Discover what it's like to learn online with ODUGlobal, where flexible, high-quality courses fit your schedule and support your success from anywhere.
Online education has transformed the way students access college, offering flexibility and freedom without compromising academic quality. At ODUGlobal, the online classroom experience is designed to meet students where they are, whether you’re working full-time, serving in the military or balancing education with family life.
Since the 1980s, ODUGlobal has been a leader in distance learning, and today’s virtual classrooms continue that legacy with modern technology and a supportive learning environment.
But what does that experience actually look like?
ODUGlobal courses are hosted in an intuitive online learning platform called Canvas, where students can access course materials, submit assignments and engage with classmates and instructors. Most classes are asynchronous, which means you can complete weekly tasks on your schedule, from wherever you are.
“Without the flexibility of online courses, obtaining my degree would have been nearly impossible given my personal and professional responsibilities,” said Joshua Castillo ’25, an online computer science graduate. “It allowed me to learn at my own pace and manage my schedule effectively, ultimately enabling me to graduate successfully.”
Each class includes structured weekly modules that may feature recorded video lectures, readings, quizzes, discussion forums and occasional live sessions. While the format is flexible, the courses follow a regular schedule to help students stay on track and make steady progress toward their degree.
But just because you’re learning online doesn’t mean you’re on your own. ODUGlobal instructors are experienced in online teaching and bring a student-first mindset to every course. They offer clear expectations and timely feedback on assignments. Many instructors also host virtual office hours to answer questions and provide academic support.
Communication between students and faculty occurs through email, course messaging, discussion boards and occasionally video conferencing. This consistent engagement helps foster a sense of community and keeps students connected to the course material.
Collaboration is a vital component of the ODUGlobal experience. Students often interact through discussion forums and group projects that mirror the collaborative nature of today’s workplaces. These exchanges not only enhance learning but also create opportunities to network with classmates who may live across the country or around the world.
Mechanical engineering graduate Jacob Leonard ’24 worked with a full team online in a senior project course. The group interacted through their class message board and met regularly through Zoom calls. Distance wasn’t an issue as they worked together to develop a prototype for a wheelchair mount for a handcycle for a wounded veteran.
“Our interactions were pretty seamless,” Leonard said. “We stayed connected, so it didn’t really matter that I was in southwest Virginia, someone was in Maryland and others were in Norfolk.
“What led me to ODU was the chance to go through a program that included quite a bit of hands-on work. We didn’t just work on theoretical solutions. We designed solutions, and those processes will help me wherever I go next.”
Outside the virtual classroom, ODUGlobal offers extensive student support services that are just a click away. Academic advising, writing assistance, tutoring, library resources and tech help are all available online. There’s someone ready to help when you need it. The ODUGlobal classroom is designed to support your success, regardless of your schedule or location.
If you're curious about what it's like to be an online student, know that ODUGlobal's virtual learning environment is designed with you in mind. It's structured, supportive and ready when you are.
Learn more about online learning at ODUGlobal at online.odu.edu.
