FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE WOODLANDS, Texas – May 11, 2026
Lone Star College–Online (LSC-Online) has implemented a redesigned faculty certification program designed specifically for online instruction, formalizing how teaching quality is defined and delivered across its online courses.
All LSC-Online faculty have participated in the redesigned program, with 97% completing their certification requirements and the remaining faculty currently in progress.
Redesigned in fall 2025, the Online Teaching Certification (OTC) program establishes a renewable, three-level certification framework that sets clear expectations for course design, student engagement and accessibility in online learning environments. Faculty who complete the program receive a digital credential recognizing their certification status. Faculty must renew certifications every two years to ensure instructional practices remain current and aligned with evolving standards in online education.
Unlike traditional professional development models, LSC-Online structured the program around demonstrated competencies tied directly to how courses are designed and taught. Faculty complete certification levels by applying evidence-based practices within their courses rather than through standalone training alone.
"As online learning continues to expand, institutions have to be intentional about how quality is defined and delivered," said Carlos Morales, Ph.D., president of Lone Star College–Online. "With 97% of our full-time faculty already certified, this program demonstrates our collective commitment to excellence in online education and creates a shared standard for teaching in online environments while supporting faculty in meeting those expectations."
LSC-Online grounded the OTC program in established frameworks, including Quality Matters, Universal Design for Learning and the Community of Inquiry model. The program focuses on practical application in areas such as course structure, accessibility, student interaction and instructional clarity.
The certification includes three levels:
- Level One: Online Teaching Essentials: focuses on foundational course design, accessibility and instructional presence
- Level Two: Certified Online Educator: emphasizes alignment, engagement strategies and course effectiveness
- Level Three: Master Online Educator: recognizes sustained instructional quality, peer mentorship and leadership in online teaching
LSC-Online designed the program to strengthen consistency across online courses while supporting student engagement, persistence and completion. This comprehensive faculty engagement ensures that all LSC-Online students receive instruction from certified online educators.
LSC-Online will continue refining the program as part of its broader efforts to improve the online student experience.
About Lone Star College–Online Lone Star College–Online provides flexible, fully online programs designed to meet the needs of today's learners. Serving more than 11,000 students every semester through 34 fully online degrees. As part of the Lone Star College System, it supports student success through accessible, high-quality instruction and innovative online learning strategies.
Media Contact
Elaisa Acosta, D.B.A., M.S., M.A.
Director, Marketing & Communications
Lone Star College–Online
Email: elaisa.acostameneses@lonestar.edu
Phone: 281-290-1874