April 9, 2008

Bismarck, ND--The online MBA programs offered by the University of Mary's School of Accelerated and Distance Education were recently rated among the Top 40 "Best Buys" in their class by GetEducated.com, an online clearinghouse providing consumers with information on accredited online degrees since 1989.

The Best Buy award program was established "to help spotlight and promote the true affordable gems of e-learning." A "Best Buy" designation indicates that a program has been reviewed and judged to offer a high-quality distance MBA to a national audience at tuition rates well below the national average. U-Mary ranked No. 26 among the 91 competing regionally accredited options nationwide reviewed for the 2008 ranking.

"We are pleased and proud that our online MBA programs have been recognized in this ranking," says Brenda Kaspari, School of Accelerated and Distance Education director. "Since its establishment in 1959, the University of Mary has been committed to lifelong learning and providing accessible, high-quality education at a reasonable cost. We have continued to carry this commitment forward as we have expanded and enhanced our delivery options."

The University of Mary, America's Leadership University, was the first college in the region to offer specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of adult students. The School of Accelerated and Distance Education, founded in 1996, offers on-site accelerated adult programs at 16 sites in six states.

U-Mary began its first online degree cohort in 2005. The university's accredited accelerated online offerings now include programs leading to an MBA in management, an MBA in health care, and an MBA in accountancy. U-Mary's School of Accelerated and Distance Education also offers online bachelor's degree programs in management and accounting, bachelor's and master's degree programs in nursing and a Master of Project Management.

The University of Mary has enjoyed continuous accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1969.

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