Online Learning

Smiling man on computer at dining room table

Online learning can be a rich and engaging experience for those who wish to achieve their educational goals while balancing career and family commitments. Many find this to be the most convenient way in which to gain the education necessary to enhance their skills or advance in their career. Successful online students must be independent, engaged in the content and learning environment, and have strong time management skills. While online courses are not for everyone, SCPS’ dedicated staff, faculty, and technical resources ensure that students have what they need to succeed.

Focused Learning

Online learning combines focused learning with the convenience and flexibility for working professionals to “go to class” from their home or work. Classes are offered online in real time (synchronous) or 24/7 (asynchronous), making it convenient for you to fit continuing your education into your busy schedule. Most classes for our BIS and BPHM programs are held synchronously, meaning you will need to attend class on a designated schedule.    

Online classes provide an engaging and interactive environment for the student who is self-motivated and can communicate effectively through reading and writing. Don’t expect to hide in the back of “the classroom”.  You’ll need to complete the required class readings and assignments and come prepared to participate in discussion forums, student-to-student collaborations, and student presentations.

Online learning isn’t any easier or less time consuming than learning in a classroom. You’ll need to devote several hours per week to attending class online, in addition to completing assignments and class readings. The actual number of hours will depend on the specific course. Some classes, by the nature of the subjects, may require more reading and writing.Typically, it is recommended to set aside at least 3-4 hours a week of “in class” time, with another 10-15 hours for class readings, writing, and other assignments. The course syllabus will specify the instructor’s requirements for how much and how often you will need to log in to your online class, as well as the expectations for class readings, writing, and assignments. 

Getting Started for Success

To ensure your success in an online class, you’ll need to have basic computer and word processing skills. You’ll need a computer and access to the Internet (high-speed access is recommended).

Online classes are delivered though the Canvas learning management system. Visit the Canvas Support for Students page for a list of helpful information on getting started with Canvas. Your instructor may also have additional software requirements, which will be shared prior to or on the first day of class.

Online classes follow the same academic calendar as the classes offered in our Academic Centers. You need to be ready to “attend” class on the first published day of the class, and continue attending sessions through the final day of class. It is your responsibility to ensure that everything is ready for you to log in on the first day of class. This includes setting up your UVA email account in order to have access to electronic resources at the University, including Canvas and your online class.

What You Will Need to Learn Online

Email

Email is the School's official means of communication with all SCPS students. As a student enrolled through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, you need to establish your UVA computing account and email through UVA ITS. 

Document File Formats

Since Microsoft Office is used extensively by the University and SCPS, it is recommended that students have Microsoft Office or Open Office loaded on their machines. 

Computer Hardware

For minimum student's computing requirements at SCPS, please see Currently Supported Computing Technologies at UVA.  

Network Connectivity

At an absolute minimum, your high-speed network connection should be rated at 3 Mbps download and upload speeds.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTACTS

Online Learning FAQs

WHO IS THE IDEAL ONLINE STUDENT?

Typically our online students are working adults who seek to continue their education without sacrificing their commitments to their career and family. They turn to online learning as a convenient way to achieve their goal of  enhancing their skills or advancing in their careers. Online students are usually mature, independent, and self-motivated. They typically possess the ability to manage their time wisely. These qualities help ensure a successful online experience when face-to-face time with other students and instructors is limited.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SYNCHRONOUS AND ASYNCHRONOUS CLASSES?

Synchronous classes are held at a predetermined time and web-based location.  Although located in different geographical locations, you and your fellow classmates will meet online for your classes. Asynchronous classes occur 24/7 with no need to worry about meeting times, making it convenient for you to fit continuing your education into your busy schedule. 

I AM NOT A TECHNICAL PERSON, WILL I HAVE TROUBLE ADAPTING TO AN ONLINE CLASS?

Taking an online class does require that you have can meet minimum standards listed above. However, most newer computer should easily meet these requirements. As far as feeling comfortable in an online class, most students who are nervous about their technical aptitude find that online classes are quite intuitive. Many of the tools used in online classes are tools that most people use to complete daily tasks on their computer. You'll need to be able to use email, use the web for research and course access, and participate in threaded discussions. Instructors, as well as, a highly qualified technical support team are available should students have any issues.

WHAT KIND OF TIME COMMITMENT IS REQUIRED TO SUCCEED IN AN ONLINE CLASS?

The time spent working in an online class is dependent on the type of student you are, how engaged you are, and how well you manage your time. Typically, it is recommended to set aside at least 3-4 hours a week of “in class” time, with another 10-15 hours for class readings, writing, and other assignments. The course syllabus will specify the instructor’s requirements for how much and how often you will need to log in to your online class, as well as the expectations for class readings, writing, and assignments.

HOW WILL I CONNECT WITH MY FELLOW CLASSMATES AND THE INSTRUCTOR?

SCPS strives to provide our students with tools that are not only easy to use but also technologies that you may already use in your workplace or at home. In our online learning environment UVACollab students will be able to interact and collaborate with tools such as these:

  • email
  • video conferencing
  • instant messaging
  • discussion forums
  • blog, wiki, and media gallery tools
IS AN ONLINE CLASS THE SAME QUALITY AS A TRADITIONAL UVA CLASS? IF I ENROLL IN AN ONLINE PROGRAM WILL I RECEIVE A UVA DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE?

You can expect the same quality and standard of excellence as you would with any traditional UVA program. When you finish your degree or certificate program, you will have earned a UVA credential that is employer-recognized.