National Distance Learning Week is Nov. 9-13, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that distance learning is vital. Texas Tech University offers robust programs for virtual and distance learners.
When the coronavirus gripped the nation in March, universities, colleges and schools across the U.S. were forced to move all learning online. However, Texas Tech University has offered a variety of programs for virtual learners for years.
Since Nov. 9-13 is National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) – a week created to generate greater awareness and appreciation for distance learning, including K-12, higher education, corporate and military while recognizing leaders and best practices in the field – we're highlighting all the amazing facets of Texas Tech's eLearning & Academic Partnerships division.
Worldwide eLearning and regional sites
Worldwide eLearning is the college-focused area of eLearning & Academic Partnerships, offering more than 80 fully online or hybrid degree programs. Students of any age are eligible to earn their bachelor's, master's or doctoral degrees via Worldwide eLearning. It also offers certification preparation programs and graduate certificates.
"What separates Texas Tech from many other universities is that we do not outsource our course development," said Melanie Hart, vice provost for eLearning & Academic Partnerships. "We are proud that our high-quality classes are created by our wonderful faculty in collaboration with our instructional design team."
Students also can take in-person classes at one of the nine Texas Tech regional sites:
• Texas Tech University at Collin Higher Education Center, located in McKinney
• Texas Tech University at El Paso
• Texas Tech University at Fredericksburg
• Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes, located northwest of Austin
• Texas Tech University at Hill College's Johnson County campus in Cleburne
• Texas Tech University at Junction
• Texas Tech University at Rockwall, located at the Dr. Gene Burton College & Career Academy in Rockwall
• Texas Tech University at Waco, located at McLennan Community College in Waco
• Texas Tech University at Austin College, located on the Austin College campus in Sherman
Degrees earned from Texas Tech regional sites are equal to those earned on campus in Lubbock. In other words, a distance learning student's diploma will read the same as the diploma of someone graduating from the on-campus degree programs in Lubbock.
TTU K-12
TTU K-12 is a state-approved online kindergarten through 12th-grade school that has fulfilled students' needs for more than 25 years.
TTU K-12 began in 1993 as a "Special Purpose District" designed to help students whose educational needs were not adequately met by traditional school districts. Since then, it has grown to serve students across the U.S. and in more than 70 nations around the world.
TTU K-12 boasts a rigorous curriculum that allows students to work ahead, make up failed credits and achieve their goals from wherever they reside. It offers open-enrollment testing solutions and a full-time Texas high school diploma program that concludes with a graduation ceremony on the Texas Tech campus.
TTU K-12's high school courses also are approved by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Notable graduates of TTU K-12 include actor Jesse Plemons and Team USA ice skater Ashley Cain.
"Texas Tech has been a global leader in online learning at all levels and NDLW celebrates distance learning," said Justin Louder, associate vice provost for eLearning & Academic Partnerships and interim superintendent for TTU K-12. "This week, eLearning at Texas Tech will host multiple webinars showcasing best practices in online learning."
To view Texas Tech's NDLW schedule, visit eLearning's Facebook page.
