What are the computer requirements for the Capella courseroom?
Please review these computer requirements carefully; computer hardware, software, and an Internet connection are the primary means of participating in courses and thus are significant contributors to academic success. Capella provides learners with the opportunity to purchase Norton AntiVirus® software, Microsoft® Office, Visio®, and Project for the nominal cost of media shipping.
Is it hard to learn how to use the online courseroom?
Not at all. Using the online courseroom is similar to using e-mail, your computer at work, or any basic software program.
Our approach to online learning:
- Provide orientation that helps new learners quickly learn their way around.
- Don't let the technology get in the way of learning.
- Build the courses to accommodate people’s different levels of technical proficiency.
For a firsthand look at how the online courseroom works, enroll in one of our free 1-week online seminars: Making the Undergraduate School Decision or Making the Graduate School Decision.
How do I receive and hand in assignments?
All assignments are available in your online courseroom. Each week’s activities are clearly organized in the syllabus. You can view all assignments, due dates, and grading criteria to help you plan. You can view and print assignments, discuss them with your learning colleagues, and ask for feedback from your instructor. The courseroom also allows you to submit your assignments in a "drop box."View our interactive course demo.
How do I interact with my instructor and peers?
One of the greatest strengths of the Capella online learning environment is the opportunity to discuss issues and gain ideas from your instructors and other learners.
View a video that shows how online learning works at Capella.
Will I be missing the give and take of a conventional classroom setting?
Capella offers a highly personal and interactive learning experience. In fact, many people find their Capella education more interactive and engaging than sitting in a classroom. There are no lectures and no "back row." Everyone participates.
You will interact with faculty through weekly online discussion, and can contact your instructor via e-mail during the course if needed. Written feedback on assignments is another way that faculty members interact with learners. Additional opportunities to connect with faculty occur at residential colloquia, six-day sessions that are part of all Capella doctoral programs and some master’s programs.
Your academic advisor is available by e-mail and phone throughout your Capella program. Advisors help you plan your program, adjust the plan as needed, and assist with any other academic matters.
What time are classes held?
You can participate in course discussions at any time, day or night, wherever you have an Internet connection. Not all of your course work requires you to work online—much of your writing, and project work can be done offline. Most people enter the online courseroom several times each week to participate in discussion, but there is no set class schedule so you can “attend class” any time of day.
How much time should I reserve?
Typically, Capella learners spend an average of 13 hours per week per course, with times varying from 5 to 20 hours per course depending on such factors as number of course credit hours, degree program, pace of reading and typing, and prior knowledge of the subject.
Do classes have specific start and end dates?
Yes, each Capella course has a designated start and end date. Quarters are 10 weeks long with 2- to 3-week breaks between quarters. (Exception: The MBA program has 12-week quarters and shorter breaks for an accelerated pace.) You can start your first course at the beginning of any month (every 6 weeks for MBA).
How long will my program take to complete?
The amount of time you will need to earn your degree depends on several factors, including:
- Your specific program.
- How much college or university credit you can transfer into your Capella program.
- Any credit you may earn by demonstrating your prior learning outside the college classroom.
- How many classes you take each quarter.
How will I be graded?
Capella courses have a mix of graded and non-graded course work designed to help you gain and demonstrate each of the course competencies. Your instructor reviews all graded assignments and provides feedback. Your faculty feedback is private communication unless it takes place in an online class discussion, where the feedback is beneficial to all participants. Your grades on all case studies, assignments, and discussions are not shared with the rest of the class. You will receive a final course grade within two weeks after the course ends.
How will I know which classes to take?
Your class options and program requirements are easily accessible on this web site, on the page that describes your specialization. Browse programs and specializations or call 1-888-227-2736 to request an educational consultation with an enrollment counselor, who can help you identify the program that aligns with your goals.
How and when do I enroll in online courses?
Many Capella programs accept new students each month. Your enrollment counselor will help you register for your first course and introduce you to your academic advisor, who helps you map your degree plan and make any adjustments needed along the way.
To determine specific enrollment deadlines, browse programs and specializations and choose a specialization to view the enrollment timeline.