Listen to Your Students: A Proactive Approach to Developing Virtual Education Degree Programs

This study examines student perceptions about virtual education degree programs and their willingness to enroll in such a program at a comprehensive Midwestern University. Universities across America are planning to develop and offer such programs in an effort to reach more students, but student enrollment and retention is a big concern. Universities need to be proactive and examine student perception and willingness before designing such programs. The results of this study will provide valuable insights for universities that are planning to offer virtual education degree programs. At the same time student perceptions can help alleviate student concerns about virtual education degree programs and make them feel more comfortable in deciding if these programs are suited for them.