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Due to varying state regulations across the US, certain fully online programs may not be available in all states. UTEP is committed to obtaining authorization for all programs in every US state, and the process for obtaining authorizations is ongoing. Current State Authorization status can be found here. Any questions about state authorization may be addressed to a UTEP Connect enrollment counselor at utepconnect@utep.edu or 1-800-684-UTEP.

If you are applying to an undergraduate program, you will receive a letter of decision from the Office of Admissions. If you are applying to a graduate program, you will receive a letter of decision from the Graduate School.

No. Just because you are taking one (or more) online courses at UTEP, you are not automatically a UTEP Connect student. You can be enrolled in a traditional face-to-face program and take a few online courses but this does not make you a UTEP Connect student. To be considered a UTEP Connect student, you must be enrolled in a fully online program with UTEP Connect.

You don’t have to be a computer programmer or a web designer to succeed in a fully online program; however, comfort with technology is helpful. At the very least, you should have regular access to a computer with a high-speed internet connection. You should also be familiar with basic word processing, presentation, and communication software needed for students.

No, you do not have to come to campus for class except if you are enrolled in the Master of Music inConducting. That program has two summer campus sessions. All other UTEP Connect degree plans are completely online for your convenience.

While being an online student is different from being on campus, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Many services, including the , the , , and the Assistive Technology Lab are available to online students.

If you believe you are eligible for a learning accommodation, please contact the as soon as possible.

In many cases, you should be able to find out what textbooks are required prior to the course start date. We highly recommend having the textbooks in hand as soon as the course starts to avoid falling behind in the reading. Please visit the for more information.

One of the advantages of being in an online class is the flexibility it affords. You’ll be able to do your work and study when the time is most convenient for you. That flexibility, though, means you’ll need to be responsible and organized. Most classes will require that you check in several times throughout the week and submit your tests and projects on a deadline.

Most classes do not require that you log in on a specific day and time (although some may, so be sure to check the details of the class carefully). Rather, you are able to complete your work at your own pace. Be sure to stay on top of deadlines completing your activities for the week.

While there are many similarities between your online classes, you may experience some differences. Many instructors include readings from a textbook or variety of online sources, or both. Courses may include discussion board postings, live chats, quizzes and tests, and projects.

Your instructor’s syllabus will often indicate what the expectations are for the course. However, you should expect to devote approximately 10 hours a week to each class. Some classes will demand more, others less. And, from week to week, your time commitment might change. Weeks with tests or projects will require more dedication than others.

Make sure to log into the course on the day that it first becomes available. Take some time to review the syllabus and any course information the instructor provides. Familiarize yourself with the general activities of the course: discussion, assignments, readings, tests, and so on.  If you have any questions about the course, contact your instructor.

Your instructor will communicate with you through discussion boards, emails, and assignment evaluations. Your instructor may offer “office hours” where they are available via email or by phone. Check your syllabus for details. You’ll also have opportunities to communicate with your classmates via the same tools: discussion and emails. Some classes may ask you to work in small groups with your classmates to complete a project.

No matter your concern, we will always be here to help. Any question related to the specifics of your course (assignments, deadlines, and so on) should always be directed to your instructor. Most anything else can be directed to your Student Success Advisor. If they don’t know the answer, they will help you find someone who can. The important thing is: don’t be afraid to ask!

The first thing to do is to communicate with your instructor. Let him or her know right away about the matter (before it occurs, if possible). This usually resolves the problem and lets you move forward with a plan. If you continue to have a concern, please contact us, and we’ll point you to the right person.

Your first step is to always communicate with your instructor. If you feel the situation has not been resolved appropriately, your next step is to discuss the matter with the department chair. Our advisors cannot advise you on grades in any circumstances. However, if you need assistance with the process, we can help point you to the right person.

We have a team of advisors to work with you. Who that person is depends on your academic program and your standing in that program. That information will be shared with you, but if you ever have a question, contact us, and we’ll point you to the right person.

No, your diploma will not have any indication that your coursework was completed online.

Yes, the quality of the online courses is just as high as the on-campus courses. In most cases, they are designed and taught by the faculty who teach them on campus.

UTEP Connect offers courses in six seven-week terms throughout the year. Most programs accept new students in the first term of the fall, spring or summer: August, January and May.

Your individual classes will be completed more quickly, but how long it takes to complete your degree depends on how many courses you take per term. We recommend enrolling in one or two courses per seven-week term depending on your other obligations.

If you are an undergraduate student, you’ll need to make an appointment (via email or on the phone) to talk with your academic college’s advisor who can clear you for graduation. It’s best to do this the semester before you intend to graduate.  If you are a graduate student, your graduate advisor will make sure you have fulfilled all the requirements. In both cases, you’ll need to fill out the graduation clearance form and pay the graduation fee.

Absolutely! We’d love to celebrate your accomplishment with you!

Yes, online students are eligible for financial aid as long as they have met the criteria. For more information, please visit the or call one of our enrollment counselors.

Online students may be eligible for scholarships. See the Scholarship Office website or talk to an enrollment counselor for more information.