How self-paced learning could help you pursue your goals

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

If you’re thinking about pursuing your degree online, you’ve probably considered the ways that online learning can offer more flexibility for where and when you learn.

For independent, organized and highly motivated students, the Capella FlexPath learning format could be a good fit. Available in select programs, FlexPath allows students to set their own deadlines within each course and complete assessments at their own pace. Tuition is a flat rate for each 12-week billing session (books, supplies and other fees apply), and students can finish a course and start their next one without waiting for the next 12-week billing session to start. Completing courses fast can help lower their degree costs.

Even though the FlexPath format is designed for people who want to go at their own pace, that doesn’t mean they go it alone. Capella provides plenty of support and assistance to FlexPath students, including a direct connection to a personal coach who helps the student navigate their program. “It’s so different than traditional learning,” says FlexPath academic coach Karla Barbee. “But for the right kind of person, it can be very exciting. The best part of my job is seeing people grow, succeed and achieve their dream of getting their degree via FlexPath.”
 

Here are answers to some common questions about FlexPath.

What do FlexPath coaches do?

FlexPath academic coaches help students understand their program requirements, navigate challenges and understand Capella policies. Learn more about academic support.

Barbee has some insights into how FlexPath students connect with academic coaches. “Enrollment counselors work with students the first two weeks of their program. Students get an email introducing their coach and recommending the student schedule a call early in their program to set them up for success.”

Coaches discuss resources students can use, such as the Capella library, research resources and writing coaches. The goal is to help students have a smooth start and get a solid foundation as they progress in their program. 

How do students connect with FlexPath coaches?

Capella’s curriculum is centered on competency-based education, focusing on practical and relevant skills that can be applied to real workplace settings. For FlexPath, this means that coursework uses assessments, where faculty evaluate the student’s mastery of the topic. These will determine whether they’ve demonstrated competency in relevant professional skills.

How long does it take to earn a degree in FlexPath?

FlexPath academic coaches discuss personal goals with students and can offer advice around setting target dates for assessments as well as strategies for moving through their program. How quickly a student completes courses paired with the number of transfer credits a student enters their program with will determine the amount of time it will take to earn the degree.

Want to explore how FlexPath works? Try it out with our FlexPath Trial Course.

What are some tips for students considering FlexPath?

FlexPath can be the right fit for students who know how to incorporate good time management skills. They find ways to balance time between their work, their family and their education.

While FlexPath allows students to set their own deadlines within a 12-week billing session, students can make the most of FlexPath by figuring out target dates for assessments on a schedule that works for them.

“Time management is important,” Barbee says. “People lose track of their time, and their priorities may shift from week to week. But with FlexPath you should commit to your deadlines and stick to them to stay on track.”

Get time management tips for online education.

If a student needs extra time to master a new topic, support is available to help them work out a schedule. Students have three attempts to complete their assessments, so if they aren’t satisfied with their performance, they can get feedback and take additional time with the material before trying again.

Ready to pursue your professional goals? Explore online degree programs at Capella.