For many Utah Valley University (UVU) students, the pursuit of higher education is not just an academic journey but also a juggling act of responsibilities, balancing work, family, and other commitments alongside their studies. Unfortunately, the current structure of UVU's English department requires students to attend many courses in person, which poses significant challenges for many, including myself.

While I am determined to complete my bachelor's degree in English, the lack of fully online course options has hindered my progress. Like many of my peers, I cannot easily rearrange my work schedule or dedicate several hours commuting to and from campus for classes. For students like us, offering more online courses is not simply a convenience; it's a necessity.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), over 14% of undergraduates in the United States in 2020 were exclusively enrolled in distance education courses. This trend highlights a growing need and preference for flexible learning options across the country, driven by the realities of modern life where students often balance jobs, family, and education.

By offering all English courses online, the English department at UVU can ensure that higher education is truly accessible to all its students, supporting them in achieving their educational goals. Such a transition would also help UVU stand out as a forward-thinking and inclusive institution, adapting to the evolving needs of its student body.

Let's encourage UVU to take this crucial step towards educational accessibility and inclusivity. We call on the administration and the English department to offer more fully online courses, enabling students to complete their degrees on their own terms.

Please sign this petition to show your support for expanding online English courses at UVU. Together, we can make education more accessible for everyone.