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CORVALLIS, Ore. - The Ecampus distance education program at Oregon State University has been named the best online college in Oregon by TheBestSchools.org, an organization that provides in-depth ranking of degree programs, colleges and universities.

The rankings are based on academic excellence, faculty strength, online teaching methods, awards, the number of programs offered and other criteria, organization officials said.

In its evaluation, the organization cited the 35-plus online degrees delivered by Ecampus, "renowned" faculty members, access to student support systems, and Carnegie Foundation recognition of OSU as a university with very high research activity. The report is online at http://bit.ly/1xE4dfY

"OSU's dedication to online education has brought us to regard it as the best online college in Oregon," said Wayne Downs, managing editor of TheBestSchools.org.

Online education has been growing rapidly around the nation in recent years, including OSU's Ecampus. Established universities such as OSU, the group noted, allow students to earn their degree online but also offer local residents the opportunity to use the library or visit a professor.

"What really distinguishes Oregon State Ecampus from other online universities is our focus on engaging, quality courses," said Lisa L. Templeton, executive director of the program. "This strategic effort was recently recognized by the Online Learning Consortium for excellence in faculty development. We're a leader in online education not just in Oregon, but also in the nation."

In past years, OSU Ecampus has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report, Smart Choice 25 Best Online Colleges, and Nation's Best Public Online Colleges.

Just recently, Professional and Continuing Education, within the Division of Outreach and Engagement, also received several honors from the University Professional and Continuing Education Association. These included two UPCEA Marketing Awards. One was a bronze winner in the streaming/on demand content category; the other a bronze winner in a promotional print piece.