University offers continuing education program for two-year degree holders

University offers continuing education program for two-year degree holders

Women's colleges often provide academic opportunities for nontraditional students, such as single or working mothers. In order to increase access to education to these learners, many women's institutions of higher education are increasing their online degree programs.


Schools such as Mississippi University for Women (MUW) offer a program for associate's or technical degree holders who wish to earn advanced certifications, The Commercial Appeal reports. The university's online campus - V3 College - recently partnered with Northwest Mississippi Community College (NWCC) to give two-year degree holders the opportunity to earn their bachelor's degree in an accelerated program. Participants could graduate in as few as 18 months.

Officials from MUW said that about 50 students are currently enrolled, according to the news source. Many of these learners are working adults or single parents who wish to develop new skills in order to boost their career opportunities.


"The partnership between NWCC and V3 College offers a seamless transition of their education into a bachelor's degree," said Bill Mayfield, director of V3 College. "Students can stay in their home communities and finish their bachelor's degree on their own schedules."

Online education is growing increasingly popular, as more than 4.6 million students nationwide were enrolled in online courses during the 2008 academic year, according to a recent report by the Babson Survey Research Group and the Sloan Consortium.

By Mark Danson