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As technology advances, educational entrepreneurs are taking advantage of new ways to reach potential students. Following are some recent examples of Internet-based learning venures:

UNext: Michael Milken-inspired online venture involving Columbia University, Stanford University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Chicago. Unext will be the parent company of different distance learning operations. The first, called Cardean University, will provide business education to companies and their employees. www.UNext.com

Fathom: An online information site, containing information in a variety of forms, from online publications to chats to distance learning courses. Created by Columbia University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the British Library, Cambridge University Press, Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, and the New York Public Library. www.fathom.com

Western Governors University: Created in 1995 when the governors of 18 western states agreed to work together to create a virtual university. Offers five programs leading to degrees or certificates. www.wgu.edu

Caliber Learning Network: Distance learning organization that provides Internet-based classes to global corporations and institutions. Includes Johns Hopkins University and The Wharton School as partners. www.caliberlearning.com