UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State has implemented a new remote synchronous course mode and updated three others, affecting courses starting in fall 2023. 

The genesis for the revision of course modes is rooted in experience gained through the COVID-19 pandemic. University administrators, staff and faculty of the Remote Learning Taskforce identified the need to add and modify course modes to better define remote and hybrid instruction at residential campuses.  

“The updated course modes reflect the University’s commitment to providing flexible course options and enhancing access to education,” said Yvonne Gaudelius, vice president and dean for Undergraduate Education. “We continue to meet students where they are and provide options that optimize their success.”  

Remote course modes allow instructors, in consultation with their academic and program leaders, more options for how material is delivered, such as scheduling and streaming in guest speakers, reaching students who cannot stay on campus during a summer session, and accommodating expertise for a course that is not locally available. 

The new and revised course modes will be available for fall 2023 courses and changes will be reflected in LionPATH starting immediately. Instructors and students will see new course modes in the registration and scheduling process during spring 2023. The schedule of courses for fall 2023 was posted on Wednesday, Feb. 1. Student shopping carts in LionPATH will open on Wednesday, Feb. 22. 

Overview of new and updated course modes 

In the new remote synchronous (RS) course mode, a class meets remotely at the days and times listed. The class will be synchronous, but instructors can offer up to less than 25% of the class remotely asynchronously. There will be no in-person elements in RS courses. 

Remote asynchronous (RA) will replace the WEB course mode. The class will meet 100% remotely and be asynchronous. There will be no in-person elements in RA courses. 

In the remote blended (RB) course mode, classes will meet 100% remotely and be intentionally taught remotely combining asynchronous and synchronous. There will be no in-person elements in RB courses. 

Three hybrid modes (H2, H5 and H7) were updated and will be used to schedule classes that will meet in person and remotely. In an H2 course, 25-50% of the class will be taught remotely synchronously or asynchronously. In an H5 course, 51-74% of the class will be taught remotely synchronously or asynchronously. In an H7 course, 75% or more of the class will be taught remotely synchronously or asynchronously.   

A full list of existing course modes is available at registrar.psu.edu.  

Important considerations for students 

Some groups of students, such as international and military students, have limitations on the number of remote courses that they can enroll in. Students should always consult their academic advisers if they have concerns or questions. 

International students can take up to three credits in a fully remote class per semester. Additionally: 

• Hybrid classes can count as in-person if there is a requirement to attend in-person and at least 25% of class time is required in-person. 
• A class that is in-person but also is available streaming would not be considered an in-person class. 
• International students who are part of a sponsored programs are not allowed to enroll in any fully remote classes. 
• Current reporting mechanisms will continue to be effective for the proposed modes. 
• For military learners, remote courses may affect their benefits. 

Students who receive funding through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency may be impacted by taking remote courses. For more information about student aid at Penn State, visit studentaid.psu.edu. 

For more information on course modes and registration, visit registrar.psu.edu.