In December 2006, DeVry University announced that “the total number of online undergraduate and graduate coursetakers in the November 2006 session increased 32.9% to 32,369.” Students participating in a blended learning program increased 8.9% for DeVry.

DeVry University’s online school increase in student enrollment illustrates the growing need for flexible higher education in America. Eduventures, an education-consulting firm based in Boston, MA, published a study last month highlighting the growing desire for online schools.

Expanding Demand for Online Higher Education is a study that surveyed 2,033 adults who anticipated returning to school by the year 2010. The study reported, “Around 50% of [respondents] say they prefer a mode of delivery either dominated by online or at least balanced between online and on-campus.”

The study also reported that younger adult students (aged 25 - 34) preferred programs with somewhat of a campus presence, while adult students aged 35 – 54 did not list a nearby campus as a priority or criteria for choosing an educational program or course of study. Younger students were more likely to choose online schools with a physical campus nearby. The criteria for evaluating online schools was different for older students; a nearby campus presence was not as great a factor in their decision. Overall, however, 63% of all respondents “preferred the online provider to have some physical presence (either branch or campus) at least within their state.” Though it was not within the scope of the survey to discuss why respondents had a preference for a campus-based online school, one can argue that it is due a level of trust and reputation. It is easier for individuals to trust the opinions of friends and family, therefore it stands to reason that local and state educational institutions would be more trusted.

Campus-based colleges and universities are listening to their students. The underlying concept is that increasing numbers of providers are developing online school programs and are providing online courses and programs to meet our needs. We enroll in online school programs because they work for us. Enrollment numbers are up, because distance education has proven itself to be a rewarding, feasible option for so many people.