Are there time limits on online classes?

Contrary to the belief of many, students who choose to pursue online education do not simply have eternity to complete their course assignments. Though the schedule of classes for an online program is far more flexible than that of the schedule for a campus based degree program, there is a great deal of structure involved!

Typically, online classes take between four and six weeks, on average — every online program is different. Students perform their work under the guidance and instruction of a professor, who views assignments and provides feedback through email, or a web forum. Assignments have deadlines, and students must complete the coursework during the time constraints provided in the course syllabus. In order to receive credit for an online course, a student must complete the requirements of the course by the time of the course's completion date. As in a campus based program, extensions can be given at the discretion of the instructor, but may cost an additional fee. A student will not receive a final grade or course credit until all assignments are accounted for, and may not get a chance to complete those assignments after a certain period of time, therefore losing any money paid for that course.

Self guided online education programs can be completed in a shorter period of time, but in most cases, there is a maximum amount of time, or a time limit set by the governing school. There is also a minimum amount of time limit in some cases. Typically, students pursuing online degrees are asked not to complete all of the work for a particular course in under three weeks, also leaving a two week period after the classes completion to receive feedback and grading. If you do happen to finish the coursework quicker, you will have to wait to submit the assignments over the time frame suggested. This is often the case because, although students may feel that it is better to complete the coursework as quickly as possible, online schools desire students to absorb the information taught accordingly.

There is the lingering fear that if online classes are completed in too abbreviated of a period of time, students will not retain necessary information and they need time to grade and provide feedback. This is especially true in medical fields, where it is frowned upon to rush through coursework simply to "get it done". Though students may be eager to complete their degree programs and begin their careers as quickly as possible, it is best to work at a more leisurely pace in order to retain the information. After all, a strong knowledge base is what is going to make a potential employee far more marketable!

Students should be wary of online schools that offer course completion at what appears to be lightening speed. Many of these schools are simply diploma mills, which have not received accreditation. The education that one will receive from such an institution is subpar, at best, and a degree from these schools will not be considered valid in the long run!

In a typical accelerated program, students will complete their Bachelor's Degree program in approximately two years. This is widely accepted among online colleges and universities as a speed at which students learn and retain knowledge accordingly, and move on to successful careers in their chosen fields!

More Online Education Questions?

If you have more questions about online degrees, go back to our frequently asked questions about online education page, or call 1-866-944-2648 to talk with an online education expert.