Jones International University is a pioneer in online education. Not only was it the first fully online university in the U.S., it was the first such university to gain accreditation.
JIU's student body of over 3,800 students spans 31 different countries and all 50 states, including Guam, Puerto Rico and DC. Since its inception, Jones International University has continued to develop and expand degree program offerings to include 47 unique degree programs in business and education.
A majority of JIU students are currently pursuing their masters or doctorate degree. The remaining students are pursuing associate, bachelor or certificate degree programs.
Accreditation
In 1999, JIU became the first fully online university in the U.S. to be regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Academics
Jones International University is structured as two main schools:
- College of Education
- College of Business
JIU offers certificate programs in addition to degree programs starting from associate-level degrees and going all the way up to doctoral-level degree.
Some of the notable Education programs offered at JIU include:
- Master of Education in Adult Education
- Master of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Administration
- Education Doctorate in K-12 Education Leadership
- Pathways to Accomplished Teaching Certificate
JIU also offers several master's degree programs to help students become elementary or secondary school teachers.
Some of the notable Business degrees offered at JIU include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication with a Concentration in Sales and Marketing
- Bachelor of Business Administration with a Concentration in Accounting
- Master of Arts in Business Communication with a Concentration in Entrepreneurship
- Doctorate in Business Administration
Admission
Students applying for admission into Bachelor degree programs must also show proof of proficiency by submitting one of the following:
- High school transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0,
- GED record,
- College transcripts with at least nine completed credits and a GPA of 2.0 or higher,
- High school/GED completion and passing scores on Jones International University's virtual assessment exams
Master's degree applicants must submit transcripts evidencing a completed bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Doctorate degree applicants must submit the following:
- A transcript showing a completed master degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0,
- An essay,
- A resume, and
- Three recommendation letters
The above list is just a summary of JIU's admissions requirements. Certain course have additional requirements. To learn about the details, students should look at the JIU website and/or consult an admissions advisor.
Five Features that Make Jones Stand Apart
- Stellar Faculty. Jones International University's approximately 150 faculty members are diverse and highly qualified. All have graduate-level degrees and 79% possess terminal degrees in their field. A vast majority of the faculty has 3 or more years of teaching in an adult learning setting or online. The average length of employment for a professor at the university is over 3 years.
- A History of Pioneering. JIU has a history of being on the cutting edge of online education. In 1987 the found of JIU launched a cable television network that enabled 30,000 students to take courses from more than 30 colleges and universities via television. Six years later he started JIU, the first university anywhere to exist completely online. And even now, JIU is often found leading the way in terms of innovation in online education.
- Total Professional Advantage. Through JIU's exclusive patent-pending career services module -- Total Professional Advantage -- students at Jones International University are given 120 complimentary minutes of guidance by a licensed Professional Career Advisor experienced in their desired field. They learn how to create a professional profile including a portfolio that employers can review and develop a professional development plan.
- Project-Based Classes. JIU's classes are project-based, meaning students are given the opportunity to directly apply the theory they learn to solving real-world problems. This format helps students stay engaged with their assignments as they can see real life benefits from them.
- Minimal Technology. A unique feature about JIU's education is that JIU recognizes that all students are not internet savvy. Thus, to participate in the online classes, students only need minimal technology and skills. JIU also offers live 24/7 technical support, available 365 days a year, so students don't have to worry about technology and can focus on learning.
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