The annual Best & Worst in Online Degree Programs, published by the Global Academy Online, rates schools based on overall program quality. The five-point rating system takes into account both program content and delivery. Factors include: * Professor experience * Online content * Program delivery * Academic rigor * Effective knowledge transfer Best & Worst Online Degree Programs is the work of online higher education pioneer Professor Fred DiUlus, who established the list in 2002. DiUlus\' annual evaluation of online universities has tracked the explosive growth of Internet education. The ranking evaluated 142 institutions in 2008, up from a mere twenty in 2002. DiUlus expects \"the number of schools rated to double and perhaps triple in less than two years,\" reflecting the overwhelming popularity of online education. A Gold Standard in Online Education JIU©\'s status as a top-ranked university validates the school\'s commitment to educational value and quality. The founder of Jones International University, Glenn R. Jones, articulated a \"Gold Standard\" for technology-driven education over fifteen years ago. Jones believes that, \"Lifelong learning is no longer discretionary but essential for people to scramble to bolster their credentials in a volatile global workplace.\" This vision mandates a relevant, practical education mindful of economic trends and the skills students will need in order to succeed in tomorrow\'s workplace.