Alumna gives kudos to SXU on continuing to thrive in online education
Saint Xavier University (SXU) has been increasing chances for students to take online courses. SXU students have the advantage of taking single classes, hybrid classes or in some cases completing entire programs online.
Gabriella Lowe is an online nursing professor and 2014 graduate of the program. She valued her experience while seeking her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and wanted to remain a part of the online SXU community.
"I returned to teach because I wanted to give back to students in the online platform, and because I had such wonderful professors while in the program myself," said Lowe.
Ranked number one in Best Online MSN Program by U.S. News & World Report in 2018, there is no doubt that the program is a major success. Online courses for all programs are quickly growing in popularity. More universities are moving towards online education because it takes some of the pressure off of students.
"It offers [students] the experience of working at their own pace and taking classes that work in conjunction with their work schedules and personal lives," said Lowe. "I also think it makes them more accountable to themselves."
In a January 2018 study, U.S. News & World Report found that at private institutions online class enrollment increased by roughly 7.1 percent between 2015 and 2016. The move away from traditional learning means that there is less face-to-face interaction between professors and students. While this comes with its challenges, students like the increased flexibility in completing course materials. As a result, Lowe believes the future of higher education is headed online.
"[Online education] Definitely will rise, students are becoming more and more tech savvy and it is becoming more the 'norm,'" Lowe said.
Ultimately, Lowe feels that both online and traditional learning attain the same end result: students who feel empowered and leave SXU ready to jump-start their careers.
"The impacts are the same, the students are different, it is a personal choice and goes with whatever fits their lifestyle. I think the fact that they have a choice is a great thing. Students tend to know how they learn best,' said Lowe.
To learn more about the online graduate programs offered, please visit SXU's website.