Online Learning
George Mason U to Boost Online Graduate Programs Through Wiley Partnership
In an effort to expand the scope of its online graduate programs and offer "transformative educational opportunities for working adults and non-traditional students," George Mason University has signed a 10-year agreement with knowledge and learning services provider John Wiley and Sons.
Wiley will handle market research, marketing, student enrollment and retention services, and technological support for Mason's online graduate programs, while the university will provide the programs, courses, faculty and academic support. The partnership will allow Mason to "reach more students who want to advance their education but may not have the ability to spend time in a physical classroom," according to a press release.
Beginning this month, the master's programs offered by Mason through the partnership will be in business, health systems management, health informatics and special education, with certificates in applied behavioral analysis and autism. The university plans to expand the degree options "as additional programs that align the needs of students and employers are brought online."
"Students want to be able to fit education into their busy schedules and not be forced to adapt to a more traditional version of higher education," said Mason President Ángel Cabrera in a statement. "This partnership is about creating options for students, so they can craft a more personal education plan."
"Enrollment in distance education is increasing nationally as overall higher education enrollments are stagnant, or even decreasing in some areas. This suggests an important shift in the way students want their education," commented Michelle Marks, Mason's vice president for academic innovation and new ventures. "Mason has to be ready for that new generation of learners. The partnership with Wiley is one critical step to expanding our program delivery options. It's critical to Mason's long-term strategy of access to high quality and innovative education."
About the Author
Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].
