Sullivan University’s Online Program Continues to Thrive After More Than 20 Years

Sullivan University has been a pioneer, innovator and leader in online education for over 20 years, driven by a keen understanding that not everyone’s life fits into an average college schedule. “Our programs feed into the careers that are in high demand in hiring today,” said Sullivan University President and CEO Dr. Jay Marr. “While we may have to remain distant from each other, our online programs make it easy for students to start or complete their education on their terms.”

“Online learning is inherently flexible,” said Dr. Teresa Daniel, Dean of the Human Resource Leadership Programs at Sullivan. “It’s on your terms. Just like with courses on campus, there are weekly assignments that must be completed. But with online classes you have the flexibility to make your own schedule and get the work done when it works for you.” Taking care to design their courses so that they contain cutting edge information, Daniel says that, “We make sure that they are facilitated by scholar-practitioners with significant real-world experience.” Dr. Daniel says students get the best of both worlds with that combination: The theory, what is known about a topic; and the practice, which is how to apply it.

“Our online classes are always open, and our faculty will answer your questions in a timely manner,” Dr. Daniel says. “Online students have full access to on-campus resources, and our library resources are available online. In addition, our faculty are highly dedicated and will always make time to set up a call when you need it.” With a current emphasis on essential workers and businesses during the pandemic, it is important to note that many of Sullivan's online programs can lead to essential careers in areas such as Justice and Public Safety or Logistics and Transportation Management. “All it takes to get started,” she said, “is a computer and access to the Internet, strong time-management skills, and the motivation to succeed.”

Sullivan’s online programs are developed by professional instructional designers who work with faculty to develop curriculum and courses offered through Blackboard, Sullivan’s Learning Management System. Blackboard allows instructors to connect with students via Collaborate, a videoconferencing function similar to Zoom. Offering online classes on a convenient, 11-week schedule with four start dates each year, the upcoming fall quarter begins on September 28th.