Because of work or family commitments, or location constraints, not all potential students are able to attend classes at Adelphi’s brick-and-mortar campuses. Adelphi Online Distance Learning is designed to meet the needs of all students who want the quality education that Adelphi University and its reputable faculty can provide.

Each new online or blended course is approved by Adelphi faculty governance committees in the same manner that other traditional courses and programs are approved.

Faculty can consult the resources of the Faculty Center for Professional Excellence for course design and implementation advice, as well as technical assistance.

Students can seek guidance from University College advisers and staff regarding academic advisement, financial aid, and more.


Course Format

The format and tools used in the courses are appropriate for the content and intended learning outcomes.

By offering online courses asynchronously, without specific mandatory meeting times, this program will best fit the scheduling needs of students who find that time flexibility is necessary for them to participate in higher education.

Most Adelphi online course materials are delivered via Moodle course management software, which is also currently used for live instruction courses at Adelphi. Moodle is a web-baed learning environment which faculty and students can access any time, day or night, from any computer with a connection to the internet. There are no separate programs to install.

The Distance Learning program provides for appropriate and flexible interaction between faculty and students, as well as among students. Instructors are required to be available online for at least two hours each week to assist students with their studies. Course communication methods include:

• Virtual office hours
• Email
• Instant messaging
• Live chat
• Discussion boards
• Student surveys

Program Design

In the development of online courses, individuals with advanced knowledge of distance education design are available to assist faculty at every step.

Adelphi's Faculty Center for Professional Excellence (FCPE) was established to provide opportunities for development and support in the pursuit of teaching. Faculty technology training and support is a main component of the FCPE and it features five full time staff members to assist faculty. FCPE Director Astrid Palm is a leading program designer and educator for technology-enhanced learning environments.