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Online Learning Experience

The Vanguard Online Experience

An online course lasts 4 months, and each course is divided into 4 to 6 learning modules. Each module has assigned reading from a purchased textbook and course notes that can be read online or downloaded to a computer. After completing the readings, there is an essay, discussion paper, or writing assignment that the student uploads to the professor through our confidential learning management software.

Assignments are due 2 to 3 weeks apart, according to a schedule that is set at the start of the course. They are graded within 5 business days and returned to the student by the professor. The grades are posted online for the student to track their progress. At the end of the course, the final grade is posted and course credit is awarded to the student.

Students who have questions about their course, the reading material or the assignments message their professor and will receive a response within a day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your question is important to us. If you can't find the answer to your question in this list, please do not hesitate to contact Enrolment Services at enrolment.counselor@vanguardcollege.com.

 

How much are courses?

Tuition Fees - $801
Course Fees - $87
TOTAL COST - $888 plus textbooks and shipping
 
Textbooks and Shipping

Textbooks can be purchased from our online Bookstore using your Populi account. Textbook estimates are not included. Textbooks can range from $11-200 per course. Shipping ranges from $15-$75 depending on region and timeline.

Orientation to Online Learning Course
Flat Fee - $125
*Please note this course is not covered by student loan funding and must be paid for and completed prior to registering for other courses

When can I start?

Vanguard Online is moving to a trimester system starting September 2025. Start dates for new students will be September, January, and May. Your first course will be a short Orientation to Vanguard Online, and then you will start your regular courses. You must pass the Orientation course with a grade of 80% to continue.

 

*The Orientation course is not covered by student loans.

Can I just take one or two courses?

If you do not wish to study full-time you are advised to take one course at a time through Open Studies.

If you decide to start with open studies, you have the option to complete up to five courses before you will be asked to register in a certificate, diploma or degree.

Please Note: Online students are required to take an Orientation to Online Learning course before starting their online studies.

What is the expected workload?

An online course has a different "feel" than a traditional college course. A typical in-person college course requires you to read multiple textbooks, write papers, and complete a number of examinations before receiving course credit.

Vanguard Online utilizes an experiential learning model, and you can expect a mixture of learning content and relevant experiential learning to understand real-life application of course material. This progressive learning model builds upon previous learning with skill-based activities. You can expected an average workload of 6-10 hours/week.

Will there be live class times or group work?

No. Vanguard Online courses are designed so that the student can work independently and not need to wait on a group to complete projects.

Student can complete course work whenever makes sense in their schedule. Some courses have pre-recorded audio and video resources that can be viewed at any time, so that students don't always need to take part in a live session to move forward in a course.

What kind of internships or practicum placements are available?

Practical learning opportunities within a local church or para-church organization are an essential part of the online curriculum, and are part of your learning every semester.

Practicum courses include an evaluative/educational learning component alongside 4-6 hours/week of required volunteer work each semester. 

Do I need to buy any special computer software?

No. Whether students have a Mac, PC, or Tablet, anything will work as long as it has a word processor and can connect to an internet browser. We ask that students upload their assignments in MS Word Format. Vanguard also uses a learning management platform called Populi for managing course material and communication, which can be accessed via an internet browser or as an app on Google Play or the Apple App Store.