Online Learners

Traditional Online Delivery

Traditional online courses provide maximum flexibility. You simply log into a course management system via an Internet connection from anywhere, at any time day or night to complete your course assignments during the semester. The only caveat is that you meet the deadlines given by your instructor.  

Library services, tutoring services, and all other student support services provided to students taking classes on campus are provided to you as an online student.  You simply access these services through the online delivery platform.

Hybrid Course Delivery

Hybrid courses offer the opportunity to complete some of your work for a particular course via the Internet. This format is a good choice if you need to limit the number of trips to campus, yet like having some face-to-face contact with your classmates and instructor.

Interactive Video Delivery

Courses offered in this delivery format take advantage of video conferencing and streaming technology to bring multiple campuses together at once. For example, your instructor may be at the main campus, but you and several of your classmates are sitting in a classroom at another site. This format offers two-way audio and video at the receiving sites.

Desktop Video Delivery

This delivery format offers you the opportunity to complete work for a particular course in a face-to-face environment over the internet. Desktop video courses are a good choice when you need to take classes at home or want to take classes off campus but need the structure of a classroom.

How do online courses work?

• Course content (lectures, discussions, assignments, etc.) is presented through a Learning Management System.

• Course material is presented on a weekly basis and is normally completed through readings, projects, essays, participation and file uploads of completed assignments.

• You do not need to log in to the course at any specific time during the week, but you do need to complete all course work within the timeframe given by your professor.

• You interact with other students and your professor via the discussion board, email and group project collaboration.

• Mid-term and final exams are usually taken online and must be completed in a set amount of time. Some courses may require proctored exams.

• Plan on the workload and rigor being the same as a traditional on-ground course.

What are the technical requirements and knowledge/skills needed to take an online course?

• Good computer skills.

• Familiarity with email since this is the most common means of communication with your instructor and classmates.

• Familiarity with web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer or Safari.

• Familiarity with word processing software.

Where do I begin?

• Make sure you have reliable internet access.

• Check the course syllabus to determine if there are any specific software releases or equipment (microphone, headphones, etc.) needed for courses you plan to take.

• Login in to your course(s) on the specified date and time.

• Verify that you have access to the course(s) you enrolled in through your campus.

Does financial aid cover online courses and textbooks?

• There is no difference in how financial aid works for courses taken online or on campus. You must complete the FAFSA. Financial aid will pay for textbooks.

What support services can I access as an online student?

• You have access to a wide array of support services including 24/7 technical support assistance, how-to demos, tutoring, and virtual libraries.

Do I have to come to campus for exams?

• Some courses (typically Math and Science) require the use of a proctor for exams. Proctored exams can be taken at a TBR testing site or an approved alternative testing site.

How do online labs work?

• Labs are simulated and incorporated within your online course content. Labs typically combine animations, illustrations and videos to convey key information in a high level of detail not available through traditional labs. You get the chance to learn and practice in a realistic and risk-free environment.

Does a degree earned online differ from a degree earned on-ground?

• There is no difference between a degree earned online and a degree earned on-ground. The diploma or certificate you receive upon completion is equivalent regardless of delivery format.

Is accommodation provided for students with disabilities?

• Qualified students with disabilities will be provided reasonable and necessary academic accommodations if determined eligible by the appropriate campus disability services staff. The student is responsible for initiating contact with their campus.