The University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics has once again been recognized for what sets its online learning apart: exceptional faculty.
In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings for Best Online MBA Programs, Lerner earned its highest-ever national placement—No. 20 in the country—and retained its position as the top-ranked online MBA in the greater Philadelphia region. More notably, for the third consecutive year, Lerner’s faculty received a perfect score in teaching credentials and training.
This distinction is not just a number—it’s a reflection of the expertise, dedication, and intentionality Lerner faculty bring to every online course.
The Same Faculty, the Same Standards—Online and In Person
Unlike many online programs that rely heavily on adjunct instructors, Lerner’s Online MBA is taught by the same faculty who teach in the classroom. These professors are not only academic experts but also experienced professionals, researchers, and mentors who understand the evolving needs of today’s business leaders.
What makes Lerner’s online courses stand out is how thoughtfully they are built. Every online course is designed in partnership with UD’s Academic Technology Services (ATS). This collaboration ensures that courses are not simply transferred online—they are intentionally crafted to support engagement, accessibility, and deep learning in a virtual format.
“Our faculty don’t just post lectures—they reimagine how to connect with students online,” said Lerner College Dean Oliver Yao. “That level of care is why our program continues to earn national recognition.”
Spotlight: Faculty Who Elevate Online Learning
Behind Lerner’s perfect score in faculty credentials is a group of instructors who go beyond content delivery to create meaningful online learning environments. UD ATS Instructional Designer Rachel Lapp highlighted the strengths of several standout faculty:
“Wendy Smith’s course design reflects a strong commitment to learner engagement and inclusive, student-centered teaching,” said Lapp. “Michal Herzenstein brings meticulous planning and a research-informed approach that resonates deeply with students, earning her this year’s Lerner MBA Teaching Award. Carlos Asarta’s online course benefits from his expertise as a published textbook author, with materials that extend beyond Lerner to other institutions as well.”
These examples showcase the diversity of approaches and the shared dedication to creating impactful, student-focused online courses.
A Student-Centered Approach to Learning
Lerner’s faculty understand that online students are often balancing careers, families and other commitments. With this in mind, they design courses that are flexible yet rigorous—featuring clear learning paths, meaningful assignments, timely feedback and regular interaction.
“The professors are not only extremely knowledgeable but also genuinely supportive,” shared MBA student Shakira Jackson in her graduate student story. “They make it clear they want you to succeed.”
This balance of academic excellence and personal attention is part of what makes the Lerner experience unique, both online and on campus.
Recognition Rooted in Relationships
Lerner’s perfect faculty score and rising national rankings affirm what students experience every day: faculty who care deeply about both what they teach and whom they’re teaching.
It’s not just about credentials—it’s about connection, commitment and delivering high-quality education that’s built to meet students where they are.