Online Learning

USF has been one of the largest online education providers in Illinois since it piloted its online business program 20 years ago.

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Recently ranked by U.S. News & World Report for offering some of the best online programs in the nation, USF prides itself on delivering its practical, real-world curriculum and faculty expertise in a medium proven to be conducive to the needs of working adults.

USF offers more than 120 online courses and serves more than 1,500 student registrations per semester.

Are You Ready for Online Learning?

How does an online class work?

The course content, syllabus and books are the same for online classes as for traditional classroom courses. Each online class has links to the course content, announcements, assessments, assignments, calendar, chat, discussion and more. The discussions forum is the main means of student and faculty interaction and students can log into their forums any time day or night

Why should I consider taking online courses?
The convenience of online learning is the main reason most students make this choice. Because there is no mandatory class time, you can complete assignments and discussion requirements anywhere, anytime.

How will I interact with the instructor and other students?
You will have regular interaction with the instructor and other students in the class through email, chat and discussions. There are both group discussions and one on one communication.

How can I determine if online learning is for me?
If you’d like to preview an online course, click here for a guided tour of one of our online courses. This demonstration will give you a good idea of how to navigate an online class.

What technical skills do I need to be successful in an online class?
You need to have general computer proficiencies such as downloading/uploading, attaching and sending documents, using e-mail and the internet and using presentation software such as PowerPoint. Tutorials are available at techsupport.stfrancis.edu if needed.

What if I experience technical difficulties?
USF maintains a help desk with normal business hours that you can either call or by email 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Want a few key tips on being an online student?
Click here for some good ideas to create a great learning experience.

Computer Hardware Requirements
  • Internet Access: High speed internet connection such as cable modem or DSL
  • Processor: 2GHz processor
  • Memory: 1GB RAM; 4 GB free hard drive space
  • Some courses and/or assignments may require the use of a webcam.
  • The learning management system is optimized for desktop displays; tablet and smartphone users should use the Mobile Apps.
Operating System Requirements
  • PC: Windows 10 and newer for PC
  • Mac: 10.10 or newer for Mac
  • The computer needs to be able to use the latest browsers.
Software Requirements
  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 2010 or higher
Browser Requirements Your web browser is the program (such as Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox, Safari or your Internet service provider’s screen) that allows you to access the Internet. Supported Browsers (as of March, 2024) Instructure products support the current and previous major releases of the following browsers:
  • Chrome 119 and 120
  • Firefox 120 | 121 (Extended Releases are not supported*)
  • Edge 118 | 119
  • Respondus LockDown Browser (supporting the latest system requirements)
  • Safari 16 and 17 (Macintosh only)
You can verify that the browser you are currently using is up to date by using the browser checker tool in the step below. You should always use the most current version of your preferred browser, and the browser will notify you if there is a new version available. Remember that JavaScript must be enabled to run Canvas.
woman working at a computer

Want more info on our online programs?

Use this form to get more information on USF's award-winning online degree programs.
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Let us know if you have specific questions or if there is any program information we can provide for you.