Going to college makes a lot of sense for most people, especially if the goal is to learn a specific skill. This is true for people across the country, from the tip of Texas to Indiana, a state with dozens of good college and university options to choose from.
Skills training isn't the only benefit of college, either. In many cases, you'll earn more money with a college degree than without one. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average weekly salary for someone with a high school diploma is just $746. With a bachelor's degree, that weekly salary increases to an average of $1,248.
If you're a resident of Indiana who wants to attend college to further your salary or career prospects, you have lots of options. Along with traditional brick and mortar campuses, you also have online college and university choices, many of which are among the best colleges in Indiana. Attending college online is a great option for traditional and non-traditional students alike because it allows you to meet your education goals remotely while balancing your other responsibilities. Ready to get started? You may want to start your search with the best online colleges in Indiana below.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
The Top 5 Best Value Schools in Indiana
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College tuition varies greatly across Indiana, and what you will pay for tuition and fees will depend on the institution you attend. That said, the average cost of in-state tuition and fees in Indiana is about $9,502 per academic year. That's on the affordable end of cheap colleges in Indiana and cheap colleges nationally.
Tuition at private colleges and universities typically cost much more, though, even for Indiana residents. Take, for example, the tuition rate at the University of Notre Dame, which clocks in at about $58,843 for just tuition and fees for the 2020-2021 school year.
Out-of-State Tuition Cost in Indiana
The average cost of tuition and fees is a lot higher for out-of-state students in Indiana — and across the nation. The average cost of out-of-state tuition at public colleges and universities in Indiana is about $29,965 per academic year, which is significantly higher — about $10,000 or so — compared to what in-state tuition is for students in this state.
Private colleges and universities, on the other hand, typically charge similar tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students, however.
Average Cost of Room and Board in Indiana
The cost for room and board can add significantly to the costs of college in any state, Indiana included. You'll pay about $10,846 per year in room and board fees on average in this state, and it's the same for both in-state and out-of-state students.
The good news is that the cost of room and board, while high, is still lower than the national average of $11,728 in this state. And, if you opt to attend one of the online colleges in Indiana, you won't have to pay for pricey room and board fees on campus.
What Are the Requirements for an Online School in Indiana?
In Indiana, online programs typically feature the same admission requirements as on-campus programs. When applying to online college, Indiana learners may need an associate degree or adequate transfer credit. Graduate applicants often submit recommendation letters, a resume, and a personal essay. Some programs require international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency through test scores.
Graduation requirements depend on the degree type. Bachelor's curricula include general education and major courses. Students may need to complete a capstone project. Master's and doctoral degrees culminate with a final project, thesis, or dissertation. Additional program requirements may include the completion of an academic portfolio, which graduates can submit to potential employers.
Certifications and Licensure for Students in Indiana
In addition to a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, professionals may need a license or certification to work in their field. States issue licensure to qualified individuals who meet degree and experience requirements. Private agencies and organizations award certifications and typically require similar criteria. The credentials below can help Indiana professionals advance their career.
Certified Ethical Hacker
Project Management Specialist
Teaching License
Professional Organizations for Students in Indiana
Learners pursuing a degree from an online college in Indiana can prepare for their career by joining one or more professional organizations in their field. Many professional organizations offer introductory membership rates to undergraduate and graduate students. Benefits often include access to mentorship programs, exclusive scholarship opportunities, and networking events.
American Historical Association
Professional historians and history students can join the AHA. Membership benefits include professional publications and access to the organization's career center. Community discussion boards can help student members learn how to enter graduate school or academia. Additionally, learners earning a graduate degree in history can apply for an exclusive grant or fellowship.
American Marketing Association
The AMA strives to advance the marketing field through training sessions, publications, and certifications. Student members can apply for a micro-internship, access essential tools and resources, and sign up for a skills bootcamp. More than 65 U.S. cities host AMA chapters, allowing members to network with local degree-seekers and professionals.
National Human Resources Association
Learners training for careers in human resources can join the NHRA. Membership benefits include three free continuing education credits each year and discounts on professional development programs. The NHRA also provides an online platform that connects learners with experienced human resources professionals.
National Association of Collegiate Scholars
NSCS helps degree-seekers prepare for academic and professional success. Members receive access to scholarship and internship opportunities, along with networking events. Candidates must attend a school with an NSCS chapter and must earn a minimum 3.0 GPA during their freshman year. Members remain in good standing by maintaining excellent grades throughout their undergraduate program.
Scholarships for Students in Indiana
Many Indiana online programs offer competitive tuition rates. However, earning a degree still requires a significant financial investment. Financial aid and scholarships can help learners minimize debt. Recipients do not repay scholarships, and many awards are available to students throughout the United States.
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: CBCF awards five scholarships each year to qualified African American degree-seekers. Application requirements vary by scholarships but may include a specific major. Some scholarships are only available to graduating high school seniors or enrolled college students, and applicants may need to demonstrate participation in extracurricular activities.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies
Harvest Land Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: High school seniors who plan to choose an agriculture-related major can apply. Candidates must live in Harvest Land's market area and need agricultural experience, such as working on a family farm or volunteering. Interested students should apply by March 2.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: March 1
Indiana Engineering Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The Indiana Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE) awards funding to undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers preparing for engineering careers. The scholarship committee considers each candidate's academic performance and accepts applications throughout February. Learners can apply for multiple scholarships from ISPE.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: February 1
Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Essay Contest
Who Can Apply: Each year, Regions recognizes 15 high school seniors and 15 college students who submit the best essays about an inspirational African American individual. The essay cannot exceed 500 words and must follow additional guidelines. The scholarship committee does not consider applicants' race, and students should apply by the last day of February.
Amount: $3,500-$5,000
Deadline: March 31
