WKU Owensboro News

In its annual ranking of the best online degree programs, U.S. News & World Report has named WKU among the top schools nationwide in five areas for 2017.

“It’s an honor for WKU online degrees to be recognized in these rankings. We’re committed to making quality education as accessible as possible to our students. This national recognition highlights the outstanding work by our faculty and staff,” said WKU Provost Dr. David Lee.

WKU ranked fifth in the nation in the Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs category. The ranking also placed WKU’s M.A. in Criminology 15^th in the category of Best Online Criminal Justice Graduate Programs. WKU’s Master of Science in Nursing was ranked 21^st in the nation in the Best Online Nursing Degree category. WKU’s Master of Arts in Education for Teacher Leaders ranked 35^th in the nation for Online Graduate Education Programs. Gordon Ford College of Business was ranked among the Best Online MBA Programs, climbing 23 places to 61^st.

The methodology used in these rankings include student engagement, faculty credentials and training, peer reputation and student services and technology.

“Online students at WKU are encouraged to participate in peer-to-peer interactions, have opportunities for substantive and regular interaction with outstanding faculty and have access to services and technology that support their learning,” said Dr. Julie Uranis, director of Distance & Innovative Learning at WKU.

According to Dr. Beth Laves, associate vice president, Extended Learning & Outreach at WKU, numerous departments contribute to the success of online students.

“We have a large staff of professionals committed to helping online students achieve success. Departments such as Academic Technology, Distance Learning, Library Services, Online Program Services, the Online Writing Center and many others provide ongoing support to distance students,” she added. “The availability of this support helps distance students connect with University resources when they need it, regardless of where they live.”

For information about online degree programs at WKU, visit wku.edu/online or call (270) 745-5173. The methodology used in these rankings can be found online at www.usnews.com/online.

Contact: Dr. Julie Uranis, (270) 745-1900 or distance.learning@wku.edu