Over the holiday break, the University of Memphis announced the addition of U of M Global, a program designed to bring the classroom to the students with the intention of working around a student’s busy schedule.
It is an updated version of the previously existing online program, said Roy Bowery, the Director of Distance Learning for the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning.
“This is not a new degree delivery program,” Bowery said. “It’s version two of our online degree services.”
The program, which provides more learning support for students, has received acclaim since its release Jan. 11.
“We understand that because of work or family obligations, attending school full-time on campus is just not a possibility for some students,” Bowery said. “We want them to know about this program and understand that they can still pursue an education.”
The online courses provide flexibility in earning a degree for students who have family or work obligations, U of M President M. David Rudd said.
“The initiative is part of a university-wide effort to provide an alternative pathway to a college degree that is created with distant learners in mind,” Rudd said.
U of M Global offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs online. Students will have an advisor to help them like an on-campus student does. Their transcripts and diplomas will be identical to on-campus students.
There are 59 degrees available in areas such as business, education, engineering, health professions, the humanities and social sciences. These programs will provide opportunities for students to advance in their education from the comfort of their home.
Online degrees at the U of M have been successful in the past, and such programs have grown over the past decade. More than 30 percent of students take online courses each semester at the U of M, as stated in the most recent data from the Office of Institutional Research. Over 73 percent of students take at least one online course during their years of study here.
The university is currently ranked as the No. 1 online college in the state of Tennessee and ranked 40th nationally. Almost a third of the online programs are ranked in the top 40. Even more are ranked in the top 100.
Online program courses have the same tuition fee rates as on-campus course sections. Undergraduate tuition is $412 per hour for residents and $468 per hour for non-residents. Graduate tuition is $590 per hour for residents and $735 per hour for non-residents. Additional course fees may apply for certain courses such as engineering, fine arts and performing arts.
“We are invested in our students’ success and U of M Global will allow our students the opportunity to reach their personal and professional goals in a fully online environment,” Rudd said.
