Search Colleges & Universities

Direct and Elective Coursework Programs

Coursework is the generalized term for the required participation of a student during a high school or college class. It may involve written papers, laboratory projects, speeches, practical demonstrations of the class material, or a combination of all of these. The coursework may be obligatory to satisfy the specific requirements of the major field of study, or it may be of an elective nature, providing enrichment for the general diploma or degree program. When combined with examinations, coursework is the principal means by which a student is evaluated in standard, adult, or continued education.

Types of Coursework:

Traditionally, coursework involves the student preparing an assignment for the instructor, who uses it to evaluate their research, organization, and presentation skills.
  • Direct Coursework:
    Direct coursework is done in response to a specific set of instructions in the class assignment. It can involve responding to questions or a detailed framework for research.
  • Elective Coursework:
    With instructional guidance, the student embarks on a field of research, experimentation, artistic expression, or hands-on experience in an area that complements the main subject matter and enriches the student's comprehensive education.

Training Programs in the U.S.: Find Schools Near You

University of Phoenix

Request Info

At University of Phoenix, we believe everyone deserves access to higher education.

Campus Locations:
  • Online
Programs:
  • Continuing Education for Educators.
WyoTech

Request Info

Gear up for a better future at WyoTech.

Campus Locations:
  • Fremont
Programs:
  • Motorcycle Technology
  • Advanced Automotive Diagnostics
Everest College

Request Info

Leave that dead-end job behind with training from Everest College.

Campus Locations:
  • San Jose
Programs:
  • Medical General
  • Diploma - Medical Insurance Billing & Coding
Ashworth College

Request Info

Earn your degree or diploma on your schedule and succeed at Ashworth College.

Campus Locations:
  • Online
Programs:
  • Travel Agent
  • PC Service and Repair
ITT Technical Institute

Request Info

Are you interested in pursuing a high-tech career? Getting an education from ITT Tech is a great place to start!

Campus Locations:
  • Clovis
  • Lathrop
  • Oxnard
  • Anaheim
  • San Diego
  • San Bernardino
  • West Covina
  • Rancho Cordova
  • Sylmar
  • Torrance
Programs:
  • School of Business
  • School of Information Technology
Heald College

Request Info

Get the real-world education you need to succeed at Heald College.

Campus Locations:
  • Hayward
  • Milpitas
Programs:
  • Office Skills
Carrington College California

Request Info

Ready for a rewarding career? Start with a certificate or degree from Carrington College California.

Campus Locations:
  • San Jose
Programs:
  • Certificate in Architectural and Design Drafting
  • Certificate in Dental Assisting
The Art Institutes

Request Info

Develop your portfolio at The Art Institutes, and get a competitive advantage.

Campus Locations:
  • Sunnyvale
  • San Francisco
  • Sacramento
Programs:
  • Baking & Pastry (D)
  • Fashion Retailing (D)
Westwood College

Request Info

Westwood College is an institution of higher learning dedicated to providing quality, career-focused undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to launch, enhance, or change careers.

Campus Locations:
  • Online
Programs:
  • Diploma - Medical Insurance Coding and Billing
Allied Schools

Request Info

Whether you want to train for a new career, advance within your current company, or simply learn new skills to stay competitive in today's job market, Allied's distance education training can help!

Campus Locations:
  • Online
Programs:
  • Virginia Real Estate License
  • Quickbooks Course