Coming from an online high school, I knew that taking classes online was no vacation. So far I've taken 9 courses at UMUC, and all of them have challenged me. The courses are interesting and the online component adds a unique discussion -- it's not your typical college discussion, as the students range in age from 18 to 40+, from soldiers to stay at home moms, from California to Iraq. The discussion boards are the main aspect of the classes and allows you to work with your fellow classmates (who may be virtually on the other side of the world from you) and collaborate ideas and opinions. If you actually do the work and are active in the discussion boards, you should be able to learn the material very well. What you take from your classes is determined by what you put into it. I can say that I've worked my butt off for the first year and I got straight A's.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
I am taking all of my classes online because of medical issues, and going to UMUC enables me to get my degree even while I'm sick. The teachers are amazing and are very helpful and involved in your studies, and the courses are so much fun and interesting (but definitely not a walk in the park)! I'm even more excited for the next semester at UMUC because they have changed their final exam policies to prepare you for real world situations. Now, you have final papers/projects that will summarize your course, or you may have a final exam online which you can take from the comfort of your own home. I truly enjoy taking my classes at UMUC!
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
WOW, you get so much bang for your buck! I'm learning more than my friends who went to a local community college, but for less money! The price, generally for 12 credits, per semester is just over $3,000, and including books it is usually under $4,000. I have the option to take my classes online or at any of the associated University of Maryland locations... Meaning, if I signed up for a Biology class, I could take the course at College Park -- but not have to pay the big bucks! AMAZING.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Taking classes online, in my opinion, is actually more difficult than going to an actual lecture, but you can get so much more out of it! Online classes need students who aren't tempted by cheating and who won't shy away from a lot of work and finding the answers on their own (no one is there to hold your hand). Make sure you get to know your advisor really well, especially if you are taking classes online, because when you are not immersed in a college atmosphere, you may feel overwhelmed when making decisions regarding your major... This means phone calls and emails to your Undergrad/Grad advisor and asking questions.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Self-starters, students who are going to college to actually learn (not party), independent workers, and hard workers. Online college is nothing like the commercials try to paint them as; it is a lot of work and students need to take the work seriously in order to do well.
Coming from an online high school, I knew that taking classes online was no vacation. So far I've taken 9 courses at UMUC, and all of them have challenged me. The courses are interesting and the online component adds a unique discussion -- it's not your typical college discussion, as the students range in age from 18 to 40+, from soldiers to stay at home moms, from California to Iraq. The discussion boards are the main aspect of the classes and allows you to work with your fellow classmates (who may be virtually on the other side of the world from you) and collaborate ideas and opinions. If you actually do the work and are active in the discussion boards, you should be able to learn the material very well. What you take from your classes is determined by what you put into it. I can say that I've worked my butt off for the first year and I got straight A's.
I am taking all of my classes online because of medical issues, and going to UMUC enables me to get my degree even while I'm sick. The teachers are amazing and are very helpful and involved in your studies, and the courses are so much fun and interesting (but definitely not a walk in the park)! I'm even more excited for the next semester at UMUC because they have changed their final exam policies to prepare you for real world situations. Now, you have final papers/projects that will summarize your course, or you may have a final exam online which you can take from the comfort of your own home. I truly enjoy taking my classes at UMUC!
WOW, you get so much bang for your buck! I'm learning more than my friends who went to a local community college, but for less money! The price, generally for 12 credits, per semester is just over $3,000, and including books it is usually under $4,000. I have the option to take my classes online or at any of the associated University of Maryland locations... Meaning, if I signed up for a Biology class, I could take the course at College Park -- but not have to pay the big bucks! AMAZING.
Taking classes online, in my opinion, is actually more difficult than going to an actual lecture, but you can get so much more out of it! Online classes need students who aren't tempted by cheating and who won't shy away from a lot of work and finding the answers on their own (no one is there to hold your hand). Make sure you get to know your advisor really well, especially if you are taking classes online, because when you are not immersed in a college atmosphere, you may feel overwhelmed when making decisions regarding your major... This means phone calls and emails to your Undergrad/Grad advisor and asking questions.
Self-starters, students who are going to college to actually learn (not party), independent workers, and hard workers. Online college is nothing like the commercials try to paint them as; it is a lot of work and students need to take the work seriously in order to do well.