Montgomery College Celebrates National Distance Learning Week with Expanded Online Programs through MC Online

In honor of National Distance Learning Week, Montgomery College (MC) is highlighting the transformative growth of MC Online, the college’s rebranded Virtual Campus, which now offers a robust selection of online programs aimed at ensuring equity, access, and flexibility for all students. Under the leadership of Dr. Shinta Hernandez, MC Online has expanded to include 22 fully online degree programs and 17 certificate programs, creating a total of 39 online options designed to meet the diverse needs of students balancing work, family, and academic goals.

Montgomery College’s commitment to accessible, high-quality online education began over a decade ago under the forward-thinking leadership of Dr. Michael Mills, then vice president of E-Learning, Innovation, and Teaching Excellence (ELITE) and now associate senior vice president of Equitable Access and Student Success. His vision laid the foundation for MC’s Virtual Campus, which officially launched in 2021 and was restructured as MC Online in 2023 to better resonate with students and enhance their sense of belonging.

“National Distance Learning Week is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the strides we’ve made in expanding access to education for our community,” said Dr. Hernandez. “MC Online is all about creating equitable opportunities for students who might not be able to attend classes in person due to work schedules, childcare responsibilities, or transportation challenges.”

As part of its equity-driven mission, MC Online also offers “Z Courses,” where students have free access to Open Educational Resources (OERs) instead of traditional textbooks, reducing the financial burden of course materials. Additionally, many of MC Online’s courses have been certified by Quality Matters, an internationally recognized organization that ensures online programs meet the highest standards of educational quality.  

Dr. Hernandez emphasized that MC Online’s accredited programs are designed to keep Montgomery College competitive in the growing online education landscape. “We are dedicated to offering students the best possible experience and to maintaining the high quality that keeps them engaged and successful,” she said. “Our students know they’re receiving an education that’s both flexible and academically rigorous.”

With its expanded offerings and nationally recognized quality standards, MC Online embodies Montgomery College’s commitment to transforming lives through affordable, accessible education.

For more information about Montgomery College’s online programs, visit the MC Online webpage.