Eastern Kentucky University has 13 percent more students enrolled in EKU Online programs compared to a year ago. The growth, from 3,002 to 3,399, is attributed to new program offerings, increased interest in degree completion and sustained enrollment in foundational programs.
“Students should be and are researching schools that offer exceptional value for the tuition they are paying,” said Dr. Deborah Whitehouse, interim senior vice president for academics and provost. “Many are finding that EKU Online is an exceptional value given price and quality.”
Five new online degree programs were launched in 2018. The EKU College of Justice and Safety added a 100 percent online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice to its list of renowned programs. The College of Business and Technology introduced fully online bachelor’s degrees in general business and accounting. Online bachelor’s degrees in sport management and communication were also created. Relatively young programs, like the online bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), which began in Fall 2017, have also seen rapid growth.
The Office of e-Campus Learning also confirmed an increase in the number of students who have some college credit and are looking to finish their degree online. Those who completed some college course work but were unable to graduate are ideal candidates for the online learning format. EKU Online advisers work closely with people who began their degree pursuit at Eastern or need to transfer credits from another institution. This personal support helps to ensure that students make the most of their previously earned credit.
The ongoing success of EKU Online can also be attributed to continually strong enrollment in some of the University’s longest running online programs. RN-to-BSN, MSN and DNP degrees continue to be among EKU’s largest online programs. Justice and safety degrees have been available online for more than a decade and continue to be popular options for those looking to advance their careers in criminal justice, safety, homeland security, fire protection or emergency medical services. In 2013, the EKU College of Education introduced online learning options that include a number of opportunities for those wanting to enter the field of teaching or current teachers who want to add a certification or earn their master’s degree.
Consistently recognized as having some of the nation’s best online degree programs, EKU strives to make quality education accessible to everyone. Eastern is an accredited, brick-and-mortar institution that has offered online degree programs since 2006. Today, more than 40 degree and certificate options are available in a variety of fields. To learn more, visit www.go.eku.edu/fall2018.