Course Delivery Method Definition

A course may be classified as a distance education course, a hybrid education course, or a face-to-face education course:

• A distance education course is defined as 50% or more of the credit hours are taught through distance delivery.
  • Distance delivery means that the student and instructor are not both physically present at the same time and place. Examples are course activities offered through the use of television, audio, or computer transmission including open broadcast, closed circuit, cable, microwave, or satellite, audio conferencing, or computer conferencing.

• A face-to-face education course is defined as 70% or more of the credit hours are taught through face-to-face delivery.
  • Face-to-face delivery means that the student and instructor are both physically present at the same time and place.
• A hybrid education course is one in which there is a blend of distance delivery and face-to-face delivery methods. The course meets neither the distance education nor the face-to-face definition.

Per the United States Department of Homeland Security, only one class or three credits during each term may count toward a full course of study for an F-1 student if the class is taken online or through distance learning. If you are unsure which courses count toward the requirements for a full course of study, talk to your designated school official (DSO)  to verify your schedule meets the requirements to maintain your status.