COLO Profiles & Competencies 2024

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning has become a central component of higher education in the United States, elevating the importance of the Chief Online Learning Officer (COLO) role in implementation, leadership, and strategic development. This national study builds on previous COLO research conducted in 2017 and 2018, as well as insights from the Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) reports. During the summer of 2024, data was gathered from more than 500 online learning leaders, exploring their backgrounds and experiences as they drive online learning initiatives at their institutions. The study provides organizational context and comparative insights. A notable addition to this research is the introduction of the UPCEA COLO Competencies, which assess the relevance of various competencies to their colleges and universities, alongside a self-evaluation of their skills. This comprehensive analysis aims to illuminate the evolving role of COLOs and inform best practices in online education leadership.