Advanced Distance Learning Network (ADLN)
Distance Learning Program
In 1979, WPI’s commitment to active, lifelong learning prompted the creation of a partnership between several academic departments and WPI’s Academic Technology Center to serve adult students who cannot attend class on campus. Distance students apply for admission to WPI utilizing the same processes and services as campus based students. Once admitted to WPI, students may take any distance course that is appropriate to their WPI program. All students can take distance courses and, within a given program’s requirements, can combine on campus and distance courses.
Delivery Media
Via the Web, WPI delivers the same courses, content and material that you would receive on campus. Faculty, working with an instructional design team, determine the best technologies to use in the delivery of their distance courses. This approach to distance learning ensures that courses are kept current and the latest technologies are used. An e-mail account, access to the World Wide Web and the minimal technical requirements found at Student Services are required for participation in a distance course.
Programs of Study
By taking courses through the Advanced Distance Learning Network, students can complete a master of business administration (M.B.A), or a master of science (M.S.) in environmental engineering, fire protection engineering, information technology, marketing and technological innovation, operations design and leadership, or systems dynamics. In addition, students may elect to take online courses to earn a graduate or advanced certificate in these disciplines. The programs and curricula for online and campus students are identical; refer to the appropriate program of study for specifics on curriculum.
Special Programs
WPI is always willing to consider the addition of new programs when there is sufficient interest.
Student Services
Academic advisors are assigned upon admission. Library services are available online, and reference services are available by telephone and e-mail. All students must establish a WPI UNIX account for online course access and e-mail. The technical helpdesk is available by e-mail at helpdesk@ wpi.edu or phone at 508-831-5888. Career placement and counseling are available for matriculated students. Books may be ordered from the WPI bookstore by calling toll-free (888-WPI-BOOKS) or from the web (Barnes and Noble) and are typically delivered one to four days after ordering. (Longer delivery time is required for international deliveries. Please contact the bookstore by phone to expedite delivery.)
Faculty
The professors teaching distance courses are the same highly qualified faculty who teach in WPI’s campus-based programs.
Tuition and Fees
Distance learning courses carry the same rate as on-campus courses. Students wishing to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) instead of graduate credit may opt to audit courses at half tuition. See page 17 for tuition rates and audit information.
Financial Aid
Loan-based aid is available. Students must be registered on a half-time basis (two courses per semester) or greater for federal loan programs. See page 17 for loan information. Other loans for 3-credit courses are available.
Contact and Information
Pamela Shelley, Assistant Director, Advanced Distance Learning Network
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
100 Institute Road
Worcester, Massachusetts 01609-2280 U.S.A.
508-831-5220 (voice)
508-831-5881 (fax)
online@wpi.edu
Distance Learning
Last modified: August 03, 2007 11:10:55