Important Information About Online Courses
The Public Administration Department offers courses in both synchronous and asynchronous online formats. Each semester, students choose their preferred format based on their schedules and learning preferences. Online courses may be fully asynchronous (with no set meeting times) or include synchronous components that require attendance at scheduled times. However, the program can be completed entirely through asynchronous coursework.
Asynchronous online courses differ from traditional face-to-face classes not only in the absence of on-campus meetings, but also in how learning is structured. While students still complete readings, papers, and projects, the typical three hours of in-class time are replaced with online discussions, interactive exercises, and other activities. Instead of meeting once per week, students are expected to engage in the course multiple times throughout the week—typically 3–4 or more—by posting, reviewing classmates’ contributions, and completing assigned tasks in Canvas. The goal is not to increase or decrease the workload, but to distribute engagement more consistently across the week.
Hybrid or mixed models of online classes have both synchronous and asynchronous elements, but none of them require meeting on the CSUSB campus.
Please visit the CSUSB Instruction and Learning Mode Guide for definitions and additional information regarding course modalities:
Instruction and Learning Mode Guide
The guide outlines the differences between asynchronous, synchronous, hybrid, and face-to-face instructional formats.
The Department of Public Administration has adopted some Best Practices in Online Teaching.
NOTE: Class material on Canvas is not guaranteed to be available after the term. Download whatever information and assignments you want saved.
For an introduction to Canvas visit the ATI website for tutorials: https://www.csusb.edu/canvas/student-resources.
For assistance with Canvas issues 24/7 - contact CSUSB's IT Helpdesk
NOTE FOR CSU EMPLOYEES: The CSUSB online program is a stateside program and thus eligible for regular tuition waiver.
