Graduates of The University of Scranton's Online Master of Science in Education Program Praise the Benefits of E-Learning at Spring Commencement Ceremony

TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of graduate students walked in The University of Scranton's Spring 2010 commencement procession, including many Master of Science in Education recipients who completed their degree programs 100% online. The May 29 ceremony marked the first time most of these online students ever set foot on the campus of the acclaimed institution, which is ranked among the top 10 Master's Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

This unique group of graduates praised both the ceremony and their online education experience. "It was wonderful to have the opportunity to walk and receive my diploma in front of family and friends," stated Carly Beth Batzel, who chose The University of Scranton's online Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction program because of the school's reputation for academic excellence, coupled with its online convenience. "As a working mom and a military wife, I needed the flexibility of working and studying when my schedule allowed -- even if that was at midnight or 5:00 a.m.! The University of Scranton allowed me to pursue my advanced degree and fulfill my current responsibilities at the same time." Batzel felt the commencement ceremony "was the perfect culmination of two years of self-discipline, hard work and time management."

"I am so glad that I participated in graduation. I loved the atmosphere and being part of such a special occasion," said Roy Wright, who earned his Master of Science in Educational Administration. He selected The University of Scranton based on the school's "tremendous reputation" and the recommendations of two friends who are alumni, as well as the online program's flexibility to fit within his demanding schedule. Wright plans to apply his new credentials in pursuit of his career goals: "I intend to become a principal and then a superintendent within five to 10 years!"

For Thomas L. Martin, a father of four with a busy work schedule, the university's online program was his only choice for earning an MS in Educational Administration. He appreciated the flexible, video-based e-learning platform, since "attending traditional classes was nearly impossible." The online courses perfectly suited Martin's needs, and his advanced degree will empower him to move into an administrator role.

Several MS in Curriculum and Instruction recipients remarked that they were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony and very pleased with the university's online program. "It was very important for me to attend commencement," said Linda Stokes, noting that the university made its online students feel "just as important as students who took courses on campus." She proclaimed the program to be "excellent for teachers" and believes it will help her attain a higher-paying job.

Her online classmate, Michelle Efseaff, found the entire experience to be very satisfying: "All the work, all the learning, all the time spent on the computer came back full-force as I was walking to receive my diploma." Efseaff, who chose The University of Scranton based on its top ranking from U.S. News & World Report, felt the online program met her high expectations and fulfilled her academic needs. An adjunct faculty member at Porterville College, she hopes to leverage her advanced degree to become a staff member in her employer's new teacher credential program.

Fellow graduate Nancy Nolan had equally high praise for the university's online MS in Curriculum and Instruction program. "I was pleased that I could accumulate several credits in a short period of time," explained Nolan. "More importantly, I appreciated The University of Scranton's reputation and high standards, and knew I would be in a meaningful program."

For a complete list of graduates, visit http://matrix.scranton.edu/news/articles/2010/05/Images/Graduate_Commencement_Program.pdf.

Applications are now being accepted for The University of Scranton's next online session. For more information about earning a Master of Science in Education degree online, call 800-605-5346 or visit http://www.uscranton.com.

About The University of Scranton

Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The University of Scranton was founded in 1888 and has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition since 1942. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 Master's Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report. The University of Scranton is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) as well as the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Graduate and Continuing Education is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

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SOURCE The University of Scranton