UC offers leadership program online

CNY Business Journal (1996+), Aug 26, 2005

SYRACUSE - University College (UC) of Syracuse University is now offering its organizational-leadership degree in an online format.

The format allows a bachelor's degree or 15-credit certificate to be earned through distance learning. The program is completed online and includes a short visit to campus each year, where students meet classmates, faculty, and advisers.

"We have consistently heard positive feedback on course content from students enrolled in the campus-based organizational leadership program," says Geraldine de Berly, associate dean of academic affairs for University College. "The new distance format - which we're calling 'Online Plus!' to highlight the online feature as well as the important on-campus element - will now bring the content to part-time students who live outside Central New York or, for whatever reasons, are unable to come to campus."

The organizational-leadership degree offers workplace-relevant instruction in leadership, communication, problem solving, negotiation, customer service, ethics, behavior, and conflict resolution. The curriculum was developed with the input of regional employers and will be taught by a cross-section of SU faculty members.

The distance program offers students a blend of online learning with an on-campus experience. The majority of courses are offered entirely online.

During the on-campus visit each year, students have in-class introductions to courses which they complete online, and have the opportunity to get to know faculty, fellow students, and the SU campus, according to UC.

"Students often take vacation time or unpaid leave from work to attend an academic residency," de Berly says. "We anticipate students enrolled in this new distance program, and their employers, will appreciate the once-per-year requirement."

De Berly adds that the new distance format is flexible and is intended to meet the needs of the UC's demographic. Its students are primarily adults studying part-time, who are also juggling work, family, community, and other responsibilities.