OUR VIEW: Online classes too expensive

With winter weather bearing down on us at a rapid rate, most groan at the thought of getting out of bed and walking to campus. Thoughts of taking classes in pajama pants and the comfort of our own beds offers a temporary sanctuary from reality.

Most of us have considered at least once, the luxury of online courses while attending Utah State University. Online classes are an alternative for students to complete required courses without leaving their computer – however the high cost results in the majority of us facing frostbite rather than spending the extra money.

Currently, online courses are supported by USU Extension and are separate from main campus tuition costs. For the average online three-credit course, the cost is more than $400, which seems slightly expensive.

Many students are working and have other time constraints that prevent them from taking classes on campus. Online courses offer solutions to many student’s problems, however, most of us do not have the extra money to pay for a $400 dollar course, especially when we’re paying a separate cost of tuition as well.

Maybe the university could combine and support the online courses, which includes the Web site support, faculty and staff support that participate in this program, to help alleviate the financial stresses of online courses.

By lowering the cost of online courses, more students would be able to use this additional resource to finish their degrees faster and in a means that decreases stress for many.

Anything to help students be less stressed with class schedules and time constraints would aid in student productivity. Online courses should be more of a resource than an unattainable option for students.