Self-paced courses give you flexibility while still providing structure and faculty support. You work through the course materials and assignments on your own schedule, following guided due dates and pacing recommendations provided by your instructor.

Open Learning Academy offers 5-week and 16-week self-paced courses, so you can choose a course length that best fits your schedule and goals.

Both formats allow you to work at your own pace and provide the same academic support from Doane faculty. The primary difference is the amount of time available to complete the coursework.

16-week self-paced courses give you more time to complete your coursework and are a good fit if you need maximum flexibility around work, family, or other commitments.

5-week self-paced courses allow you to complete a course in a shorter timeframe while still providing flexibility to manage your own pace within the term.

Self-paced courses are a great option for students who need flexibility because of work, family, military service, or other commitments. They can also be a good fit for learners who are comfortable managing their own time, want the ability to work ahead, or need to complete coursework on a schedule that doesn't fit a traditional online course.

Self-paced courses are delivered online, but they are different from instructor-led online courses. In an instructor-led course, the instructor establishes the pace and due dates for the class. In a self-paced course, you have greater flexibility to determine when you complete your coursework within the established course term.

Yes. You can work ahead and complete assignments before the suggested due dates. You are responsible for completing all required coursework by the end of the course term.

For 16-week self-paced courses, final grades can be verified weekly beginning after Week 3. This means you don't necessarily have to wait until the end of the 16-week term to have your completed course verified.

For 5-week self-paced courses, final grades are verified at the end of the term.

Absolutely. All self-paced courses are taught and led by Doane University faculty. Faculty provide feedback, answer questions, and offer guidance throughout the course. Depending on the course, faculty also offer virtual office hours or other opportunities for support.

Self-paced courses do not have traditional weekly late penalties. However, all coursework must be completed and submitted by the end of the course term to receive credit. Your instructor will provide suggested due dates to help you stay on track.

Absolutely. All Open Learning Academy students have access to 24/7 online tutoring through Tutor.com, along with support from their course instructor.

At the end of your course you will receive a Doane University transcript.  Your transcript does not identify whether a course was self-paced, online, or on-ground instructional format. Your Doane University transcript lists the course number, course title, credit hours, and grade earned.  You should confirm that your receiving institution accepts different course modalities and formats.

Open Learning Academy allows students to enroll in 16-week self-paced courses during the 2-week late-add period. Students should review the academic calendar for specific enrollment, refund, and late-add deadlines, as you may no longer be eligible for a full or partial refund.

You should follow the course structure and any prerequisites established by your instructor, but self-paced courses generally give you flexibility in when you complete assignments. Your instructor will provide guidance on the recommended sequence and pacing for the course.