**PRESS RELEASE**
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2019
Audit Report Finds Consolidating North Dakota University System Online Courses Could Save Up To $650,000 a Year
Contact information: Brianna Ludwig, North Dakota State Auditor’s Office, 701-328-2453, bsludwig@nd.gov
From Fall 2014 to Spring 2018, it is estimated the North Dakota University System (NDUS) could have eliminated 560 online course sections and saved an estimated $2.9 million by consolidating certain online course sections without impacting the number of students served or the number of courses offered.
If online enrollment trends continue, future savings are estimated at up to $650,000 per year.
“One area where the North Dakota University System can create cost savings is through online courses. I hope this report will encourage the NDUS institutions to collaborate and share resources so they can continue to provide high-quality online courses at a lower cost to students and taxpayers,” said State Auditor Joshua Gallion.”
To view the complete report, which includes report highlights and recommendations, go to https://www.nd.gov/auditor/sites/www/files/documents/Reports/State/NDUS%20Online%20Education%202018%20-%20Performance%20Audit.pdf
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The North Dakota State Auditor’s Office is a constitutional office that produces informative audits to improve government. The Office of the State Auditor is a valuable tool for North Dakota state agencies and local government entities, providing an opportunity to improve operations, fiscal responsibility and taxpayer services.