Frequently Asked Questions

• What technological savvy is required?
• What software/hardware does University of Phoenix Online recommend?
• Do I need to be online at specific times during training?
• How much time will I need to devote to training?
• Will I be charged for training?
• How much time does it take to teach an online course?
• Can I teach with only a bachelor's degree?
• I have not taught at a college or university. Am I still eligible?
• Do I need to be a resident of the United States?

Teaching an online class does require some computer literacy, but by no means is teaching limited to those who have achieved the status of computer genius. If you can send email with attachments, participate in and moderate online forums and access information posted online that you’ll need to facilitate your course, you’re off to a good start.

As an online instructor you’ll be expected to be able to complete research through the Internet, and incorporate it into your course. We use Microsoft® Office programs including Word and PowerPoint in most courses. You might also need to use CD ROMs or software more specific to the subjects you’re asked to teach. Please be sure to install and use an anti-virus application to prevent receiving or spreading viruses.

The computer setup required to be a succesful online instructor is fairly basic. For starters, your processor and operating system should be able to support most Microsoft Office programs and any other software relevant to teaching your course.

We recommend using a computer with a processor of 1.6 GHz or faster and 256MB RAM or greater. Your hard drive should have at least 20 GB, and you’ll want to have a high-speed Internet connection or a 56.6 kps modem.

Add a sound card and speakers to your computer if you don’t already have them. We also recommend having your monitor’s screen resolution set to 1024X768 pixels per inch or greater, and make sure you have a video card installed.

No, our Web-based classrooms facilitate asynchronous participation.

Active participation is expected five out of seven days each week throughout the four-week evaluation.

No. There is no cost for training during the hiring process.

While new faculty members typically spend 15 to 25 hours per week teaching their courses, it does get easier over time. Preparing for your first course will require reviewing the curriculum and organizing course notes. You will facilitate weekly discussions relating to course content and each week you will need to provide detailed feedback to students. Weekly grades and feedback should also address all weekly assignments, such as participation and discussion question responses, even if no major assignments are due that week.

No. To maintain its accreditation, University of Phoenix requires that all instructors have an advanced degree.

Yes. What is most important is that you are working in your field of study and expertise, that you have a passion for helping others learn, and that your qualifications are a good fit with our needs at the time.

Yes. You must live in the United States and have an unrestricted work visa if you are not a U.S. citizen. You must present your valid Social Security card for payroll purposes before you can teach your first class.