Today, more than 1 in 4 college students are taking at least one of their higher education classes online. Online school offers a more flexible approach to education, often times a lower tuition rate, and allows students to work while studying. In 2013, the state of Florida announced it will become the first state to open an online-only public university in the United States. Here’s what to look for in an online college.

1. Accreditation

A degree from a college that isn’t accredited is not going to end up being very helpful in the long term.

2. Technology

Students will get the most from online classes if technology is used to its fullest potential. Just reading from a textbook and then emailing assignments to a professor isn’t the best way to learn

3. Degrees

Online colleges often specialize in a certain field such as creative (graphic design, creative writing, etc.), business (economics, marketing, administration, etc.), or education.

Below is a list of the best online colleges in the country. The methodology used to complete this list referenced data from surveys completed by current students, graduated students, faculty, and experts in the field. Additionally, student graduation rates, tuition costs, and the rigor of courses offered were taken into consideration.

Accounting Programs

1      St. Catherine University

2      Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

3      Central Methodist University – College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Computer Science Programs

1      Dakota State University

2      Elizabeth City State University

3      University of Advancing Technology

Engineering Programs

1      The University of Alabama

2      Arizona State University

3      University of North Dakota

IT Programs

1      Elmhurst College

2      University of Minnesota-Crookston

3      University of Memphis

MBA Programs

1      University of Florida

2      Misericordia University

3      Ball State University