Is UCCS Online accredited?

Yes. All online degree programs offered by UCCS Online are accredited by the same body that accredits all institutions in the University of Colorado system: The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission (NCA-HCL).

Is an online degree from the University of Colorado reputable?

Since 1913, the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission (NCA-HCL) has accredited all institutions in the CU system. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the NCA is one of six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Regional agencies provide accreditation at an institution level.

Will my degree mention that it was earned online?

The University of Colorado does not offer separate in-person and online academic degrees; they are the same, including the coursework and on many occasions the faculty, regardless of which delivery mode you choose for completion.

There will be no difference or indication that your courses are being completed online when it comes to your degree and diploma. It will be the same University of Colorado degree that is earned, whether online or in person.

Will this degree lead to a job?

While earning a degree does not guarantee a job or advancement, the curriculum of all UCCS Online programs has been created to reflect the skills and knowledge employers look for in their employees. In addition, UCCS Online courses are taught by the same University of Colorado professors who teach in-person classes. This ensures that you are receiving the same education and learning experiences as on-campus students. So, whether you are looking to advance in your current career, switch to a new job, or are simply pursuing a degree out of pride, you will learn valuable knowledge, skills, and abilities, many of which are valued by employers in any number of career fields. In addition, some programs provide the opportunity to complete internships (if you choose) and gain valuable professional work experience.

Is online right for me?

Online classes offer many benefits, including the flexibility to work around your schedule. If you are motivated, have strong time management skills, and are able to work independently, online learning may be a great option for you.

What are the differences between online and in-person classes?

Online courses at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs are taught by many of the same professors who teach in-person classes. This ensures that you are receiving the same education and learning experiences as on-campus students. The primary difference is with the delivery format. Your online courses will all be taught in Canvas, the Learning Management System (LMS). You will be responsible for logging in, accessing course content, and completing any requirements of the course. All your coursework will be completed online with support from your professors.

What are the most important skills needed to succeed in online courses?

Time management is one of the key skills needed to succeed in the online learning environment. You are responsible for your schedule and for completing assigned readings and work by set deadlines. Students who can set aside time on their calendars for their studies tend to be the most successful. 

Setting short-term goals that support your overall goal of earning your degree online will help you remain motivated. These short-term goals can be grades that you hope to earn, skills that you hope to obtain, or connections you hope to make. They should be time-limited and support your overall mission of earning an online academic degree at UCCS.

Being able to ask for help is a key component of succeeding online. Since you are not in a physical classroom, it will be up to you to recognize when you need assistance and to reach out to the appropriate contact. Our faculty and staff want to help you meet your academic goals, and asking for help ensures regular communication and understanding.

What is the format of online classes?

The majority of UCCS Online courses are offered in an asynchronous format, which means you can complete work at your own pace. You are not expected to be in front of your computer at a certain time and date, which is the trademark of a synchronous approach. While there will be deadlines for assignments and projects, there are no set class meeting times.

Each unique faculty member chooses which learning elements to include in their class, so assignments range from traditional exams to short essays, to group writing projects. You will typically be required to engage with your online classmates in discussion boards and to be an active member of the course.

What are the undergraduate admissions requirements?

Freshmen Admission Requirements

The strength of coursework and GPA are given the most weight in the review process. Test scores will never hurt an application for students who have strong course work and a competitive GPA, and can only help those who might not, so it is the applicant’s decision about whether or not to provide test scores.

UCCS does not have a minimum GPA or ACT/SAT requirements. At UCCS we will look at a combination of a student’s cumulative weighted GPA, composite ACT or SAT scores, the type of courses taken during high school, such as honors, AP, IB, or college courses, and if there is a trend in grades. For example, a positive grade trend is when grades have improved over four years.  

For more information on the admission process.
 

Transfer Admission Requirements

To be eligible to transfer to UCCS you must have 24 credit hours of college credit and should have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 from a regionally accredited college (or colleges) to be considered for admission. The Business, Engineering and Architecture programs have different transfer admission requirements. If you do not meet the program transfer admission requirements you could still be considered for admission to the "pre-" program.

You may review the individual UCCS College requirements on our website.

How many courses do I need for an undergraduate degree?

A minimum of 120 credit hours is required to graduate from the University of Colorado with a bachelor’s level degree, which is approximately 40 classes. The number of classes you will be required to take will vary based on your major and whether or not you have transfer credits.

How many courses can I transfer to UCCS Online?

The University of Colorado will transfer in as much credit as possible; however, not all transferable credits will apply towards your degree. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which accredits this university, requires that at least 30 of the 120 credits earned for a baccalaureate degree be taken in residence at CU. Students are advised that individual schools/colleges may have higher residency requirements.

If you're looking for more insight into how many of your credits will transfer, contact our enrollment team at 720-386-2041.

How many hours a week should I plan on studying?

How many hours a week you'll need to study will vary between courses as well as between weeks within a single course. A good rule of thumb is a minimum of 10 hours per week, per course. However, we recommend that for a three-credit-hour course you should spend 15-18 hours per week studying.

How are the courses structured?

Courses are designed at the instructor's discretion. They may include writing papers, quizzes, exams, discussions, group projects, etc. Be sure to review the course syllabus on the first day of class so that you are aware of what is expected and upcoming deadlines.

Are there opportunities to interact with my classmates?

Yes, there are many opportunities to meet and interact with your classmates in your courses. You can also set up virtual study groups with classmates as well as collaborate with them on group projects.