Distance Learning

U Texas El Paso Expands Distance Programs for Underserved Students

• By Joshua Bolkan
• 12/10/14

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is launching UTEP Connect, an online education initiative designed to provide access to education for approximately 5,000 underserved students.

A suite of fully online baccalaureate, graduate and certification programs, UTEP Connect's first eight offerings will launch in May and will include programs in health, criminal justice, communication and education.

"Access and excellence are foundational to UTEP's overall mission, and the university has a successful track record of graduating an underserved, Hispanic market," according to a news release. "The new initiative will also provide adult learners who need to earn their degrees while working full-time or who have not had the opportunity to finish their degrees because of family obligations with the opportunity to improve their lives through higher education."

UTEP is partnering with Pearson on the initiative by providing consulting on marketing and enrollment, technical services, customized digital content, online tutoring and student performance and outcomes analytics.

"UTEP is pleased to have an opportunity via this partnership with Pearson to extend our reach to current, prospective and former students whose employment and personal responsibilities may impede their pursuit of an on-campus degree or certification program," said UTEP President Diana Natalicio, in a prepared statement. "We look forward to working toward more efficient and effective strategies to streamline pathways for talented and motivated students to achieve their highest educational aspirations."

Founded in 1914, UTEP serves more than 23,000 students "and offers 75 bachelor's programs, 78 master's programs, 20 doctoral programs and 25 certificate programs," according to information released by the university. More information about UTEP is available at utep.edu.