Online Learning at the University of New Haven
Getting your master’s degree is a big commitment. Our students balance jobs, family, and other obligations in pursuit of a degree that will strengthen their skills and their community. That’s why, for many of our students, the rigor of our academics combined with the flexibility of online learning makes sense.
Online learning may NOT be what you expect. Online Learning at New Haven...
- Is collaborative. Our online courses involve frequent interactions with your class and instructor through chat rooms and discussion forums. Our courses are designed to be an “online community” that fosters collaborative learning, rather than self-paced courses.
- Includes deadlines, but not class times. Our classes do not meet at a specific time each week. Instead you will have 24-hour access to your courses – so classes are typically on your schedule and include assignments and deadlines to ensure you are progressing through the course.
- Provides one on one interaction with faculty. Each individual professor will also establish a schedule for responding to questions and works closely with each student.
The result of our online degrees is to prepare you for leadership opportunities as well as increased earning potential.
Technology Requirements
Making sure that you have the technology you need for online learning is an important first step. Please take a few minutes to review the technical requirements for successful online learning.
Your Computer and Accessories
Even though there are apps that let you view your courses on your smartphone or tablet, you will need a computer to successfully complete online courses. Some videos and other content may not display correctly on mobile devices. You may want to check posts and messages on your mobile device, but do not try to complete homework assignments or tests on your phone or tablet. Your computer should be new enough to support up-to-date software. You also are likely to need a microphone, speakers and/or a headset, a webcam, and the ability to stream videos for many of your classes.
Internet Access
Access to a reliable, high-speed Internet connection is essential. We recommend 1.5 mbps and broadband. The computer and Internet connection you use should be available to you 24/7. You should not rely solely on your work computer, public library access, or Internet cafes. You also will need to have a backup plan in case you lose Internet access or your computer crashes.
Software
Different courses and instructors may require different types of software. Be sure to check the requirements when you begin any new class. The most commonly used are Word, PowerPoint, and PDF. You will need Adobe Reader (free) to read PDFs, and Microsoft Office for Word or PowerPoint.
You can download and install Adobe Reader for free by clicking here.
For information about free and discounted hardware and software that you will have access to as a student, visit http://www.newhaven.edu/OIT/information-current-students/computers-software/.
Although you certainly don’t need to be a computer programmer to take an online course, you should be comfortable with Internet browsers, MS Office Suite, and uploading and upgrading applications on your computer. If you need a technology refresher or an introduction to the basics, try the free tutorials on this site: http://www.gcflearnfree.org/topics or look for workshops at your local library or community center.