Category: Featured

U.S News & World Report Recognizes University of Louisville with “Best Online Programs” Award

U.S News & World Report Recognizes University of Louisville with “Best Online Programs” Award

Once again, the University of Louisville (UofL) has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for Best Online Programs in the nation! Our 2025 rankings solidify UofL’s continuing legacy of offering quality educational opportunities through online programs across various disciplines at the undergraduate and graduate level. 

Among several UofL online programs ranked by U.S. News & World Report are our Bachelor of Science in Psychology (ranked in the top 19% in the nation), Undergraduate Business Programs (ranked in the top 10%), and our MBA program (ranked in the top 21% nationwide). 

 UofL’s online programs are designed to offer flexibility and accessibility while maintaining academic rigor. With dedicated faculty and a range of student support services, UofL continues to empower learners from diverse backgrounds to achieve their goals. UofL has over 70 fully online programs across the graduate and undergraduate levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and certificate programs. Whatever family, professional, personal or other obligations you may be juggling, our online programs are designed to help you succeed. 

Kelvin Thompson, EdD, Vice Provost for Online Strategy and Teaching Innovation at UofL’s Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning, highlighted the importance of quality online education in advancing lives and careers while offering the flexibility to balance life’s responsibilities. Dr. Thompson stated, “Providing accessible, high-quality online education is a vital component of our mission at the University of Louisville. Our students come from all walks of life and in all manner of circumstances (e.g., First Generation, post-traditional, under-resourced, etc.), and recognition from organizations like U.S. News & World Report reaffirms our commitment to excellence in everything we do.” 

Don’t wait any longer. Learn more about our award-winning programs and see why so many of our successful online learners have embraced the UofL advantage. Your future starts today!  

View all our available programs 

The Top 3 Things to Consider When Deciding on an Online DSW Program

The Top 3 Things to Consider When Deciding on an Online DSW Program

Choosing the right online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program can be challenging, but focusing on three key factors can help guide your decision. Read below to see which three factors might help you decide which online DSW program is right for you! 

1. Flexibility

As a working professional, you need an online program that aligns with your unique needs. The University of Louisville’s (UofL) online DSW program is designed specifically for busy social workers like you. All coursework and practicums are offered entirely online, with both synchronous and asynchronous classes, giving you the flexibility to balance work, life, and studies. 

You won’t have to sacrifice the quality of your education for flexibility. The program is taught by world-class faculty from the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, part of an R1 research institution and one of Kentucky’s top-ranked social work schools. 

2. Practical experience and career growth potential

Many DSW graduates advance into leadership roles within their organizations, and some also take on teaching responsibilities. The UofL online DSW program offers hands-on practicum in teaching and leadership, providing real-world experience to help you grow professionally in whichever direction you choose. 

When we say “real-world,” we mean it. The leadership practicum takes place at your place of employment, focusing on the tasks and challenges faced by upper-level administrators—think of it as on-the-job training at the next level. 

In the teaching practicum, you will learn by observing Kent School faculty in action and gain experience conducting your own teaching activities under their expert guidance. 

While social workers are driven by a desire to help others, it is also important to ensure your educational journey will advance your career and salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. social worker employment is expected to grow by 16% from 2016 to 2026, with a median annual salary of $80,790 for postsecondary social work educators (bls.gov). 

3. Personal connections and guidance

At UofL, “online” doesn’t mean “alone.” The online DSW program is designed to keep you connected with both your peers and faculty. Cohorts are kept small, so you can easily build personal connections with your classmates, who may later become valuable colleagues. 

Kent School faculty are also deeply engaged with each DSW student. In addition to the coursework, you will receive one-on-one guidance during your teaching and leadership practicums. You will learn from acknowledged leaders in the field and receive mentorship as you work on your original capstone project, which showcases your expanded skills and understanding. Capstone projects are closely supervised by a faculty mentor and supported by three additional Kent School faculty members. 

Next steps: Hear from graduates and apply 

Now that you have considered what makes the UofL online DSW program a great fit for you, it’s time to apply! The deadline to submit your application for the next Fall term is February 1. Learn more about the application requirements here. 

Want to hear about the experiences of one of UofL’s online DSW graduates? See Lizzie’s story below! 

 

First Generation Student Success: Tiffany Rapier’s Success Story

First Generation Student Success: Tiffany Rapier’s Success Story

Tiffany Rapier of Corbin, KY, is a mother of 7 and an online student. She is also a first-generation college student completing her education in what’s known as an Education Desert, or an area with limited access to colleges or universities.

First-generation college students often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their ability to pursue higher education, especially those living in education deserts. Many of these students lack the familial experience to navigate the complexities of higher education, such as understanding financial aid, selecting courses or managing academic expectations. For those in education deserts, the absence of nearby institutions compounds the problem, limiting their access to in-person support systems, networking opportunities and academic resources. However, the rise of online learning offers a crucial lifeline. 

Online education allows these students to access quality degree programs without the need to relocate or commute long distances. Flexible schedules, diverse course offerings and the ability to balance work and study make it a viable option for those who might otherwise struggle to find the time or resources to attend a traditional campus-based program. Through online learning, first-generation students in remote areas can overcome geographic and logistical barriers, gaining the education and skills necessary to pursue their career goals. 

Take a few moments to watch Tiffany’s powerful story below, and see how she was able to complete both her BS and MS in Criminal Justice through UofL’s online programs!  

Click the links to learn more about our 100% online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Master of Science in Criminal Justice 

New Program Alert: Online Master of Science in Physiology

New Program Alert: Online Master of Science in Physiology

UofL Online is excited to announce the launch of our newest program, the online Master of Science in Physiology (MS Phys)! This fully online degree offers students the opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of human physiology while providing the flexibility to learn at their own pace. 

The MS in Physiology is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers in healthcare, research or education. With a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as cellular physiology, neurophysiology and exercise physiology, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a variety of professional settings. Students will also be better prepared for a terminal degree in the medical field!  

The MS in Physiology program director, Robert Brainard, PhD, emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “Health Science-related careers continue to expand at an accelerated pace. Our program provides a path toward admission into health-professions schools and employment in higher-paying medical-related positions.” 

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to pursue further education, such as medical or doctoral programs, or to take on roles in clinical settings, laboratory research, or health education. The online format ensures that students can balance their studies with work or personal commitments, making it an accessible choice for many. 

Elevate your education and expand your career opportunities in the dynamic field of physiology. Click here to learn more about the program and how to apply!