Launching an Online University in the US: Steps and Strategies
Starting an online university in the United States can be an ambitious yet rewarding endeavor. With the right approach and planning, turning your vision into a reality is entirely possible. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from forming a non-profit organization to securing accreditation, setting up your website, and enrolling students.
1. Forming a Non-Profit Organization
One of the initial steps in launching an online university in the US is forming a non-profit organization (NGO). This approach not only provides structure but also offers tax benefits and flexibility in service offerings. In New Jersey, you can establish an NGO by filling out the appropriate form and submitting it to the designated email address. A creative name, such as King Najashi Biont Conservatory, can resonate well with potential students while maintaining a unique identity.
2. Securing Accreditation
A critical step in any educational institution is obtaining accreditation. Accreditation ensures that your university meets certain standards of quality, enabling you to offer legitimate academic programs. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the United States Department of Education (USDE) are reliable sources to find accredited bodies.
For more affordable options, consider a programmatic accreditor. For example, the Council on Opticianry Accreditation accredits Associate degrees in Opticianry for an initial fee of $500 plus a yearly fee of $1,395.50. Another option, the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism, and Related Professions (COAPRT), offers an Intent to Pursue Accreditation fee of $500 and a Formal Application Continuing Accreditation Application Fee of $2,150. Master's programs require additional accreditation, also costing $2,150.
For less affordable programs, you may opt to offer a minor concentration in subjects like Veterinary Audiology or Entomology. By registering your university through the International Academic Continuing Education (IACET) online portal, you can measure these minor concentrations in US Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Overseas accreditation, such as in Chile, where accreditation is free, can further enhance your institution's credibility.
3. Establishing Your Website
Once your school has received accreditation, it's time to establish a professional online presence. Your website should end with the .edu domain, as only accredited US colleges and universities can use this domain. Using WordPress to create your website is an excellent choice, as it provides a user-friendly interface and plenty of customizable templates.
To enhance security and organization, it's advisable to password-protect certain pages, such as those containing detailed course information or assignment deadlines. For enrollment, platforms like Lazada and Shopee can be utilized for payment collection. Couriers can deliver academic handouts and website passwords once students complete their purchases.
Conclusion
Launching an online university in the US requires careful planning and execution. By forming a robust non-profit organization, securing adequate accreditation, and establishing a professional online presence, you can build a successful educational institution. Remember, the journey may be long, but with diligence and passion, your vision can become a reality.