Questions About Online Learning

Distance learning takes place in an online environment where students and course instructors are physically separate from one another. Instead of attending classes on campus, students interact with their instructors and classmates through digital tools such as email, discussion boards, virtual chats, and other online platforms. Distance learning offers flexibility and convenience, enabling students to access course materials and participate in learning activities from anywhere, at any time.

Our Distance Learning Readiness webpage is a great place to start. It offers helpful insights and tools to guide your decision and determine if online courses align with your learning style and academic goals.

Online courses at UNF are led by the same dedicated and knowledgeable faculty who teach on campus. These instructors bring a wealth of expertise to the virtual classroom, with many actively involved in cutting-edge research and creative work.

To ensure high-quality online instruction, instructors who teach distance learning courses complete the Teaching Online Foundation Course (TOL). This comprehensive training equips them with best practices in pedagogy, instructor presence, student engagement, accessibility, course facilitation, and assessment.

UNF is proud of its strong tradition of teaching excellence and its commitment to creating meaningful, interactive learning experiences—whether in person or online.

UNF instructors are committed to creating a personalized and engaging learning experience, no matter the format. In online courses, students connect with faculty and peers through email, discussion boards, chatrooms, virtual meetings, and collaborative assignments. These tools foster meaningful interaction and help build a strong sense of community in the virtual classroom.

Most distance learning courses at UNF are asynchronous, meaning you don’t need to be online at specific times. You can complete assignments and participate in course activities at your own pace, as long as you meet all deadlines. Any scheduled synchronous participation may include activities such as the use of a Zoom meeting, virtual chat, or a similar mechanism to facilitate interaction.

Online courses meet the same academic standards as on-campus courses, offering equivalent content, quality, and rigor. To learn more about how we ensure excellence in online learning, visit our online course quality webpage.

UNF uses  Canvas as its learning management system. Through Canvas, you can view course materials, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and communicate with your instructors and classmates. Canvas is accessible via a web browser and through mobile apps for both iOS and Android, making it easy to stay connected whether you're at home or on the go. Learn more about Canvas here.

Your instructor will outline how your learning will be assessed—this may include exams, projects, or other forms of evaluation. Some courses may require the use of an online proctoring service to ensure academic integrity during exams. For specific details, refer to your course syllabus or reach out to your instructor directly.

Your diploma and transcripts will be issued by the University of North Florida, regardless of how you completed your coursework. As a graduate, you are fully part of the UNF community—an Osprey through and through—no matter the learning modality.

To succeed in online courses, you'll need a computer with high-speed internet access at a minimum. UNF provides students with a Technology Toolkit, which includes access to free software like Microsoft Office 365. You can learn more about recommended devices, software, and digital tools by visiting theITS Technology for Students webpage.

If you run into technical issues or have questions about using Canvas, the Canvas Student Support site offers tutorials, guides, and FAQs to help you troubleshoot and navigate the platform. For more personalized assistance, you can contact the ITS Help Desk, UNF’s central resource for support with all university-supported technology and services.

Yes, all online students are strongly encouraged to complete the Online Osprey Orientation. This self-paced experience, delivered through Canvas, is tailored specifically for learners enrolled in online programs. It introduces essential resources, support services, and strategies for thriving in a virtual learning environment. Students can revisit the orientation at any time during their academic journey at UNF, and it’s recommended to complete it before beginning their program. 

Once admitted to an online program, students will receive a welcome invitation from UNF Online with instructions to self-enroll in the Online Osprey Orientation. 

The Office of Student Financial Aid at UNF is dedicated to helping students access the financial resources they need. All students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility. You can find detailed information about available aid options, scholarships, and how to apply by visiting the One-Stop's Department of Financial Aid webpage.

UNF Online Student Success Coaches are dedicated partners in learning, available to help you navigate UNF Online’s resources and services, ensuring a smooth, supported, and successful online learning journey. Learn more about UNF Online Student Success Coaches and connect with a coach today!

All currently enrolled UNF students—including those in online programs—are eligible for a free Osprey 1Card, which provides access to a wide range of campus resources. This includes the library, dining facilities, the UNF Counseling Center, and the Student Wellness Complex. 

With your Osprey 1Card, you’re also invited to participate in campus events and traditions such as Week of Welcome, Market Days, and Homecoming. Whether you're learning online or in person, you're a valued member of the UNF community and encouraged to take full advantage of these opportunities. 

Yes! All UNF students, including those in online programs, are invited to walk at graduation and celebrate their achievements. UNF Online proudly encourages Online Osprey students to join the on-campus commencement ceremony alongside fellow graduates and be recognized for their hard work and success.

• Follow the course schedule outlined in the syllabus to stay on track.
• Check Canvas regularly for updates, assignments, readings, and discussions.
• Engage actively by reading and responding to classmates and the instructor.
• Ask questions early and often—chances are others are wondering the same thing.
• Embrace the flexibility and collaboration that online learning offers. 

SOLO (Student Online Learning Orientation) is a self-paced introduction to distance learning designed to help you succeed in online courses. It covers effective learning strategies and highlights key resources and support services available to UNF students. Completion of SOLO is required for certain programs and majors. For details on requirements and how to get started, visit the SOLO webpage.