The distance component of the curriculum is delivered through the University's online
student learning platform CANVAS. Using CANVAS, students can view their lectures,
work with team members on group assignments, ask questions and hold discussions with
their professors and classmates, submit homework, download course materials and stay
in touch with the program.
Students visit Auburn’s campus five times during the 21-month program. During these
short residencies, the bulk of one course is delivered in a face-to-face, classroom/workshop
setting. The other courses taken during the term will be introduced as well. The residencies
are vital to the success of this program. They give students an opportunity to get
to know one another and the faculty in a personal way. Additionally, they provide
the bridge between the distance learning periods so that students continue to feel
like a part of the University and their class without the traditional disconnect that
comes from distance-only programs.
Students will stay at The Hotel at Auburn University during their time on campus.
This facility is conveniently located adjacent to the University campus. This lodging,
as well as breakfast and lunch each day, is provided by the program. Additionally,
Groome Transportation, the airport shuttle from Hartsfield Atlanta Airport, delivers
students right to their front door.
The first residency starts with an opening banquet at The Hotel at Auburn University.
The following day the students will participate in an outdoor team-building challenge
course. This experience gives the students the opportunity to really get to know one
another. They spend the day working on group and individual challenges (mental as
well as physical). Students often say this course is one of the highlights of their
Auburn experience.
Before formal class instruction begins the students will also have an intensive orientation
to the instructional technologies of the program as well as the student information
systems on campus. It is vital that before the student leaves the first residency
on campus, they are comfortable with the distance learning environment which is so
critical to their success in the program.