Find answers to frequently asked questions about The University of Alabama Online below or contact us for more information.
What is distance learning?
Distance learning is earning a college degree without having to visit campus on a regular basis. UA Online offers over 100 bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degree programs and certificates in online and hybrid formats so that you can advance your education and your career around your schedule.
What are the course formats?
Depending on your degree, you will complete your coursework in one or more of the following formats:
Online Courses
You will interact with professors and complete lessons through Blackboard, a secure learning management system on the web. This system has easy-to-use tools that allow instructors and students to interact, discuss assignments and submit coursework.
Blended/Hybrid
Some degree programs are offered using a combination of online and face-to-face interaction. While online classes offer flexibility and convenience, many students also enjoy meeting their professors and peers in person. See each program’s page for information about its course delivery types.
Is a degree earned through distance learning the same as a traditional degree from The University of Alabama?
Yes! While your experience is different from that of an on-campus student, your degree is identical and our programs are held to the same accreditation standards as all of UA’s degrees. It won’t say “online” on your degree, and you have access to all the same academic resources while you study. UA Online students are invited to participate in graduation activities alongside main campus students, so you get all the pomp and circumstance of any UA graduate!
Am I ready for distance learning?
You can be! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your admissions counselor can assist you with the application process, and your course faculty will always be just an email away! We have a top-notch tech support team as well. Whatever your circumstances, our team has helped thousands of people – just like you! – earn their college degrees.
If you can navigate the internet and send emails, you have the technology skills for our programs. Classroom communication will primarily happen through email or the Blackboard site, and you’ll have access to library resources online as well. Reach out to us if we can answer any questions.
How do I choose the degree that’s right for me?
Choosing a degree is a personal choice. Some students already know which degree to pursue for their career, but many are unsure. Our admissions counselors can talk to you about your options, and there are many resources we can offer to help you determine the best path forward.
How do I take tests?
Students in online courses have several options for taking tests. If proctoring is required, we’ll provide instructions on how to find an approved proctor to administer the test. Additionally, many courses allow you to take tests from home with certain software on your computer.
Find out more about proctoring options and locations.
What academic resources are available to assist students?
We provide UA Online students with many resources to help! From online library access to tutoring assistance and technical support, The University of Alabama provides exceptional tools and personal attention to help you achieve your goals.
What are the admission requirements?
Some programs require standardized test scores and/or a minimum high school or undergraduate GPA, but requirements vary by program and level. You can find the admission requirements for any program in the Admission section of the program’s website. To find a full list of program websites, please visit our degree listings.
What is the time frame for beginning and completing a degree program?
If you are pursuing a bachelor’s, you may continue to take classes until you have completed all of your degree requirements. Master’s and educational specialist degree course requirements must be completed within six years each, and doctoral degree requirements must be completed within seven to eight years (depending on the discipline).
How do I transfer credit from a different institution to The University of Alabama?
Undergraduate
After you complete the undergraduate admission application, request to have your transcripts sent directly to the Office of the University Registrar from all the colleges you’ve previously attended. When you have been admitted, those transcripts will be evaluated by your academic division to determine how many credits can be applied to UA degree requirements. For more information, visit the Transfer Credit for Undergraduate Degree Programs website.
Graduate
After you complete the graduate admission application, request to have your transcripts sent directly to the Graduate School from all the colleges you’ve previously attended. Evaluation of transfer credit will not be made until after you have been admitted to the Graduate School. For more information on transfer credit for graduate degree programs, contact the Graduate School.
What is the tuition cost per credit hour for undergraduate and graduate distance degree programs?
Please visit our website for current tuition rates.
For more information on making payments or frequently asked questions about student payment accounts, visit the Student Account Services website.
What does tuition include?
All distance students are charged the same base tuition rate, regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency. Tuition for distance students covers the cost of instruction. Because distance students do not use campus resources like facilities or health services, they are not charged for these services. Tuition does not include books, supplies or individual college fees, which may apply to select programs.
What types of financial aid and scholarships are available?
Financial aid and scholarships help many students defray the cost of courses. Students enrolled in any of our degree programs are eligible to apply for federal financial aid and scholarships.