college 101 virtual classes
BACK TO
SCHOOL ONLINE! + CREDITS
For 10 years, students have earned college credit
while in high school as part of UA Early College.
They enjoy the flexibility of online classes available
24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as
the abundant academic resources, regardless of
physical location. Here are some perks!
Dual Credit:
One aspect of UA Early College that draws many students in
is the opportunity to earn dual credit (college credit and high
school credit at the same time with one college class). More than
300 schools currently partner with UA Early College to make this
possible for their students. All participating schools are listed
on the UA Early College website, uaearlycollege.ua.edu. Even if
a student attends a school that is not on the list, there are still
many benefits to taking college classes as students prepare for
their future beyond high school.
Online Learning:
Students also really like the idea of learning with peers from
across the state, the nation, and even the world to gain insights
and perspectives from those with different life experiences
than their own. Students in online courses are able to engage in
discussion posts and video chats to get to know each other and
share their stories. Technology has allowed what once seemed
like a siloed or individual experience through online learning to
build bridges for community and bring students together for a
shared experience as they explore academic content and engage
in dialogue.
Foundation Building:
Another aspect of the program that many students enjoy is
knowing they’re getting a head start on their academic goals and
college aspirations. Beginning college can be frightening and
exciting all at the same time, but gaining a strong foundation
for what to expect in the classroom makes the transition more
smooth for students and their families. As UA Early College students
learn study strategies and time management tactics, they
begin to navigate their college classes with a full team of support
staff to help them.
Skills For Success:
All UA Early College students begin their journey online with
the UAEC 200 College Readiness Course. This is a four-week
online course that allows students to gain the confidence and
develop the skills for success as they continue their college class
es. When students complete the course, they understand how
to navigate the online environment, how to communicate with
faculty in a professional manner, and they’re ready to embark on
one of 80 courses that can be taken through UA Early College.
Academic Advising:
The UA Early College academic advisors assist students in
selecting the right course from the variety of options available to
ensure they meet their overall goals. These goals could include
earning dual credit, exploring thought-provoking courses to
better refine their interests, or completing requirements for a
desired major.
Academic Resources:
In addition, UAEC staff members help students with any questions
and guide them in using the academic resources across
campus. These free resources include the University Libraries,
the Writing Center, the Capstone Center for Student Success, and
even the Career Center.
Ask any UA Early College student what they enjoy most about
their experience and they each have something unique to them
and their journey to share. To hear firsthand accounts from
several current and former students, visit the UA Early College
YouTube channel or see their stories on Instagram.
Want to start this semester by taking courses online? Learn more
about how you can begin your UA Early College journey by visiting
uaearlycollege.ua.edu, calling 205-348-7083, or connecting
on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
18 | Fall 2020 www.potentialmagazine.com