Online education has grown from a niche concept into a cornerstone of higher education, and Post University recognized its potential well before it became mainstream. By the late 1990s, the rise of the internet and changing student demographics highlighted the need for more flexible learning options. Working professionals, parents and non-traditional students sought educational programs that could fit into their demanding schedules without compromising on quality or support. Seeing this shift, Post took an innovative leap by investing in online learning – launching full degree and certificate programs tailored to meet the needs of modern learners.
The goal was clear: to combine the flexibility of virtual education with the academic excellence and personalized support that students expect from a trusted institution. Now, as Post celebrates 25 years of online education, the institution continues to empower learners everywhere by delivering accessible, high-quality, and personalized education.
Step 1: Build a Culture of Online Excellence
The creation of thriving online education programs starts with building a strong culture of excellence. Institutions must prioritize fostering meaningful engagement between students, instructors and advisors. Post ensures its faculty are well-prepared to deliver dynamic, student-centered online experiences by offering robust professional development workshops, peer mentoring opportunities and collaborations with instructional designers. These efforts empower instructors to adapt their expertise to an engaging, online classroom setting.
Feedback is also the foundation of this culture. Post actively seeks feedback from its faculty to continuously refine online courses and program offerings. The university often conducts regular faculty surveys where instructors can share their insights on course design, technology tools and student engagement strategies. These sessions often lead to actionable improvements, such as updating course materials to align with current industry standards or enhancing the functionality of the university’s learning management system. By fostering this culture, institutions can create an environment where students and instructors can thrive academically and professionally.
Step 2: Make a Plan for Online Success
Creating success in online education stems from a thoughtful approach to course and degree program design. Each online course offered at Post is carefully structured with the student experience in mind, incorporating clear navigation, multimedia resources and assessments aligned with learning objectives. These elements create an intuitive and engaging environment that helps students stay focused and succeed.
Using tools like the Online Learning Consortium’s OSCQR rubric may also help institutions evaluate and enhance course design. Standardized templates aim to balance faculty preferences with student need, supporting accessibility and consistency across all platforms. This intentional planning provides a clear path for students to stay on track with their coursework.
Step 3: Reimagine Student Support Services
It’s also important to recognize that exceptional student support is essential for online education success. Post has made it a priority to offer comprehensive resources that address both academic and personal needs.
From the moment students are enrolled at Post, they are paired with an academic success advisor who plays a pivotal role in their first-year experience. Advisors provide both academic and social support, helping students acclimate to online courses, set goals and stay engaged. They guide students through challenges and encourage them to utilize available resources. Moreover, the strong relationships advisors maintain with faculty are also essential to fostering student success. This holistic approach addresses common barriers faced by online learners, ensuring students feel supported throughout their academic journey.
Equally important is cultivating a strong sense of community among online learners. Virtual clubs, interactive events, live-streamed athletic games and other student life initiatives bring the essence of traditional on-campus connections to the online space, ensuring students feel included in a supportive and diverse environment. Offering these thoughtful solutions helps enhance retention, satisfaction and overall student success.
Step 4: Leverage Evolving Technology for Seamless Learning
Technology is the backbone of online education, and institutions need to continuously invest in cutting-edge solutions to enhance online learning experiences. Post prioritizes mobile-friendly designs and device-agnostic platforms, making it easier for students to learn on their own terms.
In addition to usability, accessibility must remain a key focus for colleges and universities. While some federal requirements, including the ADA Title II rule, may not apply to all institutions, Post proactively adheres to the rule in order to ensure all digital materials and platforms are fully accessible to students with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility showcases dedication to providing an equitable and inclusive online education experience for all learners.
Step 5: Prepare Students for a Positive Online Environment
Preparing students for success in an online environment starts with comprehensive orientation programs. These programs ensure students are familiar with the technology, resources and expectations that come with an online learning program, which helps facilitate a seamless transition.
For example, new online undergraduate degree-seeking students at Post all experience the First Year Experience (FYE) program. The program not only introduces students to the tools and strategies needed to thrive in an online setting but also fosters connections with peers and instructors. Clear and proactive communication – from enrollment to the last day of classes – helps students feel confident and ready to embark on their educational experience.
Post also provides ongoing resources to online students through live technical support, academic advising and regular faculty check-ins. By ensuring students are supported every step of the way, Post creates a positive and empowering environment tailored to the unique needs of the modern online learner.
A Post University Online Education Success Story
As the university celebrates 25 years of providing online learning solutions, stories like Lisa-Marie Ortega’s highlight the profound impact these programs can have on students, their families and their communities.
The future of higher education lies in the ability to deliver accessible, high-quality online learning that meets the needs of modern, digital native students. Post embraces this vision by fostering a culture of innovation that leverages technology and prioritizes personalized support to create a meaningful online learning experience. By continuing to adapt and innovate, institutions can follow Post’s lead in transforming lives through education – one online student at a time.