The Center for Distance Education has been operational for approximately 40 years throughout interior Alaska. In 1987, after a reorganization of the rural campuses, the Center came under the College of Rural Alaska. As technology improves the Center continues to enhance their operation. Instructors are encouraged to transfer their course material to some new software called blackboard. Independent learning courses are appealing to staff because they can further their education in a manner that is convenient with their own schedules.
Courses are semester based or year long and tuition waivers apply.
Another aspect of the Center for Distance Education and Independent Learning is NETg. The University of Alaska is one of five universities in the US to partner with Gartner Group, a recognized authority on information technology. Gartner's learning division was recently acquired by NETg, enhancing significantly the computer-based offerings previously available solely on UA's Electronic Learning Center. This unique partnership provides students, staff, and faculty access to a wealth of computing-related research and training. There are 400 titles available in subjects ranging from Microsoft Office products to Novell Netware.