Students FAQs

1. What does "shared courses" mean?
2. How can I determine if Alliance courses will count toward my degree?
3. I have already transferred in all the credit hours that my university accepts.
   Can I still use a shared course?
4. Where can I get help in registering for an Alliance course?
5. Are the Alliance courses as good as the ones offered on my home campus?
6. What are the advantages of taking Alliance courses?
7. Are all courses offered every term?
8. Can I complete shared courses at my own pace or between semesters?
9. Are all courses on-line?

1. What does "shared courses" mean?
   By "shared courses" we mean courses offered by one university member of the Illinois IDEA and taken by students enrolled at one or more other member universities. We call these "Alliance courses."
2.  How can I determine if Alliance courses will count toward my degree?
   Courses count in many ways: as general education, as requirements for majors or minors, or as electives. Your best bet is to consult your academic advisor.
3.  I have already transferred in all the credit hours that my university accepts. Can I still use a shared course?
   Actually shared courses are not transfer courses. They show on your transcript just like the courses you are taking at your home university. Again, check with your academic advisor.
4. Where can I get help in registering for a shared course?
   Every Alliance university has a Campus Coordinator who can help you. You can get contact information by  clicking on "Alliance Universities" and then on the email address of the coordinator for your university.
5. Are the Alliance courses as good as the ones offered on my home campus?
   Before a course is offered, it must pass a rigorous review by faculty members from the various member universities. If a course is used to meet a major, minor, or general education, it has gone through the full curriculum review given any other course on your campus.
6. What are the advantages of taking Alliance courses?
   Alliance courses greatly increase your options as to where and when you can take courses important to you. You may be able to meet your degree requirements by taking an Alliance course in a term when your university isn't offering it. You might take one during a term when you are absent from your home campus. Alliance courses will introduce you to uniquely qualified faculty members. Got electives? Alliance courses provide expanded choices, most with upper division or graduate credit.
7. Are all courses offered every term?
   No. You need to consult the list of courses planned for upcoming terms.
8. Can I complete shared courses at my own pace or between semesters?
   No. Shared courses follow the term schedule of the teaching university.
9. Are all courses on-line?
   Yes.

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