Online Learning

Colorado State U Launches Roadblock-Free Online Pre-Req Program

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 01/12/22

Colorado State University System's online learning campus, CSU Global, has introduced a structure to woo hesitant returning students who don't want the hassle of designated term or semester start dates or having to submit transcripts before they're accepted. The new offering, CSU Global Direct, is intended to help students cover the prerequisites for transitioning to full-fledged undergraduate or graduate programs.

CSU Global Direct is scheduled to begin in March 2022, with a focus on classes for candidates wanting to enter healthcare fields. All courses will be online with no set times. Students will be able start their classes each month. There will be no application fees or admissions requirements. And enrollment includes access to the global division's student services, including IT support, career advising and tutoring and writing help.

The classes cost $350 per credit hour, with current courses designating either three or four credits; those for four credits include labs. Credits earned are transferable. However, federal financial aid, such as Pell grants or Grad Plus loans, isn't available in this program.

According to the university, next up will be a set eight-week business courses that will serve as pre-requisites for other kinds of degree programs.

"Our mission with this offering is to provide an accessible path for students to get to the career and life of their dreams," said Vice President of Digital Learning Andrea Butler, in a statement. "Many learners are faced with frustrating roadblocks that prevent them from attaining their master's or doctoral degree. CSU Global Direct courses address that gap, offering an affordable way to get prerequisite credits."