The Online Student Experience

First-class education anytime, anywhere

At Utah State, we don’t just prepare you for a career, we prepare you for a life that you’re passionate about – providing you with a solid foundation of skills to take you wherever you want to go.

We utilize advanced technology (some of which we have developed in-house) and a dynamic interface to ensure provide you with a high-quality online learning experience. Intentionally designed by expert faculty and instructional designers, courses are highly interactive with everything you need in one place.

Most courses do not require specific meeting times or set log-in times, so you can complete assignments at your convenience, according to established syllabus deadlines. Various scheduling options are available to allow you to fit your learning around other commitments and activities.

  • 7-15 week terms
  • 600+ courses
  • 70+ online programs
  • 50+ tools and services
  • More Carnegie-recognized faculty than any other school in Utah

Your Digital Classroom

Technical RequirementsTechnical RequirementsTo be prepared for courses and exams from USU Online, you'll need access to:
  • A computer desktop or laptop.
  • A reliable, high-speed internet connection.
  • At least two browsers (Chrome or FireFox preferred).
  • MyUSU and any program-specific software.

Canvas is your digital classroom, where you will interact with instructional materials, your peers, and the instructor. It is accessible by nearly any device – although, we recommend that you use a tablet, laptop or computer.
  • A discussion forum facilitates communication with peers.
  • Canvas’ calendar feature populates all class assignments.
  • Course modules unify content into structural components.
  • Instructors can easily give feedback on assignments.

Online classes allow for the utmost flexibility in how you participate and complete your assignments.
  • Direct and individualized feedback and support from faculty, 100% online.
  • Canvas tutorials available, as well as dedicated tech support.
  • Faculty host virtual office hours and are available via email.
  • Most courses have no set log-in times, allowing you to complete assignments at your convenience, as long as you meet syllabus deadlines.

In an online course it is important that you communicate regularly with your instructor and peers to develop a collaborative, safe, and friendly environment. One way of doing so is through good communication.
  • Check your course regularly for announcements and posts from faculty and peers.
  • Maintain a professional and courteous tone in all communications with your peers and with your instructor.
  • It's okay to disagree with one another. Disagreement is one way we further our knowledge and understanding, but be sure you express your disagreement in a respectful way. Remember that disagreement is not the same as disrespect.
  • Reply to emails, messages, and discussions in a timely manner.

To be prepared for courses and exams from USU Online, you'll need access to:
  • A computer desktop or laptop.
  • A reliable, high-speed internet connection.
  • At least two browsers (Chrome or FireFox preferred).
  • MyUSU and any program-specific software.

Each course is intentionally designed to support your learning, using the latest technology and practices.

  • A suite of support services personalized to your goals.
  • Custom learning objects like videos, interactives, and graphics.
  • Same faculty and curriculum as in-person courses on USU campuses.

How Online Courses Work

Our online classes take place in Canvas, an industry-leading learning management platform. You’ll have access to a discussion forum, calendar, course modules, technical support and more. Get a glimpse into what it’s like being in an online course with our course tour video.

Learn and Connect on Your Terms

College is about connection and community. That’s why our online courses include a number of interactive activities to enable media-rich discussions, authentic assessments, and personalized feedback. Additionally, you will belong to the Aggie family, where you will have access to all aspects of our community, who are available to help you along the way.

Education Like Never Before

As an online student at USU, your learning will go beyond textbooks and lectures to include innovative new learning technologies designed to promote student engagement and success. You can access personalized coursework in adaptive learning classes, complete interactive virtual labs, problem solve case studies for organizations in the community, and more depending on your area of study.

Explore Offerings

You can browse an array of online courses with USU’s course catalog. Determine subjects that interest you or search for required courses in your program of choice. Browse Available Courses >>

FAQs About Online Learning

Online classes can be harder than on-campus classes because it is easy to procrastinate when you don't need to attend class in-person. You'll spend more time reading and writing than traditional courses, but the course content will be the same.

You don't need to be an expert, but you do need to know how to connect to the internet. Online classes have some particular technology requirements. There are some other technology tools that may make your experience easier. In order to be able to access your online coursework. You will need at least regular access to a computer with:

  • A reliable internet connection (preferably high speed)
  • The latest version of Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari
  • A PDF reader
  • A word processor (Google Docs, Microsoft Word, Open Office, etc.)
  • Speakers or headphones

It is preferred that students have a personal computer (desktop or laptop) with a webcam and microphone (built in or as an accessory) which are required if students intend to use virtual proctoring. A smart phone or tablet will also allow students to access the mobile app available.

USU's Aggie Access program provides all required textbooks each semester for a flat $250 rate. Once you are registered for classes, you can log in to Canvas to view program options. And don't worry if your books don't cost that much. You can opt out if that's better for you.

Most online classes have no in-person requirements.

If the instructor requires tests to be proctored, he or she will should inform you on the first day of the course. Most likely this information will be in the syllabus. The proctor's role is to verify the identity of the student taking the exam to ensure that the instructions specified by the instructor are carried out.

If you do not live near a USU Statewide Campus you will need to find someone to proctor your exams through the Materials & Testing Services website.