I believe the era of the online university is upon us. The technologies have matured — high speed bandwidth, down-loadable and streaming video, web cams, digital textbooks, etc. What is needed is for the universities to be serious and accredited.

There is at least one: “Western Governors University” — that charges an average of $3,000 per 6 month term. Currently, the degree programs are limited: business, information technology, nursing, and teaching. They do offer advanced degrees. It has valid accreditation and is backed by the governors of 19 states.

So here you have an example of the future. It is quite feasible to complete an entire undergraduate degree for $20K – $25K — TOTAL. A student can stay home, work part time, and graduate with zero debt.

The Ivy’s are not doomed. But I suggest that they will suffer a serious crash and return to being the playgrounds of the wealthy.