By Brenda Odhiambo

USIU-Africa is set to launch three fully online programs in the upcoming Fall semester. The new programs, Master of Arts in Communication Studies, Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, and the revamped Master of Business Administration (MBA) Online, mark a significant milestone in the university’s digital learning journey.

The launch follows successful site verification visits by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in February and June this year, at which the University presented its proposed offerings of new online and blended programs. These new offerings are part of 17 innovative online programs being developed with the support of the Mastercard Foundation.

These programs leverage the inherent advantages of online education—flexibility, accessibility, and the opportunity for all learners including working professionals to study from anywhere—while offering unique features that set them apart, which include:

1. Expertly Trained Instructors: Courses are taught by instructors who have undergone specialized training in online pedagogy and instructional design. This ensures high-quality educational experiences that adhere to rigorous online education standards.
2. High Instructor Presence: All courses include recorded weekly overviews and micro-lectures, ensuring consistent engagement and providing students with clear guidance and context for their studies. USIU-Africa’s online programs prioritize humanizing the online learning experience, enabling students to connect meaningfully with their instructors.
3. Personalized Feedback: Prompt and personalized feedback is a cornerstone of these programs, ensuring students receive timely support and constructive feedback to enhance their learning journey.
4. Instructional Design Support: Dedicated instructional designers collaborate with faculty to implement effective, engaging, and accessible educational experiences. By leveraging pedagogical principles and technology, these experts enhance student learning outcomes.
5. Blackboard Ultra LMS: All programs utilize the Blackboard Ultra Learning Management System, providing a robust and user-friendly platform for online learning.

"USIU-Africa is committed to providing top-tier educational opportunities that meet the evolving needs of all our students,” said Everlyn Anyal-Musa, Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning Initiative. "These online programs are designed to offer flexibility and accessibility without compromising on the quality of education. We are excited to see how these programs will contribute to USIU-Africa’s core mandate of teaching, learning and research, while ensuring our students achieve their academic and professional goals,” she added.