How Does Online Learning Work?

USF Health’s online graduate programs in health informatics cover the same rigorous curriculum as the ground-based programs and prepare you for a career just like a traditional class.

The only difference is how you learn. Online classes offer students flexibility not available in traditional classrooms, from when classes begin to when you attend lectures. Hear from Dr. Robert Deschenes about what to expect as an incoming USF Health online student.

Classes

Benefits To Online Learning

Engaging Content

Each course is taught through the University of South Florida’s online learning platform, Canvas. Content includes videos, chat rooms and discussion boards.

Flexible Schedule
Access course content anytime, anywhere and consult and collaborate with classmates and professors in real-time via email and chat room.

Weekly Assignments

Professors may assign an easy-to-follow schedule for when certain assignments are due, typically on a weekly basis.
Classes

Student Engagement

Classmates

Students interact with one another through live chat and discussion boards. Some professors may assign projects that require you to work with other students.

Faculty

Students and program faculty communicate with each other through chat, discussion boards and email. They also provide feedback through the Canvas learning platform.

Classes

Requirements

Time Requirements

Courses begin every eight weeks. The time spent on each class depends on the coursework. Professors will inform students of the time requirements for each class. Make sure you log into each class within the first three full days of class to keep from being dropped from the course.

Technology Requirements

While some courses are available via mobile, it is recommended that students use a laptop or desktop computer with a reliable, daily internet connection. View full system requirements here.

an open laptop with the elearning course for foundation of management info systems course from USF on the screen
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Academic Calendar

Fall I – 2026

Application DeadlineAugust 7, 2026
Start DateAugust 24, 2026
End DateOctober 18, 2026

Fall II – 2026

Application DeadlineOctober 2, 2026
Start DateOctober 19, 2026
End DateDecember 13, 2026

Spring I – 2027

Application DeadlineDecember 18, 2026
Start DateJanuary 11, 2027
End DateMarch 7, 2027

Get Our Program Guide

If you are ready to learn more about our programs, get started by downloading our program guide now.