolling over 12,000 students, making it one of Indiana’s largest online education providers.

Pros

• Second-largest online enrollment in the state
• Excellent networking opportunities with Indianapolis employers
• Internship options and career support
• Financial aid and scholarship availability are available for most students

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state tuition
• Competitive programs may require additional application materials

Average Annual Tuition

$8,580 — affordable metropolitan university with extensive online options.

Indiana State University

Indiana State University in Terre Haute is a leading public institution offering one of the most comprehensive selections of online degree programs in the state.

Main Online Programs

The university offers 60 online programs across undergraduate and graduate levels, with flexible scheduling for students worldwide.

Pros

• Most extensive online program selection in Indiana
• Strong online learning community and academic resources
• Research and internship opportunities for hands-on experience

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition roughly double in-state rates
• Location is less connected to major metropolitan centers

Average Annual Tuition

$9,036 — broadest program selection with high financial aid participation.

University Of Southern Indiana

University of Southern Indiana in Evansville is one of the state’s most affordable public universities, offering flexible online learning for students across disciplines.

Main Online Programs

USI offers 17 fully online programs with options in business, healthcare, and education, featuring hands-on research and internship opportunities.

Pros

• Most affordable public option in Indiana
• Supportive online learning community
• Research and internship programs to build real-world experience
• 92% of students receive financial aid
• Highest online enrollment percentage (54%) among public institutions

Cons

• Smaller program selection compared to larger universities
• Out-of-state tuition is higher than in-state tuition

Average Annual Tuition

$7,986 — Indiana’s most affordable public online university with strong flexibility.

Tuition and mandatory fee amounts change regularly and can vary by program, course load, credit amount, and delivery format. The figures listed here reflect the latest numbers available and are intended for comparison only. Always confirm the current annual tuition and required fees on the university’s official website before applying.

Key Requirements For Enrolling In The Online Colleges In Indiana

Enrolling in one of Indiana’s accredited online colleges involves several important steps to ensure eligibility, confirm residency, and maximize access to financial aid. Meeting these requirements helps you take advantage of in-state tuition, qualify for scholarships, and enroll in accredited programs that align with your career goals.

Verify Institutional Accreditation Status

All of Indiana’s top online colleges are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Verifying institutional accreditation ensures your degree meets recognized quality standards, qualifies for federal financial aid, and supports transfer credit acceptance. Accreditation is also essential for careers requiring licensing, such as nursing, education, and counseling.

Complete Online Application Process

Each college maintains its own online portal and admissions system. Public universities like IUPUI and Indiana State University typically have accessible applications, while flagship institutions such as Indiana University–Bloomington and Purdue require stronger academic records. Private colleges like Grace College and Bethel often allow rolling admissions with flexible start dates.

Submit Official Transcripts And Test Scores

Most institutions require official high school or college transcripts, and some request standardized test scores. Requirements differ by institution; selective universities such as Indiana and Purdue uphold higher GPA expectations, while regional and private colleges offer more accessible admission paths. Transfer-friendly policies also allow credits from other accredited colleges to count toward your degree.

Verify Indiana Residency Documentation

To qualify for in-state tuition, you’ll need to prove at least 12 months of Indiana residency. Acceptable documentation includes a driver’s license, voter registration, tax filings, or employment records. While public institutions offer lower in-state tuition, private colleges such as Grace College, Bethel, and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods charge the same tuition for all students regardless of residency.

Meet Program-Specific Requirements

Some programs, particularly in nursing, education, and business, require additional credentials such as prerequisite coursework, minimum GPAs, recommendation letters, or professional experience. Graduate and licensure-based programs often have programmatic accreditation in addition to institutional accreditation.

Verify Technology Requirements

Indiana’s online colleges rely on virtual classroom environments with video conferencing, discussion boards, and digital library access. You’ll need a reliable high-speed internet connection, a compatible computer, and any required software. Tools such as Purdue’s Brightspace and Ball State’s Canvas platforms enable collaboration and assignment submissions from anywhere.

Submit Financial Aid Applications

Students can apply for federal aid through the FAFSA and Indiana-specific programs such as the 21st Century Scholarship, which can cover up to 100% of tuition at public colleges and provide partial aid at private schools. Other options include institutional scholarships, federal grants, work-study opportunities, and the EARN program, which offers paid internships through the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

How Do Indiana Online College Costs Compare To National Averages

Indiana’s online colleges provide exceptional value compared to national tuition averages. Public universities in the state charge between $7,986 and $9,575 annually for in-state students, below the national average of $9,750 for public four-year institutions. Out-of-state students typically pay between $19,000 and $35,000, while private institutions charge between $24,078 and $29,950 regardless of residency.

Online learning significantly lowers overall costs by eliminating housing and commuting expenses. Students avoid Indiana’s on-campus living costs, often $8,000 to $10,000 per year, and benefit from flexible scheduling that allows continued employment while studying.

Programs like the 21st Century Scholarship make Indiana’s online education even more affordable, covering up to 100% of tuition at public colleges for eligible students. Financial aid participation is also strong, with 84% of students at Indiana University–Bloomington, 92% at Indiana State University, and 100% at Bethel University receiving aid. When combined with the Higher Learning Commission’s accreditation and strong institutional support services, Indiana’s online programs deliver excellent quality at a competitive price.

What Are The Tuition Fees For Out-Of-State Students At Online Colleges In Indiana

Out-of-state students typically pay higher tuition at Indiana’s public universities. Indiana University–Bloomington charges $35,140 annually for nonresidents compared to $9,575 for in-state students. Purdue’s out-of-state tuition is about $28,010, Ball State’s is $26,138, and IUPUI’s reaches $29,589.

However, private institutions such as Grace College, Bethel University, Oakland City University, and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College charge consistent tuition for all students regardless of residency, which can make them more predictable and sometimes more affordable for out-of-state learners.

Public university applicants can establish Indiana residency after 12 consecutive months of living and working in the state to qualify for in-state rates. Combined with generous aid programs, such as the 21st Century Scholarship and federal grants, many students successfully reduce their overall costs. Online learning further improves affordability by removing housing and commuting expenses, making Indiana’s public and private online colleges accessible to students nationwide.

How Does University Of The People Compare With The Online Colleges In Indiana

University of the People (UoPeople) offers a distinctive tuition-free model that keeps costs predictable and low. Instead of traditional tuition, you pay a $60 application fee and an assessment fee of $160 per course for undergraduate programs. A typical bachelor’s degree totals about $6,400, which is far below Indiana’s public options even at in-state rates.

For context, affordable public universities in Indiana, such as the University of Southern Indiana, average $7,986 per year, while IUPUI averages $8,580 per year before aid. Private institutions often charge $24,000 to $30,000 annually. Indiana residents who qualify for programs like the 21st Century Scholarship can bring costs down substantially at public universities, but UoPeople remains one of the lowest total-cost paths for students who want a fully online, flexible program without traditional tuition.

UoPeople’s structure is especially compelling for out-of-state students facing higher nonresident rates at Indiana publics or for learners who need maximum flexibility, predictable fees, and the ability to study from anywhere.

Ready To Choose The Best Online College In Indiana?

Start by confirming Higher Learning Commission accreditation and any programmatic accreditation required for your field. Attend virtual info sessions, speak with advisors, and review support services such as tutoring, career counseling, and mental health resources.

Compare outcomes and fit. Look at retention rates, internship opportunities, and how each curriculum aligns with your goals. Factor in total cost, not only tuition. Consider scholarships, the 21st Century Scholarship, federal aid, and work-study. If you are a faith-based learner, explore options like Grace College, Bethel, or Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. If you want scale, research power, or strong STEM, look closely at Purdue and Indiana University.

Finally, balance flexibility with structure. If you need accelerated pacing, consider schools with intensive terms. If you want maximum predictability with no traditional tuition, compare UoPeople’s per-course assessment model to your Indiana options.

FAQs

What Is The Average Tuition At Indiana Online Colleges?

In-state tuition at Indiana public universities typically ranges from $7,986 to $9,575 per year. Private colleges commonly range from about $24,000 to $30,000 annually.

What Is The Most Affordable Online College In Indiana?

Among public universities, the University of Southern Indiana is one of the most affordable at about $7,986 per year. Total cost can be reduced further with financial aid and the 21st Century Scholarship for eligible residents.

How Do I Verify If An Indiana Online College Is Accredited?

Confirm Higher Learning Commission institutional accreditation on the college’s website and on the HLC directory. For licensure fields, also check for programmatic accreditation relevant to your profession.

What Is The 21st Century Scholarship In Indiana?

It is a state program that can cover up to 100% of tuition at eligible Indiana public colleges and provide partial support at private institutions for qualifying students who meet academic and participation requirements.

Can Out-of-State Students Get In-State Tuition At Indiana Online Colleges?

Generally you must establish 12 months of residency and meet institutional criteria to qualify for in-state rates at public universities. Private colleges charge the same tuition regardless of residency.

Which Indiana Online College Has The Highest Retention Rate?

Flagship institutions lead. Purdue University and Indiana University–Bloomington post retention rates around 91% and 90% respectively, indicating strong student persistence and support.

How Does University Of The People Keep Costs Low?

UoPeople is tuition-free and charges a $60 application fee plus a $160 assessment fee per course for undergraduate programs, with a typical bachelor’s degree totaling about $6,400, plus a graduation fee. This model keeps overall degree costs significantly below most Indiana options, especially for out-of-state students.