No. The Virtual University itself does not provide instruction; rather it is a compilation of distance education opportunities from various New Jersey colleges and universities. Each of the courses and programs included in the virtual university index is offered under the jurisdiction of one of the institutions, which is responsible for all aspects of its distance learning offerings, including the granting of credits, certificates, and degrees.

What does it cost to take a course?

The cost for distance learning courses varies among institutions, just as traditional on-campus courses do. If you are interested in a course or program listed, you can get cost and other information from the offering institution, in most cases simply by linking to the institution's web page.

How does a student gain admission to take courses?

Information regarding admission for a particular course or program is available from the offering institution. In most cases, the link to the institution's web page will provide this and other information you need to get started. In some cases, you may register on line.

What is required to study via distance learning?

The courses and programs listed in this index are offered using various means of technology. In some cases, courses are provided on line, requiring access to a computer with a modem. Others may need a VCR, access to an interactive classroom, or other technology. The index provides the modes of instruction under each course, and additional information can be obtained from the offering institution. If you are interested in a particular mode of instruction, you may do a search on that mode to determine what is available.

How can a student understand the difference between various distance
instruction modes of delivery?

Each course listed in this index is described in terms of up to three methods of distance instruction. These are referred to as "primary, secondary and tertiary modes of delivery." The following nine terms are used: E-mail, Internet, TV, CD/Multimedia, Interactive TV, Audio Tapes, Video Tapes, PC Based Interactive, and Correspondence. To help you understand these terms, click on this Glossary of Modes of Distance Learning Delivery.

What should I look for in a quality distance learning experience?

Quality Distance Learning to Meet Your Needs is a brief document, especially prepared for NJVU, that discusses quality in distance learning. You may also be interested in Guidelines for Distance Learning Programs, published by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education, which delineates for institutions what the regional accrediting agency expects of colleges and universities offering distance learning programs to their students.

What type of distance learning experience is best for me?

Various Types of Distance Learning is a brief document, especially prepared for NJVU, that can help you determine what modes of distance learning are best suited to your needs.

How can I learn about all of the higher education opportunities in NJ?

An inventory of all programs offered by NJ colleges and universities is available at the Inventory of Program Offerings at NJ Colleges and Universities on the NJ Commission on Higher Education web site.