The City University of New York could offer hundreds of fully online programs by 2030, according to the public higher education system’s strategic plan released Wednesday.
CUNY set a goal to offer 287 online certificates and degrees in the next several years for students who prefer flexible options because of their responsibilities to family or jobs, or distance from physical campuses.
If successful in that aim, the expansion would mark a seismic shift for CUNY since students returned to campus following pandemic-era school closures. In 2021, there were only 82 programs students could altogether complete online, university data show.
“The prosperity of New York and the legendary cutting-edge talent of CUNY are intertwined,” said CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez in a statement.
“Moving forward, it is imperative that we ensure the University’s ability to meet the evolving needs of students and employers across the region.”
The virtual programs were just one prong of a full seven-year, systemwide plan to increase career opportunities, student services and research that benefits the public. The process was led by a steering committee that convened town halls and other sessions over 18 months.
CUNY plans to add 30 online degrees and certificates across 20 campuses over the next year, based in part on a market analysis of its programs finished in December. Faculty training programs and technology infrastructure are also being made available.
The public university system launched a program catalogue this spring with the options available so far.
Graduates receive “identical” diplomas to those earned by students on campus, according to the website.
Wednesday’s announcement followed a tentative contract agreement between the city and its teachers union that would similarly expand virtual learning options. The push to reach high school students who need flexibility in their class schedules, including to weeknights and weekends, comes as school systems…
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