Frequently Asked Questions
- Why would I choose to take an online course?
- How do I know if an online course is right for me?
- Who is teaching the online courses?
- How long do online classes run?
- Who may take online courses?
- How does the course workload compare to traditional classes?
- How much time should I spend with my online coursework each week?
- Will my professor be available for questions or “online office hours”?
- What technology must I have to access online courses?
- How do I login to Blackboard Vista?
- What happens if I have trouble using Blackboard Vista Technology?
- How do I turn in my assignments?
- How is my participation assessed?
- How much will an online course cost?
- How do I register?
Why would I choose to take an online course?
If summer takes you outside the Boston area, you can still take a class at Emmanuel-your own school, with a familiar professor-without having to be on campus.
You won't have to schedule work or social activities around a class meeting time and you can complete each week's work at your own pace.
Back to TopHow do I know if an online course is right for me?
Ask your self the following questions:
- Am I motivated to work on my own?
- Am I comfortable using computers?
- Do I have other commitments during regular class times?
- Will I be away from Boston during the summer?
- Do I want (or need) to pick up extra credits during the summer?
Who is teaching the online courses?
All online courses will be taught by full-time Emmanuel faculty members. You will be able to see who is teaching each course before you register.
Back to TopHow long do online classes run?
Summer online course at Emmanuel are seven weeks in length. There will be two seven week sessions, Summer 1 and Summer 2.
Back to TopWho may take online courses?
Summer courses online are open to both Arts & Science and Graduate and Professional Programs students. As with all academic courses, interested students should speak with their academic advisors regarding degree requirements.
Back to TopHow does the course workload compare to traditional classes?
You will have readings and assignments just like normal class. Class discussion will be held on a discussion board, where you will post your comments and read and respond to those of your classmates.
Back to TopHow much time should I spend with my online coursework each week?
Consider the amount of time you would normally spend in the classroom for a summer course, plus time to complete assignments. Remember, there's no commute! Depending on the instructor, you will have assignments that require you to communicate with other students just as you would in the classroom. You will be expected to log in to Blackboard Vista daily to keep up with the discussions. You will have due dates for assignments, quizzes and assessments. Certain quizzes and assignments may be timed. Individual instructors will make their expectations very clear at the beginning of the course.
You may access the assignments, discussions, and other content of your course at any time that fits your schedule. Your syllabus will clearly state your professor's expectations.
Will my professor be available for questions or “online office hours”?
Yes. Professors teaching in the online environment are well aware of their students' need to feel a part of the class and in touch with their faculty member.
Each individual professor will establish a schedule for responding to email questions and consulting personally with students. The schedule will be included in the introduction that welcomes you to your online course.
What technology must I have to access online courses?
Go to Technical Specifications to find out what you will need.
Back to TopHow do I login to Blackboard Vista?
On the College homepage, click on Online Academic Resources
Click on "Login to Blackboard Vista (WebCT)" and enter your Online Academic Resources login username and password.
On the "My Emmanuel College" page, click on the course in the Course List to open the course homepage. You can navigate within the course by using the "Course Tools" or the icons on the homepage.
What happens if I have trouble using Blackboard Vista Technology?
A technology support system has been put in place for you. Contact information will be provided when you register.
Back to TopHow do I turn in my assignments?
In several ways. Blackboard Vista has an easy to use drop-box into which you may submit assignments. Participation in discussion is another way to complete assignments your professor will make clear how to submit each assignment.
Back to TopHow is my participation assessed?
In discussions, which may or may not be graded. Discussions are an important way to show that you are continually engaged in the course.
Additional assessment for grading includes:
- Assignments and/or quizzes
- Interactive learning activities
- Online Exams
How much will an online course cost?
The tuition cost for summer 2008 online courses is $1292.00.
Back to TopHow do I register?
Registration is available online through the Registrar's Office
For instructions for online registration, please click here.

