Frequently Asked Questions

ETSU Online

collage of student images - decorative only

What's it like to be an online student at ETSU?

No matter where you are in life, our flexible online courses and program are designed to fit your full- or part-time schedule. With online coursework, 24/7 technical support and countless student resources, you can be confident in your ability to do your best work and get the support you need. You'll have access to the same resources as on-campus students, including academic advising, career services, counseling, and more! Visit the Meet Online Students to explore how ETSU’s online programs are helping students reach their goals.

Online Learning FAQs

  • What online degree/certificate programs are available?
  • What does "100% Online" mean?

    When a program is referred to as 100% online, that means all coursework for the program can be completed without ever having to come to campus.

    While most courses are asynchronous (no set login time), some may be synchronous (login at a specific time), depending on the program. Additionally, some 100% online programs may require students to complete field work or internship hours at an off-campus site, but an effort is made so that students can complete these requirements in their home communities. Any additional requirements are communicated to the student in advance.  

  • How do online classes work?

    Online courses are available through ETSU. All coursework, including discussions, tests and assignments, are completed online. You will login through a web browser, access ETSU’s D2L system, and complete your coursework.

  • How will I access my online courses?

    Students access ETSU online courses through our Learning Management System, D2L. D2L provides a complete experience for online students, serving as their central hub for accessing, managing, and completing their coursework. The D2L is a virtual classroom where all course materials, communication, and assessments are organized in one place. 

  • Who teaches online courses?

    Your courses will be taught by the same award-winning faculty that teach our on campus classes. All online courses have instructors with varying credentials and real-world expertise.

  • How long is each class?

    Most programs will have semester-long classes that last approximately 15 weeks during the spring and fall semesters, although a few offer 7-week courses. In the summer, 5-week, 10-week, and 15-week classes are offered. These courses give students more time to learn deeply, keep a manageable pace, and stay on track. 

  • Do I need to live in Tennessee to attend ETSU as an online student?

    No. We welcome students from anywhere! The application process is the same whether you are online or on campus. However, there are some important notes about cost.

    If you are:

    • A Tennessee or border county resident, you would qualify for in-state tuition regardless of whether you are online or on campus.
    • An out-of-state, non-border county resident, you would be eligible for the eRate if enrolled in 100% online coursework. The eRate is a reduced tuition rate and represents approximately a 50% savings when compared to out-of-state tuition rates. 
    • An international student, you would pay out-of-state tuition and are not eligible for the eRate. International students living in the U.S. cannot be enrolled in an all online program.

    Learn more about tuition rates, course fees, and financial aid on our Tuition and Finance Aid page.

  • What if I need to come to campus and do not have a parking permit?

    For a temporary student parking permit, please complete the ETSU Parking online form.

 

Online Student Support Resources FAQs

  • Career Services: Are Career Services resources available for online students?

    Yes, our University Career Services offers virtual resume/cover letter reviews for students looking for a job. They also offer an online job board (Handshake)  where students can explore jobs available across the world.

    Contact: Careers@etsu.edu or 423-439-4450

  • Library: Do I have access to the Library as an online student? 

    Yes, ETSU Distance Education/Online Library Resources and Services provides valuable information regarding library services for online students.

    Contact: refdesk@etsu.edu or 423-439-4307 | 866-542-3878 (toll free)

  • Mental Health: What services are available for online students who just need to talk to someone about personal issues?

    If you need help with setting realistic goals, overcoming obstacles in day-to-day life, or resolving programs, Student Success Specialists are here to help.

    Undergraduate Student Success Specialist

    Graduate Student Success Specialist

  • Technical Support: Questions about D2L, ETSU email, my password, or need other technical support.

    Please visit our ITS Help Desk website. Most of your questions can be answered with using the resources available for students. Contact the Help Desk any time you need further technical assistance:

    423-439-4648

    Online Chat

    itshelp@etsu.edu

  • Technical Support: I can't see my list of online classes in D2L.

    You will not be able to see your classes in D2L until the first day of class. Some instructors of online classes may email the class ahead of time and some may not.

    Please see the Academic Calendar for important dates, such as the first day of class. If you still cannot view your course site in D2L after classes begin contact the ITS Help Desk.

  • Tutoring: Is tutoring available for online students? 

    Yes, you can set up online tutoring with the Center for Academic Achievement through EAB Navigate.

    Contact: learning@etsu.edu or 423-439-7111

  • Writing Resources: What resources are available for online graduate students whose program requires a thesis or dissertation?

    The Graduate School, Electronic Thesis and Dissertation website provides a checklist of requirements, access to workshops that are continually available, a list of FAQs, and more.

    Emily Redd, Publications and Special Projects Coordinator, can be reached at redd@etsu.edu or 423-439-4898.

 

Application FAQs

 

Financial Aid FAQs

  • How do I find out if I qualify for Financial Aid and/or Scholarships?

    Financial Aid - To receive financial aid, you will need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

    Scholarships - A variety of scholarships are available and additionally require that a FAFSA has been completed.

  • How much is tuition?

    ETSU tuition and fee information

    ETSU Undergraduate/Graduate eRate (for out-of-state students taking ALL course work online in any semester)

 

Admitted Student FAQs

  • I've been admitted, now what?

    Undergraduate: For a complete list of steps to be taken once admitted, please visit the Undergraduate Admissions Office Admitted page and Undergraduate Student Advisement.

    Graduate: Once admitted, please contact your program coordinator for course enrollment advisement.

  • How do I activate my ETSU Account?

    Please visit the Account Activation page to activate your account or change your password. The ITS Help Desk can help if you need assistance.

  • How do I change my major or degree program?

    Undergraduate: The advisor for the new major you wish to pursue can help with that process. Visit the Undergraduate Student Advisement page and type in the new major in the search box.

    Graduate: Please contact your current program specialist and explain that you would like to change your degree program. That person will guide you with the next steps.  

  • Do I have to provide immunization records?

    Students who are taking exclusive online courses are exempt from the MMR and Varicella requirements unless they are living on campus.

    However, the Online Only Immunization Exemption   form must be completed each semester and be on file in the Registrar's Office.

  • How do I order my books?

    You can access textbook information through the ETSU Bookstore website   well in advance of the start of class to be prepared.

  • How do I get my Student ID as an online student?

    If you are taking online classes and are not local to ETSU's main campus (i.e. outside of the Tri-Cities area), please fill out the Distant Student ID Form   and follow the instructions.

  • What is the confirmation process, and is it required?

    All students must confirm registration and payment of fees as soon as possible after being admitted. For complete instructions, please visit the Bursar's Office Confirmation of Registration and Payment of Fees page.

  • What important dates should I consider?
  • How do I request my transcripts?

    To request official transcripts, please visit the Office of the Registrar, Transcripts information page.

 

Graduation FAQs

  • How do I apply for graduation?

    Undergraduate Students may follow the graduation instructions provided by the Office of the Registrar.

    Graduate Students must contact their program specialist for graduation instructions.

  • Can my diploma be mailed to me?

    Diplomas will be mailed to students who live outside of a 30-mile radius from ETSU. For complete instructions, please visit the Office of the Registrar information page.

The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details.