Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if online courses are right for me?
Online learning is not for everyone. It requires a high degree of self-motivation and self-discipline. This site offers a number of different ways to discover if online learning is right for you. First, read the profile of a successful online student. Then take the self-assessment and review your results.

Who can take an online course?
Frost School students may register for online courses during any semester.

Degree-seeking day students may register for online courses on a space available basis.

What courses are being offered?
Follow this link to find out which courses are currently scheduled:
Online course schedule

How do I register?
Review the online course registration options.

What is the cost of online courses?
Online courses have per credit fees. Please review these costs.

Is financial aid available for online courses?
Yes, financial aid is available for all matriculated students. See the Financial Aid web pages for more information.

Do I need a textbook? If so, how do I get it?
Yes, students taking online courses are generally required to purchase textbooks. You can order your books at the PSU bookstore.

How do I access my online class?

1. Go to myPlymouth.
2. At the top left of the page, locate the box that says Getting Started. Select What’s my Username? Enter your first and last name and the code provided and click Find Username. Find your name in the list and note the username. Then, on the left side of the page, click What’s my Password? This will provide you with the convention used to create your password. Once you have your username and password, enter them into the Secure Access Login box and click Login. Note: You will not have an account until your registration is processed – this may take up to 48 hours from the time it is received.
3. You have access to a wide range of services in the myPlymouth portal. In the Getting Started box, select myPlymouthTour for a quick overview of the site. Spend some time navigating around. Note especially the Personal Announcements and email. These are among the primary ways the university ill communicate with you.

Do I need to have my own computer to take an online class?
It is preferable for you to have a computer and reliable Internet access at home while taking online courses. However, you may use a computer at your workplace or in the campus clusters to complete the course.

What if I have technical problems?
You may contact the Help Desk online or call (603)535-2929.

Do online courses have instructors?
Yes. All online courses have instructors who work with you during the course and are available to you for assistance along the way. Each instructor will inform you of the best way to reach them and will let you know their approximate response times to student inquiries.

I’ve heard that online classes are easier than regular classes…is that true?
Not at all. Online courses are no less rigorous than face-to-face classes and in fact, most students say they require more time and dedication than face-to-face classes. You should plan to spend a minimum of 9 hours per week per course on your studies.

What are the advantages of online learning?
Online courses put students in control of their learning. The main advantages of online classes are convenience and flexibility, but be sure to review all of the advantages.

What kind of computer do I need to register in an online course?
Review the technical requirements for online learning at PSU.

Do I need to be a computer expert to take an online course?
No, you do not. However, there are some basic technical skills you should have mastery of before enrolling in an online course.

Are online courses self paced?
No, they are not. While you can work through the materials at your own pace within modules, online courses start and finish within the regular PSU semester and assignments and assessments are scheduled by the instructor. Most instructors have a requirement that students login a minimum number of time per week.

Will I get PSU credit for online courses?
Yes. Online courses are equivalent to regular classroom instruction and thus earn credit in the same way. Online courses can be applied toward degree programs, just as all other PSU courses can be.

Do I need to login at a set time every week?
No. You may work on your own time as long as you meet the deadlines for assignments and assessments. However, most instructors will require you to log in a minimum number of times per week.

How do I apply to PSU?
Simply go to the Admissions Web site and click on Apply Today!

What if I want to talk to an advisor?
You can call Frost School at (603) 535-2228 or stop by the office in Room 116 of Speare Building on campus.

Can I access the library electronically?
Absolutely. When you log into myPlymouth, click on the Library tab for resources and assistance.

What qualities does it take to be a successful online student?
First and foremost, being a successful online student requires self-discipline and self-motivation. Review additional qualities of a successful student.

When do classes start?
Select the following link for the Academic Calendar

I have more questions about online and blended courses. How can I get answers?
Please e-mail scurdie@plymouth.edu for more information.