Overview of Online Learning at UB
Welcome to UB Online! Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC), UB Online has been offering courses online since 1997. (To learn more about accreditation read College Accreditation: Frequently Asked Questions and Regional Accreditation vs. National Accreditation). UB Online offers a variety of programs and courses that allow you to attend class anytime from anywhere. All you need is a computer, access to the Internet, and email, and you can take courses or complete your degree from the comfort of your home or office.
If you are new to online learning, that is ok. There is a one-week online orientation for new online students to help you become familiar with Blackboard, our online course management system. The orientation takes place the week before your first online course (instructions will be sent one week prior to the first course), and is required for all new online students. In addition to learning how to navigate our online classroom environment, you’ll learn strategies to help you succeed as an online student.
Are You Ready For Online Learning?
Are you ready for online learning, either by taking one online course or an entire online degree program? Take this Distance Learning Quiz and find out. Then keep reading to learn more about the computer skills you'll need to get yourself ready.
Computer Requirements & Skills
Online courses are a flexible and convenient way to take classes or earn your degree from a distance. And while you don’t need to be a computer expert, you should be familiar with using a computer and navigating the Internet before getting started.
You will need reliable access to the Internet, the ability to navigate the Internet, and the ability to send emails with attachments. With UB Online courses, you don’t have to be online at any specific time, but you do need to “attend” your course at least 2-3 times a week to get your assignments and participate in the online discussion. Just like in a classroom setting, you will have weekly readings, lectures, tests, and papers, depending on the course.
- For specific computer requirements & other technology resources click here.
- A high speed internet connection such as DSL or cable is strongly recommended.
- Anti-virus software, for protection when sending and receiving files, is required.
- Proficiency with basic online technology (navigate the Internet, send & receive emails, use a word processor) is required.
How An Online Course Works
If you are not sure how an online classroom works, here are several resources: