You have been accepted into an online degree program and have utilized any transfer credits, but now what? You have the determination, and you’re fairly certain you have the discipline and time management skills necessary, but what should you focus on to truly succeed?

First of all, familiarize yourself with the college’s course management software. This is your virtual classroom and source for all school communications. Login to your classes frequently and check any school communications, such as your e-mail or a bulletin board announcement, at least twice a week.

Before classes start, if possible, preview the syllabi and order books and materials ahead of time. You don’t necessarily have to order supplies from the campus bookstore, so search the Internet for textbooks at a lower cost.

Keep a consistent schedule when it comes to class. Set aside a specific hour or certain days of the week to devote to schoolwork. If you get in the habit of doing this, it’s much easier to maintain a schedule throughout the rest of the semester.

If the online program provides chat rooms, online lectures, tutoring services, or discussion boards, make full use of these facilities. Get to know the college’s online research resources such as the library website or other databases. If you aren’t sure how to access these technologies, talk with your advisor.

Keeping an open communication with your advisor is vital. Check in every so often with an e-mail to make sure everything is on track to keep yourself up-to-date with any deadlines. And don’t forget to celebrate those accomplishments!