Thinking about taking an online class at Syracuse University? It’s a convenient alternative to traditional classroom learning, but don’t expect it to be easier or require less of a commitment. To succeed in online classes, you must be self disciplined, goal oriented, and well organized. Expect to spend 3-5 hours a week online for a 3-credit class, and additional time for homework and reading.
Here are some things you need to know before taking an online class at Syracuse University:
- Online classes are open to full- and part-time students, both matriculated and nonmatriculated, unless a specific restriction is stated in the class description. Tuition for online classes is the same as for regular classes.
- Completing an online class requires familiarity with e-mail and web browsing. You do not need to be a computer expert, but you should be comfortable sending and receiving e-mail messages, navigating the web, and downloading, storing, and retrieving files.
- Discuss special technology requirements with your course instructor or the Help Desk (315-443-2677 or help@syr.edu) before enrolling in an online course. For a list of the recommended minimum computer requirements to participate in an online class, visit online.syr.edu/students/online-courses/
- To access online classes, one business day after your registration, go to blackboard.syr.edu. Follow the login instructions when you are ready to access Blackboard. IMPORTANT: You will need to know your SU Net ID and password. If you do not know them, visit the Information and Technology Services web site at its.syr.edu/netid/ or call 315-443-2677.
- If you have trouble accessing Blackboard, contact the Help Desk at 315-443-2677 or help@syr.edu.
Tips to ensure your success in online classes:
- Don’t procrastinate! Set aside 3-5 hours a week of quiet time to complete your online work, and plan on more time for homework and reading assignments.
- Connect with instructors at the outset and maintain communication with them throughout the class. Understand that you won’t receive immediate answers to your questions, so plan for that. Online instructors are happy to help you when needed, but help may not always be available right away.
- Online classes often require a lot of reading, as well as interaction in discussion boards, etc. Set aside the time you need for both, because you can fall behind quickly in an online course.