Can I Take an Online Course During the Summer?

Should you take an online course this summer? It depends on your schedule, but more students are finding them to be a flexible, affordable, and efficient way to meet their educational goals. 

“I was able to get almost all of my college classes done before starting nursing school. Getting those courses done over the summer helped me focus more on my nursing classes during nursing school.” — Megan, 19, a Portage Learning student

Online summer courses allow you to complete your coursework where you want, when you are available. Here are a few other reasons why a summer course might be right for you:

Can an online summer course help me graduate early?

Yes, it can. A smaller investment in the present may lead to bigger savings on tuition, room and board, and other expenses in the future. You can even take an online summer course while in high school if you know what kind of classes are required at your institution of choice. 

What if I need to catch up? 

Did you need to drop a few courses while in college? Looking to transfer but not sure if you can graduate on schedule? Having trouble lining up your required classes with your personal obligations? Students often intend to spend four years in college, but situations like these can hold them back and add extra expenses. To negate these issues, try taking courses over the summer to fill in the gaps. This can help make up for lost time and keep you from becoming overwhelmed later. 

How about completing my Gen Eds?

Online courses are particularly helpful when attempting to fulfill general requirements. If you’re looking to focus on your major, minor, or extracurriculars while at college, summer courses serve as a fast-track to working on what matters most to you. As mentioned previously, completing general education courses over the summer might set you on track to graduate early.  

Portage Learning is here to help

Portage Learning offers courses year-round to help students achieve their educational goals. Over the past three years, more than 15,000 students took courses with us during the summer months. We offer a variety of self-directed courses that transfer credits to more than 2,000 colleges, universities, and programs. And if you’re focused on finishing fast, many students have completed courses in as little as eight weeks.

“An advantage to taking summer courses through Portage, and something that I really liked, was that all the courses are completed at your own pace.” — Megan

 Interested in what Portage Learning has to offer? Here are a few of our most popular courses to take during the summer. (You can explore all of our courses here.)

BIOD 171: Essential Microbiology w/Lab: In this course, students explore the world of microbes with an emphasis on pathologies. Essential Microbiology also includes a lab with interactive simulations so students can further grasp core concepts and gain a comprehensive understanding of microbiology. 

PSYC 140: Developmental (Lifespan) Psychology: Developmental (Lifespan) Psychology considers the cognitive growth and changes that occur throughout our lifetime. Students will learn about the importance of understanding psychology through a lifespan perspective.

CHEM 103: General Chemistry w/Lab: This introductory course will give students a working knowledge of chemistry’s basic principles and the scientific method. General chemistry’s lab portion allows students to experience in-class concepts with interactive simulations and demonstrations. 

Be intentional about summer courses

Even though online summer courses offer plenty of benefits, there are some unique challenges as well. We’ve compiled some tips and resources to help you feel confident about finishing your summer courses on time and to the best of your ability.

Time management

Here are some best practices for successful self-directed learning:

•          Consider all of your plans and commitments before registering for summer courses. The goal is to reduce stress, not overwhelm yourself with too many classes. 

•          Block out time for your course(s) in your weekly schedule. Consistent progress will help you reach your goals without cramming.

•          Create a dedicated workspace free from distractions. Maybe head to a coffee shop, a library, or a quiet room in your house to complete your coursework.

Portage Learning resources

Not confident about completing your course on time? Portage has your back! Our distance learning model allows you to contact your professors and receive a timely response before you move forward with your coursework. We also offer support through our Student Success team for any needs relating to: 

•          Accountability 

•          Academic coaching 

•          Time management tips

•          Study skills 

Our goal at Portage Learning is to serve our students and connect with them as individuals. Our support lines are available 24/7 for registered students, so you don’t have to tackle issues alone.

Get ahead or stay on top of your schedule by registering for a course today! Once enrolled, you will have six months to begin working on your first module or lab. Invest in your future and gain college credit on your terms with Portage Learning. 

Student Photo Entry:

This Portage Learning student took their online course on the waterfront in Croatia.