Online University Degree Programs
As of 2005, there are an estimated 3 million Americans taking courses toward an online degree.
There are two basic ways in which people are acquiring university degrees online:
- Traditional universities offering courses or degree programs online.
- Universities that are focused mainly or entirely on online operations (sometimes called “virtual universities”)
Online Universities
Online universities are on the front line, fighting against the perception that an online education is somehow second rate. In fact, students argue that they work harder in an online university than in traditional universities, because their work is devalued in some sectors. However, a growing number of online universities are building a reputation all their own. Some of the respected names in the fledgling field of online universities include DeVry, University of Phoenix and the University of Maryland.
The vast majority of online universities and colleges are “for profit.” Of course, this makes them radically different from traditional universities (what many in the online education industry would call “bricks and mortar,” with no tongue in cheek). Traditional universities are likely to receive the vast majority of funding from the government and private donors, where tuition might cover 10% or less of their operating costs.
Some Prominent Online Universities
University of Phoenix deserves special mention as it was the online university that paved the way for so many others by being the first to offer full-degree programs online. In fact, it was remarkable, because it was the first accredited university that essentially “did not exist” in the real world. You can read more about University of Phoenix.
Some other online universities and colleges that we think are worth profiling are:
