Online Universities Weblog

With popularity comes danger. Although online degrees are highly respected now, the taint of diploma mills still affect us. Experts urge consumers to use caution.

George Gollin, a professor at the University of Illinois who has studied distance learning, said many online programs are reputable. But he cautioned that some "diploma mills" have sophisticated Web sites and might seem like real universities but lack college-level work and accreditation. Gollin said students should check with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to see if their program is accredited.
David Wood, director of distance learning at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, said all sorts of students enjoy online courses. He said the quality of the courses is as good as traditional classes.

Unethical online degrees yet again taint the industry. But apparently, some people just don't care.

The political arm of the Kentucky Education Association has endorsed a state Senate candidate who received his bachelor's degree from a institution that one federal agency has described as a "diploma mill."

Complete story here.

What do you think? Is this fair? Does it harm online education?

(Image Source: Hugh Holub)

Bellevue University recently received the distinction of being named to the Top 20 online degree programs, as number 15 with its business program. Congratulations!

After some resistance, the University of Illinois has given in to the mega-trend of higher education, and will be launching a notable number of online degree options,both undergraduate and advanced. These programs may encompass as many as 10,000 online students.

Chester S. Gardner, special assistant to the U. of I. president who is spearheading the University of Illinois Global Campus, a primarily online degree-granting program, said, "We see this move online as potentially transformative for the institution. Education today and in the future involves a mix of face-to-face, online, blended and residential and nonresidential experiences. The University of Illinois needs to be a leader in this area."

The university has committed $20 million over the next three years toward the development of the startup subsidiary, which expects to begin offering courses in January 2008.

Some experts worry that the university may have a tough time convincing those with more 'traditional' mindsets that this is a necessary approach. However, the popularity of online college courses all but guarantees success for this venture.

(Image Source:University Of Illinois )