Distance Learning at Amberton
Bringing the Classroom to You
Our distance-learning courses are identical to classroom courses in terms of learning outcomes and expectations. Both full-time and part-time professors who teach lecture courses also teach e-Courses. Admission to the University, costs, and expectations of performance are the same for all students regardless of the student's location or course selection.
Getting Started with Distance Learning
You will need to have Internet access and an e-mail address. Basic computer literacy is essential, and includes: general knowledge in Internet browser settings and configurations, e-mail and file attachments, uploading and downloading files, the use of a word-processing package, such as Microsoft Word, and the ability to browse and research online.
Connect with an advisor about distance learning.
Distance Learning & Online Education Courses
The pace of technological change can be breathtaking at times, and exhausting at others. Ultimately, changes in the way we use and interact with technology has come to redefine almost every aspect of our lives, from medicine to business to child-rearing and education. The last of these can often be easy to overlook, but the impact of technology on education goes beyond using computers in the classroom and submitting assignments online. Today, technology enables incredibly robust opportunities for working adults to pursue degrees via distance learning.
At Amberton University, we're proud to lead the way in providing distance education for our students in Texas, and across the nation. Amberton offers flexible options and a range of exciting programs for earning your first degree or moving on to a master's program. For adults whose family and work responsibilities make the pursuit of a "traditional" educational route seem impossible, these programs represent a viable alternative.
What is Distance Learning?
Simply put, distance learning is a mode of study that takes place outside of the classroom. Rather than attending courses at one of our campuses in Frisco or Garland, students log in to a digital learning space with course materials, assessments, discussions and interactions, and more. Students take the responsibility and the initiative for studying the course materials, though their instructor remains available for questions and clarifications. Online discussions with your distance learning classmates are also a vital and valuable part of the learning experience. Though the method of delivery is not the same, there's no real difference between a course of study offered online and the same course on campus.
Trends in Distance Learning
Once a relatively niche offering or the sole domain of for-profit efforts, online learning programs today have an established legitimacy from grade school to grad school. Distance learning continues to grow in popularity and appeal among many groups, too. Though some may have once considered it a less common alternative to traditional learning, today educational institutions of all sizes and pedigrees employ distance learning to some degree.
The development of wholly online degree courses from accredited universities is still relatively new, but the tools and teaching methodologies in use for distance learning programs are highly refined and well-suited to providing students with a new and flexible way to learn. However, many universities still offer distance programs as an "either/or" option. Either you may take your courses online, or you may attend lectures — not necessarily both.
The Amberton University Difference
At Amberton, online education programs aren't an afterthought; they're a core area of our focus as we develop our mission to enable working adults to access the higher learning they deserve. As a result, we've worked hard to create flexible programs that allow our students to take courses online as necessary while attending lectures for other courses in their degree program. At the same time, we've made it immensely easy to pursue a variety of bachelor's and master’s programs entirely online. With complete parity between the online and offline courses, you'll never miss out on something important — and you'll still need to meet the same rigorous standards as you would in the classroom.
Combined with the other advantages Amberton offers, such as affordable tuition, distance learning opens doors and creates opportunities that you may have thought were missed long ago. Consider now why these options could be a good fit for you.
What Makes Distance Learning So Effective for Working Adults?
Working full time, raising a family, and making ends meet — these are essential responsibilities that demand much of your energy and attention. As critical as they are, though, they can prove a barrier to your continuing education. Distance learning helps to break down those barriers, providing an easier way for you to maintain your busy schedule while still taking full advantage of the opportunity to educate yourself further.
The ability to set your own pace allows for immense freedom in learning. While you will get the best results by blocking out set periods to focus on your coursework just as you would with a lecture class, you can pick and choose when you want to spend that time. With no need to travel, you can pursue your degree from the comfort of home, your favorite coffee shop, or wherever you happen to be with some quiet space and spare time. There's no need to reduce your availability at work or hustle through traffic to make it to class on time — "on time" is what you decide.
Is Distance Learning the Right Choice for Me?
Looking over the distance learning opportunities available at Amberton University, do you find yourself wondering if one of these programs would be a good fit for your educational goals? For some, it can be an important asset and the perfect pathway to obtaining a bachelor's degree or pursuing a master's. For others, though, distance education programs can prove more challenging. We desire for all our students to find the option that enables their success — so how can you know if you'll succeed or struggle with online education? It helps to consider your own skill and comfort level, plus your educational goals. Here's an easy way to assess your readiness.
First, consider the level of confidence you have with computer usage. You should be reasonably proficient with your web browser and email, with an understanding of how to upload files, download attachments, and communicate respectfully online. Next, consider your willingness and understanding of how to conduct online research using only trustworthy resources is very important.
Finally, determine your level of comfort with self-pacing lessons. You must be able to focus on the course materials without the guidance of a set class time. Leaving assignments to the end is not an option, nor is rushing through the material; know how much time you have to work with and plan accordingly. If you feel uncertain about this aspect, on-campus learning may be the better option. If you excel at independent learning, distance programs are likely more suitable.
Do you think you'd be a good fit for online learning? When your work keeps you busy, but you still want to pursue a degree, nothing should stop you from taking advantage of the opportunities available to you. Explore the courses you can pursue with Amberton University now, or contact us for more information. With a different way to learn, new opportunities could be on the horizon.
- Do you need convenience and an adjustable schedule?
- Do you like to work independently?
- Are you comfortable asking for clarification of a task or project?
- Are you comfortable working primarily with a text-based medium?
- Do you have the necessary computer skills to produce collegiate level documents?
- Do you have experience in online searching and a working knowledge of my computer’s browser?
If you answered “yes” to these questions, then online courses may be the perfect solution to completing your education.