Online Degrees, Certificates, and Courses

News

Introducing the iMSA—Accepting Applications for Fall 2017 | 6.2.2017
Business Instructional Facility (BIF) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The new fully online iMSA, Master of Science in Accountancy is ideal for anyone with an undergraduate foundation in business, economics, data analytics, or accounting, however, no previous business or accounting experience is required. Consistently ranked as a top-three program in the country, an accounting degree from Illinois puts students at the center of business decision-making.

The iMSA is unique and innovative with courses offered in a stackable, flexible and affordable format. Students have several options to get started:
- Engage with the course content with non-credit status
- Enroll in courses for credit prior to committing to apply for admission to the program
- Stack individual for-credit courses into a specialization certificate in Accountancy
- Dive in and apply now to the iMSA Degree and complete in as little as 18 months
Students will build expertise in the fundamentals of accounting – financial reporting, audit and control, and US federal taxation. The iMSA is a hands-on and practice oriented program designed for people already working in the accounting field looking to refresh their skill set, or for those who intend to use the iMSA degree to enter the accounting field for the first time. For more information or to apply now, go to onlineMSA.illinois.edu.
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Illinois Online Researchers Receive Awards for Excellence | 3.13.2017

Coursera has recognized Illinois with an international award and the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA), which recognizes excellence in both individual and institutional achievements, has awarded two awards to the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.

This year’s recipient of the UPCEA International Leadership Excellence Award is Madhu Viswanathan for his work with subsistence marketplaces. His course, Understanding Subsistence Marketplaces, has had profound transformational effects on learners and the communities where they apply their newfound knowledge. In addition, Madhu received the Outstanding Educator Award for Transformation from Coursera. Madhu is the Diane and Steven N. Miller Professor in the College of Business

Researchers from the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning received the UPCEA Research and Scholarship Award. The work of the team, led by Maryalice Wu, Sara Shrader, Dawn Owens, and Kathleen Santa Ana, has been recognized as an innovative model to measure and evaluate online learning and assessment. Their recent published work, “Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS): Participant Activity, Demographics, and Satisfaction” was published in the Journal of Online Learning Consortium. Also on the research team is Dawn Owens and Kathleen Santa Ana. Their findings suggest that in order for MOOCs to reach their full potential in higher education, they must implement pathways for students that are flexible enough to support the full spectrum of learner intent.

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New Online Master of Science in Strategic Brand Communication | 1.20.2017

A new interdisciplinary graduate degree from the University of Illinois seeks to arm future global brand leaders with the latest methods, techniques and strategies to market, advertise and deliver brand communications across diverse multimedia and technology channels.

Students can complete their online degree in 15 months from anywhere in the world while working full time, so they don’t have to interrupt their career momentum.

Learn more about the revolutionary master's program.

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Education at Illinois online graduate program again ranks in U.S. News’ top-10 list | 1.11.2017

The College of Education at Illinois is again home to one of the nation’s top-ranked online graduate education programs, according to the 2017 Best Online Graduate Education Programs list from U.S. News & World Report. Education at Illinois was tied with four other schools at No. 10 on the list, with an overall score of 89, up three points from last year.

Read more about the College’s rankings.

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Events

Date	Event
6.30.2017	MS Aerospace Engineering Application Deadline for Fall 2017 (?)
6.30.2017	MS Teaching Biology Application Deadline for Fall 2017 (?)
7.14.2017	MS Accounting (iMSA) Application Deadline for Fall 2017 (?)
7.14.2017	iMSA Fall 2017 Application Deadline (degree-seeking students) (?)
7.31.2017	ME Bioengineering Application Deadline for Fall 2017 (?)
8.3.2017	Summer 2017 Term Ends (?)
8.14.2017	M.S. SBC Classes Begin (?)
8.14.2017	MS Recreation, Sport & Tourism Application Deadline for Fall 2017 (?)
8.28.2017	Fall 2017 Term Begins (?)

Online Illinois Calendar

Blog

5 Benefits of Studying Online (vs. Face-to-Face Classroom) | 6.5.2017
“Shall I take my next course online or shall I stick with my face-to-face classes?”

If you are reading this post, it is possible that you are toying with the idea of signing up for an online course, but perhaps you don’t have a lot of experience studying online, if at all.

If you have taken face-to-face classes all your life, being a little apprehensive at the beginning is normal, even if you are tech-savvy. However, taking an online course, as opposed to a face-to-face class, definitely has its perks. Here are five advantages to studying online.
1. Career advancement and hobbies
  Studying online gives you more flexibility. You can work and fit your work schedule (and your hobbies) around your coursework more easily; even more so if you are taking an asynchronous class: an online class where you don’t have to log in at a specific time for a live session but you can study and interact with your instructor and your fellow classmates at your own pace through, for example, the discussion forum.
  
  In a survey conducted by The Learning House, 44% of online students reported improvements in their employment standing, for example by obtaining a full-time job within 12 months of graduation, and 45% reported a salary increase.
  
  By the time you finish your online course, you will have gained more work experience and learned new skills that will help you advance in your career!
2. Flexible schedule and environment
  By studying online, you choose your own learning environment that works best for your needs: be it your bedroom, your study, the café across the street, or your local gym, listening to your instructor’s lecture podcast as you run on the treadmill. Isn’t that awesome?
  
  Taking an online course also means that you don’t have to commute to class, which means less time spent on the bus and more study time sitting on your couch, the sound of a crackling fireplace in the background. You no longer have to worry about driving in the snowstorm and missing an important class!
3. Lower costs and debts
  Studying online means that you pay the tuition fee, possibly book supplies, an online application fee, and few other items. You don’t, however, incur the costs of housing (which can range from $10,000 to $12,000 per year) and transportation, which translates to lower debts and more savings.
4. Self-discipline and responsibility
  Who says that having to be more self-disciplined is a disadvantage? It is true that studying online requires more self-motivation and time-management skills, because you will spend a lot of time on your own without someone physically close to keep you focused on deadlines. Look at it this way: your online course will not only teach you geology or poetry, it will also help you become more self-motivated, a trait that will make you stand out in the workplace and beyond. It will look great on your résumé.
5. More choice of course topics
  Let’s face it, when thinking about what to study, besides for interest and career opportunities, where to study is also a deciding factor. This may limit the choice of subjects or courses to take. Studying online at your own convenience allows you to no longer worry about class location when choosing what to learn next. By taking an online course, you can really focus on the subject you are interested in and choose from the variety of online courses and programs.
I only listed five benefits to learning online but, having been an online student myself, I know there are many more. Can you think of other advantages or reasons why you prefer to take your next course online? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!

Further Readings
- Aslanian, C. B., & Clinefelter, D. L. (2013) Online College Students 2013: Comprehensive Data on Demands and Preferences. Louisville, KY: The Learning House, Inc.
- CollegeData (2016) What's the Price Tag for a College Education? CollegeData: Your Online College Advisor [online]. Retrieved from: https://goo.gl/fxQlF
- MNSU (2011) Skills Requirements | Online Student Requirements. Minnesota State University, Mankato [online]. Retrieved from: https://goo.gl/SDhgnW
- Norman, S. (2016) 5 Advantages of Online Learning: Education Without Leaving Home. eLearning Industry [online]. Retrieved from: https://goo.gl/jzzyUV
- OEDb (2012) 10 Advantages to Taking Online Classes. Open Education Database [online]. Retrieved from: https://goo.gl/aRZTRF
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Tips for Success in an Online Graduate Program | 4.26.2017
Are you considering your options to pursue an online graduate degree?

Selecting an online graduate program demands a well thought out plan. The factors in determining whether a specific degree program is better suited for you over another depends on your needs. What do you want to do with your degree? How will this degree make your career goals possible? Create a goal, and then work backward – this will help you select the right program for you. Each area of study and each program is unique, so do your research about the field. Identify a list of ideal qualities you would like in a program, and compare programs. Investigate the program’s website, looking for key information including: courses offered, program requirements (credit hours, required courses, thesis or project, etc.), and cost. Find out who you can talk to about the program, like recruiters and academic advisers, and come with questions about the program and about the field.

If you are a prospective a graduate degree, there are a few important factors to keep in mind as you weigh your program options. The first and most important step you can take is to check the school’s accreditation. Accreditation is a routine process all universities must go through to ensure they are providing their students a quality education and curriculum. You can search the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs of accredited higher education institutions.

Other considerations:
- What are the admission requirements?
- Are there specializations, certificates, or tracks available within the program?
- Are job placement statistics available?
- What kind of student support and advising is available to you?
- What does the orientation to the program look like? Orientation helps you to start on the right foot, gain familiarity with the program, policies and procedures, technology, key staff, faculty and instructors, and other students. A solid orientation is crucial, especially for online graduate programs.
- Ask if you can speak with a current or recently graduated student. Many programs will be glad to make the connection happen.
- Are there ways to academically engage with the broader field, at conferences (if applicable).
Online Graduate Student Study Habits

Graduate study coursework is more intense and demanding than undergrad and will require more time and commitment. Set up a schedule of study and coursework time. Think about where and when you study best, and where you study worst. Perhaps studying at home is a distraction. Instead, try doing coursework at the library or coffee shop. Perhaps you have a friend who is also completing an online course, or is working on an online project. If you have a gym buddy, you should consider getting a study buddy too. Having someone else whose presence will hold you accountable to stay on task creates an ideal study environment. Any study habit or system you come up with should be monitored so you know when it is or is not working for you, and in need of fine tuning.

Each instructor sets up and designs their course differently, presenting the syllabus and course information in a unique way. Consider getting into the course site early to poke around. Be able to answer the following questions after looking around:
- How is the semester broken up? How is each section organized?
- What are the assignments and how am I being evaluated?
- Where can I find the required material (readings and lectures)?
- Where/what are the communication channels, to the instructor and to peers?
Participation and Engagement

Most online courses require you to engage with peers in discussing the material, usually by posting to a discussion board. This peer-to-peer engagement is critical to engaging with the material. At the start of the semester, make strong connections with your fellow students. This is crucial for that specific class, but it is also beneficial to make relationships with your peers in the event that you end up taking another class together in a later semester.

Unlike undergrad, online Master’s programs have cohorts, where people start a specific program at the same time. Fend off the social isolation of online Master’s programs by engaging with peers in and outside of class. Your friends, partner, and family will likely not understand the unique challenges of completing an online master’s degree. Making friends with your peers help in these variety of ways. Get to know your cohort! See if there are students that live in your area.

In-Residence Student Completing an Online Graduate Course

Even if you are an on-campus/resident student attending a face-to-face graduate program, you may at some point take an online graduate course. Traditional graduate programs are developing online versions of their graduate degrees at a rising rate, and “32% of all students enrolled in post-secondary education were taking at least one online course” (Allen and Seamen cited in Newberry and DeLuca). Taking an online course is good experience that will expose you to a different and perhaps new learning environment.

Degree Completion, and Staying On-track

Completing the degree is both the main goal and a source of challenge for students. Set yourself up for success in reaching degree completion by starting early in understanding the big picture of what is required of you.

Map out your course work by creating a spreadsheet or some sort of document of required courses, desired courses, courses that must be completed in sequence, and courses you would like to eventually take but have pre-requisites. Keep in mind that not all courses in the catalog will be offered every semester. And while you won’t know what will be offered semesters in advance, you can look at previous fall and spring semesters to gain a sense of the regularity with which courses are offered, as many courses are regularly offered in the fall or spring. Peruse the course catalog, or ask an academic advisor or instructor if you can see a syllabus or course site of a previous offering.

Track your degree completion and remaining courses and credit hours. Schedule regular semester meetings with an academic advisor to discuss your progress. Understand if there are flex-credit hours: the same course offered for 2 or 4 (or some other number) hours. Understand the difference in required work. Sometimes it’s a 30-page paper, sometimes it’s a short presentation. The 4 credit-hour version of the course rarely requires double the work of the 2 credit-hour version, since you’re already completing the readings and lectures, and other assignments. Weigh your options!

What suggestion or question do you have about pursuing an online graduate degree?

Works Cited
Newberry, Ruth; and DeLuca, Catherine. “Building a Foundation for Success Through Student Services for Online Learners.” Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, vol. 17, no. 4, 2013.
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Spice Up Your Assignments With Media! | 4.20.2017

Are you looking to broaden your horizons in the assignment world by adding audio and video to your work? If you are new to the multimedia production game, here are a few applications to help you on your way to create a masterpiece.

iMovie

Add titles, music, voiceovers and photos to your videos with iMovie. This application allows you to cut and splice your film easily all on your iPhone.
Download iMovie for iOS

Pinnacle Studio Pro

Pinnacle has been around for quite some time and with its lasting reputation, you know it is good. Quickly pan-and-zoom, picture-in-picture and apply audio edits.
Download Pinnacle Studio Pro for iOS

Splice

Packed with features, this entirely free app is your little helper to individually edit clips, add filters and transitions in a snap.
Download Splice for iOS

PowerDirector

PowerDirector is similar to iMovie in that is provides a user-friendly video editing interface. Easily trim and rearrange your clips and make them your own.
Download PowerDirector for Android

Quik

It’s in the name! Create your videos super-fast with Quik. Apply fonts and filters, even turn your group of photos into video, in a flash!
Download Quik for Android
Download Quik for iOS

Adobe Premiere Clip

Adobe Premiere is used widely on the desktop, so it also works great on your smartphone or tablet. If you are looking for a simple, quick and free application to edit your audio and videos, Adobe Premiere Clip is it!
Download Quik for Android
Download Quik for iOS

So, I’m sure you’re asking yourself, when would be the best time to use multimedia in an assignment? If you feel your assignment would be better described and illustrated through video to physically show your audience what you're trying to say, then there you go! It is best to start your masterpiece with a clear idea of the end product in mind. Write a script and also lay out the details. I challenge you to use multimedia in an upcoming assignment for this semester.

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Top 4 Easy Ways to Connect with Your Online Classmates | 3.15.2017
Let’s face it—if you’ve never taken an online course before, it’s easy to imagine it as a very isolating experience. After all, it’s just you and your computer alone in your room or a quiet study spot, right? How can you find out if any of your friends are in the class if you can’t look around the lecture hall? How will you find someone to study with? Who can you commiserate with after both taking that really hard exam?

Thankfully, you can connect with your fellow online classmates. In fact, according to research done here at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, online students report that their communication with their peers/classmates was about the same as they find in their face-to-face classes! Forming these connections will help you form study groups, find some extra help with homework, and potentially even build life-long friendships!

Here are four easy tips for helping you get and stay connected with your online peers.

Tip #1: Realize that you are not alone!

Even though you might take an online course from the convenience of your dorm room, library, or coffee shop, you are actually not alone in the course. Rather, you are joined by dozens—or even hundreds!—of other online students in the same situation as you and probably with many of the same fears about online learning. It is just that your classmates are not as obvious as the guy sitting next to you in the classroom, but they are there. The first step is to realize that these folks are “out there” and, like you, want to connect with other classmates.

Tip #2: Introduce yourself!

Many online courses will have a “Getting to Know Your Classmates” task in the Orientation Module or somewhere early in the course. Don’t just blow this off or do the very minimum required—run with it! Treat this task in the same way you would if you were introducing yourself to the person seated next to you:
- Be friendly!
- Offer information about yourself that others can quickly connect with, such as your major, hometown, favorite T.V. or Netflix show, an interesting hobby, etc.
- Put yourself out there with enough information that someone else will notice and want to connect with you.
As Danielle Wirsansky, a Florida State University graduate wrote, “Doing these things will make reaching out so much easier and smoother for you, which will, in turn, make the process of taking an online course easier and smoother for you! Do not disregard the importance and support that your fellow online class students can provide to you” (emphasis added).

Tip #3: Find people you relate to!

Indeed, your online classmates can provide some much-needed support, but these are not one-way relationships! Once you have put information about yourself out there for your peers to see, such as in an online icebreaker activity, be active in reading what your classmates have to say about themselves. Find a few that interest you the most. Reply to their introductions and point out what you have in common. Follow-up with them later, even referencing your comment on their introduction (e.g. “Remember me? I replied to your icebreaker introduction and shared how we have a common love for Cajun cooking!”).

Tip #4: Keep in touch via discussion boards, social media, meetups

As with any relationship, it’s important to keep in touch with one another. Ask your new contacts how they are doing, offer to provide help with an assignment, or see if they want to study together for that big test coming up. Most online courses will provide you with a virtual space to do this, typically via discussion boards. These are great tools as everyone in your class has easy access to them.

But think about how you keep in touch with IRL friends, too. Ask some of the folks you meet in your online course to connect via Facebook, Twitter, etc. or exchange email addresses. Especially if you happen to live in the same community, consider having face-to-face meetups with your classmates—there are no rules against that in an online course!

Bottom line: you are not alone in your online course. By being proactive in introducing yourself to others and forming relationships with your classmates, you can build the support system you need to be successful in your online course. So give it a try—challenge yourself to take an online course, if you aren’t already, and reach out to your peers.

Also, if you have taken an online course and other strategies that have helped you, share them in the comments, below to help others out!

Happy learning!

References
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University of Illinois ILLINOIS ONLINE University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

New iMSA Online Program

New Master of Science in Strategic Brand Communication

New Master of Computer Science in Data Science

News

Events

Blog

Further Readings

Tip #1: Realize that you are not alone!

Tip #2: Introduce yourself!

Tip #3: Find people you relate to!

Tip #4: Keep in touch via discussion boards, social media, meetups

References