Online Schools In Delaware

The best way to get a high-paying job in Delaware is to earn a degree from an accredited university. A study found employees with bachelor’s degrees earned $58,000 a year, compared to $33,000 for those without a degree. Those with a busy schedule or difficult commute should consider an online program at one of Delaware’s three accredited universities. In this guide, we have answered questions about affordability, enrollment dates, deadlines, and financial aid associated with these programs.

There is much to consider when choosing an online college. We have ranked the top online schools in Delaware based on cost, program options, student services, and by peer-based value (PBV). PBV compares Delaware’s universities to similar schools, helping you find the option that delivers the best value.

Online programs in Delaware reflect the state’s shifting economic identity, with degrees offered in medical, business, and tech fields. More than 6,000 students attend online classes in Delaware. The state’s online schools draw many out-of-state students. A growing number of international students are also taking advantage of Delaware’s online programs.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Delaware is one of the most expensive states in the nation to earn a college degree, and the state’s online programs generally reflect that. There are only 17 states with higher average tuition costs, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). In-state students generally spend less money than out-of-state students on tuition; however, out-of-state students should not be discouraged, they can still find value at Delaware schools. Wilmington University charges the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state student online learning and offers the widest variety of programs in Delaware. University of Delaware and Delaware State University participate in a program that allows students in 14 other states to pay in-state tuition rates.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

The average cost of tuition in Delaware is slightly higher than the U.S. average. Students who pursue an online degree will not see a lower tuition rate compared to students earning on-campus degrees.

New education partnerships are attracting out-of-state students to Delaware’s universities, offering value with benefits such as a in-state tuition costs. The Academic Marketplace (ACM), part of a regional alliance of southeastern U.S. colleges and universities, allows out-of-state students to pursue a degree while paying in-state tuition costs. National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is an alliance of the nation’s best online programs. It allows prospective students to qualify for online programs across the country and offers support to students if conflicts arise.

Out-of-State Undergraduate Students studying exclusively online in Delaware: 1,628

Out-of-State Graduate Students studying exclusively online in Delaware: 1,460

Delaware does not offer a specific discount to residents of neighboring states, but it is part of an alliance that could save out-of-state students thousands of dollars:

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) is an alliance made up of 15 states that collect data to advocate for educational policy decisions on the state and federal level. Other states include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. In Delaware, only University of Delaware and Delaware State University are members. SREB has a program called the Academic Common Marketplace (ACM) that, in some cases, allows a student to pay in-state tuition at a school in another state. To qualify, a student must be unable to pursue the program in their home state. Students must be admitted to an eligible program before they can apply for the ACM discount.

Students can potentially add new programs to the ACM. Learn more at Delaware’s Higher Education Office.

All three of Delaware’s accredited universities with online programs participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). This centralized body oversees most of the nation’s best online programs, making it easier for prospective students to apply to schools across the country. NC-SARA has strict requirements for membership. It opens new online opportunities for students, reduces costs, and leads to better resolution of student complaints.

Check with an admissions or financial officer. Tuition rates are ultimately program- and institution-based. Ask someone from a prospective program about what rates apply to you specifically as a potential member of a specific program.

Scholarships and grants can help students reduce tuition by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For instance, the U.S. government gives Pell Grants to millions of students each year. In Delaware, there are several state-specific scholarships available to students who plan to attend an accredited college.

Two scholarships are awarded in memory of former Speaker of the State House of Representatives, Charles L. Hebner. All high school seniors in Delaware with a 3.0 GPA or higher are eligible. One recipient must attend Delaware State University; the other must attend University of Delaware. Both must major in the humanities or social sciences. Political science students will be given a preference.

Scholarship Amount: Full tuition, fees, room, board, and books; renewable up to three times

The state awards approximately 50 Diamond State Scholarships each year. To qualify, students need at least a 3.0 GPA and a score of at least 1290 on the SAT. High school seniors in Delaware can apply.

Scholarship Amount: $1,250; renewable up to three times

Women who have taken time off from college qualify for the Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation. Applicants must have had at least a two-year break from school, and a “C” average.

Scholarship Amount: Varies

Students qualify for the Achievement Scholarship for Students with a History of Chronic Illness Fund if an illness has postponed or interrupted their college education for at least six months. It is available to current and former high school seniors in Delaware.

Scholarship Amount: Varies

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. offers this scholarship to African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans who are currently in college. To qualify, students must be pursuing education studies with at least a 3.0 GPA. To be considered, applicants must be from New Castle County or enrolling in a Delaware college or university.

Scholarship Amount: $1,920 – nonrenewable

Choosing the online college that fits your needs can be difficult. Below we have answered some important questions you should ask before you decide on a school.