Catawba College News Service

SALISBURY — Catawba College’s commitment to providing learners with an exceptional online learning experience was recognized by Quality Matters (QM) – the international leader for quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments.

This recognition is a testament to Catawba Online’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality online education. Catawba College is one of only four institutions that have received this recognition.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition from Quality Matters,” Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Monica Cowart said. “Innovation in online learning goes hand-in-hand with maintaining academic rigor and an unwavering commitment to quality. At Catawba College, our online education is rooted in the intellectual depth and critical engagement that define our liberal arts tradition while providing outstanding student support — personalized, responsive, and holistic — so every learner feels empowered to thrive in a dynamic, online environment.”

The Quality Matters’ Quality in Course Sharing recognition program is the result of an 18-month development process led by Quality Matters, with collaboration and guidance from Acadeum and experts from course sharing institutions.

An external review committee rigorously evaluated Catawba College and confirmed that it meets Quality Matters’ three major quality criteria: 

1. The courses are well-designed and have been reviewed and found compliant with quality standards.
2. Instructors of shared courses are credentialed and prepared.
3. Instructors of shared courses are supported with resources and guidance so that students are supported during the course.

QM reviewers noted that Catawba implemented an exemplary practice of shared leadership between the online faculty and the Office of Catawba Online. The online students who take Catawba Online courses receive well-organized guidance at multiple points throughout the course. Catawba’s internal course review and one-on-one faculty consultation are other highly impactful practices.

“Catawba Online is proud to lead the way in offering rigorous, high-quality online courses that deliver the same exceptional education and personalized support as our on-campus programs,” Assistant Provost Mary Beth Messner said.