Distance Learning:
For All Questions

How can I register and enroll for a distance learning course?
Students register for Distance Learning courses as they would for any other credit course. Matriculated students may register online or at the Registrar's office during the regular registration period. Non-matriculated students (individuals who have not been accepted for admission into the college) must wait for the non-degree registration period. For more information about registering for courses, visit our Registration Tools page.

What is the cost of a distance learning course?
All web and web-based courses carry the same tuition and fees as every other BSU three-credit course. The video/DVD courses require an additional $50 fee for copying and license rights. Click here for our current tuition and fee information.

What computer skills do I need to take an online course?
Basic computer skills are required for online courses. These skills include sending and receiving email, word processing, cutting and pasting within documents, toggling between applications and using email attachments. In specialized courses, other skills may be required. These requirements will be listed in the course description.

Are textbooks included in the tuition and fees?
The cost of textbooks is not included in your tuition and fees. You can contact the BSU Bookstore at 508.531.6198 or visit the website at www.bridgew.edu/Bookstore/ to purchase books and other course material.

Are all BSU distance learning courses taught over the Internet?
A variety of methods may be used to deliver courses to your home or workplace. Courses are delivered via videotape, DVD, Internet, lecture, email and print materials. Click here to learn about our distance learning course types.

Will the credit I earn apply toward my degree? Yes, if it is on your degree plan at BSU. We recommend that you always check with your advisor to insure credit courses you are taking apply towards your degree.

Do I need to be admitted to BSU to take a distance learning course? No. As long as there are spots available, non-matriculated students may register for distance learning courses.

How do I take exams? Each faculty member makes different arrangements for exams. Information on exams will be found in the course syllabus, on Blackboard or provided by the instructor. Some instructors may require students to come to campus for exams.

How do I interact with my professor? Instructors answer email questions, participate in online discussions, and personally evaluate assignments. Scheduled "office hours" are available weekly. The type of interaction with the instructor may also depend on the type of distance learning course you enroll in.

How do I interact with other students in my class? You will communicate with other students through email.  You will also be able to post questions and comments to your course's threaded discussion using Blackboard. This allows you to hold virtual conversations with other classmates without having to be online at the same time. The type of interaction with classmates may also depend on the type of distance learning course you enroll in.

Are online courses equivalent to onsite courses? Bridgewater State University distance learning courses meet all of the same criteria as the onsite equivalent. The main difference is the way the course is delivered to students.

How much time does an online course require? An online course mirrors its on-campus counterpart in terms of subject matter covered, homework and research. You should be prepared to participate in online discussions to have a successful experience.

Who teaches the online courses? BSU credit distance learning courses are taught by the same faculty teaching onsite at the campus. They haven't changed what they teach, just how they deliver it.

How important are writing skills in an online course? Excellent writing skills are critical in an online course. You must be able to communicate effectively with your instructor and the other students. Online students in a threaded discussion are expected to be concise, clear and to have well thought out comments.

What can I expect in an online course? You should expect the same rigorous requirements as you would find in a similar on-campus course. We certainly want to dispel any myths about online education being easy. In the online classroom, everyone participates. There is no "back of the class" and the interaction and discussion topics can be lengthy. Additionally, because of the web-based delivery, you will find yourself doing as much or more reading and writing than in traditional face-to-face environments.

What will help me succeed in an online course? Determination, motivation and commitment are key elements to succeed in any course, but this is especially true for online learning. Click here for some tips for making your distance learning experience successful.

Are courses self-paced? No. Courses are instructor-led and follow the same semester schedule as traditional courses. All specific course information is in the syllabus provided by the instructor, including how to reach the instructor, what work is expected, and deadlines to turn in assignments and take tests.

Will I need to visit campus from time to time? All courses listed with a W section designation do not require any on-campus meetings. Courses with a V, X or Y section designation will require some on-campus meetings. The number of meetings will depend on the course and the instructor. Click here to review the different types of distance learning options available.

Last Modified: March 9, 2011