Florida got its 12th public university this year, and another one may be in the works. The state may create a 13th university that would be devoted solely to virtual courses.
The Florida Board of Governors is considering ways to expand online learning. The board hired a consulting firm to analyze the current online offerings and make recommendations for more.
The Parthenon Group found these facts on the subject of online education:
40% of university and college students in Florida take at least one course online. That’s higher than the national average.
Online courses often fill up faster than traditional courses.
And students in all degree levels are now enrolling in online programs.
So the Board is researching two options. One would develop system-wide online degrees under the direction of one institution. The other would create an online university.
The board will take up the options at its meeting in January.