It is now a very familiar refrain when it comes to online programming. The first time that a student sets foot on a campus is when they come to attend their graduation ceremony.

While traditional onsite programming as well as hybrid programs that feature both onsite and distance learning options still meeting the needs of some students many more are now pursuing the complete online option. Instead of having a specific schedule and having to make time to drive to a campus, more students are interested in the totally flexible option that online programming provides.

Richard Garrett, a senior analyst for Eduventures, a research and consulting company for educators, motes the growing trend. His company points to the appeal for a specific demographic group, "those older than 25, married, with children at home, and/or with a full-time job".

"In 2002, we estimated it was around half a million students, and in 2006, we estimated that it had grown to around one and a half million, so essentially it has tripled in those years," Garrett says.

Estimates indicate that the1.5 million translates to about 8.5 percent of students at all degree-granting institutions. While online programming has tripled, traditional college enrollment programs have remained flat.