Online Schools: Utah

Throughout its history the state of Utah has acted as a refuge for migrating wildlife and as a frontier for wandering settlers. Known for its wide-open spaces, majestic beauty, and friendly residents, Utah now offers a highly desirable quality of life. The rugged terrain and sometimes harsh climate requires ambition and resiliency from the state’s denizens.

It is no surprise that online distance learning in this Western state serves not only rural students unable to come to class for instruction, but also many out-of-state learners. A diverse amalgam of courses and learning delivery methods available to prospective students helps to make online schools in Utah attractive to traditional and non-traditional students alike.

One specialized example of the state’s online schools was developed in 2008 at the University of Utah College of Nursing. The program successfully used online videoconferencing technology to distribute coursework for PhD candidates across the nation. Since over half of the participants in these online school courses have graduated, the University fully implemented the pilot program and began accepting applications from across the globe.

The University of Utah offers two types of distance learning: independent study, which can be taken any time of year, and telecourses, which follow the regular semester schedule. For already-matriculated students, the telecourse option provides an opportunity to complete courses from home using televised instruction. The independent study option is open to anyone, any time of year, and allows up to nine months for completion.

Utah’s online schools aren’t limited to the university level only. Among the virtual educational options for high school students, Utah Electronic High School, accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission, presents open-entry/open-exit classes to educate Utah’s residents. High school-age students work with their local school counselor to select classes. EHS offers rigorous courses, access to quality online instruction, as well as professional feedback for students. Since its inception, more than 42,200 students have earned over 114,000 quarter credits and 48 students have graduated with an EHS diploma.

With the ever-increasing demand for online schools, Utah’s State Office of Education continues to pave the way for students to obtain their education in less-traditional methods. The use of open textbooks is yet another example of cutting-edge technology benefiting Utah learners. The low cost, easily accessible textbook is the most effective way to reach the nearly 600,000 public school students. Clearly, Internet-based learning provides the best of both worlds for students and for educators alike in Utah.

• Colleges & Universities