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Online Learning, On-Campus Quality: Why an American University Education Degree Stands Out

June 4, 2025

You’ve decided to pursue a graduate degree in education and are exploring online learning due to the flexibility this modality offers. However, you’re concerned that studying online may mean sacrificing program quality and opportunities for connection and collaboration. 

If this is the case, you’ll be glad to learn that quality and flexibility don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, American University (AU) is nationally recognized for delivering both. This article explains how AU’s online education programs mirror the academic rigor, personal connection, and values-driven mission of the on-campus experience.

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The Same Academic Rigor, Designed for Online Learners

AU’s online programs are not merely adapted for online delivery; they are purposefully structured for online learning, preserving academic depth and real-world relevance. Furthermore, AU’s online programs are developed and taught by the same expert faculty members who lead on-campus courses. As an online AU student, you will benefit from opportunities to learn from engaged industry professionals and respected researchers, and you will be held to the same high standards as on-campus students.Ā 

AU was recently designated as an R1 research institution, ranking it among the most prestigious research universities in the country. This national recognition reflects the academic excellence and institutional strength behind AU’s online programs.Ā 

A Connected, Values-Driven Learning Community

Learning online at AU is a collaborative experience in which students are guided and supported in building meaningful relationships with professors and peers. These programs feature weekly live class sessions with a low student-to-instructor ratio, ensuring each student receives personalized attention and support. During online class sessions, students collaborate on projects, engage in structured debates, and participate in forum discussions. At AU, students are not just numbers—they are seen, heard, and supported.Ā 

Built for Real-World Impact

AU’s online education programs connect theory to practice. Each program includes a hands-on component through student teaching or a practical consultancy project. Students are also encouraged to bring challenges from their own school, organization, or community into the classroom. AU faculty is committed to supporting students in becoming more effective, equity-minded professionals, not just academic thinkers.

Support That Moves with You

As an AU online student, you don’t have to worry about being left to figure things out alone. AU offers various support systems to online students, all structured to accommodate working professionals who may be balancing multiple priorities. Support resources available to online students include academic advising and coaching, tech support, access to the AU library, and career guidance.

A Degree With Purpose, Powered by AU

AU’s online education programs are characterized by high-touch support, mission-aligned academics, and a commitment to helping students make a real impact in their schools and communities. Studying online at AU means not having to choose between flexibility and quality of education; AU’s online programs are purposefully crafted for online learning and taught by expert faculty members.Ā 

AU online students do not have to compromise on collaboration. They enjoy ample opportunities to build meaningful connections with faculty members and peers during live online classes, group projects, and structured debates. As a result, online learning at  AU delivers lasting value, professionally and personally. 

Are you ready to take the next step toward gaining the skills to transform the education system? Schedule an application walkthrough with an enrollment advisor, or start your application today.Ā 

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