The major difference between the online and the paper correspondence method is the accessibility of the course material. With a paper course, the student must wait for materials to be mailed, while access is virtually instant with an online course. Paper materials can be purchased to supplement the online course if desired.
The BYU online program offers a variety of learning options, ranging from typical university courses to high school and middle school courses, and classes for those seeking personal enrichment. Middle school students are permitted to take high school level courses as long as they fulfill the necessary prerequisites. Personal enrichment courses include subjects such as writing, religion, family history, and personal development (see link in References).
There are three ways to register for BYU online courses. Registration can be completed by calling (800)914-8931 or (801) 422-2868; via mail by sending a letter to BYU Independent Study, 120 Harman Continuing Education Building, Provo, UT 84602-1531.
For online registration, visit the link in Resources.
Required information will include your name, Social Security number, the course registration number, credit or debit card information and ACT information if you are a high school student.
To begin a course, you will go to the log in page and enter the required 7-digit access code. To submit assignments, there are two methods available: a traditional professor-graded option, or for faster results, a "Speedback Option" is also available. Exams are proctored. High school and university students have the option of using a test center, and grades may be obtained by using the same 7-digit access code used to begin the course. Courses are to be completed within 1 year of registration.
The cost of the online program will depend on the type of student. In 2009, for university students, the cost is $141 per credit. It is $121 per half-credit and $76 per quarter-credit for high school students. Personal enrichment courses are $30; values courses are $43 apiece.