There are many ways to take online or distance education classes for Ball State credit, but not every option works in every situation. It's important to plan ahead when you are investigating any options to be sure that they will fulfill your academic needs.
Many students elect to take a few online or distance education classes at times when they are not already taking classes on campus, for instance during the summer months or during a semester when living at home is the only option. Independent Learning courses can sometimes offer more options when flexibility is needed in the schedule. The Online and Distance Education Program offers
more than 150 online undergraduate courses through the Internet-based Independent Learning Program (ILP), so there are a lot of course options. Any on-campus student taking an ILP course to satisfy a major, minor, or University Core Curriculum requirement should talk to his or her advisor to insure that the class will fulfill those requirements. Some academic departments do not allow their majors and minors to take specific courses through ILP. The
registration process for online classes is different than campus classes, so you should consult your
academic advisor or the
School of Extended Education, Carmichael Hall 200, 1-800-872-0369 or 765-285-1581 for more information.
Because degrees available through Extended Education differ from on-campus degree offerings, students wishing to earn a BSU degree exclusively through online and/or distance education should apply directly to the School of Extended Education.
The cost for ILP courses can be part of the block fees paid by on-campus students (effective Fall 2011). The fee for an ILP course is charged per credit hour; consult the Office of the Bursar for block tuition rates. For more information about Online and Distance Education fees and tuition and the financial help available, contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid in Lucina Hall 245, 765-285-5600.