WESTFIELD—Westfield State University is among the top 100 colleges in the country offering online programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. In the publication’s “2021 Best Online Programs” ranking, released Jan. 26, 2021, the University is tied for #86 overall and is ranked fifth among all Massachusetts institutions. It is the only institution among its peer comprehensive Massachusetts state universities to appear on the list of more than 360 colleges nationwide.
“Westfield State University is proud to have earned this recognition,” said Interim President Roy H. Saigo, PhD. “We continue to provide affordable and accessible educational pathways for students, both online and on campus.”
For more than a decade, online learning has been part of course delivery at Westfield State. The University provides each student with a standard interface to ensure a consistent learning environment among courses, while faculty members participate in rigorous training and instructional strategies for effective online teaching.
In addition, a significant, additional investment in professional development during the summer of 2020 further enhanced the University’s increased online delivery of instruction. Given the increased demand for remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, this investment to improve students’ online experiences and better meet their needs was important.
Stefanie Sanchez, Ed.D., interim dean of the College of Graduate and Continuing Education, explained, “The flexible, accessible, and affordable programs offered at Westfield State enable students to earn their degree through part-time and full-time online options. Our students learn and receive support from faculty whose teaching methods reflect today’s online learning environment.”
Westfield State offers six bachelor’s completion programs, four minors, multiple online hybrid degrees, and numerous online courses. Students receive customized support through online tutoring and tutorials.
U.S. News & World Report rankings were determined by several factors, including assessments of each institution’s engagement, services, and technologies, faculty credentials and training, as well as expert opinion. For more information, visit www.usnews.com/online.
