Course Engagement
Accelerated courses (AC) allow independent learning in a structured 4-week format. In these accelerated 4-week, distance-learning courses, students complete their assignments independently using texts, study guides, video and audio recordings, streaming video and other materials. A mentor works with each student, by email or telephone, answering questions and grading work. Students take proctored midterm and final exams via the Online Proctor Service (OPS). Most Accelerated courses include a midterm and a final examination or final project. The mentor will assign a grade for the course based on all assignments and the examinations, according to the formula described in the syllabus. Zero is assigned for each assignment not completed.
It is expected that students are able to dedicate a significant amount of time to the courses over the 4-week sessions and may benefit from having familiarity with the course content before starting the course. Students have the flexibility to complete the work as their schedule allows within the 4 weeks. Students who need additional time to complete coursework can request one no-cost 8-week extension.
Accelerated courses are offered during the four-week Accelerated Sessions 1, 2 and 3 within each 12-week Undergraduate term. Please check the Academic Calendar for dates and registration information. Students are advised to register for all AC courses they want during Sessions 1, 2 and 3 before Session 1 starts. Students who decide during any session that they can handle additional AC courses can add courses before Session 2 or Session 3 starts.
Satisfactory academic engagement in Accelerated Courses is defined as a minimum of submission of Module 1 coursework by the end of Week 2.
Note: Merely logging into or viewing your courses does not constitute academic engagement.
The University will periodically review student progress and engagement during each term. Failure to sign into your courses and complete your course work on time may result in an adjustment or termination of federally sponsored financial support; such as Military* Tuition Assistance, Veterans Education Benefits or other Title IV Financial Aid (grants and loans). Such decertification or adjustments may lead to cancellation of benefits or recoupment by the sponsoring agency for any monies paid to students (or to the University on student’s behalf) for enrolling in these courses; including tuition, fees, housing allowance and book stipends. Such cancellation or recoupment does not negate the student’s financial obligation to the University; they may be held responsible for all charges incurred for the courses in which they are enrolled.
*Students utilizing VA Benefits to pay for courses are prohibited from using this method of course delivery. Only Guided Student (GS) courses and Online (OL) courses are eligible. Students wishing to take methods other than GS and OL must pay out of pocket at the time of registration to use this method of course delivery.