General FAQs
These are the questions we field most frequently. If you do not find the answer you are looking for, a Student Success Manager is always available to talk you through these or any other details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is asynchronous?
Asynchronous learning means the instructor and the students in the course all engage with the course content at different times (and from different locations). The instructor provides students with a sequence of units which the students move through as their schedules permit.
What is the course structure?
Courses are offered fully online and are asynchronous. Each course is 7.5 weeks long. There is a live interactive session offered weekly so students can engage with one another and with the faculty member. It is recorded in case you need to watch it later.
PMP 757: PMP Certification Preparation is the only synchronous course offered. While fully online, students who choose this elective will be expected to attend virtual sessions at specified times.
PMP 757: PMP Certification Preparation is the only synchronous course offered. While fully online, students who choose this elective will be expected to attend virtual sessions at specified times.
How long is each course?
Our mini sessions (or terms) are 7.5 weeks long and courses are offered in each mini. Each semester consists of two mini sessions.
What is a part-time course load and what is a full-time course load?
Part-time in SPS is defined at 3 credits (1 course) and full-time is defined as 6 or more credits. Every course at SPS is 3 credits.
How many courses can I take in a mini term?
We do permit students to take a maximum of two courses in 1 mini term (i.e. 6 credits over a 7.5 week period). However, we have structured our courses so students can take one course at a time; this is especially important for students balancing full-time employment. Keep in mind that while taking more than two courses in one semester may seem appealing, these online accelerated courses can be difficult to manage, especially while working full-time. In addition, taking more than one course in a mini session could cause conflicts in your weekly live sessions (i.e. they could be offered on the same day and time).
How long does it take to finish the program?
On average, SPS students complete their degree programs* within 18-24 months. Students can complete a masters program in less than two years and the graduate certificate can be completed in 6 months. If a student takes 1 course per mini session without interruption, the time to complete is 5-6 semesters. However, we find our adult learners often need flexibility and many take a mini term off as needed for work, family, or other commitments.
*Health Administration requires 2 additional courses so this does not apply to that program.
*Health Administration requires 2 additional courses so this does not apply to that program.
How flexible is the program?
Flexibility is one of our core values as a school. We understand the needs of adult learners, and we know life happens. Students can skip a mini session or semester if needed and can work with their Student Success Manager to plan out their course schedule around their other commitments. In addition, our curriculum is not lock-step so once you return, you pick up where you left off.
What is the best way to communicate with peers, faculty, and staff?
Communication within Canvas or using your Wake Forest email is strongly encouraged. Communications from the university, the school, and your program will be sent to your Wake Forest email account. Please check it once a day and please send communications to staff and faculty from within Canvas or from your Wake Forest email.
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