The Value of Online Learning
At Walden University, working professionals from around the world earn advanced degrees online in a unique collaborative learning environment. We have mastered the use of technology to create international learning communities that are rich with discussion, debate, and partnership, and give our graduates the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the increasingly global and interactive 21st century.
Access to a Diverse Community
Through our flexible distance–learning format, you will collaborate with a diverse community of learners from more than 70 countries, giving you a wide range of geographic, cultural, and professional perspectives that will provide fresh insights into your profession and expand your peer network. Walden’s global classroom inspires and challenges you as you exchange ideas with faculty and classmates around the world via email and faculty-guided Web discussions.
What to Expect from Your Online Learning Experience
At Walden, courses are offered entirely over the Internet, with face-to-face residencies for doctoral and some master’s programs offered at various times and locations. Walden’s online learning environment is asynchronous, meaning you can contribute to course discussions when it’s most convenient within a specified period of time. Weekly topics, required readings, and assignments are listed in the course syllabi provided by your professors. The flow of online dialogue is preserved in a coherent format that allows you to retrace your classmates’ conversation as it unfolds.
Time Commitment
You should expect to spend 15 to 20 hours a week per course on reading, working on assignments, contributing to discussions, and conducting research. Courses have defined start and completion dates. And we offer tips on balancing work, family, and education.
Support
Many Walden programs use a Personal Start Page that offers central access to your courses, student information, and support services. Also, our Student Support Team will familiarize you with the online learning environment and guide you through a software orientation. To help you stay on track throughout each course, the Student Support Team members can provide you with technical and administrative assistance via phone, email, and live chat during regular business hours. Additional technical support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Computer Equipment
To ensure your success in your Walden program, you should be proficient using email, the Internet, and common desktop productivity software. General technology requirements include
- Windows ME/2000/XP/Vista or Mac OS X
- 512MB of RAM minimum (128MB for Windows ME/2000)
- 2GB hard drive
- CD/DVD drive installed or connected to your computer
- Microsoft Office
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (version 8 or higher)
- Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or higher)
- Apple QuickTime (version 7 or higher)
- Windows Media Player (version 7 or higher)
- Antivirus software (e.g., McAfee or Norton)
- Internet access (with available technical support)
- Internet Explorer 6.0 (or higher) or Firefox 1.5 (or higher)
- Email account
- Inkjet or laser printer
Learn more about how Walden can help you prepare for online learning. Please complete the Information Request form, and a Walden enrollment advisor will contact you.
