Center for Teaching and Learning

Distance Education Overview

Distance Education

The Center for Teaching and Learning coordinates distance education at SFA.  

SFA has a strong tradition of excellence in distance education, using cutting-edge technology to bring educational opportunities to students throughout East Texas and around the world.

SFA's online programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Additionally, individual programs are also accredited by national accrediting bodies in their specific fields. SFA online programs are quite affordable and are priced the same as campus-based courses with an additional fee of only $33 per credit hour. Students living outside the state of Texas may also be eligible for a discount off our normal out-of-state tuition. 

SFA's online instructors are trained and certified to teach effectively online and bring years of professional and teaching experience to our courses. Learn more about our Online Instructor Certification.

Distance Education Definitions

Distance education definitions are set by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and codified in the Texas Administrative Code.

A Distance Education Degree or Certificate Program is a program in which a student may complete a majority (more than 50%) of the credit hours required for the program through distance education courses. Two categories of distance education programs are defined:

  • 100-Percent Online Program: A degree program in which students complete 100 percent of the credit hours required for the program through 100-percent online courses. Requirements for on-campus or in-person orientation, testing, academic support services, internships/fieldwork, or other non-instructional activities do not exclude a program from this category.
  • Hybrid Program: A degree program in which students complete 50 percent or more and less than 100 percent of the credit hours required for the program through distance education courses.

A Distance Education Course is a course in which a majority (more than 50%) of the instruction occurs when the student(s) and instructor(s) are not in the same place. Two categories of distance education courses are defined:

  • 100-Percent Online Course: A distance education course in which 100 percent of the instructional activity takes place when the student(s) and instructor(s) are in separate physical locations. Requirements for on-campus or in-person orientation, testing, academic support services, internships/fieldwork, or other non-instructional activities do not exclude a course from this category.
  • Hybrid Course: A distance education course in which more than 50 percent but less than 100 percent of instructional activity takes place when the student(s) and instructor(s) are in separate physical locations.

For additional information, please email ctl@sfasu.edu.