In many ways, taking online courses at Penn State World Campus can be similar to taking in-person courses at a residential Penn State campus, but in other ways, it can be different. Follow these tips to make the most of your online learning.

Prepare for success by taking advantage of academic resources.

  • Strengthen the study skills you will rely on for independent reading assignments, including note-taking, annotating, and reviewing.
  • Plan ahead to find and obtain materials for your classes. Note that ebooks from a variety of academic publishers are available from the University Libraries.
  • Familiarize yourself with library resources available to World Campus students.
  • Communicate with your classmates and instructors in Canvas, where you will find class assignments, grades, readings, and discussion boards.
  • Review the resources provided in “Welcome to World Campus,” a Canvas course you will be added to once your change of campus has been processed.
  • Participate fully with others in group assignments, which offer a great opportunity to learn from and speak with peers from across the world.
  • Plan your schedule to allow plenty of time to complete your asynchronous course work.

Take advantage of resources that can be accessed entirely online.

Learn about technology use and requirements at Penn State World Campus.

Explore how to balance your course work and life responsibilities.

Establish connections, meet people, and network to enhance your time as a World Campus student.

  • Get involved with clubs, organizations, and service opportunities. Getting involved can help you feel connected, meet others, and prepare for your future career.
  • Regularly visit the events calendar to see the webinars, seminars, and workshops that are offered every month. Events cover topics including résumé-building, financial literacy, student government, and much more!

Familiarize yourself with important policies as you make the transition to Penn State World Campus. 

  • As a permanent change of campus student, you will work with a World Campus academic adviser. Your degree program must be offered through World Campus.
  • As a temporary change of campus student, you will take online classes through World Campus for one semester and still work with your home campus academic adviser for degree purposes. No degree change is necessary.

Review complete details about temporary and permanent change of campus requirements and procedures.

Remember that you can always email [email protected] for support and assistance as you navigate your change to World Campus.