How Does an Online Degree Work?

Students in an online degree program learn through the Internet and web-based software. Online degrees follow a spectrum, from strictly scheduled to self-paced, depending on the type of program, and are usually presented via an online education portal system.

Online Degree Format and Pacing

Online degrees are available through traditional education institutions in a fully online format or a hybrid degree format. A hybrid degree format includes both online and campus-based classes. There are also many online institutions, with no physical campus, that offer educational opportunities to students.
Class formats for online degrees vary, and it's important for students to enroll in a class format that fits their schedule. The more traditionally-scheduled class assigns and requires students to complete regular assignments and tests by certain dates throughout the semester. A self-paced course allows students to work at whatever pace they may wish, for as long as necessary to complete the course. Many classes fall somewhere in between these two formats and require students to have all work submitted by a particular date at the end of the semester.

Online Degree Specifics and Requirements

Because online degrees are not set in a physical classroom, students are required to show some sort of participation, either by posting a certain number of times in the class discussion boards or by completing class assignments with other students. In hybrid classes, this requirement is usually waived, as students must show up for a physical class on certain days throughout the semester. In continuing education programs or degrees for working adults, this participation requirement may be less stringent.
Most online classes are presented via a website that integrates forums, instant messenger, e-mail and streaming audio and video. Programs also offer automatic testing and real-time assignment review capabilities to create an online classroom environment for students. This 'virtual classroom' allows students to interact with each other and communicate with their teachers, along with viewing class calendars or informational posts. Teachers have the option of posting lectures and assignments as video, audio or text files.