In the forefront of a growing trend, Baker College, home to one of the country's largest on-line education programs, today announced that on-line student enrollment has reached an all-time high of more than 2,100 students. Baker's program, introduced in early 1994, was among the first comprehensive on-line programs in the country and remains one of only a few programs in which students can complete 100 percent of classes necessary to earn an associate, bachelor, or master's degree. Current enrollment makes Baker On-Line the second largest on-line program in the country, trailing only Arizona-based University of Phoenix.

"The program is designed to meet the needs of a changing student population," explains Chuck Gurden, Baker College director of graduate and on-line admission. "Statistics show that the 'average' student is getting older, is often faced with work and family responsibilities and is beginning to expect more from his or her college in terms of 'service.' In essence, our customers told us they wanted a way to get a quality education within their schedule and budget parameters and Baker On-Line was the answer."

Baker's on-line student body represents 33 states and eight foreign countries, including China, Germany and Turkey. Though not likely to meet in person, students say their program's flexibility far outweighs the need for human interaction.

"Students tell us they like the flexibility and independence offered by on-line classes," says Gurden. "Last year, we had a student who earned her bachelor's degree from St. Kitts in the Caribbean. She was able to complete class work and participate in class 'discussion' when her work day was over and her family was in bed."

All on-line courses are six weeks long with specific start and end dates,meaning students can complete a master's program in about 18 months. Baker College On-Line offers 160 classes in nearly every program offered by the college.