* Online courses: The majority of coursework is delivered digitally via learning management systems (LMS).
* Correspondence courses: Students receive and submit assignments via mail. This method is less common now.
* Independent study: Students work largely independently with guidance from faculty via email, phone, or online conferencing.
External degree programs differ from traditional programs because they:
* Emphasize flexibility: They cater to students who can't attend classes on campus due to work, family commitments, geographical location, or other reasons.
* Often rely on self-discipline: Students need strong self-motivation and time-management skills to succeed.
* May require less or no on-campus presence: While some programs might require occasional visits for exams or labs, the core learning happens remotely.
* May utilize various assessment methods: These can include online exams, projects, essays, and portfolio submissions.
Essentially, an external degree program provides the same academic rigor and qualifications as a traditional program, but offers a different learning pathway. However, the level of support and interaction with faculty and peers can vary significantly depending on the program and institution.