Who takes Distance and Online Education courses at the University of Manitoba?

The majority of students enrolled in Distance and Online Education (DE) courses are under 26 years old, employed, and have previous university experience. What defines successful DE students, however, is that as a group, they are highly motivated. Those who succeed are committed students who have the discipline to establish a regular study schedule and adhere to it without having to be reminded to meet deadlines by an instructor or classmates.

Can I take Distance and Online Education courses if I am an on-campus student?

Yes. Many University of Manitoba (UM) on-campus students enroll in distance education courses in order to make their schedules more flexible, to continue to study year-round, or to address their preferences for more independence in how, where, or when they learn.

Am I able to get a degree from the UM by taking Distance and Online Education courses?

Yes. You can complete a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Geography, a Bachelor of Social Work, or a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Education.You can complete your University 1 requirements, or simply take an individual course in your program.

What do Distance and Online Education courses have to offer?

• course materials containing an outline and schedule, instructional material, learning activities, and assignments
• access to reference materials through Off-Campus Library Services either on the web, by e-mail, fax, or in-person
• group discussions using web conferencing; online discussion groups, chat, and email; or in person at learning centres around the province
• opportunity for interaction with your instructor using the Canada toll-free telephone service, by e-mail or fax

How do I register for a course?

Course registration and other registration activities are completed by using Aurora Student which is the UM registration system. Please refer to Registration for further information.

Do I have the technology required to access Distance and Online Education courses?

The technologies required vary depending on the course.  A high speed Internet connection is necessary for courses that have web conferences and streaming videos, and certain software is necessary to view digitized files.

How do I obtain my textbooks and course materials?

It is your responsibility to obtain all required textbooks. You can order your textbooks online or contact the UM Book Store at 204-474-7961 (Canada toll free at 1-888-216-7011 ext. 7961). Please ensure that you purchase correct editions if you plan to acquire used textbooks.

How much do the courses cost?

Tuition fees cover your course materials, as well as instruction, and grading. You will need to purchase any required textbooks, audio/video materials, and reading packages, separately, from the UM Book Store.

What is included in a course website?

The course website allows you to read and/or download course materials, submit assignments, interact with other students and check assignment grades.  You can access your course using the UM learning management system (LMS) called D2L. 

When will my course be available?

Courses will be available by the start of term. If the term has started and it has been 48 hours since you registered, please contact DE Student Support.

How do I submit my assignments?

Unless specific instructions are outlined on the course website or your instructor's letter of introduction, assignments must be submitted online.  Assignment due dates are indicated in your course material.  You can confirm that your assignments were received and check your assignment grades using your course website.

Will I have to come to the UM campus to write exams?

If you live within the city of Winnipeg, you will be scheduled to write your final examination at the UM, Fort Garry Campus. If you live outside of the city of Winnipeg, you must apply to write your examination at a location other than the UM, Fort Garry Campus.

Do I have to be available during the day for my exams?

DE exams are scheduled during the day. Please refer to the exam schedule approximately eight weeks prior to the start of the exam period for the date and time of your exam. Campus Manitoba exams are scheduled during the day and evening and not included on the UM exam schedule(s).  Please refer to Campus Manitoba for the exam schedule.

Students must be available during the entire examination period until all examinations and test obligations have been completed.

What do I do if my mailing address changes?

You will need to use Aurora Student to change your address.

Who do I contact regarding academic or administrative matters?

If you are currently registered or considering registering for DE courses, and you have questions, DE Student Support can provide you with information and assistance, or direct you to the appropriate person in your faculty for academic advising. DE Student Support can be reached also be reached at 204-474-8012, (Canada toll free at 1-888-216-7011, ext. 8012) or in person at 166 Extended Education Complex.