About WKU Online
Dr. Henry Hardin Cherry, Founding president of Western Kentucky University
Our Long-Term Commitment to Distance Learning.
Since its founding in 1906, Western Kentucky University has provided accessible and
effective educational opportunities to a diverse range of students. Over the years, this commitment has expanded beyond our Bowling Green campus to include
postal correspondence courses, the development of our regional campuses, and the extensive online learning opportunities offered by WKU Online. As technology continues to reshape our lives, WKU remains steadfast in its mission
of lifelong learning, a principle deeply embedded in our university’s seal.
From the visionary leadership of WKU’s first President, Dr. Henry Hardin Cherry, to the forward-thinking initiatives of our current President, Dr. Timothy C. Caboni, innovation and accessibility have always been hallmarks of the WKU experience.
In 1907, Dr. Cherry outlined his enduring vision for Western Kentucky University:
To be a living school that ignites a burning zeal for progress in every student
To be progressive and use modern methods and equipment
To build a reputation for WKU
that is sustained by real merit
To ring the rising bell in the human soul by awakening the potential in each student
Dr. Cherry's Vision in Action
1920s
Under Dr. Cherry, WKU began offering correspondence courses for Kentucky teachers.
1940s
WKU expanded distance learning opportunities to include service members.
1960s
WKU began 50 years of Independent Study by correspondence courses.
2004
The Division of Extended Learning and Outreach (DELO) was created to oversee distance learning (correspondence courses and online courses since 1998).
2022
DELO transitioned into WKU Online offering multiple online degree programs and approximately 1,700 online courses each year.
Dr. Timothy C. Caboni, Current president of Western Kentucky University
WKU Online is Future Forward
The COVID-19 pandemic not only demonstrated the utility of online learning but also emphasized the continued need for supporting and expanding it at WKU.
Thanks to the forward-thinking mindset of President Caboni and the Board of Regents, additional fees for online courses were permanently eliminated in 2021. This decision reflects the university’s commitment to making education more affordable and accessible. It also underscores the importance of WKU Online as an integral part of the university—one that offers the same equality education delivered by the same faculty in a flexible format that meets the needs of a growing and diverse student population.
As the number of WKU students taking online courses continues to grow, we are proud to have the support of the administration and an excellent online learning team ready to support you as you take your next steps as a Hilltopper.
2025 WKU Online Enrollment
8,711 WKU Online Undergraduates
67.2% of WKU Students Enrolled
43.3% First-Generation Students
1,723 Graduate Level and Beyond
The WKU Online Team
Behind every online learning experience is a team committed to helping students achieve their educational goals. WKU Online brings together professionals specializing in:
- Leadership and Strategic Planning: Expanding online educational opportunities, supporting program growth, and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance.
- Digital Engagement: Connecting students with online educational opportunities through accessible information, digital resources, and targeted outreach.
- Recruitment and Student Outreach: Helping prospective and returning students explore online programs and navigate their next steps.
- Student Success and Support: Offering online students personalized guidance and sharing resources and services that support their progress toward graduation.
- Testing Services: Providing accessible, professional testing services for WKU students and the broader community.
Our team works closely with WKU faculty, instructional designers, and campus partners to strengthen online learning across the university. Through these collaborations, we support flexible educational pathways, improve the online student experience, and expand access to a WKU education.
Whether you’re beginning your college journey, returning to complete a degree, or
pursuing new professional opportunities, WKU Online is here to help you take your
next step. Reach out to one of our team leaders below for more information.
- Associate Director of WKU Online
- jay.carroll@wku.edu
- Knicely Conference Center 121
- https://www.historystartsnow.org
- Dr. Carroll aids WKU Online staff with enrollment tracking, program growth, and regulatory compliance.
- Assistant Director, Online Student Outreach & Services
- tanya.vincent@wku.edu
- South Campus C173
- (270) 745-3815
- As Program Manager of Online Services, Tanya is responsible for overseeing the office of WKU On Demand, Online Student Services, and the Testing Center Specialist. She works closely with other WKU counterparts to improve the online student experience.
- Assistant Provost for Student Success & Online Learning, Professor, Sociology & Criminology
- holli.drummond@wku.edu
- Wetherby Administration Building 213
- (270) 745-2259
- (270) 745-5173
- Text: (270) 721-9209
- learn.online@wku.edu
WKU South Campus
2355 Nashville Rd.
Bowling Green, KY 42101-1084
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.