Sylvan Ventures LLC, a subsidiary of Baltimore-based Sylvan Learning Systems Inc., said yesterday that it has acquired an online university for $14.5 million.

The acquisition of National Technological University, or NTU, brings to Sylvan Ventures a company that runs online master's degree and professional development programs in engineering, information technology, business and management.

Fred McCrea, a vice president for Thomas Weisel Partners in San Francisco, said the acquisition was a solid one and that Sylvan Ventures was "basically adding another set of curriculum to their online university program."

There are 1,027 students enrolled at NTU. Of those, 588 are seeking degrees and taking classes during the fall semester.

The online school offers its master's degree programs though partnerships with universities around the country. Professors from more than 50 schools make their courses available through NTU, so students can choose their curriculum from a menu of courses offered at various universities.

Sylvan Ventures said in February that it planned to buy National Technological University, and it acquired the accredited university from Stratys Learning Solutions Inc., effective Nov. 4.

"NTU represents a key pillar in Sylvan's online higher education strategy of providing the highest-quality accredited degree programs, delivered at a distance, to working professionals. NTU brings unmatched expertise, knowledge and credibility in the disciplines of engineering and information technology," Paula Singer, president and chief executive officer of Sylvan's online higher education division, said in a statement.

Shares of Sylvan Learning Systems rose 24 cents to $15.64 yesterday.