Written by Hannah Schadler '27 | Student Contributor

Here are some key differences between online and in-person classes?

Freshman and transfer students may not be aware of how online classes work at the University of the Cumberlands. Even on-campus students will take online classes at times. So, what is the difference between online and in-person classes? 

Why would an on-campus student take an online class?

Online classes often work better for students’ schedules, even when they’re living on campus. One of the benefits of being in college is that you are given the opportunity to set your own schedule instead of sitting in classes all day; however, to make a schedule that works best for you, there may be times when you want to take an online class. For example, I must take Fundamentals of Advertising and PR as a prerequisite for a lot of the classes in my communication arts major, but it is not offered in person this bi-term, only online. For me to take other classes when I would like to, it works best for me to take the class online right now. 

I also like to only have classes that start at 9:25am and 12:15pm, but because I'm pursuing a double major and a minor, I need to take 18 credit hours per semester to graduate on time. In order to make this work, I take at least one online class each bi-term. Side note: some people also take 18 credit hours a semester so they can graduate early.

How many online classes can an in-seat student take per semester?

To meet the requirements to remain living in on-campus housing, students must have at least 9 credit hours (that usually equates to three courses) of in-person classes per semester. Seniors, however, may get permission from housing to take all their classes except one online. 

How do you learn the material?

In online classes, the material is generally learned mostly by reading the textbook. Sometimes the textbook is a physical copy, sometimes it’s online. Some professors will also record weekly videos or have students do activities as part of learning the material. Professors also usually include a lot of discussion boards and quizzes as part of their curriculum. Since there is no physical class to attend, students can work through the course at their own pace, provided everything is turned in by the due date. Fair warning: these online courses usually require a little more work than in-person classes because there is no class you have to attend. Maybe that’s just my personal feeling, but it seems accurate to me.

Which one is better, online or in person?

Every student has their own opinion about online classes. I would tell you all of mine, but then the blog would be too long, and I don’t want to taint your own opinion of them. If you want to find out if University of the Cumberlands’ online classes are for you, apply at www.ucumberlands.edu today.