Antioch University Online is a 100% online learning environment led by our expert program faculty. You can learn anywhere, anytime, at your own pace in asynchronous courses, meaning there is no specific time that you’re required to attend a course. Learning on your own time helps you complete assignments and earn your degree on a schedule that works in your busy life.
How Online Classes Work & What to Expect
100% Online
AU Online’s learning platform is Engage (and will be upgraded to Sakai in Sept. 2018) – a user-friendly environment for students. Coursework may include video and audio recordings by expert faculty, reading assignments, writing assignments, and online group discussions. There are no on-campus learning requirements (such as residencies).
Your Schedule
AU Online classes are not held at a specific time to accommodate students across multiple time zones, so you can set your own schedule. A full-time course load is two (2) classes, and you can expect to spend an average of 15-20 hours per week on each class, depending on your pace. Our courses are on a trimester system, which works out to seven (7) weeks per class with one (1) week off in-between.
Qualified Instructors at an Accredited University
AU Online instructors are faculty members who also teach at our campuses and bring years of relevant professional and educational experience, as well as other experienced industry professionals. All of our instructors are subject matter experts who bring real-world experience to their teaching. Antioch University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and our faculty meet these high standards. Meet our faculty.
Student-Faculty Interaction
Upon acceptance, every student in an AU Online program receives an online orientation where you learn about the Antioch University philosophy that emphasizes personal development, social justice, and experiential learning. Via the learning platform, Engage, students can request help from their instructors at any time and expect a timely response. At the start of each course, instructors will provide a syllabus and schedule of weekly office hours for students to request individualized help.
Types of Coursework
Each degree program will look different in terms of curriculum and activities. Most students can expect to participate in these ways:
- Discuss lessons and assignments with other online students in online groups
- Watch, listen to and interact with recorded video, audio, and other prepared multimedia
- Complete reading assignments, writing assignments, and projects
- Depending on the program, a capstone project or practicum/internship position off-site
No Grades
Just like Antioch University’s campus-based programs have for generations, AU Online values students’ demonstrated learning over letter grades or exam scores. In place of assigned letter grades, faculty provide students with a written narrative evaluation. AU Online will gladly provide a translation to GPA equivalent for students if needed for employers, graduate school applications, or other reasons. We find our approach has been successful for thousands of students who share the view that true learning is more than just memorization and scores.
Complete Student Support
To welcome you to the AU Online community, a student services coordinator will be your primary point of contact to walk through any questions or needs you might have. All new online students participate in an online orientation to get to know the learning platform. Antioch University considers our online students equal members of our university community and you are invited to participate in activities on our campuses if you choose, such as special events or campus tours. AUO provides full student services, from our virtual writing center and library services, to 24/7 technical assistance.
Technology Requirements
You are likely already familiar with the hardware and software basics required to learn online. To ensure your optimal AU Online learning experience, we have created a technology requirements checklist to get you ready.
Balancing Work and Life
Is an online degree right for me? AU Online allows students to complete their degree coursework on their own time, from anywhere they choose. Our students balance degree work with their busy lives, which can include supporting a family, one or more jobs, health and wellness, or any number of life commitments.
You can earn your degree with the flexibility of AU Online. Have you put your degree plans on hold because on-campus programs are either inconvenient or daunting? Keep your life moving forward. Stay on track and fit AU Online into your schedule, and receive support and inspiration from our instructors to build your career. Antioch’s faculty, student services, and admissions advisors are here to help you succeed – and many of us are alumni who have been in your shoes! A degree from Antioch University Online is the same rigorous, accredited degree program as on our campuses.