Indiana University’s official fall census report shows that enrollments in Indiana University’s online programs reached a new record in fall 2018, underscoring the university’s success in helping to meet the needs of students looking for ways to begin or complete their studies.
Almost 31,000 students, or nearly one-third of all students on IU’s seven campuses, are enrolled in at least one distance education class, a 4.7 percent increase over fall 2017. The number of students enrolled in fully online schedules has grown to more than 8,700, a 10.2 percent increase over fall 2017.
Online learning at IU opens the door to learners for whom practicality and flexibility are key. These learners include working adults seeking additional or advanced credentials, associate degree holders seeking bachelor’s degrees, members of the armed forces, and residential students supplementing their on-campus programs.
“With more than two decades of experience, IU is well versed in anticipating and delivering the academic programs that equip today’s students to succeed in today’s changing economy,” said John Applegate, executive vice president for university academic affairs. “These numbers reflect the value of IU Online to a wide range of individuals who seek to advance their knowledge, skills, and credentials.”
Additional examples of online enrollment growth:
- IU Online now offers 124 online degree and certificate programs, including several that were developed collaboratively across several IU campuses.
- Nearly 2,400 online class sections are being offered this fall.
- Distance education credit hours currently comprise 12.4 percent of all IU credit hours and 26.2 percent of all regional campus credit hours.
Of these upward trends, Chris Foley, associate vice president for university academic affairs and director of online education, said, “The steady increase in online enrollments, programs, and credit hours are testament to IU Online’s success in meeting today’s student needs and in bringing Indiana University to the state, the nation, and the world.”