Factors Promoting Online Distance Educational Programs for International Students and the Impacts of the Covid19 Pandemic

Abstract

This paper investigates factors promoting U.S. online distance education programs for international students located in foreign countries. Using a strong foundation of literature research, the paper identifies six factors- (1) market demand and supply, (2) consumer preference and affordability, (3) ease in market entry and operational challenges, (4) internationalization and local relevance, (5) visa/ immigration and legal factors, and (6) quality and reputation. The factors are reviewed in the context of delivering engineering management education online abroad as Mode 1 service export. The paper is extended by discussions of the impacts of the Covid19 pandemic.