Resources for Online Students

Plan your course schedule and register for classes, including online, through Workday’s Academic dashboard under the Registration Tab.  

Graduate Students: 
Courses are offered throughout the year, and it will depend on your academic program. Speak with your academic advisor to hear more about course offerings.  

Undergraduate Students:  
Courses are available in Summer, May term and Winter Intersession. 

See the Summer Session webpage for information on course offerings and how to register for an online course.  

Student technology and academic success resources are available through various departments at UT. Some of them include the following: 

• Information Technology and Security (ITS): Student Service Desk
• Advanced Digital Literacy Center (ADLC)
• Library Resources
• Academic Success Center 
• Student Accessibility Services

Find a Study Space  

While you can take an online course from any location (like a coffee shop), consider setting up in a quiet, distraction-free study space.    

Tip: Try a quiet room with a door.  

Check Your Tech  

Verify your technology works before you begin and have a backup plan if it fails. You’ll need a reliable internet connection, headphones, or speakers, and sometimes a microphone. Make sure your software is up to date.   

Learn more about your tech needs from ITS: ut.edu/newstudentitschecklist.   

Tip: Check your tech often, especially before an exam and contact ITS if you need help. 

Manage Your Time  

Download the syllabus and review the course schedule for upcoming assignments. Set up reminders on your calendar for all your assignment deadlines and upcoming tests.   

Tip: Don’t underestimate the time commitment of an online course. 

Make Connections  

Take the initiative to connect with your instructor or peers by Canvas Inbox, email or video. If you need help with an assignment or the material, reach out to your instructor early so you can still complete the work on time. Virtual coffee and study sessions, anyone?   

Tip: Use direct message video to introduce yourself to the instructor.  

Stay Plugged In   

Make it a point to access the course frequently. Reflect on your grades and instructor feedback, then develop a plan to improve.   

Participate in activities and other assignments that impact your grade. Take advantage of resources like your instructor's lecture notes, videos and handouts. Use UT support services such as tutoring, academic advising and career counseling.    

Tip: You get the flexibility to learn from anywhere. Treat your online course as seriously as your in-person course.

What technology will I need to take an online course at UT? 

All UT students have access to SpartanLearn (Powered by Canvas) through MyUTampa. For optimal access to all course materials and technologies, it is recommended that students have a computer with currently operating system and reliable internet connection. Online training is available to students via Information Technology and Security (ITS).  

What are the time expectations of an online course? 

The amount of time you devote to an online class will vary based on the level and credit hour of the course. Just like a traditional face-to-face class, you are expected to complete assignments by their due date.  

Will I have to attend an online class at set times? 

All lectures and materials are embedded in your online “classroom” in SpartanLearn (Powered by Canvas). Although you can access course materials at any time, students are not required to attend synchronous online lectures each week. However, it is important to note that your instructor can and may ask to meet online and connect with you in the online asynchronous course. This can take many forms, such as (not limited to): online check in meetings, office hour meetings, readings/lab review meetings, study meetings, etc.  

Will I have contact with my instructor? 

Absolutely! Here at UT we value the expertise of our instructors. Your course instructor may offer virtual office hours, share feedback, offer study sessions, etc. to provide ongoing support. In your online course, your instructor will indicate how to get in contact with them via Canvas inbox, phone, etc. Additional resources such as academic or technical support are also available (See Resources for Online Students above).