Distance Education Course Offerings

For each of the course types listed below, students access the courses; excluding Telecourses, via the Internet by logging into the course site.

Online Courses

An online course is conducted via the Internet with no on-campus instruction and no on-campus classroom time, but may utilize online or proctored testing. Students access course material online and follow instructions provided by an instructor. Courses may be structured so that students work independently or may involve significant interaction among students. Most courses have set schedules and due dates. Southwest online courses are identified by a section beginning with 'L' (Example: ACAD1100L01).

If your online course has a section beginning with 'R', it is an RODP course. See the RODP information below.

Split Courses

A split course is a blend of face-to-face instruction with online learning. These courses are also known as hybrid or blended courses due to the nature of the learning environment. In a split course, a significant part of the course learning is online and as a result, the amount of classroom time is reduced but not eliminated. This allows coursework to be scheduled flexibly, promotes independent learning and decreases time spent commuting. Southwest split courses are identified by a section that includes 'H' (Example: DSPM08001H1).

Web-Assisted Courses

A Web assisted course meets in a traditional classroom setting but course assignments outside of class may require use of the Internet. Class time is supplemented with online activities and information. Be sure to check the course syllabus for more information.

Telecourses

A telecourse is an alternative method of delivering instruction and is based on a series of television programs. A telecourse is a regular college credit course incorporating video/television to teach concepts and supplement textbook information. The telecourse programs may be viewed in a variety of ways. Most are broadcast over local cable stations or over the Internet. Program tapes may be rented for an entire semester and some are available for checkout. Some telecourses also have a Web site for students to access course material. Telecourses may utilize online or proctored testing. Southwest telecourses are identified by a section beginning with 'T' (Example: MUS 1030T01).

RODP/ROCE Courses

RODP: Regents Online Degree Program.

The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) offers courses statewide through the RODP. All the institutions are fully accredited. Courses completed in the Regents Online Degree Programs are entirely online and transferable among all the participating institutions. Students are able to choose the college or university (home school) for their admission, registration, and the award of their degree. 

Course sections are designated with an 'R' (Example: DSPR0700R01). Course fees and schedules vary, so be sure to check for current information.

Your RODP Student Campus Contact for Southwest is:
Lydia Linebarger
llinebarger@southwest.tn.edu
(901) 333-4167

ROCE: Regents Online Continuing Education program

The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) offers an extensive non credit course schedule in a non-traditional manner.  Many of the courses offered provide training for industry related certified programs. For more information on the non-credit courses offered, please visit ROCE Course Offerings.

Your ROCE Student Campus Contact for Southwest is:
David Penna
dpenna@southwest.tn.edu
(901) 333-4108

More information about RODP courses through Southwest

Last Updated on: 9/4/08