Today, more than 96% of US colleges and universities offer some form of online learning. In 2005 - 2006, the Sloan Consortium estimated that over three million students were enrolled in online university courses and over 700,000 K-12 students were taking at least one online or blended course.

Prospective students are looking for institutions that offer high quality education delivered whenever and wherever they need it. As the potential number of students increases within the various markets, institutions must be at the forefront in providing distance education to multiple audiences.

The pioneers in distance education were remarkably successful by simply providing basic courses. The quality of the courses and faculty have always been as important as classes being available in a forum that was convenient to the students.

The marketplace for distance learning has evolved, and now schools must be recognized leaders in the field to prosper in the next decade. For a promising future in distance education, organizations will require expertise in marketing as well as large financial investments in technology, course development, and faculty.

The future of distance education is continuing to evolve, and institutions must develop -œout-of-the-box- opportunities for continued growth in revenue and student enrollment. The Distance Learning 2012 Study will evaluate the necessary steps for institutions and corporations to capitalize on students who are shifting away from traditional learning environments and into avenues that provide convenience and flexibility.