UIU art program ranked second nationally

Upper Iowa University’s online art program has been ranked second in the nation by AffordableCollegesOnline.org (AC Online). A leading resource for online learning and college affordability information, AC Online recently announced its third annual ranking for the 2015-2016 Best Online Art Programs.

“We wanted to honor the institutions across the nation that are providing excellent online art instruction,” said Dan Schuessler, CEO and Founder of AC Online. “With the amount of artistic careers on the rise in the coming years, these schools are expanding virtual creative potential and preparing their students for bright and colorful futures.”

According to AC Online, studies show that art programs are finding their way to distance learning models. With the use of newer technologies and learning management systems, art students are able to post their work and student critiques outside face-to-face classroom time.

Upper Iowa University’s bachelor of arts degree in graphic design can be taken completely online. Students learn about the history of graphic design, advanced imaging and drawing, environmental art and 3D design foundations.

UIU email, chat rooms and the telephone are resources used to connect students, instructors and advisors. Students use an electronic portal to download course schedules, turn in assignments, submit completed exams and review test scores. Other services available to these students are a counseling center, Information Technology Help Center and digital access to the Henderson-Wilder Library.

AC Online has distinguished its ranking scale by the use of Peer-Based Value, or PBV. The PBV score compares the cost of each program to the cost of similar programs with the same qualitative score. The recently ranked schools met a number of criteria and metrics, including:

• Must be a public or private, not-for-profit institution
• Must offer at least one fully-online bachelor’s degree program
• Academic and counseling services
• Job placement for graduates

AC Online provides free community resource materials and tools spanning topics such as financial aid and college savings, opportunities for veterans and people with disabilities, and online learning resources. Its staff recognizes higher education institutions that have developed online learning environments and include highly trained faculty, new technology and resources, and online support services to help students achieve educational and career success.