http://www.wtol.com/story/35757390/ut-of...ign=buffer

Mixed mind on this. My alma mater just bought Kaplan. Thought it a weird thing for a public university. Certainly seem more negative effects on the degree than positive but have no chance at refuting Mitch Daniel's reasoning. It's a public landgrant school (you listening Columbus St) and the first responsibility is to the people of the state, not status, not elitism, but the people. He feels with those resources they will be able to provide services to more of the people. He states his confidence in the people of the University, that they will rally to provide the same quality to the distance learner as they do to the on campus student.

Some will look at this as an opportunity to "do business." IF the university looks at this instead as an outreach, I think you will find the University people more committed to it, knowing they are not just keeping a job, but doing good.

If taken, it's an opportunity to provide educational services in places, even foreign countries where those are not readily available but best to reserve those for academic areas in which the University is most expert, has the best reputation. I'd see if Cuba was in need. As well perhaps other Caribbean and Central American nations. Lower economics. They're opening up. A reputation for respecting education. University resources might be lacking, but I'm no expert.

Be interesting to see how this goes. Nice to see them try something new.