Distance Learning
Arizona State U, edX Partner on Global Freshman Academy
Arizona State University (ASU) and edX have launched the Global Freshman Academy, a new program that
allows students to complete their first year of college online for credit.
Global Freshman Academy will offer eight courses taught by ASU professors.
Students can opt to take individual courses for credit, or all eight. Those who
complete the entire series, including several required courses and some
electives, will earn the equivalent of a full freshman year at ASU. The courses
will cost no more than $200 per credit hour, and upon completion of each
course, students who pass the final exam can pay the fee to receive college
credit for the course.
The general studies focus areas will include math, humanities, arts and
design, social-behavioral sciences and natural sciences, according to
information from ASU and edX. The first course, Introduction to Solar Systems
Astronomy, is open for for enrollment now and will begin in August 2015. Two
more courses, Human Origins and Western Civilizations: Ancient and Medieval
Europe, will begin in October 2015. The remaining courses will begin within the
next two years.
The program is intended to offer "a unique entry point to an undergraduate
degree" by eliminating barriers such as standardized tests and transcripts.
Anybody, regardless of their background or location, can register for the
courses and earn college credits. According to ASU and edX, the program is
suitable for students who need a more flexible and economical option for their
education, such as people holding jobs, living remotely or raising families.
Even high school students who want to get a jumpstart on their college
education are welcome in the program.
Further information about the Global Freshman Academy can be found on the edX site.
About the Author
Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].
