Degrees of separation: RIT's distance learning third in nation

Inside Technology Training, a magazine that discusses education outside of the traditional classroom, listed RIT as the third largest provider of distance learning in the nation earlier this year.

In the special section, "Learning Online," the magazine rated eight academic institutions for undergraduate and graduate distance learning programs that "never require a student to step foot in a classroom." RIT placed third in size with 2,000 students enrolled in distance learning programs; on-line programs at the University of Maryland and the University of Phoenix were first and second respectively.

The distance learning program offers five graduate programs, three undergraduate programs, 12 professional certificates and over 200 on-line courses.

"Our enrollment numbers keep growing," said Chris Geith, distance learning director. At almost 20 years old, RIT's program has had time to develop and mature, she adds; other institutions are relative newcomers to the field.