Due to the specific demands of today’s college students, online colleges have grown in popularity.

For example, Ashford University recently announced record numbers of graduates this year, the majority of which were enrolled in online degree programs. This December, the school awarded 78 associate’s degrees, 2,800 bachelor’s degrees and 688 master’s degrees. Of these 5,268 graduates, 5,133 completed their coursework online. All degree recipients were invited to attend one of three graduation ceremonies nationwide on December 12, where they could receive their certifications in person.

Jane McAuliffe, Ashford University’s president, said these record-breaking numbers indicate “that non-traditional students – from working moms to military war veterans from across the nation and beyond – are increasingly successful in furthering their education and earning their college degrees through online education.”

Experts project continued growth in the online education sector

Because four-year degree programs at brick-and-mortar institutions are no longer economically or realistically feasible for the majority of today’s college students, experts expect that the advantages of online learning will continue to grow to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student body.

A recent study from Ambient Insight Research shows that the number of U.S. students taking online courses is projected to increase from 12 million to 22 million over the next five years, according to the media outlet. Additionally, scientists predict that the number of students who learn exclusively in classroom-based formats is expected to drop from 15 million to 5 million.

As the online education sector continues to provide working professionals with convenient learning options, adults who wish to enhance their education may be able to do so without disrupting their current schedules. Online degree programs may be the key to helping many individuals overcome the turbulent economy and enter the job market with a competitive edge.