FAQ

Have questions about Valparaiso University’s online programs? We’ve got answers. Please review the list below, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, simply fill out the form to the right and one of our knowledgeable representatives will contact you soon.

Yes! In fact, more than 6 million students already are pursuing higher education through Internet-based learning programs. Valparaiso University’s technology partner in online education, Bisk is the largest facilitator of e-learning in the nation, connecting more than 450,000 students with top universities. Through Bisk's interactive and streaming video-based lectures, you can rest assured you’re getting an in-classroom feel with added convenience and the same degree as on-campus students.

Yes. Since all courses are available via the Internet, you’ll never have to set foot on campus – unless you want to walk with your graduating class.

You may interact with program faculty and classmates through virtual office hours, faculty-monitored chat rooms, discussion boards and email. These technologies ensure an engaging and rewarding educational experience. This format is an excellent way to meet, collaborate and network with professionals from across the nation and around the world. In fact, many students will find that they actually are learning, participating and enjoying themselves more in this online program than they ever did in a traditional classroom. With dynamic features such as online chat rooms, streaming video, message boards and email, you’ll enjoy rich, real-time interactions.

This is not a semester-based program. The length of each course is eight weeks, offering the ultimate flexibility for professionals like you.

Courses are designed with your busy schedule in mind. There are no set classroom times, providing maximum flexibility for the adult learner. All of your course activities, assignments and exams, however, must be completed by their respective due dates.

All assignments are submitted directly to your professor through the online classroom. Exams are taken online, also through the online classroom.

Other Valparaiso University graduate students report spending about 20-24 hours per week on reading and assignments for every 3-credit-hour course over the eight week term. When projects, papers or exams are due, that time may increase.

You will have many academic support tools available to you. Your first and best resource is your instructor. Other resources include your classmates and the online library. You even will have access to online tutoring.

The program can be completed in 15 months with full-time study, but it is recommended that those working should plan to complete the program on a part-time basis over two years. An enrollment advisor can evaluate your workload and give you an idea of your expected completion date.

Absolutely! Valparaiso University invites you to take part in graduation ceremonies on campus once you have completed your degree. Because online students receive a similar degree as on-campus students, you are welcome – and encouraged – to walk at graduation once you have completed all of your courses. If you cannot attend graduation in person, your diploma will be mailed to you. Feel free to contact your academic advisor for the specific details and dates of your graduation ceremony.

As a Valparaiso University online student, you will be assigned an academic advisor who will be available by toll-free phone or email. Any program or course questions or progress reports can be discussed directly with your academic advisor. Non-academic or technical questions can be addressed by your student services representative or the technical support staff.

Courses taken from regionally accredited colleges and universities will be considered by Valparaiso University to determine if they are transferable.

Yes. Valparaiso University accepts numerous financial aid programs for degrees, including all government financial aid. For more information, visit our financial aid page.

Yes. Because of Valparaiso University’s reputation and accreditation, many employers recognize the value of the university’s degree programs and provide tuition reimbursement. Questions regarding your employer’s tuition assistance policy should be directed to your personnel or human resources director. Or, call your Bisk enrollment advisor.

You can enroll at any time. Classes begin every eight weeks, which means you don’t have to wait long to get started working on your degree. Call now before the enrollment deadline passes for the upcoming term.

No. Registration and admission are two different things. Valparaiso University does have a provisional admission that allows students to register for two courses or a maximum of four months, while completing the admissions process. To be officially admitted, however, all documents and transcripts must be reviewed and approved. A formal letter of admission will be sent to your Valparaiso University email account. Please note that individual situations vary, and your enrollment advisor can confirm where you are in the admissions process.

Students are encouraged to summarize their concerns and send them to their enrollment representative via email. The University will respond accordingly.

If you have a disability that requires a special accommodation in order to participate in an online course, you must identify yourself as a person with a disability and request an accommodation from the University. Please contact an enrollment advisor to initiate the identification process. Your enrollment representative will provide further details about the process for receiving special accommodations from the University.