What do I need to complete this degree?

A minimum of 30 credits to be admitted, and a minimum of 120 credits is required to complete the liberal studies degree. For more information, please go to the Curriculum tab.

Is there a certain time or schedule I need to attend classes? 

As of now, all of our eligible online courses are asynchronous. This means that students don't need to login at specific times to participate/ watch a live lecture or discussion. We understand that our distance students often have busy lives that prevent them from attending scheduled lectures, so do try to be mindful of that time. There will be deadlines to adhere to that should be transparent ahead of time. In addition, although rare, it is a possibility that an instructor may assign group work, etc., that might require some scheduling, but it is far more likely that students have a few days to complete group work and discussions asynchronously as our instructors understand that our online students may have conflicting life and work events. 

How long will it take to finish my degree?

The length of time required to complete this degree program will vary depending on previous coursework completed and the number of courses you take each semester. Here is an example: If you have 60 credits left to finish the degree and take 6 credits per semester (including summer) you could complete your degree in about 3.5 years. Factors that may affect how many courses you take include your learning style, your career objectives and your other time commitments.

When I graduate, will I receive a different degree?  One that says "Online"?

Liberal Studies Distance Education students will receive the same, MSU accredited degree that our campus Liberal Studies students will receive.  It will not have any specialty wording such as "online" associated.

How much will this degree cost?

Please check the Tuition and Fees tab as tuition and fees change slightly each year.

How much time should I expect to devote to each online course?

You should plan to spend anywhere from 8-10 hours per week on each course. We recommend that you log into your course as often as possible, at least 5-6 times per week and every day if possible, so that you can stay current in your course(s).

Who teaches the courses in this program?

Courses in this program are taught by Montana State University professors who also teach on campus. Many teach the same courses to on-campus students. Faculty who teach online courses have received special training in how to teach online.

Will all of my courses transfer into this degree program?

The MSU Office of Admissions determines which of your courses will transfer into the program. We advise you to apply for admission into the program so that MSU’s Office of Admissions can evaluate your transcript. If you are returning to MSU and transferring credits from another institution, the Registrar’s office will evaluate your transcript.

What if I haven't attended school for years; will any of my previous credits transfer over?

  • Coursework within 5 years will be reviewed for Direct Equivalents to coursework offered at MSU.
  • Coursework 6 - 15 years old will be reviewed for electives with or without core.
  • Coursework older than 15 years is brought in as a block of elective credit and would just show a credit total for qualifying courses for each institution attended.  

Regardless of age of credits, the Registrar's Office will review all transcripts and sort out which credits will transfer over.  While an advisor can sometimes take a guess at how past credits will transfer, it is not until a transfer student applies to MSU and has their transcripts reviewed before we will truly know what will transfer. 

Will military credits be accepted by this program?

The MSU Office of Admissions will determine if your military credits transfer during the application process.

Can I receive credit for prior learning/life experience?

MSU does not currently offer credit for prior learning/life experience. However you can take a CLEP Exam to demonstrate competency in certain subject areas e.g. foreign language.

Will I need to come to campus to complete a campus orientation?

You do not need to attend an on campus orientation.  Distance Education will not ever be required to come to campus for courses, orientation, etc., but are of course always welcome!

Do I need an Advisor PIN to register for courses?

Yes, you will need an advisor PIN in order to register for classes through MyInfo. Learn more.

How do I register for courses?

You will get your PIN during your advising appointment. Learn more.

You will register for classes through MyInfo, MSU's online registration system.

When I graduate, am I elible to "walk" during one of MSU's graduation ceremonies?

Absolutely!  In fact, we even offer travel awards to any of our non-Bozeman Distance Education students to help cover travel costs of attending graduation.  There is no pressure to attend a graduation ceremony, but you have most certainly earned it and we welcome you to attend! 

Additional Questions

For additional questions about online learning, please go to the Montana State Online FAQs.

For More Information

Jenny Hatchadorian
Online Program Manager
(406) 994-7441
Email Jenny

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