Jacksonville University earned a spot on another U.S. News & World Report list, appearing this time in the 2022 Best Online Programs listings.
Programs in both the Davis College of Business and Keigwin School of Nursing were recognized on the MBA, Bachelor’s, Business (non-MBA) and Nursing Master’s lists.
Keigwin School of Nursing’s RN-BSN online program and the Master of Science in Nursing were ranked on the Bachelor’s list and Nursing (Master’s) lists.
In the Davis College of Business, the Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Master of Science in Applied Business Analytics programs were recognized.
“We are thrilled to be recognized by U.S. News because it helps students see we have high-quality graduate programs that meet or exceed quality standards and metrics,” said Dr. Angela Mattia, associate dean of the Davis College of Business and director of graduate programs. “It also helps us show employers the strength of our graduate programs and the appeal of our highly customized, student-first approach to education.”
While the courses in these programs can be taken in person, Jacksonville University offers them in a FLEX format, meaning they can be completed either in person, online, virtually or recorded. Students don’t have to commit to one format or the other, choosing to take a class virtually one week and in person the next.
That flexibility is crucial, especially for working professionals looking to advance their knowledge and careers through completing a postgraduate degree.
“The online format allows students to remain in their hometowns while continuing their education,” said Dr. Leigh Hart, associate dean and professor in the Keigwin School of Nursing. “This is even more important because of the pandemic and the critical shortage of nurses. These students are placing themselves in the best position to advance their careers while meeting the needs of their local community.”
The RN-BSN can be completed in as quickly as nine months, and be done online or in-person in Jacksonville or Palm Coast. Every student works with an advisor who assists them in individualizing the program to meet their needs.
The graduate business programs are designed in eight-week modules that allow students to move at their own pace. Classes are offered in the daytime or in the evenings.
The rankings were determined by assessing schools’ engagement; student services and technology; faculty credentials and training and student excellence.
“If COVID-19 has brought anything else to the forefront for higher education, it’s the importance of offering programs that help working professionals upskill and advance their education,” said Will Miller, executive director of institutional analytics, effectiveness and strategic planning at Jacksonville University.
“Our appearance on these lists shows that JU has successfully built programs in all levels of nursing and business to help individuals accelerate their careers.”
By Katie Garwood