Illinois Gov. George Ryan announced that enrollments in distance learning courses rose to nearly 38,000 last fall, an increase of 44 percent. The statistics compiled by the Illinois Virtual Campus (IVC) indicate an increase of over 11,000 enrollments compared to Spring 2000 figures.

"Internet technology continues to expand the access that we have to gather information and pursue educational opportunities," said Governor Ryan. "Students throughout Illinois have taken advantage of the convenience and flexibility that distance learning allows."

The Virtual Campus operates a statewide online course catalog connecting students with distance learning opportunities throughout Illinois and beyond. The number of courses available through some form of distance education by the IVC more than doubled. The Illinois Virtual Campus was developed by the University of Illinois and funded through grants from the Board of Higher Education.

"It is clear from the continuous and dramatic growth of enrollments since the Illinois Virtual Campus went online in the fall 1999 that distance education fills a large void in educational opportunity in Illinois," Cathy Gunn, director of the IVC, said. "Our partnership with community colleges has also given Illinois students the advantage of student services, academic advising, and technical assistance with a human touch."