CCGA recognized among best online colleges, universities
A month after being named one of the Best Regional Public Colleges in the South by the U.S. News and World Report, the College of Coastal Georgia has once again found itself in the headlines with its newest distinction as one of the Best Online Colleges in Georgia by OnlineColleges.com.
According to the survey, CCGA ranked 5th out of more than 50 top four-year colleges and universities in Georgia for its online bachelor’s degrees and programs.
“The College’s growth in the area of online learning has grown significantly in the last three years,” stated Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Tracy Pellett.
“Students of all ages are increasingly in need of more online opportunities to help them manage their hectic and complex work and family schedules.”
Since Fall 2014, the number of students enrolled only in online courses has increased by over 100 students, which is up more than 50% from the previous year. As for traditional students enrolled in at least one online course, the figure has also increased to more than 1,000 students, which is up more than 50% from the previous year.
“Almost a third of all students take at least one online course,” noted Dr. Jim Lynch, Director of Institutional Effectiveness for College of Coastal Georgia.
“While we want to provide academic flexibility for our students, the distinction of being one of the best online colleges in Georgia further enhances our academic reputation for providing a quality academic experience,” stated Dr. Pellett. “We view online learning as critical to promoting student progression and timely graduation.”
Currently, five online baccalaureate degree programs are available to students, including Workforce Management and Leadership; Psychology (Human Services concentration); Nursing; French Language and Literature; and Spanish Language and Literature.
“It is critical for colleges to have a strong eLearning presence. Today’s student — especially those who commute and have full-time jobs — need the flexibility that online learning provides,” said Dr. Lisa McNeal, Director of eLearning for the College of Coastal Georgia.
It’s a reason why McNeal sees tremendous growth in the area of online and hybrid learning — classes that include both online and classroom learning — as eLearning continues to grow for the foreseeable future.
OnlineColleges.com’s 2016 list was generated using 2014 data from the National Center for Education Statistics’ Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. This year’s ranking was based on 11 criteria, including number of online programs offered, affordability and availability of student services.
OnlineColleges.com is a reliable website that helps students find information about affordable, high-quality online colleges and degree programs. For more information on the College’s online programs, contact the Department of eLearning at www.ccga.edu/online.
Contact: Brittany Tate
(912) 279-5938