Online students find flexibility, support and success at NDSU

NDSU makes it easy to complete your degree from anywhere with dozens of undergraduate and graduate online degree programs to choose from. With flexible classes and affordable North Dakota in-state tuition regardless of where you’re completing your degree, the convenience of an online NDSU degree is appealing to many.

Annamarie Lill, who is pursuing her online marketing degree from Langdon, North Dakota, has found the flexibility and support she needs to achieve her goals. Lill started her degree as a stay-at-home mom raising her five children, determined to show them that hard work and perseverance pay off when pursuing their aspirations.

“NDSU was the ideal choice because it offered a high-quality online program that fits my lifestyle and responsibilities,” she said. “The flexibility allowed me to continue supporting my family while working toward my degree. Throughout my time at NDSU, I have also been fortunate to work with exceptional advisors who have listened to my needs, supported my goals and helped me stay on track for success.”

Lill credits her advisor, Bradley Jones, for being an instrumental part in helping her navigate the academic path she wanted to take while understanding her unique circumstances.

“Without question, my advisor, Bradley Jones, has been one of my greatest sources of support throughout my academic journey. He has consistently checked in, answered countless questions and helped me stay focused on my graduation goals,” she said. “In addition, my professors have been incredibly responsive, understanding and supportive. Life has presented a number of unexpected challenges during my time at NDSU, including family losses, a car accident and medical situations involving my children. During those difficult times, my instructors demonstrated compassion and flexibility while continuing to support my academic success. Their willingness to help made a significant impact on my experience as an online student.”

For Lucas Beckerink, NDSU’s fully online master’s degree in leadership in physical education and sport coaching fit seamlessly into his busy schedule.

“I was inspired to pursue my M.Ed in LPESC online because I am a full-time teacher and this format allows me to pursue the degree while still teaching,” Beckerink said. “NDSU was the right fit due to the diverse and interesting class choices.”

Beckerink, who lives in Columbus, Ohio, has found the flexibility of NDSU’s degree program and personal attention from faculty helpful.

“The flexibility has helped me by allowing me to learn while still living and teaching in Ohio. It has also allowed me to take more classes over the summer, when I have less responsibilities for my typical full-time job,” he said.

Beyond flexibility, Lill said one of the biggest surprises has been how connected she feels to the NDSU community despite living 186 miles away from Fargo. Regular communication keeps Lill informed of what’s happening at NDSU, and collaborative class projects have made it easy for Lill to connect with and create bonds with her classmates.

“From the moment I enrolled, I have felt supported by the NDSU community,” she said. “Faculty and staff have consistently been approachable, responsive and willing to answer any questions I have had along the way. What stands out most is that every question is treated with respect and importance. That level of encouragement and accessibility has made a meaningful difference throughout my educational experience.”

As Lill prepares to graduate this fall, she is already seeing the impact of her perseverance on her children.

“My oldest son, Jonathan, graduated from high school this spring and was exploring his options for the future. After seeing firsthand how flexible and supportive NDSU's online programs have been for me, he decided to continue his education through NDSU as well. This fall, he will begin his own online college journey,” she said. “Knowing that my decision to return to school helped inspire him to pursue his goals makes this accomplishment even more meaningful.”

Explore NDSU's online undergraduate and graduate degrees programs to find the program that's right for you.

Begin your educational journey at NDSU by applying today.