About one-third of all jobs in Delaware will require at least a bachelor's degree from 2022-2032, according to long-term projections from the state's Department of Labor. In 2022, bachelor's degree holders in the state earned a wage of $98,748, second only to doctoral degree holders.
While earning a degree is a major investment, online programs are often more affordable, and financial aid can help reduce costs. This guide covers the top online colleges in Delaware, tuition costs, fast-growing careers, and scholarships for Delaware students.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Top Affordable Online Colleges in Delaware
Price Check
Average tuition and fees at two of Delaware's private universities, $12,154, are about three times cheaper than the national average of $35,248, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
5 Fast-Growing Jobs in Delaware
Delaware's fastest-growing jobs are in healthcare and technology. Nurse practitioners are growing the fastest, with 55% projected growth from 2022-2032, and median annual salaries of $127,810.
Nurse practitioners are in demand in Delaware due to a shortage of primary care doctors and an aging population, with 20% of residents aged 65 years or older in 2020—one of the highest rates in the nation. The careers below are five fast-growing jobs in Delaware that require a bachelor's degree or higher.
| Job | Projected Growth, Delaware (2022-2032) | Median Annual Wage, Delaware, May 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | 55% | $127,810 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 37% | $125,150 |
| Software Developers | 20% | $135,160 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 20% | $49,680 |
| Registered Nurses | 19% | $92,610 |
Degrees to Consider to Prepare for Delaware's Job Market
Nursing, healthcare administration, and computer science are three degree paths leading to some of Delaware's fastest-growing jobs.
Nursing
Nursing degrees prepare you for roles as a registered nurse (RN) and advanced positions like nurse practitioners (NPs). You can start with an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing to become an RN, then pursue a master's degree to qualify for NP roles.
Healthcare Administration
Degrees in healthcare administration or health services management prepare students for medical and health services manager careers. Many employers prefer a master's degree, such as an MHA or healthcare-focused MBA. Others may accept candidates with a bachelor's degree.
Computer Science or Software Engineering
Most technology roles require a bachelor's degree, including software development. Computer science and software engineering are the most direct paths to software development, teaching core coding skills, algorithms, and operating system design.
What Is the Cost of College in Delaware?
Delaware has two public and two private four-year colleges. Public tuition is slightly above average, at about $11,922 for in-state and $33,812 for out-of-state students, NCES data shows. Private schools are much cheaper, with average tuition around $12,154, which is about 60% below the national average.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees in Delaware (adjusted to 2026 dollars) | Average Tuition & Required Fees in the U.S. (adjusted to 2026 dollars) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $11,922 | $10,443 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $33,812 | $30,307 |
| Private Four-Year | $12,154 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Delaware
Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship
The Charles L. Hebner Memorial Scholarship awards a renewable $1,250 scholarship to high school seniors. Eligibility includes a 3.0 GPA or higher, and a combined score of at least 1290 on the SAT or the equivalent score on the ACT, and full-time enrollment in an undergraduate degree program. Applications are due in late February.
Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation
The Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to women who have taken time off from college. Application requirements include being a Delaware resident, at least 20 years old, and a two-year education gap. Financial need is also a factor. Apply by mid-May.
Delaware Community Foundation
The Delaware Community Foundation offers over 70 scholarships ranging from $500-$23,000. Eligibility requirements vary based on the type of scholarship. Students are eligible to apply for multiple scholarships. Apply by mid-March.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Delaware
Delaware has no fully online-only colleges, but all four colleges and universities offer online programs. Wilmington University has the most online students, with 79% of undergraduates and 66% of graduate students fully online. The others are Delaware State University, Goldey-Beacom College, University of Delaware, and Delaware Technical Community College-Terry.
