Can You Take Individual Courses Online?

Are you thinking about going to college but not sure you're ready to take the plunge? Already a student and hoping to obtain some extra college credit? Perhaps you're already in the workforce and looking to complete individual college courses for professional development.

Whatever your circumstances may be, taking individual college courses can help you reach your goals. But is it possible to take only one or two courses at a time? Can you do so without enrolling in a degree program? What are some of the benefits of doing so?

Keep reading for more detailed information on taking individual courses online.

Can You Take Individual College Courses Online?

Many schools offer individual online classes for both nondegree and degree-seeking students. Both noncredit and for-credit courses are available. These online college courses are often self-paced or allow a greater degree of flexibility than campus-based classes.

For-credit courses provide students with transfer credits that can be applied to a degree or certificate program if desired. Both for-credit and noncredit courses provide students with new skills and knowledge that can be applied to real-world career settings.

Online coursework can typically be completed in eight to 16 weeks, though some courses may be shorter. Both undergraduate and graduate-level courses are available, covering a wide variety of subjects such as English, education, cybersecurity, math, and psychology.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Individual Courses Online?

Some top benefits of taking individual online courses are their flexibility and applicability. Many different types of students from different walks of life can take these courses and benefit from them.

For example, if you're still in high school, or if you're homeschool student, you can take individual online courses to get a feel for the college experience and gain some college credit while you're at it. These online courses may also help you fulfill prerequisites for your intended degree program.

If you've been out of school for a while and are thinking about going back, individual courses can help ease you back into learning mode while providing you with credit you can transfer into a degree program later. You could even try out a free online course from an accredited university too.

If you're a working professional looking to get ahead, professional development courses are available to help you learn marketable skills. These courses look good on a resume and may be enough to convince potential employers that you have the right skills and training for the job.

Online learning is a great way to gain fundamental skills and give yourself an edge in both your future degree program and your career.

How Do You Enroll in an Individual College Course?

Generally speaking, schools have fewer admissions requirements for those enrolling in individual online courses. In some cases, all that may be required is a short application.

That said, each school has its own admissions policies, both for degree programs and individual courses. It's important to speak with an enrollment specialist at your school of choice for specific guidance.

If you're taking for-credit courses, you'll also want to make sure these courses will transfer into a degree or certificate program later on. Again, enrollment specialists are available to answer any questions you may have.