The higher education landscape is always evolving to meet diverse students’ needs, and flexible online learning has made college education more accessible than ever. Today’s students can earn their degrees without commuting to campus or committing to a rigid schedule, and in some cases finish college for a fraction of the price they would have paid in a traditional university program.
But with multiple online learning formats available, it can be challenging to determine which type of program is the best fit for you. Even if the convenience of studying from home is what most appeals to you most, it’s no longer as simple as just deciding to enroll in an online program — today, you have personalized learning options.
At UMass Global, all of our programs are fully online, tailored to two distinct learning styles: instructor-led, course-based programs that follow a more structured schedule, and self-paced, competency-based programs that let you move forward more quickly as you demonstrate mastery of the material. This variety allows you to choose an approach designed for how you prefer to learn and manage your time.
These programs are for those who are not intimidated by the technological know-how online learning requires. Ones who value the structure and connection that come with instructor-led online courses — where guided lessons, regular interactions, and real-time feedback help keep you engaged and on track.
Course-based programs at UMass Global combine structured eight-week classes with the flexibility working adults need. In each instructor-led course, you connect with a community of classmates and faculty who bring current, real-world industry experience into every discussion, so what you learn is immediately applicable to your career. Along the way, our enrollment coaches, academic advisors, and one-stop specialists stay in your corner, helping you balance deadlines, life, and next steps toward your degree.
If you’re drawn to the flexibility of online learning and you’re confident in your ability to keep up with the associated demand find your degree program by visiting our course-based programs page.
These programs are for self-starters, those accustomed to crafting their own plans and sticking to them. These programs are for those who are able to thrive during web-based interactions but are also motivated to complete coursework efficiently to improve skills.
Competency-based education enables students to experience the valued outcomes we expect from traditional programs with the added convenience of an online program that’s personalized and self-paced. This means you can speed up or slow down as needed. With one set fee per 24-week term and no course limits, the sky’s the limit on what you can achieve. Along the way, our enrollment coaches, academic advisors, and one-stop specialists stay in your corner, helping you balance deadlines, life, and next steps toward your degree.
Self-paced programs may be the future of higher education. If you’re curious to learn more and explore available degree programs visit our (MyPath) competency-based, self-paced courses page.
If you’re curious to see where you might thrive best, take our 10-question quiz to find out which type of online learning format may be right for you.
Ready to kick-start your journey toward a degree? Now that you have a clearer sense of which online learning format best fits your educational style, you may be eager to explore our academic programs in more depth. Get started by reviewing the ins and outs of University of Massachusetts Global’s Flexible Ways to Learn
UMass Global offers a wide variety of degree programs for adult learners. Explore your learning options and find a degree that fits you.
Have questions about enrollment, degree programs, financial aid, or next steps?
