Family, Youth and Community Sciences

Master of Science Online Programs Frequently Asked Questions

What are the application deadlines?
- Fall apply by June 1
- Spring apply by October 1
- Summer apply by March 15

Do I ever have to come to campus?

No, but you can if you want to, we love to meet our online students in person. You can also walk in the graduation ceremony if you’d like.

Can students complete the program part-time?

Yes, many students do not carry the full graduate course load of 9 hours per semester. You should be able to complete the degree in five semesters if you carry at least 6 hours per semester.

Do students have to log in at specific times of the day?

In general, coursework is completed asynchronously. However, many professors host weekly live discussion groups on a voluntary basis.

How do classes work?

Courses are delivered through Canvas, a learning management system (LMS) where students can access lectures, assignments, discussion forums, and other resources. Classes may include a mix of asynchronous (self-paced) and synchronous (live) sessions. A general example is that a course may be structured in such a way that students must log in one day for content, again to complete the work, and again to complete a quiz. On average, students log in 2-3 per week.

Can students take a break from the program if they need to?

Students can pause active enrollment for two semesters without any problem. For more information on how this would affect program completion time, students should speak to their advisors about their individual needs. However, if you fail to enroll in any graduate course for three consecutive semesters, you will have to apply for re-admission.

What is the lecture format?

Course structure varies. When video lectures are included they are high-quality videos filmed in a studio (approximately 20-25 minutes).

Do courses need to be completed in a certain order?

It is important and helpful that courses are completed in a certain order (though not mandatory). Once admitted, you will work with your academic advisor to determine your courses.

Can a student transfer in credits?

Yes, a student can transfer in a maximum of 9 credits with departmental approval. Not all credit transfers are guaranteed, and credits cannot be more than 7 years old or have been used to meet the requirements for a previously awarded degree.

How does the online format affect interaction with faculty and peers?

Online programs often facilitate interaction through discussion boards, group projects, virtual office hours, and live sessions. Faculty are typically accessible via email and other communication tools.

How quickly can students expect faculty members to reply to questions?

Faculty usually respond within 24-48 hours.

Are there opportunities for practical experience during the program?

Yes, the program includes opportunities for practical experience such as internships, community projects, or applied research, which can be completed in your local area.

What financial aid options are available?

Financial aid options may include federal student loans, scholarships specific to the program or department, and potentially employer tuition reimbursement. Check with the financial aid office for specific opportunities

Do you have an online library that students can access?

Yes, distance education students enjoy the same library privileges as on-campus students.

Does the University of Florida offer career placement services?

Yes, the University of Florida has a Career Resource Center available to degree seeking students. Both current students and alumni (within 1 year of graduation) can access the center.

Does the University of Florida offer technical support for online students?

Yes, online students can get help from the UFIT help desk 24/7and the e-Libraries Help Desk.

Does UF accept international students?

Yes, international students can be accepted into the program. Please refer to the International Applications page for details.

Does the Online, MS program accept students using the UF EEP tuition waiver, Santa Fe Employee Tuition Waiver, or State of Florida Employee Tuition Waiver Programs?
1. We accept the State of Florida Employee Tuition Waiver.
2. We only accept the UF Employee Tuition waiver (EEP) for students who are currently employed in Extension as Family and Consumer Sciences or 4-H agents). If this pertains to you, you must email Nicole Sloan at nlsloan@ufl.edu prior to the application deadline and let her know you plan to use EEP to be considered.
3. We do not accept the Santa Fe Waiver.
4. The on-campus master’s program in FYCS accepts EEP, State of Florida, and the Santa Fe Waiver.