Online Learning

A High-Quality Education Delivered in a Format That Fits Your Life

Being an online student at UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies is a rich and engaging experience. Pursuing an online education with us can fit into your life and enhance your skills, career and future. 

Online learning at UVA combines enriching academic experiences with the flexibility to attend class from anywhere.

Here, you'll find dedicated staff and faculty willing to support your goals every step of the way.

An Insider's Look Into the Classroom

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Classes at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies are offered live, online in real time (also known as synchronous), accessible at your own pace (asynchronous), or as a blend of both. These class styles make it convenient for you to fit education into your schedule. 

Don’t expect to “hide in the back” of the classroom here. We invite every student to participate in lively class discussions, activities and lessons that make your education meaningful and impactful. 

At our school, online learning is similar to learning in the classroom. 

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In an online, semester-length class, you’ll spend on average 9-11 hours a week reading, writing, discussing class topics and completing assignments. 

Your class syllabus will outline the expectations for the semester, so you can plan your time accordingly to get everything done. 

Getting Started for Success

Computer Access

A basic computer with access to the internet is all you need to get started. UVA Information Technology Services offers free and discounted software to ensure you have access to other computer applications you may need. You'll also have access to technology support through UVA ITS and the Canvas team around the clock.

Class on Canvas

Canvas is the online learning management system used at UVA. All of your class materials, online meetings, and assignments will be there. Prior to your first day of class, you will receive instructions on how to log in.

Class Schedule

Be sure you are ready to attend class on the first published day, and be prepared to continue attending sessions through the end of the term. Details on your class schedule can be found on our academic calendar and your class syllabus.

Your Online Learning Checklist

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UVA Email

Email is our official means of communication with all School of Continuing and Professional Studies students. Once enrolled with us, establish your UVA computing account and email through UVA Information Technology Services. You will receive instructions for setting up your email after you enroll. 

Microsoft Office

Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and other Microsoft applications are used often in our classes. We recommend installing these applications onto your computer for best compatibility. UVA Information Technology Services provides these applications at no cost to UVA students. 

Reliable Computer and Internet Access

We recommend making sure your computer or device is up to date with the latest softwares and that you have a reliable internet connection. View the currently supported computing technologies at UVA page to make sure your devices are ready for online class. 

Online Learning Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous classes?

Synchronous classes are classes that follow a predetermined class schedule, and live-online classes
are held at those predetermined dates and times. You and your fellow classmates will meet online
for class at the same time each session. 

Asynchronous classes occur 24/7 with no need to worry about live meeting times. Classes are designed to be largely flexible, with some variation on assignments from class to class. 

I am not a technical person, will I have trouble adapting to online class?

While taking an online class does require some comfort with being on a computer, there are many
resources available to help you get acquainted with the requirements of online class. Your instructors and advisors are here to support you with our online tools. We suggest getting comfortable with email, Zoom, and web browsers as a good place to start. 

What kind of time commitment is required to succeed in an online class?

We recommend setting aside 3 hours a week for “in class” time, with another 6 hours for class readings, writing and other assignments for an online, semester-length class. These recommendations vary based on your own learning style, the length of the course, and the nature of the assignments. However, your instructor will outline time expectations for each course in your class syllabus. 

How will I connect with my fellow classmates and the instructor? 

Community is a core value at UVA's School of Continuing and Professional Studies. We strive to provide many ways to engage with your fellow classmates and instructors throughout your time as a student. At your first orientation you will have a chance to meet your classmates, and in each online class you will connect via video calls, discussion boards, chats, and emails. Your instructors strive to create community in each and every class. 

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 in online classes at UVA 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.