Background
Independence University (IU), headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, was an online educational institution offering programs in healthcare, business, information technology, and graphic arts. Founded by Carl Barney and operated by the Center for Excellence in Higher Education (CEHE), IU aimed to provide flexible, career-focused education to working adults. The university's mission centered on improving lives through education, emphasizing accessibility and practical skills. However, IU permanently closed its doors on August 1, 2021, following accreditation issues and financial challenges.
Key Strategic Focus
IU specialized in online education, targeting non-traditional students seeking career advancement. The university offered over 20 degree and certificate programs across three colleges: the California College for Health Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Education. Programs included Business Administration, Health Services Administration, Respiratory Care Therapy, and Graphic Design. IU's strategic focus was on providing flexible, career-oriented education to a diverse student body.
Financials and Funding
Independence University was primarily funded through tuition fees and federal student aid. The institution faced significant financial challenges leading up to its closure. In July 2021, IU management announced that the school had been placed on Heightened Cash Monitoring 2 and had not received any cash from the U.S. Department of Education since May 2020. This financial strain contributed to the decision to cease operations.
Pipeline Development
As an educational institution, IU's pipeline consisted of developing and offering new academic programs aligned with market demands. Prior to its closure, the university had been expanding its online offerings to include programs in emerging fields such as cybersecurity and information systems. However, specific details on program development stages and timelines were not publicly disclosed.
Technological Platform and Innovation
IU leveraged a proprietary online learning platform designed to provide an interactive and flexible educational experience. The platform incorporated various tools to facilitate student engagement, including virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and multimedia content. While specific technological innovations were not extensively detailed, the university emphasized the use of technology to enhance accessibility and learning outcomes.
Leadership Team
The leadership team at IU included:
- Carl Barney: Founder and Chairman of the Board.
- Eric Juhlin: Chief Executive Officer.
Both individuals played pivotal roles in the strategic direction and operations of the university. However, their tenure was marked by legal challenges, including a $3 million judgment in August 2020, where a Colorado judge found CEHE, Barney, and Juhlin liable for deceptive practices.
Leadership Changes
There were no significant leadership changes reported prior to the university's closure in August 2021.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The online education sector has experienced substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for flexible learning options and technological advancements. However, the market is highly competitive, with numerous institutions vying for student enrollment.
Competitor Analysis
Key competitors in the online education space included:
- University of Phoenix: Offers a wide range of online programs with a focus on adult learners.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Known for its extensive online degree offerings and student support services.
- Western Governors University (WGU): Provides competency-based online education tailored to working professionals.
These institutions have established strong reputations and robust online platforms, contributing to their competitive advantage in the market.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Following its closure, IU facilitated transfer opportunities for its students by collaborating with several institutions, including:
- South University: Offered transfer options for programs such as Accounting, Business Administration, and Nursing.
- Miami International University of Art & Design: Provided pathways for Graphic Arts and Web Design and Development programs.
- National American University: Accepted transfers for various business and healthcare programs.
These partnerships aimed to support students in continuing their education without significant disruption.
Operational Insights
IU's operational challenges included maintaining accreditation standards and financial stability. The loss of accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) in April 2021 was a significant blow, as it led to the withdrawal of federal student aid, which constituted a major portion of the university's revenue.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Given IU's closure, the institution ceased all strategic initiatives. The focus shifted to assisting current students in transferring to other institutions and ensuring a smooth transition. The broader lesson for similar institutions is the critical importance of maintaining accreditation standards, financial health, and transparent operations to sustain long-term success.
Contact Information
As of August 1, 2021, Independence University has permanently closed and no longer maintains active contact channels. Former students seeking transcripts or assistance are advised to visit the university's official website for guidance on obtaining records and information on transfer opportunities.
