While Mason's online classes are no different from classes you attend when it comes to academic credit, there are some differences when using VA benefits.
Students taking online courses might see an impact on their monthly housing allowance (MHA). The effective MHA rate for those enrolled solely in distance learning is half of the national average MHA.
You're considered to be an in-residence student if you have at least one regularly scheduled class during the term or period of enrollment. Hybrid training that combines residential and distance learning are certified as in residence if at least one session meets the definition of a standard term (i.e. one 50-minute class).
Example 1: A 3-credit undergraduate course requires students to physically attend class once a week for 1-hour. All the rest of the training is conducted online. This is certified as in-residence.
Example 2: A 3-credit undergraduate course requires students to meet in class for the first day of term and attend all mid-terms and finals in person. All the rest of the training is conducted online. This is certified as in-residence.
Example 3: A 3-credit graduate course meets once at the beginning of the term. All the rest of the training is conducted online. This is certified as in-residence.
If this will have an impact on your decision on which type of class to take, it's best to discuss this with the Office of Military Services before enrolling in an online class. Call 703-993-1316.