Bellevue University celebrates increase in degree conferrals

BELLEVUE, Neb. -- Following last month's commencement ceremony, Bellevue University proudly acknowledges the accomplishments of students who have earned degrees from January through June 2012 - 1,217 total, including 364 master's degrees and 853 bachelor's degrees. Graduates from 47 states represent the university's far-reaching impact.

Bellevue University is ranked second among all Nebraska institutions awarding the highest number of degrees and first among independent institutions, according to a report from the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education. The report cites that Bellevue University conferred 3,101 degrees in the 2010-2011 academic year, just behind the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, the state's largest academic institution. A private, non-profit institution, the University accounted for 55 percent of the increase in the number of degrees awarded by independent Nebraska institutions between 2000-01 and 2010-11.

Bellevue University offers more than 40 undergraduate degree programs and 17 graduate degree programs, with more programs in development. Those programs apply the University's unique active learning approach which allows students to attend class in a classroom or online, and meet with fellow students, discuss lessons with instructors, complete assignments and conduct research.

Bellevue University first offered online classes in November 1996 with a handful of students and six courses. Today, Bellevue University has more than 7,000 online students from all over the globe enrolled in more than 400 courses. Overall, more than 10,000 students now attend Bellevue University, making it the largest private university in Nebraska.

Bellevue University is a recognized national leader in providing post-secondary education opportunities for working adults. A private, non-profit institution, Bellevue University serves students at learning sites in three states, as well as worldwide through its award-winning online learning platform. Bellevue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information, visit www.bellevue.edu.

Area graduates are:

Ashley Gerlach of Cambridge, Master of Public Administration; Alyssa Stanley of Imperial, Bachelor of Science in Business; Corey Brockway, of McCook, Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems Business and Rebecca Burns, also of McCook, Master of Science in Organizational Performance.