Let’s face it — online learning is incredibly convenient. You can continue your degree while working and/or raising kids. You can go to online college during or after your military experience. You can even go online if you have disability while still getting your degree.

Flexibility and anytime, anywhere learning is why so many people are going online for education. Plus, online learning has come a long way since COVID. That’s probably why more and more people are choosing online college.

If you need more information on how to get started, Metropolitan State University of Denver has you covered. Whether you’re taking one online course or completing college online, these tips will help you stay focused, motivated, and set up for success.

 

1. Plan Ahead for Online College

It’s easy to push online learning to the back burner — especially when life gets busy. But the best way to succeed is to treat your online class like it’s face-to-face. Block off time for lectures, reading, and assignments. Show up with intention — every time, all the time.
Showing up with intention includes creating a calendar — paper, digital, or both — and mapping out your week. Include class times, work hours, family responsibilities, and time to study or work on projects. Then stick to it.

Pro tip: Check your course every day, even just for a few minutes, so nothing sneaks up on you. MSU Denver uses Canvas. It’s mobile-friendly and accessible 24-7.

 

2. Get Comfortable with the Tech

Don’t wait until the semester starts to get prepared. Take a test drive. Log into your courses, explore Canvas, check your MSU Denver email, and make sure you know how to find things like syllabi, deadlines, and discussion boards.

If you need assistance, reach out! MSU Denver has ITS support to help.

 

3. Minimize Distractions

No one’s asking for Jedi-like focus … but try to limit distractions during study time. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb,” log out of social media, and find a quiet space — whether it’s a corner of your apartment, the library, or a favorite coffee shop. Little changes make a big difference.

 

4. Reach Out for Help

Some weeks will feel easier than others. If you fall behind or struggle, it’s OK — that doesn’t mean you’re failing. Reach out to your professor, create a plan to catch up, and remember why you started.

MSU Denver has a program for online learners to help them keep on track: success coaching. Reach out to a success coach to get more information or assistance. They’re available for one-on-one coaching sessions to help you catch up and keep on track. They’re resourceful, too, providing ideas and options for everything from healthcare to advisors.

Contact a success coach.

 

5. Stay Connected

Just because it’s online doesn’t mean you’re alone. Use discussion boards to connect with classmates. Ask questions. Email your instructors when you’re unsure or need help. MSU Denver has tons of support — tutoring, advising, mental health services, and more. Our tutoring is available 24-hours a day.

Don’t forget about success coaches either (above). They can help you any time. It’s always better to reach out immediately when you need help instead of waiting until the end of the semester, especially if you need assistance that can impact you completing the course, your grade, or graduation.

Again, don’t wait … reach out early.

 

Get Support at Every Step of Your Online College Experience

Whether it’s been a while since you’ve thought about your study habits, you’re the first in your family to tackle college, or you just need some reassurance, we’ve got your back. We’re here when you enroll and here when you need assistance with scholarships, financial aid, and more. Plus, we’re here when you’ve become a student and hit barriers or road bumps.
It’s easy to be a Roadrunner.