Everything you need to know about ASU Online classes and degree programs

What is ASU Online?

ASU Online degree programs are a separate enrollment option, or modality, that differs from on-campus programs. ASU Online is not the same as iCourses and ASU Sync, both of which are offered only to those enrolled in on-campus programs.

Will it say "online" on my diploma?

No. ASU Online graduates receive a diploma from Arizona State University, same as students who earn their degrees on campus. Neither your diploma nor transcripts will note that it’s an online degree.

How long are ASU Online classes? How long will it take to graduate?

ASU Online classes are compressed into two, 7.5-week sessions during the spring and fall semesters, and 6-week sessions during summer. They operate on a different calendar than traditional on-campus courses, which are 15 weeks in length. Check out ASU's academic calendar for upcoming session start dates.

Most courses are asynchronous with no set log-in times, so you can complete assignments at your convenience as long as you meet syllabus deadlines.

“While digital immersion courses are condensed to 7.5 week sessions, students are not completing 4–5 courses at a time as they may during a campus immersion course,” said Sarah Shipp, associate director of academic portfolio management for EdPlus at ASU. “This gives students the opportunity to focus on 1–3 classes each session, while still completing their degree at a similar pace.”

Although the online sessions are shorter in length, online and on-campus degree programs have the same requirements, learning outcomes and faculty. You must complete 120 credits to earn your undergraduate degree. So, ultimately, your degree completion timeline is dependent on you.

Is there any way to earn a degree faster than usual?

ASU offers two types of accelerated programs.

• ASU’s Accelerated Master's programs allow you to complete your undergraduate and graduate degrees in five years total. That expedites the process to complete both.
• ASU’s fast track plans are available for about 20 programs. These allow you to take courses through all the year’s six sessions and complete the degree in either a 2.5- or 3-year track.

What are ASU Online classes like and how do they work?

Online courses take place in Canvas. The platform enables students to access coursework and complete assignments on almost any device, from nearly any location around the world, whenever it’s convenient for their schedules.

“Canvas is a very intuitive platform on which to take online courses,” said Andrea Bevier, director of digital initiatives and instructional design at ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. “The menus are simple and easy to navigate, the course modules are clean and easy to use, and the built-in technology features are typically trouble-free and very easy to learn.”

Each online course has a community forum, in which questions can be asked for all to see. This also helps with professor improvement because it tracks common questions that can be referenced later for content improvement.

“The video content and lectures in an ASU Online class are planned as part of the entire course and recorded specifically to support all other learning materials,” said Bevier. “This format allows students to return anytime during the course – and after – to review content, rewatch a lecture or just brush up on materials before the final exam.” However, there will be specific deadlines on assignments and other assessments throughout your courses that you'll need to follow.

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Technologies used in the ASU Online environment

ASU Online classes feature a broad range of technology-based learning tools paired with a robust range of resources. These include full access to the online library and 24/7 technology support.

“The assignments in ASU Online courses take advantage of technical learning platforms that work to blur the lines between online and campus-based classes,” said Heidi Sanborn, a clinical assistant professor in ASU’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation. “Students will submit some assignments using artificial intelligence and virtual reality platforms, video-based presentations and virtual simulations, which results in a well-rounded set of skills directly applicable to the real world.”

Some professors use Yellowdig, a software platform that leverages the sharing of academic ideas and knowledge through technology. Yellowdig integrates with the learning management system and offers an auto-grade functionality, rich media integration options, draft features and a familiar interface for students. Students achieve points through word count and participating with common social media behavior, like “liking” or “loving” a post or posting a comment.

Playposit is another tool leveraged in ASU Online classes. The digital tool gives professors the ability to turn video content into an interactive experience. Professors can embed formative assessment activities and questions throughout a video. Students can time-stamp, search and download their digital notes.

“We also understand there are multiple domains of learning,” said Jordan Miller, a lecturer in ASU’s College of Health Solutions and coordinator of the bachelor’s degree in health education and health promotion online. “So, we include audio materials and active learning assignments to meet the needs of auditory and tactile-kinesthetic learners, in addition to visual learning materials that are common in online learning environments."

How much does cost to attend ASU Online?

Tuition costs will depend on your program, transfer credits and course load. You can use our tuition calculator to get an estimate.

Additionally, most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more about financial aid options and explore scholarship opportunities.