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Frequently Asked Questions

Who takes online courses/programs?

Most students who enroll in distance education courses are over 25 years of age, employed, and have some type of previous college experience. Of course, that doesn't mean current college students can't take an online course--in fact, it's a perfect way to get that course you need for a particular semester, or if the course on campus is offered at an inconvenient time for you.

Who teaches online courses?

You may well have a faculty member who also teaches in the classroom. But teaching online is different--the teacher knows that he/she must serve more as a guide or resource for their online students and less like a distributor of information. And students become explorers and sharers of new knowledge. Your teacher will use the course web site to deliver lectures, course materials, discussion questions and assignments. You'll use the site to ask questions, submit short assignments and participate in discussions. Remember, you'll have to take the initiative of asking questions or letting your teacher know if you're having problems, as he/she can't see your face!

How much time does an online course take?

Online learning takes as much time as an on-campus course. It is often recommended that you schedule about twelve hours each week for a three-credit course. If you don't use it, great, but it is important to keep up with your work and assignments. One of the most common reasons for dropping an online course is that the student gets behind and can't catch up!

What kind of equipment will I need?

You'll need a computer with a minimum of:

  • a Pentium processor (or equivalent for Macintosh)
  • a 333 MHz or faster processor
  • a 56.6. KBPS modem for Internet connection
  • 128M of RAM (to run a browser)
  • 50M hard drive space
  • Web Browser Software: Most recent versions of either Netscape Navigator (>=4.0), Mozilla Firefox (>=1.0), or Microsoft Internet Explorer (>=5.5) loaded onto the hard drive. Some distance learning programs will require or work best with a recent browser, you can upgrade your browser for free at Microsoft, at Mozilla Firefox or at Netscape.

You'll also need an Internet Service Provider and an e-mail account. And finally, you may find it helpful to have a printer as many of us like to see information on paper.

How "technologically savvy" do I have to be?

You should be familiar with the basic operation of your computer.

At a minimum you must know how to:

  • use a mouse to navigate around the screen
  • use word processing software
  • download files
  • read and send e-mail, attach document files to e-mail, etc.

With some courses you may be asked to use:

  • spreadsheet, database, and presentation software (such as Excel®, Access®, and PowerPoint®)

And, if you'll be exploring information with audio and video components, you'll need to know how (or will learn) to download the necessary "plug-ins."

In addition, you should have some experience and familiarity with navigating and using the Internet as an information and communication resource.

If you're not sure about some of these things, we've included resources in this site for you to use to help you learn what you don't already know.

How can I earn a certificate or a degree online?

All required online courses for certificate and degree programs offered by MarylandOnline member institutions may be completed entirely online. That means you can live anywhere in the world and participate, but Maryland residents enjoy in-state and in-county tuition at participating public institutions.

You will receive your certificate or degree from the institution offering the program you choose. For instance, if you choose the Master of Business Administration program offered by the University of Baltimore, you will receive your degree from the University of Baltimore. MarylandOnline helps you identify your interests, but does not award degrees.

How do I apply?

Your first step is to select the certificate or degree program that meets your educational and career goals.

Details about each program can be found through the MarylandOnline Web site, but you should apply to the college or university offering the program you have selected.

Use the link to "Courses & Programs" to search for specific classes, or go to the Member Institution page if you know which college or university you'd like to attend online.