The programs featured in this section are programs selected thru our national research efforts as some of the programs best fitting AboutEdu's "accessibility" and "student-focused" criteria.  

Some of the factors ranking high in AboutEdu's program evaluation criteria include:

- Accredited Institutions and Programs - Public community colleges nationwide.

- Programs in Industries with forecasted job-growth - Business, Education, Environment, Healthcare, Social Services, Technology, and others.

- Low "Online Tuition" Cost - Low cost "out of state" tuition rates, or Special "online tuition" rates for non-resident distance learners.

- Short Term - 12 months preferred, with maximum of 18 months

- Articulation Potential - Potential articulation, and recognition of certificate courses into associates or bachelors programs. 

- Online-friendly school and program site designs and structure that roll out what AboutEdu calls "the online carpet" for online students - It makes it simple and turnkey for online students to see online program offerings, get all the program information, get all the costs, the requirements, online support, and enroll online.   

- Admission Requirements - High school diploma and/or work experience when feasible

- Student Services/Support - Technical, Academic, Career Services, Industry/corporate partnerships, and others.

While the programs featured in this section may not meet all the criteria cited above and other factors included in our evaluation, they rated the overall highest of the programs reviewed per industry sector.  

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