Starting in Fall 2026, ODUGlobal undergraduate, master's and certificate courses will follow an 8-week, asynchronous format. Live wen conference (synchronous) course options will be available only for select doctoral level courses.
Our Accelerated Online Classes Share These Characteristics
Professors
In our 8-week, asynchronous courses, there are no required live class meetings, but you’ll still have plenty of access to your instructor. Professors share weekly announcements, feedback, and guidance in Canvas (our learning management system), and they offer virtual office hours for one-on-one questions or deeper conversations.
At the beginning of each term, your professor will outline how and when to reach them through email, phone, message, and office hours.
Classmates
In our accelerated format, most interaction with classmates happens asynchronously through discussion boards, group projects, shared documents, and other collaborative tools. You and your peers can also schedule optional live study sessions or group meetings using web conferencing tools like Zoom.
You’ll have multiple ways to stay connected and engaged without needing to log in at the same time.
Assignments
Coursework is organized into weekly modules with clear expectations and deadlines, so you always know what’s due next in each 8-week term. Most assignments are submitted through Canvas by uploading files, posting to discussions, or completing online activities and quizzes.
Your professors will make submission guidelines and timelines clear at the start of each course.
Tests
Exams and quizzes are typically delivered online through Canvas and may use secure tools such as a focus-only web blocker. Some courses may require a proctored exam, which can be completed through an approved online proctoring service. Course or accreditation requirements will determine when proctored exams are needed.
Your Classes
Starting in Fall 2026, all ODUGlobal undergraduate, master's and certificate courses will follow an 8-week, asynchronous format.
These courses offer maximum flexibility. You’ll access materials—like readings, recorded lectures, and discussion boards—on your own time. Some courses may include occasional live check-ins via Zoom.
Example: You watch a recorded lecture on Monday and post to a discussion board by Wednesday.
This format works well if you’re balancing a busy schedule. While there are no set class times, you’ll still follow ODU’s semester schedule, with deadlines for registration and coursework.
Starting in Fall 2026, synchronous course options will only be available for select doctoral level courses.
These courses involve real-time instruction, where your class meets virtually at scheduled times through a web conference platform like Zoom. You’re expected to participate during live sessions, creating an experience that feels a lot like a traditional classroom, just online.
Example: You log in at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to attend a live class using Zoom.
You may be able to go back and watch missed lectures, or review classes you attended to study for exams.
Certain programs like teaching and nursing require a hands-on training component that can sometimes be completed at a physical location near you. You may even be able to work out a solution for this requirement that involves your current workplace. Your professor or advisor will work with you to find a practical solution that meets the training requirements of your program.
Note: Starting Fall 2026, most internships, practicums and clinical courses will remain on a 16-week schedule, even as other courses move to the 8-week format. This approach provides the necessary time for students to complete required hours while maintaining a manageable weekly schedule.
Our Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program is available to military servicemembers via portable media such as DVD or CD-ROM. This option helps our military students continue their education while deployed.
Course content is organized into learning modules with defined learning objectives and assignments to help you plan timely completion and return of course work. Courses must be completed within a specific time frame. For example, engineering management courses by portable media have a 90-day term.
There are no live online class meetings. If needed, you can communicate with faculty, advisors, and support staff using email and/or online discussion boards.
You will need:
- A computer capable of playing CD-ROMs or DVDs. You should have administrator permissions to install a video player, if necessary.
- A proctor to administer tests and exams.
Starting in Fall 2026, all ODUGlobal undergraduate, master's and certificate courses will follow an 8-week, asynchronous format.
These courses offer maximum flexibility. You’ll access materials—like readings, recorded lectures, and discussion boards—on your own time. Some courses may include occasional live check-ins via Zoom.
Example: You watch a recorded lecture on Monday and post to a discussion board by Wednesday.
This format works well if you’re balancing a busy schedule. While there are no set class times, you’ll still follow ODU’s semester schedule, with deadlines for registration and coursework.
Starting in Fall 2026, synchronous course options will only be available for select doctoral level courses.
These courses involve real-time instruction, where your class meets virtually at scheduled times through a web conference platform like Zoom. You’re expected to participate during live sessions, creating an experience that feels a lot like a traditional classroom, just online.
Example: You log in at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to attend a live class using Zoom.
You may be able to go back and watch missed lectures, or review classes you attended to study for exams.
Certain programs like teaching and nursing require a hands-on training component that can sometimes be completed at a physical location near you. You may even be able to work out a solution for this requirement that involves your current workplace. Your professor or advisor will work with you to find a practical solution that meets the training requirements of your program.
Note: Starting Fall 2026, most internships, practicums and clinical courses will remain on a 16-week schedule, even as other courses move to the 8-week format. This approach provides the necessary time for students to complete required hours while maintaining a manageable weekly schedule.
Our Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program is available to military servicemembers via portable media such as DVD or CD-ROM. This option helps our military students continue their education while deployed.
Course content is organized into learning modules with defined learning objectives and assignments to help you plan timely completion and return of course work. Courses must be completed within a specific time frame. For example, engineering management courses by portable media have a 90-day term.
There are no live online class meetings. If needed, you can communicate with faculty, advisors, and support staff using email and/or online discussion boards.
You will need:
- A computer capable of playing CD-ROMs or DVDs. You should have administrator permissions to install a video player, if necessary.
- A proctor to administer tests and exams.
Coursework and Exams
Submitting Assignments
Most professors who teach online use ODU's learning management system to collect assignments and grade your work. Occasionally, you may have an instructor who wants assignments submitted on paper. Your instructor will provide specific information.
Presentations
Our web conference format allows you to make presentations to the class using your webcam and microphone or by using audio and visual files. Your professor will provide details on how he/she wants you to create your presentations.
Exams
Exam requirements vary depending on the professor. Most exams can be taken online, and some may require a proctor.
Learn more about the types of online exams
What Is a Proctor?
A proctor is a person who monitors students during an exam. In both online and face to face exams, a proctor verifies that you are the student scheduled to take the exam and will make sure that the professor's instructions are followed during the exam.
I really liked the archive feature that allowed me to go back and re-watch lectures if I did not fully understand the first time.
Zack Traywick '15
Civil Engineering Technology
Online Tutoring
ODUGlobal offers online tutoring and study tools to support your academic success. With Brainfuse, you can connect one-on-one with a tutor, get asynchronous feedback through the Writing Lab, or use self-guided tools like virtual flashcards. This innovative platform provides a comprehensive range of academic support services designed to help you thrive in your courses.
Research
ODUGlobal students can get books delivered through InterLibrary Loan and access an online library guide with research tools, librarian support, and tutorials.
Military
ODU’s Military Connection Center provides specialized support for military-affiliated students, including help with financial aid, academic resources, and transition assistance. Explore the services designed to support your success.
We're Here to Help
ODUGlobal students also receive support for prior learning assessment, placement testing, and access to student support programs.
Navigating Your Online Experience
Success Outside the Classroom
