Best Online Colleges in Delaware

The higher education experts at BestColleges have reviewed top online colleges in Delaware. Start planning your future at BestColleges.

JL
Written by Jennifer Lee

Updated on June 26, 2026

While there are only ten four-year colleges in Delaware—only three of which offer online programs—the state has authorized certain out-of-state colleges to grant degrees to Delaware residents. Due to sagging enrollment rates among college-age residents, the state recently launched the Getting to Zero initiative. The program encourages students to apply to post-secondary schools, and aspires to reduce the number of high school graduates who don't apply to college to zero.

Top Online Colleges in Delaware

  1. Wilmington University – New Castle, DE

  2. Delaware State University – Dover, DE

  3. University of Delaware – Newark, DE

Delaware has also added online and distance learning opportunities into its overall educational system. Three of Delaware's top colleges—the University of Delaware, Wilmington University, and Widener University—have recently introduced online degree programs. Additionally, in 1999 the Delaware Center for Distance Adult Learning was formed to help residents obtain their high school diploma or GED online.

Online colleges in Delaware have provided vital resources to residents who are interested in college, but discouraged by rising public tuitions. Between 2006 and 2011, in-state tuition rose by 41.8 percent while state appropriations fell alongside at a rate of 8.6%. Taken together, these factors have spurred interest in online education, where costs are generally lower.

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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Colleges in Delaware

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