What do I need to know about Online Learning?

NOVA Online allows you to take the same courses offered on campus in an online format. Most courses can be completed from home, while traveling or living outside the area, making online learning a flexible option for students balancing work, family, travel or other responsibilities.

Online courses include course materials, assignments, exams and interaction with instructors and classmates, usually through email, discussion forums and Canvas. Most courses offer 8-, 12- or 15-week sessions, with some available in shorter 5- or 10-week formats. While many courses are fully online, some may include in-person meetings, labs or live virtual sessions. All NOVA Online courses require proctored exams or assignments, so students outside the area may need to arrange for a proctor.

Online learning requires flexibility, but it also requires time management, motivation and consistent engagement. To decide if it's right for you, preview online courses to review textbooks, assignments and grading requirements, or work with a NOVA Online counselor to discuss your academic plan.

Online courses cover the same content as on-campus courses, but the format is different. Most NOVA Online courses have weekly assignment deadlines, so check your syllabus and Canvas course as soon as you have access. Courses typically open on the start date or a few days early. Some courses may be accelerated with instructor permission.

NOVA Online courses use Canvas to access course materials, submit assignments and participate in class discussions. Students must use their VCCS student email account to communicate with instructors.

Online courses require about the same amount of time as on-campus courses. Plan to spend 2–3 hours per week per credit, or about 6–9 hours per week for a three-credit course. Shorter courses require more study time each week. The chart below shows the general weekly study time you can expect based on the number of credits and course length. For example, a three-credit course completed in seven weeks may require 12–18 hours of study per week.

Weekly Study Time for Online Learning

Online learning is a shared responsibility. You are responsible for staying engaged with the course, completing assignments, asking questions and keeping yourself motivated to learn the material. Your instructor serves as a mentor and guide, providing feedback, facilitating discussions, grading assignments and answering questions about the course. You get out of online learning what you put into it, so staying active and communicating with your instructor can make a difference in your success.

Online learning requires you to take responsibility for keeping up with course content and deadlines. Create a study schedule that works with your work, family and other commitments, and make time to complete assignments by their due dates. While the flexibility of online learning can make it easier to fit school into a busy schedule, it can also be challenging if you struggle with time management.

If you prefer regular face-to-face interaction with instructors and classmates, online learning may not provide the experience you're looking for. Most courses include opportunities to communicate electronically, but face-to-face interaction is rare.