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Online Learning Experience

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Learn Online with Southwest Minnesota State University

Whether you’re enrolling in a degree program for the first time or completing a degree you previously started, learning online with SMSU provides the flexibility you need to be successful. Our online programs offer the same rigorous curriculum delivered on campus, plus the convenience of learning on your schedule from the location of your choice.

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Meet Your SMSU Support Team

From the moment you submit your application to the day you graduate, SMSU’s team of experts will support you through your academic journey.

Once you’re accepted into SMSU, you’ll be contacted by an enrollment counselor who will help you choose a degree path and register for courses.

  • Receive expert advising each semester
  • Track your progress after each course as you step closer to graduation

You’ll be paired with a personal success coach who will support you in staying on track to graduate.

  • Chat with your success coach on your schedule
  • Share with them your success and challenges from the location of your choice

You’ll also be assigned a faculty advisor to help you plan a degree path that meets your specific situation and needs. They will guide you throughout your educational journey.

  • Explore your course options
  • Acquire the resources you need to succeed

Student Resources

SMSU is committed to providing you with the academic support and resources you need to succeed as a student and also as a professional after graduation. We’ll be with you every step of the way, so you can feel confident in choosing SMSU for your education.

Get the Support You Need

From tech assistance to student support expertise, SMSU’s team is at your service every step of the way. Learn about the support teams you’ll have access to as an online student.

Receive a free transcript evaluation to determine which of your previously earned credits are eligible for transfer. Save time by picking your degree up where you left off. Save money by applying your previously earned credits.

The Technology Resource Center (TRC) Help Desk is available during the week, weekends, and holidays. TRC is available by phone or email and is very responsive and user-friendly. The Minnesota State College & University System also has technical support for students.

You’ll be assigned an online student services coordinator to answer any questions and assist with any challenge that might arise while completing your degree.

Continuous Student Support, Even After Graduation

As an SMSU online student, you’ll receive support throughout your college experience and after you graduate. Our career services team is committed to helping you succeed as a professional with services that include:

SMSU’s team will help you understand the career paths that follow each degree to ensure you choose the right program for your goals.

Explore professional opportunities as you approach graduation and receive expert planning support.

Learn about graduate programs that can help you achieve your long-term career goals and receive support when submitting applications.

SMSU is committed to helping you succeed as a student and as a professional after graduation. Our career services team can assist you in finding exclusive internship and employment opportunities and getting connected to local professionals in your field.

Why Choose Southwest Minnesota State University Online?

Rigorous Curriculum

With an online degree from SMSU, you’ll experience the same quality education received by traditional learners. Each of our online degree programs are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and follow the same challenging curriculum delivered to students on campus.

Expert Faculty

Our faculty are top-skilled in their fields and are committed to helping every student succeed academically and professionally. The same educators who lecture on campus also provide instruction for our online programs.

Flexibility

SMSU understands the challenges that come with balancing your professional schedule with your education, which is why we incorporate flexibility into all of our online programs.

Learn from Anywhere

Our online programs can be accessed from any place an internet connection is available. Access your courses from the location of your choice and study on the go.

Technology Requirements

While an internet connection and internet-capable device are the basic requirements for learning online with SMSU, other devices and technology programs may also be required. The following are suggested materials for our online programs:

Internet AccessConnection speed should be at least 10 Mbps. We recommend a fixed-point, high-speed connection, although satellite and mobile broadband may suffice
Operating SystemWindows 10 or latest Mac OS
Memory16GB
Processor
  • Minimum: Intel Core i5 dual-core processor (10th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 5000 series
  • Recommended: Intel Core i5 quad-core processor (13th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 7000 series or later generations
Anti-VirusWindows Defender or equivalent
Possible Additional Hardware
  • USB headset with microphone
  • Webcam
  • Speakers
  • Internet service that is capable of streaming video and uploading documents
Possible Additional Software and ApplicationsThe following additional software and applications are either free or provided by SMSU:
  • Microsoft Office
  • Google Chrome
  • Adobe Reader
  • Zoom
  • Desire to Learn (D2L) is the current learning management platform for the online learning courses. Google Chrome is the recommended browser to access D2L