The 10 Most Popular Online Schools

Online education is the preferred mode of learning for an increasing number of students. The convenience and flexibility of online learning are two factors that account for the popularity of e-learning. In this article you'll find an overview of the top ten online schools in the nation by enrollment, according to a report by the US News and World Report.

1. University of Phoenix

Founded in 1976, the University of Phoenix boasts one of the largest online enrollments in the nation, about 380,000. Numerous online programs are offered by the university. These include associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees as well as certificate programs. The wide program offering gives individuals the flexibility they need to make the best choice of program for professional development.

Some of the majors offered by the university include business, computer studies, education, healthcare management, management information systems, public administration and social services professions. The university provides academic counseling services for students as well as math, reading and writing remedial services.

2. Kaplan University

The university’s total online enrollment is placed at about 70,000. Kaplan University offers various online degree programs, ranging from associate to master’s programs. Faculty who deliver the university’s online training are highly qualified with real-world experience and current knowledge in their fields.

Advanced technologies integrated in online instruction contribute to an excellent interactive online learning environment. Discussion boards allow students to interact extensively with their instructors as well as with fellow students. This contributes to a positive online learning experience, which facilitates attainment of program goals.

3. Strayer University

The university operates on a quarter system, which makes it possible to enroll for more courses in a year compared to the semester system. Both synchronous and asynchronous online learning formats are available. Online synchronous classes are conducted at a scheduled time and date each week. Live audio, blackboard features and real-time text messaging give students access to the instructors and allows interactions with other students.

Those enrolled for the asynchronous format are at liberty to attend classes at a time that best fits within their schedules. This allows individuals to choose an option that is most compatible with their lifestyles. The university also supports students in job placement by giving career advice, job referrals and help in resume writing.

4. Ashford University

The university offers various online associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs as well as certificate programs. Online associate degree programs include business, management and marketing.

These programs are also offered at the bachelor’s and graduate level. This makes the university a good choice if you prefer to enroll in one school for the different phases of your academic development. Those interested in a career in teaching or in the social services are sure to find a program of their choice at the bachelor’s and graduate level.

5. Liberty University

Although established fairly recently, Liberty University has rapidly established itself as an institution that offers high quality online education. The university offers online certificates and diplomas as well as bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs.

Post-mater’s certificates are also available online. The diversity in online program offerings has helped to make Liberty University a popular choice for students. It also has one of the widest offerings of majors amongst universities that offer online education. This gives students great flexibility in their career design. The university offers remedial services in math, reading, study and writing skills.

6. Walden University

The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Walden University offers more than 50 online degree programs, more than 170 specializations and more than 55 concentrations. This gives students wide flexibility in shaping their careers.

The university boasts a large faculty of more than 2,000 members. The diversified program offering and extensive faculty body contributes to the high quality of online education that is associated with the university. The university offers more than 15 online bachelor’s degree programs, more than 30 master’s programs and more than 20 doctoral programs.

7. University of Maryland – University College

More than 700 credit granting distance education programs are offered by the university. It also offers 100 degree granting distance education programs and 100 degree granting online only programs. Some of the services available to students enrolled in online programs include e-mail, fax, mail, phone, virtual university and worldwide web. Both institutional and federal financial aid are available for students enrolled in online programs.The university operates on a rolling admissions basis and has an acceptance rate of 99.9 percent.

Popular majors at the university include business, management, marketing and related support services; computer and information sciences; homeland security, law enforcement and fire fighting; multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary studies; and psychology.

8. Grand Canyon University

This is a regionally accredited university that is recognized as one of the best in the nation for online education. The university offers one of the widest offerings of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Students can enroll for programs in business, education, liberal arts or nursing and health sciences.

The university’s state-of-the-art learning system for online education makes it one of the most popular choices for students interested in e-learning. The university emphasizes on individual attention, both in its traditional learning environment as well as online instruction.

9. Capella University

The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Capella University offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs online. Undergraduate programs include business, criminal justice, healthcare management, human resources, project management, public administration, public safety and technology.

The same programs are offered at the graduate level as well as counseling, education, nursing and social work. Capella University places much emphasis on professionalism in its program development. Many of the program offerings are designed to meet standards set by professional associations. This assures students of gaining the required skills and knowledge valued by employers.

10. American Public University System

The university offers its online programs in sessions of 8 and 16 weeks. This allows you to select a schedule that best fits into your lifestyle. More than 150 certificate and degree programs are offered by the university. In a bid to minimize costs for students, the university does not charge, admissions, application or technology fees. Further, the university accepts federal student aid as well as military tuition assistance.

Undergraduate students are provided with books at no cost. This makes it one of the most affordable universities for online education. The university offers more than 20 associate degree programs and more than 30 bachelor’s programs.

Sources:

US News - Best Colleges