Emem EtimChoosing the right university is a big decision—but finding one that fits your lifestyle is just as important. That’s why I was excited to learn more about Texas State University’s online degree programs. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or someone who just prefers learning from home, TXST offers flexible online options designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals—without stepping foot on campus.
From business and education to public administration and healthcare, Texas State’s online programs are accredited, respected, and designed for real-world impact. I found that many of their degrees offer the same quality instruction as on-campus classes, taught by experienced faculty who actually care about your success. If you’re considering going back to school—or starting fresh—this could be the perfect opportunity to move forward, on your terms.
Online Degree Programs at Texas State University
Texas State University offers a robust selection of online degree programs, catering to both undergraduate and graduate students. With 38 programs available, including four new bachelor’s degrees in communication studies and nursing, and 14 master’s degrees in fields like business administration, education, health information management, and science, TXST ensures diverse options for learners. These programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), guaranteeing a high standard of education. The university’s partnership with Risepoint, an ed-tech company, has expanded its offerings to meet high-demand fields like healthcare and business, making TXST a competitive choice for career-driven students.
TXST’s online courses are taught by the same award-winning faculty as their on-campus counterparts, ensuring no compromise in quality. Students benefit from flexible, self-paced learning, with options for accelerated courses and hybrid formats that blend online and in-person experiences. Notably, out-of-state students enrolled in fully online programs pay tuition rates comparable to in-state students, making TXST an affordable option. Programs like the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM) and Master of Healthcare Administration are accredited by specialized bodies like CAHIIM and CAHME, respectively, adding further credibility.
Best Online Colleges in Texas
When considering online education, Texas State University stands alongside other top-tier institutions in Texas. Here’s a list of 10 notable online schools in Texas, including TXST, known for their quality and flexibility:
-
Texas State University – Offers 38 online programs with a focus on high-demand fields like nursing, business, and education, backed by SACSCOC accreditation and affordable tuition for online learners.
-
University of Texas at Austin – Provides professional and continuing education through its Extended Campus, with programs in business, healthcare, and technology.
-
Texas A&M University – Known for its graduate and professional degrees, Texas A&M offers fully online programs with access to the Aggie Network and robust student resources.
-
Texas Tech University – Features over 150 online degree programs, emphasizing flexibility and career-relevant courses in fields like education and engineering.
-
Sam Houston State University (SHSU) – Offers over 20 online programs, particularly strong in humanities, with free professional development courses in areas like marketing and IT.
-
University of North Texas (UNT) – One of the largest providers of online credit courses in Texas, with 90 programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
-
University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) – Provides rigorous online programs with the same curriculum as on-campus offerings, ranked highly for veterans and engineering.
-
Houston Christian University (HCU) – Offers online degrees in psychology, nursing, and business, with generous financial aid for undergraduates.
-
Texas Woman’s University (TWU) – Features 45 online degrees, catering to diverse students, with a focus on nursing and education.
-
Midwestern State University (MSU) – Provides online programs in radiologic sciences, nursing, and business administration, with a strong emphasis on affordability.
These institutions, like TXST, prioritize flexibility, accreditation, and career alignment, making Texas a hub for quality online education.
Online Learning Options
Texas State University’s online learning options are designed to accommodate diverse schedules. Students can choose from fully online, self-paced courses, accelerated programs, or hybrid formats that combine online and in-person elements. With two or three start dates per year, TXST ensures accessibility for non-traditional students balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
The Online and Extended Programs (OXP) office supports learners with instructional design and media production services, enhancing the virtual classroom experience. Additionally, TXST’s continuing education courses, offered through Texas State Global, provide non-credit opportunities for professional development, further expanding learning possibilities.
Accreditation and Credibility
Accreditation is a critical factor in choosing an online degree, and Texas State University excels in this area. TXST is accredited by SACSCOC, ensuring its degrees meet rigorous academic standards. Specialized programs, such as the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (accredited by CAHIIM through 2027) and the Master of Healthcare Administration (accredited by CAHME), carry additional endorsements, boosting their credibility in professional fields.
The McCoy College of Business holds AACSB accreditation, a mark of excellence shared by only 5% of business schools worldwide. This robust accreditation framework ensures that a TXST online degree is respected by employers and transferable across institutions.
Flexibility and Convenience
One of the standout features of Texas State University’s online degrees is their flexibility. Designed for modern learners, TXST’s programs allow students to study at their own pace, with asynchronous courses that accommodate varying schedules. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, you can complete assignments around your availability, provided you meet deadlines.
This flexibility is ideal for working professionals or parents, as evidenced by TXST’s generous transfer credit policy, which helps non-traditional students complete their degrees efficiently. The university’s commitment to affordability, with in-state tuition rates for online students, further enhances accessibility.
Career-Focused Education
Texas State University’s online programs are tailored to meet workforce demands, particularly in high-growth sectors like healthcare, business, and education. The recent addition of 18 new programs, including nursing and communication studies, reflects TXST’s alignment with industry needs. For example, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing projects a demand for 200,000 new registered nurses annually through 2031, and TXST’s online nursing programs position graduates to fill these roles.
Career services at TXST connect students with internships and post-graduation employment, ensuring that coursework translates into marketable skills. The university’s focus on social mobility, with two-thirds of its bachelor’s degrees awarded to at-risk students, underscores its commitment to career advancement.
Student Support Services
TXST prioritizes student success through comprehensive online support services. From academic advising to career counseling, students have access to resources that mirror those available on campus. The Online and Extended Programs office provides instructional design support, ensuring courses are engaging and accessible. TXST’s recognition as a “Top Ten” Military Friendly® School highlights its dedication to supporting veterans, while its ranking as a “Top Performer on Social Mobility” by U.S. News & World Report reflects its commitment to underserved populations. Smaller class sizes and faculty engagement further enhance the online learning experience, fostering a sense of community.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Affordability is a key advantage of Texas State University’s online degrees. Out-of-state students pay tuition rates comparable to in-state students for fully online programs, with an average total tuition cost of $28,327 for online bachelor’s degrees, according to U.S. News data. TXST offers financial aid, scholarships, and a generous transfer credit policy to reduce costs. The university’s focus on financial literacy, through free investing classes and advising, helps students manage their educational investment. Compared to other Texas institutions, TXST’s tuition structure is competitive, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious learners.
Student Reviews and Experiences
Students consistently praise Texas State University for its supportive environment and career-focused programs. Reviews highlight the quality of faculty, with many noting the expertise of professors in fields like mass communication and health sciences. One student described TXST’s Mass Communication and Journalism program as exceptional, citing professors’ real-world experience.
Another praised the Exercise and Sports Science program for its versatility in preparing students for careers in physical therapy and personal training. However, some students have noted challenges with campus parking and administrative processes, though these are less relevant to fully online learners. Overall, 94% of students recommend TXST, according to GradReports, with 88% saying it boosted their careers.
Comparison with Other Online Universities
When compared to other Texas institutions, Texas State University holds its own. UT Austin’s Extended Campus focuses on professional development, but its offerings are less extensive than TXST’s 38 degree programs. Texas A&M excels in graduate programs but lacks the same breadth in undergraduate options. Texas Tech’s 150+ programs surpass TXST in volume, but TXST’s specialized accreditations in healthcare and business add unique value. SHSU’s humanities programs are strong, but TXST’s focus on social mobility and affordability sets it apart. UNT’s 90 programs are a close competitor, yet TXST’s in-state tuition for online students gives it an edge for cost-conscious learners.
Conclusion
Texas State University Online Degrees offer a compelling blend of flexibility, affordability, and career-focused education, making them an excellent choice for diverse learners. With 38 accredited programs, robust student support, and a commitment to meeting workforce demands, TXST empowers students to achieve their goals without compromising their lifestyles. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s in nursing or a master’s in business administration, TXST’s online platform delivers quality education from a respected institution. Explore your possibilities with Texas State University and take the next step toward a brighter future.
Emem Etim
