NEWS RELEASE

Contact: David West (west@alpha.nsula.edu )
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466

3/2/2001

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATCHITOCHES - Convenience and a variety of course offerings have helped make electronic classes a more popular option for students at Northwestern State University. The university has expanded the number of available classes and has seen enrollment in electronic classes increase by more than 25 percent over last spring to 2,568. That number includes 1,751 students in 160 sections. A total of 1,233 undergraduate and 518 graduate students are enrolled in electronic classes.

The increased numbers came as Northwestern set up a new web site, eNSU, which is available through the university's homepage at www.nsula.edu/ensu. The site lets students apply for admissions and financial aid, pay fees, purchase textbooks, get assistance from an advisor and receive any other needed service online.

"eNSU has had a positive impact in terms of course offerings, student services and support. It has been a focal point for students when contacting NSU," said Darlene Williams, electronic learning systems coordinator and trainer at Northwestern. "We feel confident in what we are doing and want to stay one step ahead. We will be listening to our students and faculty in moving forward.

"We are growing at a faster rate than we anticipated. That is positive for Northwestern. It shows we have the capability to develop new programs and meet the needs of students in the current environment."

Six of NSU's degree programs are available online. Students can receive an Associate Degree in General Studies, Masters of Education with a concentration in Educational Technology and a Masters of Education with a concentration in Adult Education electronically. Northwestern's RN to B.S.N. (registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and RT to B.S.R.T. (registered technologist to Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology) are also available electronically as well as the Associate Degree in Criminal Justice.

Williams said she is in contact daily with students from throughout Louisiana and the country asking about available classes at Northwestern.

"The word is getting out about NSU's efforts," she said. "There are many people who are exploring getting a degree online.

For more information call (318) 357-6355 or e-mail e_learning@nsula.edu.

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