Why an online degree from Eastern University?

Eastern University is a nonprofit, regionally accredited institution founded in 1925. Throughout our long history, we have trained future leaders who are grounded in faith, reason, and justice. Our online programs offer learners a convenient and flexible way to earn the exact same diploma as on-campus students.

Is Eastern University accredited?
Who will teach the online courses?

Great question! Online students are taught by distinguished faculty who are also practitioners in their fields. Many students develop strong relationships with their instructors. We often hear stories of how students credit those relationships for helping them have a successful online education experience.

Is financial assistance available for online students?

Yes. Earning a degree is one of the most important investments you can make for your career. Our goal at Eastern University is to make your education affordable. Simply follow the steps outlined on our Financial Aid website and talk with your Enrollment Counselor about the many financial aid opportunities that may be available to you.

What are the computer and technology requirements for online students?

Our courses are compatible with Mac or PC platforms. In order to be signed up for our online classes, you should have regular access to the internet and email, as well as be familiar with creating, formatting, and uploading Microsoft Word documents.  (Please note that all Eastern University students can sign up for a free version of Microsoft 365.) Online students are required to have a working webcam and microphone, both of which may be either built into their existing computers or purchased as external devices. Eastern University does not recommend Chromebooks or tablets/mobile devices for online coursework due to limited functionality. Our student technology site can help students learn the basics of Brightspace (our learning management system at Eastern), Zoom and Microsoft 365.

What will my course look like?

While every course is unique, we can guarantee the following:

  • It will use a learning management system where you will find all of your assignments, course content, and discussion boards for interacting with your classmates and instructor
  • The course will be interactive and use a variety of activities such as recorded lectures, video segments, games, case studies and group breakout areas
  • The course will be of the same academic rigor and quality of all other courses
How will I interact with my classmates and instructor?

These conversations will happen through email, discussion boards, and Zoom. Zoom, Eastern's web-conferencing software, is free for students and allows you to share your screen, use a virtual whiteboard, and participate in class discussions using video and audio capabilities. 

What is the biggest difference between online learning and in-class learning?

The online classroom environment provides students with innovative and creative ways to engage with course material. From animation to interactive learning to video conferencing across cultures and continents, online learning opens students to meaningful engagement through technology. Since most exchanges of information in an online class takes place through text-based readings and discussions, students may find they are spending more time reading and writing than in an on-ground class. In doing so, our hope is that these courses prepare students to be tech-savvy communicators in their professional and interpersonal communities.

What is the weekly time commitment?

Students enrolled in a 3-credit, 7-week course should expect to spend 6 hours a week on course content such as lectures, discussion board, and in-class group activities. In addition, students should plan to spend a minimum of 12 hours on assigned readings and assignments.

Is online learning right for me?

Students who excel in the online environment are self motivated, organized, and manage their time wisely.  They are proactive and start assignments early and seek help when they need it from instructors.  They are also comfortable using the computer and the Internet.