The University of Dubuque has announced plans to expand access to higher education through a new online learning platform, UD Global, aimed at students seeking fully online degree programmes.
According to the institution, UD Global is designed to meet the needs of modern learners by offering flexible online courses while maintaining the same academic standards, faculty support and institutional quality as on-campus programmes.
Corrie Rindone, director of online learning, said the platform will allow students to balance education with work, family and other commitments while earning a recognised degree from the university.
“UD Global was designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s students by offering flexible online degree programs that maintain the same academic rigor, faculty support, and institutional standards as our on-campus offerings. This allows students to balance their education with work, family, and other commitments while still earning a respected University of Dubuque degree,” said Rindone.
UD Global is scheduled to launch in summer 2026 with two undergraduate programmes: a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor of Business Administration. The university said both courses were selected due to strong workforce demand and career growth opportunities.
Rindone noted that the initial programmes align with labour market needs and that more courses will be added in future.
The first classes under UD Global will begin on May 4, 2026. Each session will run for eight weeks, with full-time students taking two courses per session and part-time students taking one.
The university stated that online learners will remain fully integrated into the Spartans community regardless of location. Students will have access to academic advising, tutoring, career services and student support resources similar to those available on campus. They will also be able to participate in virtual events, collaborative coursework and student organisations.
The initiative builds on the university’s longstanding experience in distance education and hybrid learning through its undergraduate, graduate, LIFE HyFlex and seminary programmes.
Lisa Nachtman Loney, director of advising, faculty development and assessment, said the institution already has the expertise and student support systems needed to serve a fully online student body.
The university added that, alongside its existing faculty and adjunct instructors, UD Global will continue recruiting subject-matter experts and industry professionals to enhance course delivery and provide real-world perspectives for students already in the workforce.
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