Does every class last as long as a regular school semester?

Not necessarily. Given the nature of online courses, they do not have to operate by the same structures as traditional classes. Generally, the duration of an online class depends on whether it is set up as semester based.

Semester-based online courses have specified beginning and ending dates that usually coincide with the academic fall, spring and summer semesters. They are fairly structured with set deadlines, weekly assignments and scheduled exams. Although course work can usually be completed ahead of time, students who submit assignments after the due date may have points deducted or not receive credit at all. These types of online courses are similar to traditional ones in that many students are enrolled in one course at a time and may be required to interact through email or discussion boards. Semester-based courses are ideal for those students who are taking online courses in conjunction with on-campus ones, as well as for those who need a set schedule to help them stay on track and organized.

Non-semester-based online courses do not have set beginning and ending dates and students can enroll in them at any time. Although students can begin these classes whenever they want, there is usually a set period of time in which they must be completed, often about six months or so after the date of enrollment. Students who are not able to complete such courses may be given an option to pay a fee to "extend" them for a few additional months. Non-semester-based courses are designed for the individual student rather than a group. Students engage in independent study and work through the course by completing readings and assignments in a predetermined order. With no set deadlines or exam dates, non-semester-based classes give students the freedom and flexibility to work at their own pace on their own time. These types of courses are ideal for individuals who are trying to incorporate college into their work schedules.