Course Delivery Formats

Online

Online learning refers to classes conducted over the Internet. Courses and programs are offered online, using the Internet, a software platform and e-mail. Students register for courses, and an instructor teaches the material. Courses include either "asynchronous discussion," meaning you can log on any time to participate or “synchronous discussion,” meaning students are required to log on at a specified time. Courses do have a start date and an end date, with assignments scheduled by the instructor.

• Internet courses: An Internet course is delivered strictly via the web. There are no face-to-face meetings involved.
• Web-assisted courses: Class content is delivered through a mixture of the web and face-to-face meetings.  Location of face-to-face meetings varies by the class, and instructor. Always check the MU Direct site for the location, dates and times of face-to-face meetings.
• Web-enhanced courses: Class content is delivered mainly through face-to-face meetings with minimal web requirements. Courses in this category generally use a website for the syllabus, reading list, or perhaps discussion and group work.

Off-campus

A variety of on-site learning opportunities are available nationwide.

On-campus

Degree programs and individual courses are offered on the University of Missouri-Columbia campus. Classes meet evenings, weekends or at other convenient times to meet our students' needs.

Individual study

Individual study courses, such as practica or internships, are completed independently under faculty guidance.

Independent study

Students complete course work at their own pace. These courses are offered through the Center for Distance and Independent Study.

Interactive television

Interactive television courses are offered over the University of Missouri's compressed video network and Missouri's Telemedicine Network. These courses, with set schedules, allow faculty and students at various sites to interact with each other.