UVU ranked among nation’s most affordable online universities for second straight year – Deseret News

Utah Valley University Recognized for Affordable Online Education

Overview of Recognition

Utah Valley University (UVU) has been named one of the most affordable online universities in the United States for the second consecutive year, according to the latest ranking by OnlineU. This annual ranking assesses institutions offering bachelor’s degree programs based on tuition costs, accessibility, and enrollment figures among online undergraduate students.

Commitment to Accessibility and Affordability

Bonnie Rodriguez Mortensen, Senior Director of Online and Graduate Studies at UVU, emphasized the university’s dedication to providing accessible, student-centered education. She stated:

“Being recognized on OnlineU’s affordability list reflects UVU’s long-standing commitment to access and student-centered design. Our goal is to ensure that students can pursue a high-quality education in ways that fit their lives, without affordability becoming a barrier.”

Growth in Online Learning Enrollment

UVU has experienced significant growth in its online learning programs, highlighting the evolving educational needs of students:

1. Online-only student enrollment increased by more than 6% from fall 2024 to fall 2025.
2. Total student headcount rose by over 10% during the same period.
3. Online-only full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment grew by nearly 9%.

Changing Student Needs and Institutional Response

Mortensen noted a shift in how students access education, with affordability and flexibility becoming essential factors in their decision-making process. UVU has proactively designed online pathways to meet these evolving demands, ensuring that educational opportunities align with students’ lifestyles and financial considerations.

Strategic Initiatives Supporting Online Education

The university’s recognition reinforces ongoing strategies aimed at enhancing online education, including:

• Optimized scheduling to accommodate diverse student needs.
• Comprehensive online student support services.
• Personalized advising tailored for online learners.
• Innovative course delivery methods to improve engagement and learning outcomes.

Context within Utah Higher Education

Other Utah institutions recognized for affordable online education include:

• Southern Utah University and Weber State University, both ranked in the top 10.
• Utah State University, ranked No. 18.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 4: Quality Education

UVU’s efforts directly contribute to SDG 4 by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. The university’s focus on affordability and flexible online programs ensures broader access to higher education, particularly for non-traditional and underserved students.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

By removing financial and logistical barriers to education, UVU supports SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries. The university’s student-centered design and support services help create an inclusive learning environment that accommodates diverse populations.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Providing accessible education through affordable online programs equips students with skills and knowledge necessary for employment and economic advancement, aligning with SDG 8’s objective to promote sustained, inclusive economic growth and productive employment.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

UVU’s innovative approach to online course delivery and student support exemplifies SDG 9 by fostering resilient infrastructure and promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization through education technology.

Conclusion

Utah Valley University’s recognition as a leading affordable online university underscores its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals by enhancing access to quality education, reducing inequalities, and supporting economic growth through innovative and flexible learning solutions.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article focuses on access to affordable, high-quality online education at Utah Valley University (UVU).
   • It highlights increased enrollment and flexible learning pathways, which align with ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • By emphasizing affordability and accessibility, the article touches on reducing inequalities in education opportunities.
   • Providing flexible online education helps reach diverse student populations who might face barriers to traditional education.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified Based on the Article’s Content

1. Under SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship.
   • Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable populations.
2. Under SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress Towards the Identified Targets

1. Indicators for SDG 4 Targets
   • Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months, by sex.
   • Indicator 4.5.1: Parity indices (female/male, rural/urban, bottom/top wealth quintile and others) for all education indicators on this list that can be disaggregated.
   • Implied by the article: Increase in online-only student enrollment (6% increase), student headcount growth (10% increase), and online full-time equivalent increase (9%) can be used as metrics to track access and participation.
2. Indicators for SDG 10 Targets
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50% of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities.
   • Implied by the article: Affordability and access metrics suggest efforts to reduce economic barriers to education, which relate to measuring inclusion and reduced inequalities.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Identified in the Article

Source: deseret.com