2U Partners with University of Surrey to Launch 15 Online Master's Degrees

Rhea-AI Summary

2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU) partners with the University of Surrey to launch online master's degrees and professional certificate programs in technology, business management, healthcare, and sustainability. The partnership aims to expand access to the university's offerings worldwide, with an initial five online degree programs launching in 2024 and at least 15 master's degrees and professional certificate programs by 2026.

Insights

Market Research Analyst

The partnership between 2U, Inc. and the University of Surrey represents a strategic move in the online education sector, which is experiencing significant growth. The collaboration aims to leverage 2U's technological capabilities and the university's academic strengths to create a scalable online education model. This move is likely to attract global attention as it promises to deliver flexible and affordable education, thus expanding the market for both entities.

From a market perspective, the announcement could impact 2U's stock as investors often react to news of expansions and partnerships, especially those that promise long-term growth. The focus on in-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, business, psychology, marketing and sustainability could position 2U to capitalize on current market trends, potentially leading to increased revenue streams and market share.

Educational Technology Expert

The partnership underscores the importance of digital transformation in higher education. By combining Surrey's academic offerings with 2U's technological expertise, the initiative is set to enhance the quality and reach of online education. The emphasis on developing online master's degrees and professional certificate programs in areas aligned with career growth and market needs reflects an understanding of the evolving educational landscape.

For stakeholders, the partnership with LearningMate to develop the curriculum indicates a commitment to high-quality, innovative online learning experiences. This could set a new benchmark for online program delivery and potentially influence other institutions to follow suit, thereby impacting the broader educational technology industry.

Financial Analyst

The financial implications of this partnership for 2U, Inc. are multifaceted. The initial investment in developing and supporting these online programs may increase operational costs in the short term. However, the long-term benefits could be substantial if the programs succeed in attracting a significant number of students. The incremental revenue from tuition fees and the potential for high margins associated with online programs could enhance 2U's profitability in the long run.

Investors should monitor the enrollment numbers and student outcomes as key indicators of the partnership's success. It is also crucial to compare these figures with industry benchmarks to evaluate 2U's performance in the competitive online education market.

New partnership also includes more than 15 online professional certificate programs in technology, business management, healthcare, and sustainability

GUILDFORD, England and LANHAM, Md., Feb. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU), the company behind global online learning platform edX, today announced a new partnership with the University of Surrey to launch and support the delivery of online master's degrees and online professional certificate programs. An initial five online degree programs will welcome students in 2024, with a portfolio of at least 15 master's degrees and at least 15 professional certificate programs being delivered by 2026. This will expand access to this highly ranked UK university for students worldwide.

Surrey's partnership with 2U will deliver Surrey Online Learning: an acceleration and transformation of the university's provision of online learning. 2U's expertise will help Surrey establish a scalable model and quickly expand its digital capabilities to worldwide audiences. The collaboration aligns with the university's mission to expand access to life-changing education and personal and professional success.

"We're partnering with 2U and their edX platform to accelerate Surrey Online Learning provision," said Professor Tim Dunne, Provost and Senior Vice-President at the University of Surrey. "The University of Surrey has global strength in innovation and research, and is renowned for being one of the best universities in the UK for delivering excellence in teaching and employability. Through Surrey Online Learning, we will offer flexible and affordable educational pathways that are compatible with and relevant to modern careers, combining accessibility with strong student outcomes."

Surrey's suite of online degrees will build on the success of its on-campus programs, with the online curriculum developed in partnership with LearningMate. The first five degrees expected to launch in 2024 will be in the areas of artificial intelligence, business, psychology, marketing, and sustainability. The professional certificate programs, which will focus on technology, healthcare, business, communications technologies, and sustainability, will provide learners with an opportunity to build and enhance critical professional skills on their way to determining if a full degree in a corresponding subject is part of their educational journey.

"2U prides itself in being a digital transformation partner that can support strategic long-term thinking, accelerate innovation, and help drive positive student outcomes across new formats and modalities," said Andrew Hermalyn, President of the Degree Program Segment at 2U. "The University of Surrey has major ambitions to expand its online learning capabilities, and we are honored to be their partner to help build their online presence from the ground up."

"LearningMate is honored to partner with the University of Surrey on its transformative online learning initiative in collaboration with 2U. We're excited to contribute to the development of cutting-edge online master's degrees and professional certificate programs that align with Surrey's commitment to excellence," said Prasad Mohare, Senior Vice President at LearningMate. "Our focus on innovation and accessibility will be showcased in the initial offerings. LearningMate is dedicated to supporting Surrey in expanding access to impactful, career-relevant learning opportunities in the evolving landscape of online education."

Today's announcement builds on the continued demand for 2U's flexible degree partnership model, which gives universities the choice of selecting different bundles of services according to their needs.

About the University of Surrey
The University of Surrey is a research-intensive university, conducting world-leading, impactful research, delivering excellent innovation in teaching and producing highly employable graduates. These combine to transform lives and change the world for the better.

About 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU)
 2U is a global leader in online education. Guided by its founding mission to eliminate the back row in higher education, 2U has spent 15 years advancing the technology and innovation to deliver world-class learning outcomes at scale. Through its global online learning platform edX, 2U connects more than 81 million people with thousands of affordable, career-relevant learning opportunities in partnership with 250 of the world's leading universities, institutions, and industry experts. From free courses to full degrees, 2U is creating a better future for all through the power of high-quality online education. Learn more at 2U.com.

About LearningMate
LearningMate is a dynamic and innovative education technology company dedicated to transforming the learning experience. With a commitment to fostering excellence in education, LearningMate partners with institutions globally to deliver cutting-edge solutions that leverage technology for enhanced learning outcomes. As a leading curriculum development partner, LearningMate plays a vital role in shaping online education initiatives. Their expertise lies in crafting engaging and impactful learning materials, ensuring that educational content aligns seamlessly with the evolving needs of learners. Through collaborative efforts with institutions like the University of Surrey, LearningMate contributes to creating flexible, accessible, and career-focused online programs that empower learners worldwide.

Media Contacts:
media@2u.com
mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk 

 

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SOURCE 2U, Inc.

FAQ

What is the new partnership announced by 2U, Inc. (TWOU)?

2U, Inc. (TWOU) announced a new partnership with the University of Surrey to launch and support the delivery of online master's degrees and professional certificate programs.

How many online degree programs will be launched in 2024 as part of the partnership?

An initial five online degree programs will welcome students in 2024 as part of the partnership between 2U, Inc. (TWOU) and the University of Surrey.

What are the areas of the first five online degrees expected to launch in 2024?

The first five degrees expected to launch in 2024 will be in the areas of artificial intelligence, business, psychology, marketing, and sustainability.

Who is the President of the Degree Program Segment at 2U?

Andrew Hermalyn is the President of the Degree Program Segment at 2U, Inc. (TWOU).

What is the focus of the professional certificate programs in the partnership?

The professional certificate programs will focus on technology, healthcare, business, communications technologies, and sustainability, providing learners with an opportunity to build and enhance critical professional skills.