New Mexico has about 28 two- to four-year colleges and universities. The state classifies seven four-year public post-secondary institutions (which includes three research universities), ten two-year branch community colleges; seven two-year independent community colleges; and four Tribal post-secondary institutions. Nearly all of these institutions strive to cater to all student needs, including flexibility and convenience in their college experience. Some institutions participate in the Transfer Partner School program to better assist students in their endeavors to continue learning from one school to another.
Online programs make it worthwhile for learners who want to pursue a college degree and their dream career. Distance education at colleges and universities offer either hybrid or entirely online courses and programs. Students can earn a certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees through these online schools.
METHODOLOGY
Backed by a reliable set of facts and figures, the researchers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com has cataloged the 5 Top Online Schools in New Mexico. This list presents the online academic institutions in the state that are renowned for offering a wide range of high-quality online degrees and courses in a variety of disciplines. All the online schools on our list share these top features:
- Rigorous coursework and extensive curriculum designed to shape the skills of students and make competent professionals out of them,
- A robust virtual learning platform that is easy to access, enabling students to navigate their coursework,
- Top-rated faculty members who are experts in their industry,
- Full accreditation that proves each of the online school’s commitment to high academic standards.
See our Methodology Page for more information on our rankings.
University of New Mexico
Founded 130 years ago, the University of New Mexico is the state’s flagship institution. With over 24,000 students enrolled, it is the largest among the post-secondary institutions in New Mexico. This public university is recognized as an R1 doctoral university in the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education. It offers a unique learning experience to its students, especially with its advancement in healthcare research. UNM holds the largest integrated healthcare treatment, research, and education center in the state. Additionally, the school also boasts of its exceptional research units like the Cancer Center, Center for Advanced Research Computing, and Innovation Academy.
Its 215 programs are organized in 12 colleges and schools with fields of study in management, arts, and sciences, education, fine arts, law, engineering and more. These programs lead to certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. UNM’s students also take classes conveniently through its online programs. There are more than 20 online programs offered either 100% online or partially online. Some of these programs are also offered in 8-week sessions for students who want to finish in half the time. UNM is also military-friendly providing educational success to those in active duty military and veterans balancing classes and other commitments.
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- A non-refundable application fee of $25 (or a fee waiver)
- Final high school transcripts
- Official ACT/SAT scores
Transfer
- A non-refundable application fee of $25 (or a fee waiver)
- Must have at least 24 transferable credits with at least a C average
- Official transcripts from colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university
- At least 3.0 GPA
- At least 12 semester hours of upper-division course work in the related field/program
- Other program-specific requirements
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Another institution on our list that is Federally classified as Hispanic-serving and a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is the Eastern New Mexico University. ENMU is the largest regional comprehensive university and has a student population of more than 6,000. It opened its doors in 1934 as a two-year college. It began adding programs and changed its status to a four-year college in the 1940s. The university is known for its liberal arts and has two other campuses in Ruidoso Community College and Roswell, New Mexico. Academic offerings consist of 60 associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. Some of the majors include Agriculture, Animal and Dairy Science, Biological Anthropology, Broadcast Journalism, Business Administration, Computer Science, History, Music, and more.
Prospective students are guaranteed to receive supervision and support from instructors since ENMU’s student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. Eastern New Mexico University extends its learning opportunities to the Office of Distance Learning. There are about 30 online programs at ENMU for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Online courses are accessible 24 hours a day through Mediasite and Blackboard and require self-paced learning. ENMU’s online education covers some of the top programs like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Biology, Communication, Music, Physical Education, to mention a few.
Location: Portales, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Free Application
- Official high school transcript
- ACT/SAT scores
Transfer
- Free Application
- Final copies of transcripts from previous college/university
- At least 30 transferrable credits
Graduate
- Formal application for admission
- Official transcripts from previous institutions you have attended
- Other program-specific requirements like GRE/GMAT scores, writing proficiency, field exams and letters of recommendation
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New Mexico State University
For over 131 years, New Mexico State University is one of the two flagship universities in the state. This land-grant university operated as the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts but has significantly grown throughout the years. It soon obtained its space-grant status and is recognized by the National Science Foundation along with the high research and development colleges and universities in the nation. It is also classified as a Hispanic-serving institution and a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. NMSU offers over 180 programs in its four campuses including Distance Education
New Mexico State University takes pride in being the only institution in the state to provide academic programs like aerospace engineering, engineering technology, information and communication technology, and professional golf management. NMSU continuously offers a learning-centered environment for its diverse student body, including those of the online division. A total of 60 certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs are available at NMSU Online. Student success centers are provided to accommodate all online students, and professional development programs are also accessible. These resources are prepared to help students complete the requirements without missing a step in the pathway.
Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- A non-refundable application fee of $20
- Official ACT/SAT scores
- Official high school transcript
Transfer
- At least 30 transferrable credit hours
- At least 2.0 GPA
- Official transcripts (or e-transcripts) from every college attended
Graduate
- Application fee of $35
- E-transcripts from each college/university attended
- Provide contact information for recommenders
- Other program-specific requirements/supporting documents
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Western New Mexico University
Western New Mexico University, established in 1893, has been known as one of the oldest universities in the state. Its purpose was to hone skills and provide training for teachers in grammar schools. It received its name in 1963 following its expansion and construction of new buildings. This public university, like the other ones on our list, is also categorized as a Hispanic-serving institution. Its student population is over 3,500 individuals from 18 countries. Its programs cover 70 fields of interest from accounting, biology, education, philosophy, social science, to welding, women and gender studies and zoology.
Online programs at Western New Mexico University give students the chance to pursue associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees from anywhere and at their own convenience. Prospective students can choose from a variety of programs like Business Administration, Education, General Business, Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, and more. Online tutors are ready 24/7 to assist online students. WNMU’s average class size is 18:1 so better results are achieved when each student can participate in discussions more often. Depending on the chosen program, courses are delivered asynchronously or through web conferences.
Location: Silver City, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $30
- Official high school transcripts
- ACT/SAT scores are only required when the Compass Placement Test is needed
Transfer
- Application fee of $30
- Must have at least 24 transferrable credits
- Must complete any of the following:
- ACCUPLACER exam results
- An official college transcript presenting at least grade C writing and grade B mathematics course
- ACT/SAT scores
- Official transcripts from all accredited colleges attended
Graduate
- A non-refundable fee of $40
- Official transcripts
- Other degree-specific requirements like letters of recommendation, background check, or a writing sample
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New Mexico Highlands University
Founded as a regular school in 1893, New Mexico Highlands University is a public university that offers degree programs in areas of study in liberal arts, sciences, social work, and business. There are approximately 3,000 students who receive the latest learning methods and learn in-demand job skills. NMHU has one of the lowest student-to-faculty ratios among the universities in the state. With it being 15:1, NMHU’s class size makes a significant impact on their students. Besides its main campus, NMHU has locations in Albuquerque, Farmington, Rancho Rio, and Santa Fe, Mexico.
New Mexico Highlands University’s program catalog encompasses online master’s degree programs to help those with busy schedules. Although there are only a few, NMHU’s distance education programs provide a comprehensive curriculum in business, education, and nursing. These programs can be completed on-campus or entirely online. Typically, full-time online students at NMHU may complete an online master’s program in just a matter of two years.
Location: Las Vegas, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- GPA of 2.0
- Non-refundable application fee of $25
- Official high school transcript from the sixth or seventh semester
- Official high school transcript after graduation or upon obtaining the diploma
Transfer
For students with 30 completed credit hours or more:
- Application fee of $25
- Sealed transcripts from previous colleges attended
- For students who have completed 29 credit hours or less:
- Cumulative college GPA of 2.0
- High school GPA of 2.5
- Application fee of $25
- Official high school transcript from the sixth or seventh semester
- Official high school transcript after graduation or upon obtaining the diploma
Graduate
- A non-refundable application fee of $25
- Sealed transcript from colleges/universities attended
- Student’s copy of transcripts from colleges/universities attended
- 100-essay on Educational Goals and Objectives
- Two letters of recommendation
- Other program-specific requirements, like test scores, writing sample, portfolio, etc.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Dubbed the “Land of Enchantment,” New Mexico has its natural resources as the driving force of its economy. It is the primary source of oil, gas, and major industries including tourism. The Federal government has a significant impact on its economy since it provides the most employment opportunities. As one of the nation’s largest states, New Mexico is home to more than 2 million people.
According to the U.S. Census Board, only 26.9% of the population above 25 years of age are bachelor’s degree holders. This means there is a lot of room for employment opportunities for those who have earned their degree. Online programs serve as one of the best options to save time and money. Getting into college should mean convenience and that tuition won’t break the bank.
METHODOLOGY
New Mexico may have many affordable colleges, but only a few keep you from unexpected tuition increases. Our list of the 5 Best Value Online Schools in New Mexico provides the best options for individuals seeking low tuition and fees for their college education, without compromising academic quality. These cheap online colleges in the state of New Mexico also offer a range of financial aid options for qualified distance learners.
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo has been educating students for 61 years. It is one of the branch campuses of New Mexico State located in La Cruces and enrolls over 1,300 students a year. This public community college was created to serve the military and civilian members of the Holloman Air Force Base. Academic areas of study in NMSU-A include Allied Health Sciences, Fine Arts, Business Management, Criminal Justice, Paralegals Studies, and more. Its online programs guarantee 100% online courses. You can choose from associate degree programs like Arts, Science, Business Management, Criminal Justice, Paralegal Studies, and Pre Business. Two of these online programs (Associate of Arts and Pre Business) allow students to continue to earn a completely online bachelor’s degree at the NMSU-La Cruces. Tuition affordability at NMSU-A means that in-district students only pay $78 per credit hour, and out-of-district student’s tuition is only $93 per credit hour. Non-resident tuition rate is $216 per credit hour. Student resources at NMSU-A include academic advising, which can be utilized through appointment setting, and an academic support center available day, evening, and in some weekend hours.
Location: Alamogordo, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- A non-refundable $20 application fee
- Official high school transcript
- GED/HISET scores (a minimum score of 450 in English)
Transfer
- A non-refundable $20 application fee
- At least 30 semester hours (otherwise, high school transcript or GED is required)
- Sealed official transcripts (delivered in person or sent directly from the Records Office) from previous college/university attended
- Must have at least GPA of 2.0
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University stands as the largest regional comprehensive university. It has been continuously providing excellent academic programs for 85 years. Some of its top-ranked majors are in arts, business, agriculture, English, history and more. Its 30 online programs are structured in three colleges, namely, the College of Business, College of Liberal Arts, and College of Education and Technology. Eastern New Mexico University is also known for delivering low-cost education. Starting with New Mexico resident tuition rate, undergraduate students only pay $1,998 for 12-18 credit hours; this means tuition is only at $166.50 per credit hour.
On the other hand, the non-resident undergraduate tuition rate is at $2,997 per 12-18 credits hours (that’s $249.75 per credit hour). Resident graduate tuition is at $282.41 per credit hour (for under 12 credit hours and over 18 credit hours). Out-of-state graduate students pay the same but only for 1-6 credit hours. Besides these low tuitions, ENMU offers up to $30,000 scholarships (for four years) based on the student’s ACT/SAT scores.
Location: Portales, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Free Application
- Official high school transcript
- ACT/SAT scores
Transfer
- Free Application
- Final copies of transcripts from previous college/university
- At least 30 transferrable credits
Graduate
- Formal application for admission
- Official transcripts from previous institutions you have attended
- Other program-specific requirements like GRE/GMAT scores, writing proficiency, field exams and letters of recommendation
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New Mexico Junior College
The first independent junior college in the state, New Mexico Junior College focuses on programs of study in Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Animal Science, Automotive Technology, Business, Computer Information Systems, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, to mention a few. About 2,247 students gain experiential learning in their chosen field. As one of the top-rated two-year colleges in New Mexico, NMJC ensures a gainful experience for its students. This is also true in their distance education. Certificate and associate programs for Arts, Business, Computer Information Systems, Science, Criminal Justice, and Energy Technology are available for those who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree. In-district resident tuition fees start at $38 per credit hour (for 1-15 credit hours), and out-of-district resident tuition is at $69 per credit hour. This goes for out-of-state tuition as well.
Location: Hobbs, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Accuplacer, ACT/SAT scores
- $25 registration fee
- High school transcript
Transfer
- Official transcript from colleges you’ve previously attended
- Accuplacer, ACT/SAT scores within the last three years
- $25 registration fee
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New Mexico Highlands University
New Mexico Highlands University first operated as a regular school in 1893. By 1902, it gained its university status and had expanded its programs from teacher education to business, technology, science, and more. To extend learning opportunities to all students, NHMU is recognized for its multi-racial and diverse students. NMHU prides itself on having one of the highest-ranking Masters of Business Administration programs in the state. Besides MBA, NMHU offers four more online programs. These are Masters in Education – Curriculum and Instruction, Education-Rehabilitation Counseling, Education-Special Education, and a Nursing RN to BSN program.
NMHU focuses on the globalized curriculum at a friendly price. Asynchronous online program tuition for resident undergraduate students is $185 per credit hour or $2,220 for 12-18 credits while non-resident undergraduate students pay $363 per credit hour or $4356 for 12-18 credits. New Mexico resident graduate students pay $213 per credit hour while out-of-state students are charged $389 per credit hour.
Location: Las Vegas, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- GPA of 2.0
- Non-refundable application fee of $25
- Official high school transcript from the sixth or seventh semester
- Official high school transcript after graduation or upon obtaining the diploma
Transfer
For students with 30 completed credit hours or more:
- Application fee of $25
- Sealed transcripts from previous colleges attended
- For students who have completed 29 credit hours or less:
- Cumulative college GPA of 2.0
- High school GPA of 2.5
- Application fee of $25
- Official high school transcript from the sixth or seventh semester
- Official high school transcript after graduation or upon obtaining the diploma
Graduate
- A non-refundable application fee of $25
- Sealed transcript from colleges/universities attended
- Student’s copy of transcripts from colleges/universities attended
- 100-essay on Educational Goals and Objectives
- Two letters of recommendation
- Other program-specific requirements, like test scores, writing sample, portfolio, etc.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Western New Mexico University
Western New Mexico University is a comprehensive, regional, public, coeducational university built in 1893. Other facilities and buildings were added over the years, and the student population grew. This meant adding more programs and fields of interest. At present, the university has more than 3,000 students. WNMU continues to widen its academic reach through online programs. Among 70 programs, 21 of them are delivered through distance education.
WNMU does operate not only high-quality programs but also offers affordable tuition. It even has a Tuition Guarantee for those who maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA (undergraduate students) and 3.0 or higher (for graduate students) each academic year. This means the same tuition rate is given for the entire stay in the university. Undergraduate online tuition starts at $3,547.13 per 15 credit hours (in-state), which means $236.48 for every credit hour. Non-resident students pay $7,615.62 per 15 credit hours. Graduate students pay $1,978.02 per 9 credit hours for both in-state and out-of-state tuition. Students from Arizona, Colorado and El Paso, Texas and other states that participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program are also given discounted tuition rates.
Location: Silver City, New Mexico
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $30
- Official high school transcripts
- ACT/SAT scores are required to consider the Compass Placement Test
Transfer
- Application fee of $30
- Must have at least 24 transferrable credits
- Must complete any of the following:
- ACCUPLACER exam results
- An official college transcript which presents writing course C or better and mathematics grade B or better
- ACT/SAT scores
- Official transcripts from all accredited colleges attended
Graduate
- A non-refundable fee of $40
- Official transcripts
- Other degree-specific requirements like letters of recommendation, background check, or a writing sample
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
