This list is for students looking to earn an online education from a nonprofit college or university located in New York. We’ve compiled 10 top picks for online colleges in the Empire State. We selected these schools based on their average tuition price for undergraduates, as well as the quantity and diversity of programs available.
Are you interested in finding an accredited online college in New York that offers diverse programs and a good return on your investment? Then, read on to discover the best online colleges and universities New York has to offer.
Featured Programs
Our editors first reviewed affordable online colleges in NYC in July 2023. This ranking was last updated in February 2024.
Ranking the Best Online Colleges in New York
| College | Location | Acceptance Rate | In-state Tuition |
| SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Utica, NY | 82% | $8,578 |
| SUNY at Oswego | Oswego, NY | 83% | $8,769 |
| SUNY Stony Brook | Stony Brook, NY | 49% | $10,560 |
| SUNY Empire State University | Saratoga Springs, NY | Open Admission | $7,630 |
| SUNY at Delhi | Delhi, NY | 83% | $8,720 |
| SUNY College of Technology | Alfred, NY | 82% | $8,862 |
| CUNY Lehman College | Bronx, NY | 55% | $7,410 |
| Excelsior University | Albany, NY | Open Admission | Total Not Available |
| St. Joseph’s University | Brooklyn, NY | 77% | $32,370 |
| Dominican University | Orangeburg, NY | 89% | $32,120 |
1. SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Established in 1966, SUNY Polytechnic Institute is part of the State University of New York System, operating in Utica, New York. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The school is made up of six colleges, offering online degrees and courses for its student population of 2,842. New York students get access to many different online degree programs, including graduate and undergraduate levels. You can also take online synchronous and asynchronous classes. Popular online bachelor’s degree programs include the BSBA and the BSN. Graduate programs include an MS in Accounting and an MS in Nursing Education.
SUNY Polytech lands a #1 spot in our ranking of top online colleges in NY because of its affordable in-state tuition and diverse programming.
Pros
- Affordable tuition for in-state residents of New York
- Both undergraduate and graduate online degree programs
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1
- Recognized for diverse online nursing programs
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition for non-residents
- Limited access to nightlife
2. SUNY at Oswego
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, SUNY at Oswego is home to a study body of 6,906 students. It offers a large catalog of academic programs, including online courses, degrees, and certificates.
Students at this school can choose from a selection of over 100 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs. Online bachelor’s degrees include the BA in Criminal Justice, BS in Business Administration, and BA in Public Relations. There are eight online graduate programs. You can earn an MS in Biomedical and Health Informatics online or study Educational Leadership or Strategic Communication. Four online post-baccalaureate certificate programs are also available.
It is the large selection of online programs combined with affordable in-state tuition that earns SUNY Oswego a spot on our list of New York online colleges.
Pros
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1
- Offers both online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs
- Online post-baccalaureate certificates
- Small, tight-knit student community
Cons
- Limited proximity to large cities, nightlife, culture
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
3. SUNY Stony Brook
Established in 1957, today SUNY Stony Brook is part of the State University of New York system and serves over 25,000 students (17,509 undergraduates). The school offers a wide range of academic programs, including many that are online.
At SUNY Stony Brook, students get access to over 20 online degree or certificate programs in disciplines in everything from education to healthcare. Popular online bachelor’s degree programs include Nursing (BSN) and Electrical Engineering (BS). Online master’s degree programs include the MS in Health Informatics and MA in Higher Education Administration. You can also choose from 14 different online advanced graduate certificates in everything from coaching to nurse-midwifery.
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, SUNY Stony Brook is an affordable New York college with many online offerings.
Pros
- Affordable in-state tuition for New York residents
- Diverse selection of online programs and degrees (bachelor’s and master’s)
- Large alumni network
- Networking opportunities for internships and relationships
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition for non-residents
- Larger campus feel with over 25,000 students
- More selective than other New York colleges (49% acceptance rate)
4. SUNY Empire State University
SUNY Empire State University is another member of the State University of New York system that offers affordable online programs for students. Located in Saratoga Springs, New York, Empire State University is home to over 9,400 students.
At this school, students can earn undergraduate and graduate degrees on campus or online. The school’s diverse programs and affordable in-state tuition earn it a spot on our list. You can choose from more than 120 online degree programs, from associate and bachelor’s degrees to graduate and post-graduate degrees and certificates. There are 62 undergraduate degrees, 19 graduate degrees, and 32 certificate programs available online.
Pros
- Credit awarded for life experience outside the classroom
- Customizable online undergraduate degree programs
- Generous financial aid assistance options
- In-state tuition rates for New York residents
- Transfer credits accepted
Cons
- Suburban, small community with limited big city amenities
5. SUNY at Delhi
SUNY Delhi is a member of the State University of New York system and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Originally a small farming school, today it operates as a modern university serving over 2,600 students.
From very humble beginnings, SUNY at Delhi has become a remarkable institution of education in the state of New York. Today, students can choose from over 60 different undergraduate programs. Students can explore many of these programs online. Popular online Delhi programs include the BBA, BS in Criminal Justice, and RN-BSN. Graduate online programs include MS Nursing Administration, MS Nursing Education, and MS in Criminal Justice.
Due to these online offerings, SUNY at Delhi has earned its ranking among the top online colleges in New York.
Pros
- 60+ degree programs with online options
- 79% of students receive some form of financial assistance
- NCAA Division III college (19 athletic teams)
- Networking and career opportunities through internships and alumni
- Small class sizes (14:1 student-to-faculty ratio)
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
- Remote town setting with limited access to big city amenities
6. Alfred State College
Committed to the education of the people of New York, Alfred State College offers students a variety of undergraduate programs, both on-campus and online. Alfred is home to a student body population of 3,348 (all undergraduates).
At Alfred, students can receive the same high quality education online as their on-campus peers. Degrees are career-focused and cover many different fields, industries, and disciplines. Popular online degrees include the BBA, BS in Human Services Management, and Nursing RN to BSN. You can also earn a bachelor’s degree in Imaging Science (BTech).
Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits the school to offer reputable degrees and online courses for the residents of New York and beyond.
Pros
- Affordable in-state tuition for New York residents
- Diverse, career-focused online programs
- Flexible start dates for most online degrees
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1
- Undergraduate focus with online programs at the associate and bachelor’s degree levels
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition costs
- Rural, remote location with limited access to city amenities and nightlife
7. CUNY Lehman College
CUNY Lehman College, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, is a top New York college for online students. It offers degrees and certificates through its Lehman Online platform.
At Lehman, students get access to nine online bachelor’s degree programs. Study options include the RN to BSN, BA or BS in Accounting, and BA in Sociology. There are five online master’s degree programs. Graduate degree options online include MS in Education (Health Pre-K-12 Teacher) and MS in Organizational Leadership. There is also an online EdD in Organizational Leadership and several undergraduate, post baccalaureate certificates, and non-credit certificates.
Lehman’s strong emphasis on online learning, accompanied with its diverse program offerings and in-state tuition make it a good New York school for distance learners.
Pros
- 17 online programs
- Access to New York City culture and nightlife
- Diverse programs, degrees, and certificates available online
- Low, in-state tuition for New York residents
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1
Cons
- Large city setting in the Bronx
8. Excelsior University
Excelsior University is a private New York college established by the New York State Board of Regents in 1971. Today, it enrolls approximately over 15,000 students and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees you can earn on campus or online.
Because of the school’s online focus, students get access to diverse programming. You can get both bachelor’s and master’s degrees online. Popular programs include the BS in Business, the BS in Criminal Justice, and the BS in Electrical Engineering Technology. You can also earn a RN to BSN entirely online. Both graduate and associate degrees are also available online. The popular RN to MSN in Nursing Education or Nursing Informatics is a top choice for aspiring nursing leaders.
Excelsior has earned accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers affordable programs online for New York students.
Pros
- Affordable in-state tuition for New York residents
- Large selection of online degrees and certificates
- Online graduate program in nursing and other popular areas
- Online graduate certificates available
- Small, tight-knit student community
- Tuition payment plans
Cons
- Emphasis on online learning limits in-person connection
9. St. Joseph’s University at New York
St. Joseph’s University got its start as a women-only college, but today enrolls over 4,300 students. Students get access to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Online programs are plentiful, providing students with distance learning options at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Online bachelor’s degrees include some of the most popular majors at St. Joseph’s. Online degrees include the BS in Criminal Justice Practice and Policy, BS in Health Administration, and BS in Human Resources. Online master’s programs include MS in Management, MBA in Health Care Management, and MS in Human Services Leadership. There are also online undergraduate and graduate certificates in everything from human resources to religious studies.
With the number of accredited online programs St. Joseph’s offers, it is a top NY school for online studies.
Pros
- Generous transfer credit policy
- Graduate degree programs available online
- Large selection of online degrees and programs
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1
- Small, tight-knit student population
Cons
- Higher tuition than other online New York colleges
- Large campus setting in the heart of NYC
10. Dominican University New York
Located in Orangeburg, New York, Dominican University is an accredited college that offers 30 different undergraduate programs, some of which you can get online.
The school offers students a wide selection of programs. You can earn bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, business management, and information technology. You can also add on a minor to your degree by selecting one of the many available. Popular minors with online course options include business, economics, and human resources.
Dominican is a top New York school that’s accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Since it is a private college, it offers the same flat tuition rate for residents and non-residents alike.
Pros
- 100% of first-time full-time undergrads receiving financial aid
- Large alumni network with connections to internships and jobs
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1
- SAT/ACT test scores not required
- Strong selection of online programs and courses
Cons
- Small campus with limited access to big city amenities
Other New York Online Colleges to Consider
New York is not short on online colleges to take courses at or earn a degree. Here are some other New York colleges with online options to consider. These schools are fully accredited, and some offer in-state tuition for New York residents.
- Adelphi University
- Canisius College
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Medaille College
- Mercy College
- New York University (NYU)
- Niagara University
- Pace University
- Roberts Wesleyan College
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- St. John’s University
- SUNY Buffalo State
- Syracuse University
- The New School
Frequently Asked Questions
Many New York colleges offer online programs and degrees that are cost effective. As a New York resident, you can take advantage of in-state tuition from many SUNY and CUNY schools. Pros of NY institutions include accessibility and convenience, but there are limited networking opportunities online. Choosing an online college in New York depends on your individual goals.
Deciding on online college in New York depends on your educational goals. It’s important to consider factors like flexibility, cost, and program offerings. There are many online colleges in NY that offer in-state tuition rates and diverse programming. Assess if online learning aligns with your needs and if it supports your career aspirations before jumping on board.
Yes! NYU Online is a “campus without borders.” It offers online courses, degrees, and certificates for students around the globe. You don’t have to be a New York resident to take advantage of the diverse programs NYU offers online.
Yes, the City University of New York (CUNY) offers online courses and degree programs. CUNY provides students with the flexibility to pursue their education remotely, allowing for a mix of online and in-person courses depending on the program and campus. CUNY has 175+ online options. Popular online programs include:
• BBA
• BA in Health Services Administration
• BA in Sociology
• BS in Information Systems
• RN to BS-MS (Accelerated)
You can! Many colleges and universities in New York offer fully online degree programs. Institutions like SUNY Online, CUNY, and private universities offer a range of online courses and degrees, allowing students to pursue their entire college education remotely.
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