The Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences brings prominent leaders from various fields to campus
through the Distinguished Speakers Series. Special supporting events
often occur in conjunction with these visits.
The Division of Humanities in the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences presents theatre, dance,
music, and other artistic productions to complement academic majors
and courses.
The Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences Student Newsletter informs
students of important semester dates, college services, scholarship opportunities, and noteworthy events.
Undergraduate Admissions
Online Programs
Your online professors will guide you through an online classroom - a learner-centered virtual environment filled with
course outlines, detailed learning outcomes, lecture notes, and supplementary materials. All classes are conducted in
a password-protected Web environment where you, your professors, and your fellow students communicate by email, discussion
boards, and assignment drop boxes. You will have full access to NSU's electronic library system, as well as other Web-based
resources.
Email
Email is used for direct one-on-one communication. Instructors generally respond
within 24 hours of receiving an email.
Electronic Discussion Boards
Each course uses an electronic discussion board system. Bulletin boards can be checked
from anywhere in the world at any time, day or night. By posting questions and answers in a running dialog ,
students can communicate with the entire class and their professors. Instructors post assignments to the bulletin board
and respond to class-wide issues. The bulletin board serves as the locus for extensive classroom discussion.
Chat Rooms
Web-based chat rooms allow a class to meet at a predetermined time and speak in real-time.
Chat rooms may be used for group work on homework problems, to provide supplementary lectures, or for question and answer
sessions between students and professors. These sessions are provided to assist students and are not mandatory.
Course Materials
Each course provides full student support that includes a course syllabus, detailed
learning outcomes, information about tests and projects, lecture notes, and links to related sites. An online schedule
ensures that students know exactly what they are expected to do each week of the course.
In your online courses, links to resources and tips are included to help you be more successful as an online student.
And, course evaluations allow you to provide feedback on ways to improve the program.
Before deciding to pursue an online program, ask yourself these questions:
Are you open-minded about sharing life, work, and educational experiences
as part of the learning process?
Introverts as well as extroverts find that the online process requires them to share
their experiences. This forum for communication eliminates the visual barriers that keep some individuals from expressing
themselves. In addition, the student is given time to reflect on information before responding. The online environment
should be open and friendly.
Are you able to communicate through writing?
In the virtual classroom, nearly all communication is written, so it is critical
that students feel comfortable in expressing themselves in writing. Some students have limited writing abilities, which
should be addressed either before or as part of the online experience. This may require remedial efforts on the part
of the student.
Are you self-motivated and self-disciplined?
With the online environment's freedom and flexibility comes responsibility. Online
classes require commitment and discipline to keep up with class deadlines.
Are you willing to voice concerns if problems arise?
Many non-verbal communication mechanisms used by instructors to determine if students
are having problems (confusion, frustration, boredom, absence, etc.) are not possible in the online environment. Students
must feel comfortable communicating with their instructors if they are experiencing difficulty on any level - whether
it's a technological problem or a concern about course content.
Are you able to meet the minimum requirements for the program and
commit up to 15 hours per week per course?
Students must understand that online classes are not easier than traditional classes.
In fact, many students say they require more time and commitment. Successful students view the Online Program as
a convenient way to receive their education - not an easier way.
Do you feel that high-quality learning can take place without going
to a traditional classroom?
Online is not for everyone. If students feel that a traditional classroom is a prerequisite
to learning, they may be more comfortable in an on-campus program.
Are you technologically prepared?
Online students must possess, or acquire, adequate knowledge of electronic tools
and adequate computer and technology skills.
Technical Requirements
Before registering for an online class, you should already be comfortable with emailing, word processing, Internet browsing,
and downloading and uploading files.
*Please note that some classes, such as COMM or ESOL, require the creation of audio and/or video files.
Hardware
Software
Microsoft Office Suite (MSWord, MSExcel, MSPowerpoint, MSAccess)
Internet Browser (Netscape Communicator / Internet
Explorer)
Virus Protection (Current, updated every 3 months)
Other software programs may be required by CSIS courses.
Other free software downloads available
Internet Service Provider
You must arrange for your own Internet connection. An Internet Service Provider (ISP)
is a company that provides software necessary for accessing the Internet. A full list
of available ISPs has been provided . If you live within Broward County, you may use NSU as your ISP. For more information,
please visit the NSU help desk.
AOL Users
If you are using America Online (AOL) to connect to the Internet, it is recommended that you minimize AOL and access
the WebCT online learning environment with one of the recommended browsers, such as version 4.0 or higher of either
Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
Online Program Expectations
Because the online learning process is normally accelerated, students must be committed and well organized. Participating
in discussions and completing work on time is essential to success in online classes. Students who fall behind in their
coursework may find it difficult to catch up. Students should be active participants in the learning environment.
They should be able to:
participate in the virtual class environment 5-7 days a week
work with others in completing projects
use the technology properly
meet the minimum standards set forth by the institution
