Northwestern State’s online programs rated in top 10 among non-profit institutions

NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University has been named one of the top 10 online non-profit universities by the Guide to Online Schools. The rankings are available at guidetoonlineschools.com/online-colleges/2012-non-profit.

Criteria for the rankings include the cost of tuition, loan repayment rates, average rate of retention, student reviews of schools, and whether or not the school was regionally accredited. According to the SR Education Group, which publishes the Guide to Online Schools, statistics were gathered from sources including the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)<http://nces.ed.gov/>.

Northwestern State is ranked eighth overall joining the University of Wisconsin, the University of Minnesota, State University of New York, Iowa State University Online, Chadron State College, North Carolina State University, the Missouri University of Science and Technology, the University of Houston and Virginia Tech in the top 10.

“We are glad to receive further national attention for our outstanding online programs,” said Northwestern State President Dr. Randall J. Webb. “These rankings point to the quality and affordability of an online degree from Northwestern State, the satisfaction of our students and the success of our students.”

This is the second time this week Northwestern State’s online program have been nationally ranked. Northwestern State’s online bachelor’s and master’s programs in education were ranked in teaching practices and student engagement and student services and technology by U.S. News and World Report.

NSU’s ranking in teaching practices and student engagement in the master’s program and student services and technology and teaching practices and student engagement in the bachelor’s program were the highest of any Louisiana college or university.

“Our online programs have continued to grow because our faculty and staff are dedicated to student success,” said Dr. Darlene Williams, vice president for technology, research and economic development. “They work to use the latest techniques in course delivery and go the extra mile to work with students from enrollment to graduation.”

Northwestern State has 29 online degree programs including associate, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees along with add on certifications. Additional information on available degrees is at ensu.nsula.edu.