Online & Distance Education Stories & News

Katie Seavey

Creating a welcoming place to explore

Katie Seavey's ('24, Endorsement) passion about helping students to feel like reading belongs to them came through as a teacher librarian at a Pleasant Valley elementary school.
Best Colleges U.S. News & World Report Regional Universities - Midwest 2027

UNI ranked No. 1 in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report

For the first time, the University of Northern Iowa has earned the distinction of being named the No. 1 public regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Joyce Levingston at UNI Commencement

A thriving career in leadership: From GED to EdD

Without the affirmation of a University of Northern Iowa professor, Joyce Levingston may not have realized how smart she was as a 20-something undergraduate student studying family services whose previous experiences led her to drop out of high school. 
Transfer Honor Roll 2026

UNI recognized for transfer student success nine years in a row

For the ninth year in a row, the University of Northern Iowa has been recognized for its commitment to helping community college students seamlessly transfer and earn bachelor’s degrees. UNI once again made Phi Theta Kappa’s Transfer Honor Roll, a nationally known indicator of transfer excellence.
The Princeton Review Best Business Schools baddge

UNI MBA marks 20 years as a Princeton Review Best Business School

The UNI MBA has earned The Princeton Review's Best Business Schools distinction for the 20th consecutive year, offering an affordable, flexible program designed to help professionals advance their careers in as few as 10 courses.
Student teacher working one-on-one with a young student

New center at UNI serves as hub for continuing education and more for teachers, families, schools

The University of Northern Iowa plans to launch EdvantageUNI, a centralized hub for professional learning, educational growth and support for school districts, practicing and aspiring educators, and families. 
Brian Lepa

UNI Wilson College of Business celebrates online MBA graduates

Graduates of UNI’s online Master of Business Administration crossed the stage at the 2026 spring Commencement. The program attracts a wide variety of students, ranging from young professionals to seasoned business executives seeking the highly regarded MBA from the Wilson College of Business.
Rhandi Oelmann playing with students in a sandbox

Longtime paraeducator becomes lead teacher thanks to UNI’s online program

After nearly 15 years as a paraeducator, Rhandi Oelmann has secured her first lead teacher job for the fall. The 40-year-old mom of three will confidently step into her new role thanks to the University of Northern Iowa’s early childhood education online transfer program.
Anna Pesek celebrates earning her MBA while holding her son

Nationally recognized leaders like Anna Pesek continue their growth at UNI

From appearing on CNN and meeting with U.S. senators to growing a farm business that ships nationwide, Anna Pesek is using her UNI MBA to expand her impact on agriculture, entrepreneurship and rural communities.
Woman on laptop

What are micro-credentials and how can they advance careers?

For practicing educators and working professionals, micro‑credentials offer a flexible way to grow your expertise without committing to a full degree. Here’s how they work and why they’re worth considering.