Checklist for Student Success in Online Non-Credit Courses

Before your Class Begins

First Day of the Program

  • Plan to spend time orienting yourself to the course, course layout, structure and expectations
  • Print a copy of the course syllabus
  • Introduce yourself to the class.
  • Find the lectures and assignments
  • Add all due dates and important program related dates into your personal calendar

Time Management Tip

Plan to spend anywhere from 5-20 hours per week working on the program.


Every Week of the Program

  • Know the day of the week when a new week or module begins. Be sure to log in that day to identify your assignments for the week
  • Set aside time in your daily schedule to log in, complete course work, assignments and/or participate in online discussions
  • If you have questions or need help with course content, do not delay in reaching out to your instructor
  • Do not fall behind in your coursework. It is hard to catch up
  • Develop a time management strategy
  • Check your grades in the ‘My Grades’ section of Blackboard

End of Program

  • Complete the end of course evaluation
  • Celebrate!