Illinois Universities Propel Higher Ed Online with Risepoint

A New Era of Digital Academia

North Park University and the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), two prestigious educational institutions, are making waves in online education by expanding their virtual offerings through a partnership with the innovative ed-tech company Risepoint. As higher education leans more into digital transformation, these universities are seizing the opportunity to provide flexible, career-focused learning solutions to students, adhering to a nationwide trend.

Expanding Opportunities at UIS

UIS has introduced a robust array of new online programs designed to meet the demands of the modern workforce. Starting this fall, aspiring marketers can enroll in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in marketing or obtain a specialized certificate in marketing. According to Risepoint CEO Fernando Bleichmar, “These certificates will provide students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive marketing landscape while maintaining the flexibility to balance their education with other commitments.”

The impressive growth at UIS is not just on paper. The university’s prior collaboration with Risepoint led to a 55% increase in enrollment for graduate business programs. As stated in GovTech, UIS’s transition to online education has fortified its mission to provide accessible education tailored to industry needs.

North Park University’s Online Vision

Meanwhile, North Park University is adding four master’s degree programs online, including clinical mental health counseling, educational leadership, family nursing, and a new MBA. These additions reflect the university’s vision to address the growing need for online accessibility and its longstanding commitment to producing leaders who serve and create significant impact in society.

“When we shift our graduate programs online, we not only meet students where they are but also prepare them to leverage their acquired skills in meaningful ways,” shared North Park Provost Michael Carr.

The Larger Trend in Online Education

The push towards digitization in higher education is underscored by significant national statistics. Between 2008 and 2020, enrollment in exclusively online programs surged, according to NCES data. By 2023, over half of all U.S. postsecondary students engaged in some form of distance education. This shift provides a unique opportunity for universities to meet workforce demands and offer education to non-traditional students who may struggle with attending in-person classes.

Digital Transformation with Purpose

The partnership of Illinois universities with Risepoint highlights a broader trend of embracing technology to deliver comprehensive education models. The flexibility and accessibility of these online programs empower students to further their education without the constraints of conventional classroom settings.

In conclusion, Illinois universities are not merely adapting to changes in educational delivery but pioneering how higher education can evolve to serve a diverse and dynamic student body.