Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the distance degree different from the on-campus program?

The outreach degree is the same as the on-campus degree in accreditation, content, expectations and appearance. Diplomas are also the same as the one's earned on campus.

2. How long does it usually take to complete the program?

Depending on the class load taken, the programs can be completed in as little as two years or spread out to a maximum of five years. The average outreach student is working full time while taking classes. Most outreach students complete their program of study in 3-3.5 years.

3. Do I have to come to Campus?

Engineering: Students may be required to visit campus once to complete their oral examinations and project defense.

MBA: Only one campus visit is required for MBA students. A 3 day, one time, team case analysis for Strategic Management occurs in Auburn. All MBA graduates must take this class and participate in this on-campus requirement.

5. What is the average credit load taken per semester?

Engineering or MBA: 3-6 credit hours (2 courses)

6. How do I get my books?

You may order the required texts from the Auburn University Bookstore, J & M Bookstore, or Anders Bookstore (two local private book retailers). You may also order books from any national source. However, be sure you have the correct Title/Author/ISBN number before ordering from another source outside of Auburn.

There are TWO ways to order from the AU Bookstore:

1. Go to http://www.aubookstore.com and order your book on-line by submitting the order form provided on that page. Your order may be charged to your Bursar bill or you may use your credit card.
2. Dial the toll free number to the AU Bookstore, 877-278-2337 and ask for Kim Hawkins to order your textbooks for you. She handles all of the Graduate Outreach Program's orders personally. PLEASE CALL Kim Hawkins at the AU Bookstore, Anders or J&M at their 800 numbers to report problems with book shipments or charges.

To order from J&M Bookstore: Online: http://www.jmbooks.com, or call their Toll Free Number, 800-323-1405.
To order from Anders Bookstore: Online: http://www.anders-bookstore.com, or call their Toll Free Number, 800-Anders1 (263-3771).

7. Do I need a computer?

Yes, we recommend a Pentium class pc with a modem, 32 MB of RAM and internet access via the ISP of your choice.

8. What entrance examinations are required?

The GRE is required for entrance to the Master's of Engineering programs.
The GMAT is required for entrance to the MBA, MMIS, and MAc programs.
The TOEFL is required for students that do not hold an accredited undergrad degree from a U.S. College or University.

9. Is there conditional acceptance?

Engineering: On a case by case basis some students have been allowed to begin taking classes while waiting for GRE scores to return (one semester only). This must be approved by the department's advisor.

MBA: No, all students must be fully accepted into the program before they can take classes towards their degree.

10. How do I take tests?

All students who accepted by the Graduate School, and elect to obtain their degree via the Graduate Outreach distance learning program are required to have a test proctor. This person is usually someone at the students place of employment.

A TEST PROCTOR MUST BE AT LEAST ONE LEVEL ABOVE THE STUDENT OR A HUMAN RESOURCES/TRAINING/DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE STUDENT'S COMPANY.

If a test proctor has already been approved for a particular company, this person should act as proctor for all Graduate Outreach students in that company. In the event that two or more students at the same company were to take the same courses concurrently, the approved proctor would administer the tests to both students at the same time and place. Any exceptions must be approved by the Graduate Outreach Office in advance. If a test proctor cannot be secured from within the student's company, a local librarian, or a community college testing service department may be utilized.

A test proctor must be willing and able to:

• Receive examination material from Auburn University.
• Administer examinations according to instructor guidelines included with each exam.
• Sign each exam cover sheet, attesting to the proper administration of the examination.
• Return tests to the address provided on the exam cover sheet.
• Give prior written notification (e-mail is acceptable) of discontinuation of Proctor Status. Any changes of proctor status should be addressed to Becky Young (Academic Evaluator)
• Maintain a file copy of all completed tests. This will serve as a back-up in the event of a test being lost and are to be held until a grade is assigned for the course. After a grade has been assigned for the course, the test files are to be destroyed.
• Communicate test due dates to students in a timely manner so any potential conflicts may be resolved prior to the due date.

11. Is Auburn University accredited?

Auburn University credit courses are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
In addition, the Auburn University Master of Business Administration Degree is fully accredited by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

12. Where can I stay in the Auburn-Opelika area?

Hotel/motel list

13. My courses are on DVD-R? What happened to videotape?

All of our incoming students requested the DVD format rather than videotape. The image is better, DVDs are harder to hurt and can't be erased, and the shipping is less costly. While we are allowing our current videotape students to finish their degree program with tape, we are providing only DVDs to new students.

The format is DVD-R. You should make sure your DVD player will handle this format. If you are buying a new one or a computer DVD drive, take our introductory DVD-R with you to the store and try it out.