Two-year school offers first online degree program

Two-year school offers first online degree program

Estimates from the Pew Research Center suggest that community colleges enroll close to half of all U.S. undergraduates. While more students seek flexible online education, a growing number of two-year colleges are aiming to accommodate these learners.

For example, Three Rivers Community College in Missouri recently announced the launch of its first online degree program, according to the Southeast Missourian. The school will offer an online associate's degree in general education and certificates in environment and occupational safety as well as health technology.

Wes Payne, the college's vice president for learning, told the news source that part of the school's mission is to provide students with access to high-quality education, which includes making it convenient for people to achieve their dreams close to home.

"We need to help students understand how to use technology intelligently and efficiently, and receive all the information and opportunities they would receive in the classroom," said Carol Swain Lewis, a professor of a web-based English course at the school.

By Mark Danson