POTSDAM -- Clarkson University is expanding its distance education programs, building on its School of Business online MBA program, now in its fourth year,

Kerop D. Janoyan has been appointed director of distance learning. An associate professor and executive officer of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Janoyan will coordinate marketing, policy, licensing and technology, as Clarkson increases its distance education offerings.

The New York State Education Department recently approved addition of the distance education format to all master of science and master of engineering degrees in Clarkson’s Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering and the Institute for a Sustainable Environment. Clarkson plans to soon offer all graduate programs through distance learning.

“Through his experience in the classroom, laboratory and research collaborations, Kerop brings a qualified perspective to the distance learning environment of the future,” said Provost Chuck Thorpe in announcing the appointment. “His energy, experience as an executive officer, prior state and industry collaborations, and marketing and fundraising experience make him an ideal choice for this role.”

“We hope that eventually any professional interested in content at Clarkson can take one of our courses through distance learning,” says Janoyan. “In addition, it will provide a better educational experience for our undergraduates, especially students on co-op, away for internship or studying abroad, who would be able to stay on schedule for their degree program at Clarkson even while they are off-campus.”

Janoyan joined the Clarkson faculty in 2002, after receiving his Ph.D. in civil engineering from University of California at Los Angeles.