Online bachelor’s degrees ranked No. 4 in nation

UIC offers online bachelor’s programs in nursing and health information management. – Photo: Roberta Dupuis-Devlin

UIC’s online bachelor’s degree programs are ranked fourth in the nation, according to the latest ranking in U.S. News & World Report.

The online programs — in nursing and health information management — were ranked second last year, tying with Western Kentucky University and Daytona State College in Florida.

In the new rankings, UIC came in behind Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Pennsylvania State University, which tied for first; and Western Kentucky University.

“We’re thrilled with the news,” said Catherine Tredway, clinical instructor of nursing and academic director of the online RN to BSN program. “UIC is showing a history of high quality.”

She credited “behind-the-scenes advising, strong instructor engagement, tech support and course design.” Since 2010, 297 students have earned their bachelor’s degrees through the online RN to BSN program, with 121 currently enrolled.

Larry Pawola, head of the biomedical and health information sciences department, praised “the dedication and commitment of Karen Patena [director of the health information management program] and the faculty.”

UIC’s bachelor’s degree program in health information management has graduated 44 students since it began in 2012, with 68 currently enrolled.

U.S. News & World Report said its rankings of more than 200 programs are based on student engagement, faculty credentials and training “that mirror those of instructors for campus-based programs,” student services and technology, and peer reputation.

UIC’s online programs were ranked ninth two years ago and 18th in 2013.