Frequently Asked Questions


Question

What is the difference between Independent Study and Online courses?

Answer

Independent Study courses are print-based, correspondence courses. You will complete all work on your own using your course guide for guidance and mailing the work to the instructor. Most Independent Study courses have at least one exam that must be proctored. Instructors may have specific due dates for assignments and exams. These courses also have a built in extension time, so you have about six months to complete course requirements, provided that you have met all assignment deadlines set by the instructor. Online courses are accessed using the Internet and allow for electronic submission of assignments, although some Online courses require at least one proctored examination. You will consult the course website in place of a course guide, although you will still need to order textbooks and other materials. These courses run for either 8 (Summer) or 16 (Fall and Spring) weeks with no extensions. Online courses contain deadlines within the semester for completion of assignments and exams.