Frequently Asked Questions

Check Out Some Commonly Asked Questions About Our Online Program

• I am interested in pursuing this program. How do I get started?
• Am I able to transfer training/college transfer credits towards earning my degree?
• What should I look for in a distance education degree program?
• How much does the program cost?
• Why is regional accreditation important?
• Is online learning for me?
• I have an extremely busy work and family life and cannot attend classes each week. Is the Hofstra Computer Science program for me?
• How many hours per week will I need to study?
• What is Blackboard?
• What are the computer requirements for participation in the program?

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I am interested in pursuing this program. How do I get started?

An Enrollment Advisor is prepared to answer all of your questions and walk you through the steps necessary to apply to this program. You can click on the Request Information button to the left to have an Enrollment Advisor contact you or you may call 1-800-HOFSTRA to speak to us today.

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Am I able to transfer training/college transfer credits towards earning my degree?

Students entering Hofstra programs may transfer a certain number of credits toward the degree. Contact a Hofstra Enrollment Advisor at 1-800-HOFSTRA today to learn more.

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What should I look for in a distance education degree program?

The strongest distance education programs are those with proven track records, experience low student attrition rates, receive consistently high student satisfaction scores and require minimal travel. Hofstra has all of these important attributes. Its e-learning expertise has been successfully demonstrated through its online program.

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How much does the program cost?

Information about program costs is available through our Tuition & Financial Aid page.

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Why is regional accreditation important?

Regional accreditation is the primary type of institutional accreditation recognized in the United States. Some institutions with online programs hold national accreditation rather than regional accreditation because they are unwilling or unable to meet the rigorous standards of regional accreditation. You also should also know that many educational institutions holding regional accreditation do not recognize credits or degrees earned at institutions that are nationally accredited. This is very important if you plan on transferring from one college or university to another part way through a degree program, or if you plan to pursue additional degrees at different colleges or universities.

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Is online learning for me?

Students who graduate from Hofstra's online program receive the exact same degree as students who attend classes on our campus. The diploma does not distinguish if you were an online student or a traditional campus-based student. The degree you earn is exactly the same. In fact, we strongly encourage you to attend your graduation ceremony to celebrate your accomplishments.

Online learning is ideal for working professionals because it provides the opportunity to study when it is convenient for you. The flexibility this program offers makes it possible for even the busiest individuals to earn their degree. Add to that, the many levels of unprecedented support that you will receive throughout the program and it is easy to see that this may be just the educational model you seek.

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I have an extremely busy work and family life and cannot attend classes each week. Is the Hofstra computer science program for me?

Yes. You can complete your studies at your convenience in the comfort of your own home. No campus visits are required. You will have access to your coursework 24 hours a day, which can be completed around your busy schedule.

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How many hours per week will I need to study?

On an average, most students spend 15-20 hours per week studying to ensure completion of 3 credits each term. However, this can vary greatly, depending on your personal and professional circumstances.

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What is Blackboard?

Blackboard is a classroom-based software program that provides the instructor and student with a user-friendly environment that allows for a number of different learning experiences and environments. The features includes discussion forums, in-class mail, student presentations, online testing, posting of assignments and lectures, Internet relay chat, online grade book and many other features that an instructor may make available to the student. Not every course will have all of the same features. Blackboard has been a leader in education course management software since 1995 and is the most widely used tool for providing online education.

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What are the computer requirements for participation in the program?

To participate in the online Master of Science in Computer Science program, you will need a computer system with current specifications.