Boise State University is celebrating National Distance Learning Week, Nov 6-10, by spotlighting continued growth in online degree and certificate programs. As of fall 2017, Boise State offers 37 online programs, with 2,989 students enrolled fully online.
“Online programming greatly increases this university’s reach — across all of Idaho and far beyond,” said Mark Wheeler, dean of Extended Studies. “Students in Boise State’s online programs include those living in rural areas, people right here in the Treasure Valley who have challenging work and personal schedules, and, really, people from all around the globe.”
Boise State introduced its first online degree in 1989 via two-way computer conferencing. Online degree options and online enrollment have grown each year since. Programs like educational technology and organizational performance and workplace learning (OPWL) pioneered online offerings at Boise State and pushed boundaries in technology to attract a global audience. The number of students enrolled in fully online courses increased by 71 percent at the undergraduate level and 58.5 percent at the graduate level compared with fall 2013, according to the fall census day report.
Fully online programs give students access to higher education from afar, enabling them to complete their degrees while still maintaining their family and work lives. Additionally, Boise State offers over 500 unique courses online, allowing all students more flexibility in their schedules.
Boise State’s online programs are tailored specifically for online learners. The university’s eCampus center includes an instructional design team who work with faculty to create specialized, interactive online classes and degree programs based on research and best practices. Extended studies also includes a team of student success coaches who provide personalized support for online students from application to graduation.
Boise State’s online offerings will continue to grow in 2018, with planned additions of the nation’s first-ever online master of science in genetic counseling and a new online master of science in respiratory care. Additional graduate and undergraduate programs are also under development.