Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the experience of taking online classes like?
Many students enjoy online learning. To find out more about online learning and if it would match your needs, click on the following link to take the distance learning self-assessment:
http://www.distance.ufl.edu/self-assessment.
http://www.distance.ufl.edu/self-assessment.
Will I have access to the professor?
University of Florida provides an online learning management system where students interact with faculty through the learning platform. All of the professors conduct online office hours, and are available via email and Skype for in-person discussions.
How will I communicate with the professor?
Professors are available via the learning platform, Skype, and through email. If appropriate, a professor can be reached by phone as well.
Are there study groups or review sessions?
Through the online environment, students can develop relationships and work together to create study groups. If you need additional help, contact your local adviser or the distance education adviser to discuss specific situations if needed.
How do I learn about financial aid?
How can I learn if I have the right prerequisites to qualify for admission as a transfer student?
When do I need to take Organic Chemistry 1 & 2 with labs?
It is strongly recommended you take these classes before beginning the 2+2 program while you are earning your AA degree, but it is possible take these courses at UF or as a transient student at your local state college after admission. Organic Chemistry is not a prerequisite, but must be taken as a requirement of graduation.
How can I access the course material?
Once you have been admitted into the program, you will register for classes through the UF Student Self Service system, and course lectures are delivered weekly, in synch with the on-campus schedule. You may watch the lectures at any time after they are available online, after logging into the UF online learning platform. You’ll receive instructions prior to your first class.
What is Transfer Preview?
The University of Florida requires all incoming degree-seeking students to complete a session called “Preview” before beginning classes. As you will take all of your classes online, you will take an online version of Preview to become familiar with the UF learning environment.
How do I take exams?
Most exams are offered online and proctored through ProctorU. The University of Florida pays for your regular access to this service, and you will receive instructions for utilizing ProctorU prior to your first exam. If any exams are not available online, you will receive specific instructions from your academic adviser to arrange scheduling for these tests at a certified proctoring location. All exams are proctored either in person or online to ensure the correct student takes the exams under the conditions established by the course professor.
What will my degree look like?
Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Science requirements, you will receive a degree from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida. Your degree will not indicate that you attended an online program, and you will be able to walk at commencement in Gainesville if you wish. Otherwise, your degree will be mailed to you.
What kinds of jobs can I get with this degree?
A degree in Microbiology & Cell Science can lead to a career in medicine, veterinary science, disease and pathogen research, clinical lab work, pharmacy, optometry, dentistry, biomedical research, and biotechnology. Microbiologists and the study of microbiology are important to health and medicine, agriculture, maintenance of the environment, as well as the biotechnology and genetic engineering industries.
Who can I contact to get more information about this online degree?