How Much to Audit a Class at Liberty University: A Deep Dive into the World of “Special Student” Status
Alright, folks, let’s talk about Liberty University. It’s a place of learning, faith, and, according to their website, “championship-level athletics.” But what if you’re not quite ready to commit to the full college experience? What if you just want a taste of the action? That’s where auditing courses comes in.
So, you’re thinking about taking a class at Liberty University, but you’re not looking for credit? You just want to learn some new stuff, maybe brush up on some skills, or maybe even just sit in on a class out of curiosity (hey, no judgement here). Let’s dive into the world of auditing courses at Liberty University and see if it’s the right fit for you.
The Golden Ticket: Special Student Status
At Liberty University, auditing a class means you’re a “Special Student.” It’s a fancy way of saying you’re not officially enrolled, but you still get to sit in on classes like a regular student. Think of it as the “VIP pass” to the academic world, except you don’t get the fancy refreshments and the only thing you’re getting a pass on is the graded assignments.
Now, the big question: How much does it cost to audit a course? Well, Liberty University charges a flat rate of $75 per credit hour. That’s right, you can essentially “buy” knowledge for a relatively reasonable price. Think of it as a personal investment in your brainpower, a little something to impress those at your next cocktail party.
But Wait, There’s More!
So, you’re getting a great deal on the class itself, but what about those pesky textbooks? Liberty University has you covered there, too. They charge a $1,410 annual fee for textbooks and online content. This fee covers everything you’ll need for your audited courses, including online materials. Now, if you’re like me, you’re probably thinking, “That’s a lot of money for a textbook. I could buy a used car with that!” But hey, knowledge is power, right?
Technology Fee: The Price of Progress
Of course, no good education experience is complete without the latest technology. Liberty University understands this, so they charge a $349 technology fee per semester to help cover the costs of their fancy online platform and other technological wonders. You know, the things that make learning fun and engaging, and not just staring at a screen for hours on end.
The Fine Print: What You Should Know
Now, before you go booking your dream auditing schedule, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. Remember, auditing a course means you’re not earning college credit. You get the full classroom experience, but you won’t be getting a shiny new grade at the end of the semester. It’s like going to a concert but not getting a souvenir – you’ll be left with just the memories (and maybe a bit less money in your wallet).
Here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Attendance is mandatory: You can’t just show up whenever you feel like it. You still have to attend all classes and participate in discussions. Think of it as a commitment to your personal growth, even if it doesn’t come with a grade.
- No assignments or exams: You can chill out on those pesky essays and exams. But hey, you’re still expected to actively participate in class discussions and learn the material. Think of it as a chance to truly soak up knowledge without the added stress of grades.
- You can’t use your audit for anything: Sorry, folks, but you can’t use your audited courses to transfer credits to another school. Think of it as a secret society of knowledge, where you get the inside scoop without the official membership.
The “How-To” Guide to Auditing at Liberty University:
So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and embark on your auditing journey at Liberty University. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your experience as smooth as possible:
- Contact the Office of Special Students: Give them a ring or shoot them an email. They’re the experts on all things “Special Student” and can guide you through the enrollment process.
- Choose your courses wisely: Take a look at the course catalog and pick classes that pique your interest. Think of it as a menu of knowledge, where you get to choose your favorite dishes.
- Pay your fees: Get ready to part with some cash. Remember, the $75 per credit hour, the $1,410 textbook fee, and the $349 per semester technology fee all add up. Think of it as an investment in your future, even if it’s just a taste of the academic world.
- Attend classes and enjoy the learning experience: Now you get to embrace the thrill of the classroom. Think of it as a personal adventure, where you’re learning new things and expanding your horizons.
The Final Verdict: Is Auditing at Liberty University Worth It?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to audit a course at Liberty University is a personal one. It depends on your individual goals and budget. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging way to learn something new without the pressure of grades, then auditing might be the perfect option for you. Just remember, it’s like a delicious dessert – it’s best enjoyed in moderation. There’s no shame in indulging your intellectual curiosity, even if it means a few extra dollars out of your pocket.
So, go forth and discover the wonders of auditing courses at Liberty University. You might just find yourself surprised by what you learn. And if you do, remember to share your knowledge with the world. We could all use a little bit more wisdom in our lives.