US News & World Report Ranks University of La Verne Nationally for Online Programs

U.S. News & World Report, one of the nation’s leading organizations that rank higher education programs, recognized the quality of University of La Verne online programs in four categories of its 2021 rankings released January 26.

Among California colleges and universities offering online bachelor’s degree programs, the University of La Verne ranked fourth. It also ranked fourth in bachelor’s programs for veterans and third for undergraduate business degrees in the state. The online MBA program ranked sixth among California institutions.

“The key to successful online teaching is proactive engagement from the faculty member and clear expectations from the get-go,” said Issam Ghazzawi, a professor of management who teaches online courses at the University of La Verne. Ghazzawi sends out a welcome message with the course syllabus before classes start in order to build enthusiasm and to help alleviate fear and isolation. He also responds to all student email. “Keeping the engagement makes students feel they are not alone,” he said.

U.S. News & World Report rankings draw on both statistical information provided by colleges and universities and a peer reputational survey. Ranking scores are based on a formula giving weight to major factors viewed as important to student success. Among these are graduation rate, class size, student indebtedness, technological infrastructure, and student support services. Faculty preparedness to teach distance learners is also part of an institution’s score.

About the University of La Verne 

Founded in 1891, the University of La Verne is a private, nonprofit, comprehensive institution founded on four core values: lifelong learning, ethical reasoning, civic and community engagement, and diversity and inclusivity. The university serves nearly 7,000 students on the historic La Verne central campus as well as across nine regional campuses and online.