A 360 Degree Approach To Online Learning

Thinking of pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree? With the myriad of higher education institutions available, picking the right one can be a daunting task. Not only are there thousands of institutions to choose from, but today, students can choose to earn their degree at a traditional brick and mortar campus or in their own home by means of distance learning.  When seeking post-secondary education options, there is a fit that's right for every lifestyle.  

Chris De Man of Rockford, Mich. is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Religion online through Liberty University's Distance Learning Program. As a student in this program, Chris studies at his own pace and completes all tests and assignments online. "Through Liberty's Distance Learning Program, I have the freedom to learn and grow at my convenience. I do not need to compromise my responsibilities as a husband, father, lay-leader or employee."

Convenience is a factor commonly mentioned by today's students. Another important factor is affordability. Finances were also important to Chris when he enrolled at Liberty. "I'm fanatic about stewardship and wanted to ease the sacrifices my family would need to make for me. I was pleased to see that Liberty accepts financial aid and provides flexible payment options as well."  

As distance learning continues to become an increasingly popular education option, universities too must keep pace by meeting the growing needs of students who seek all the conveniences of a distance learning program without sacrificing a quality education. "Liberty University strives to continue to set itself apart from other distance learning programs," says Ronald Kennedy, executive director, distance learning and graduate studies. "Liberty University has more than 20 years of experience in distance learning and is one of the pioneers in this industry. We're the world's largest evangelical university and because our school is based on a solid Christian foundation, students not only get top-notch educational and technical support, but spiritual support as well.  This is what we call our 360 Degree Approach to Student Success.  We are not only addressing  a student's need for a top quality, nationally recognized online degree program, but we are also caring for them as an individual."

This 360-degree approach, unique in online learning, is attracting many students to Liberty University. Kimberly Gunther of Hamilton, N.Y. was seeking an accredited school rooted in Christian values. "I have such peace knowing that I have finally found the school that I was looking for. I can't describe how wonderful it is to know that I am being prayed for as a student! Liberty doesn't just teach about the Christian life, it is also lived out…" says Gunther.

Though distance learning students do not have the traditional face-to-face interaction with professors and other students, they do not have to sacrifice educational quality.  "Many of Liberty University's resident faculty members also teach distance learning courses, so students are guaranteed the same quality education as those students who attend classes on our ground campus in Lynchburg, Virginia" says Shaun Redgate, Liberty University's senior associate for online programs. Several research studies echo this truth and indicate that distance learners perform as well or better than their on-campus counterparts.

To learn more about Liberty University and their distance education program, visit http://www.onlineatliberty.com/distance_learning.php.

For more information on online and distance learning, please visit www.ronaldkennedy.com and www.shaunredgate.com.

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