All of our courses are three credit hours. In a traditional classroom-based course, students are expected to spend two to three hours outside of class for each hour spent in class. This translates to 9-12 hours per week per course. For an online program, the same requirements apply (9-12 hours per week per course), but you are not required to spend time travelling to campus and sitting in a classroom for several hours.
The actual amount of time each student will spend in a particular class will vary, however. Since class discussion takes place in an online discussion board, and information and materials that might be presented orally in a classroom are usually in written format online, both reading and typing speed will affect the amount of time each individual will require. In addition, many people spend more time composing and rewriting written posts on discussion boards than it would take to speak the same thought. Students should expect to spend a significant amount of the required time each week reading and posting in the discussion board.
We understand many of our students are busy professionals who will travel on occasion for professional and personal business. As a result, we encourage our instructors to accommodate special situations. Most students will request advance materials so they can work ahead. Some may need to play catch-up after they return. The most important thing is to communicate with your instructor early and frequently so he or she is aware of your situation and how you would like to complete the work.
Also, remember that wherever you have an internet connection, you can check in with your class!