Institutional Learning Outcomes

Graduates of all Sonoran University of Health Sciences programs are expected to demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and attitudes upon completion of their prescribed program:

1. Depth and breadth of knowledge of their discipline 
2. Application of basic sciences to their field of study
3. Ethics and professionalism
4. Skills for scholarship and lifelong learning

Distance Learning

In addition to traditional campus-based courses, Sonoran University offers courses via online learning and distance education. Online learning can occur in different forms, from 100% online (online) to partially online (hybrid or blended) courses. Distance education refers to a degree or a course that “deliver(s) instruction to students who are separated from the instructor or instructors” (The Higher Learning Commission Glossary) with at least  75% of interaction and instructions in a distance education course occurring online with faculty and students physically separated from one another. Sonoran University adheres to best practices in online program and course design, delivery, and assessment and ensures that program and course quality and educational standards are consistent regardless of the mode of course delivery.

Within an online or partially online course, course content may be engaged by students through synchronous (e.g., attending live virtual class sessions) and/or asynchronous (e.g., viewing a pre-recorded video lecture) learning opportunities.

Online Courses

Online learning consists of all e-learning (web-based) instruction and activities. In 100% online courses; there are no in-person requirements within the course. All communication and coursework are completed through the learning management system with synchronous and/or asynchronous learning opportunities included.

Hybrid Courses

Blended (hybrid) learning consists of traditional in-person classroom instruction mixed with e-learning (web-based) instruction and/or activities. In-person, classroom-based learning time is scheduled along with web-based or out-of-class work; typically, in-person class time is replaced with web-based or out-of-class work. Communications and coursework are enhanced by making use of Canvas, MySonoran, and other online education tools.

Technology Requirements

Students enrolled in Sonoran University courses must have access to hardware, software, and internet bandwidth that meets the minimum technology and computer requirements that will allow them to successfully navigate Sonoran University’s technology systems. To view recommended minimum requirements and evaluate their device(s), students should visit the Technology Check website.

Course Access

Students will have access to online courses upon registration; however, course content may not be available prior to the start of the quarter.

Student Authentication

The United States Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008, Public Law 110-315, mandates that institutions validate that the person enrolled in and receiving credit for the online course is the same person participating in and completing the online course. To authenticate student identity in online courses, Sonoran University uses a secure login with username and password to authenticate student identity. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), methods used to authenticate student identity in online and distance learning courses will protect the privacy of student information.

Privacy

Students should be aware that information posted using course tools in courses with online components, including discussion forums, blogs, or videos, is available to the instructor and fellow students. Students should refrain from posting personal or confidential information to safeguard their privacy.