Courses & Development

If you’re an aspiring college student and preparing for your first year of higher education, you may be stressing over a few courses. For many students, those courses are mathematics. 

The idea of taking a college-level math course – especially if you struggled with math in high school – can be daunting. You may be wondering what math courses are required in college, how to get better at math, and what tips you may need to ensure you survive college math. 

Whether you’re thinking about your gen ed math requirements or considering a math-heavy major, here are some tips for how to study math effectively to set yourself up to succeed. 

Types of Math Courses 

No matter your major, you’ll probably be required to take some entry-level math courses in college. If you plan on majoring in something that requires more advanced math classes, these entry-level courses are a stepping stone to more challenging concepts. 

Though the specific courses can vary from school to school, here are the general types of math courses at the college level: 

• Algebra I: Algebra is a branch of mathematics that studies algebraic equations. Though many students take algebra in high school, college algebra is more advanced. 
• Algebra II: Algebra II expands on the concepts from Algebra I and introduces more complex topics to prepare for high-level courses. 
• Trigonometry: Trigonometry is a branch of math that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. 
• Geometry: Geometry is a branch of math that deals with the properties of space, such as the distance, shape, and size of figures. 
• Precalculus: Precalculus encompasses the courses that prepare for the study of calculus, such as algebra and geometry. 
• Calculus: Calculus is a branch of math that deals with the rates of change and introduces abstract thought necessary for higher-level math and science courses. 

More advanced math courses, such as combinatorics and topology, are reserved for math and some tech-focused majors. However, some majors will require more math courses as gen eds to prepare you for degree-specific courses, such as the hard sciences, accounting, and data science. 

What Is the Easiest Math Course in College? 

Generally, algebra is the easiest course for students with a weak background in math. It covers some of the same concepts that are initially learned in high school, then expands on them, so it’s often easier for students to succeed in algebra. 

If you need a refresher on math, a course like Introduction to College Mathematics offers basic fundamental math and algebra with real-world scenarios to build your math confidence and transition into other college-level math courses. 

What Is the Hardest Math Course in College? 

Math 55 at Harvard University is famously known as “the hardest math course.” Otherwise known as honors advanced calculus, Math 55 is designed to expedite undergraduate math learning by compressing four semesters of work into two semesters. 

However, Math 55 isn’t offered everywhere. Overall, Calculus 3 is one of the most challenging types of math and requires a lot of work and critical thinking, but it can vary by student. 

Tips to Excel in Math Courses 

If you’re wondering, “how can I get better at math” or “how to survive college math courses,” here are some valuable math study tips for college math courses: 

Show Up for Class 

Missing math courses, even just one, can leave you behind and struggling to catch up. All courses build on previous course concepts, but math especially, and you need to attend your classes and do the reading to stay on pace. 

Make Time for Practice 

Math requires not only doing the homework but spending time thinking about the material and practicing. The more you put into practice, the more comfortable you may become with the coursework. Practice problems over and over until you’ve mastered solving them and getting the correct answer. 

Space Out Your Math Courses 

Trying to take too many math courses at once – especially if you struggle with math concepts  or have anxiety around math – could hurt your efforts. Speak with your advisor and space out your required math courses to lighten your workload and ensure that you’re taking them in the proper order. 

Ask for Help 

It’s easy to fall behind in math. If you don’t understand something, ask your professor for help as soon as possible. This ensures that you can work through the concepts and gain a complete understanding before moving onto the next module. 

Consider Study Groups 

Study groups can be especially valuable for math courses. Even if you’re an independent learner, working with others can help you master the concepts. You’ll not only learn from your peers who are more confident with the material, but you can deepen your understanding by helping others.   

Choose the Right Study Environment 

You need to think deeply to learn math. If you’re surrounded by noise and distractions, it can break your concentration and make it more difficult to work out problems. Make sure you have a good study environment before your class begins. 

Rely on Summary Sheets 

Note-taking and summary sheets are your best friend with math. Use sheets to list theorems, properties and formulas, important terms, and example problems. Review your lists regularly to stay sharp with older concepts. 

Consider Online College Math Courses on Self-Paced Platforms 

If you’re nervous about math courses, self-paced online math courses for college credit can be just what you need. You can work through the course assignments at a pace that’s comfortable and practice until you get the concepts down. 

Another benefit of self-paced online courses is that you have the flexibility to complete reading and assignments when you’re at your best. It’s important to have a sharp mind when you tackle math problems, so having the option to do the work when you feel the most focused and productive can be one of the most valuable math hacks. 

Math Study Platforms 

Wondering how to get better at math for adults? Fortunately, math education has become more accessible than ever with digital learning platforms. You can learn on your own in the comfort of your own home, whether you’re preparing for college or supplementing your learning. 

Here are some excellent math study platforms to try: 

• Khan Academy: This platform offers free educational content with an extensive math curriculum, interactive exercises, and video lessons. 
• Brilliant: This platform develops problem-solving skills using basic math curriculum and real-world scenarios that put abstract concepts into approachable context with puzzles, quizzes, and challenges. 
• Mathway: This platform offers a user-friendly interface with math problems and step-by-step solutions and explanations. 
• Wiingy: This platform is among the best because it offers one-on-one tutoring sessions, interactive learning tools, and flexible scheduling. 

Ready for College Math Courses? 

If you’re stressing your college-level math courses, Sophia offers self-paced online math courses that are ACE recommended for college credit. Try out the courses up until the first challenge with a free trial today! 

Information technology (IT) is essential to virtually every industry, including government, healthcare, finance, retail, law, education, and media and entertainment. And as emerging technologies continue to evolve with new industry applications, the demand for IT professionals will grow along with them. 

Whether you’re considering IT as a career or interested in taking some courses to explore your interests, there are numerous benefits to learning information technology. 

What Is Information Technology? 

Information technology is a set of related fields that includes computer systems, programming languages, software, data, and information processing. 

What do you learn in information technology? Depending on the specific course or specialty, you may learn: 

• Technical theory 
• Networking 
• Programming 
• Computer hardware and software 
• Systems analysis 
• Database management 
• Computer circuitry 
• Website development 
• IT management 

Benefits of Learning IT 

1. Proficiency in Technology 

Most industries are becoming more tech-savvy, even the more traditional ones like law and agriculture. From project management solutions to customer relationship management software, job candidates are expected to have experience in a wide range of technology platforms. IT knowledge will prepare you to transition into your new role seamlessly, no matter what software programs they rely on. 

Personally, IT knowledge can help you better understand your personal technology. You can safeguard your personal information from growing cyber threats, troubleshoot and maintain your own devices, and evaluate the credibility of online information more effectively. 

2. Problem-Solving Skills 

The most important skills for someone pursuing a career in IT are critical thinking and logical skills. Solving problems for individuals or organizations is a crucial part of the day-to-day job of an IT professional, including helping others fix technical problems. 

Even if you don’t pursue a job in IT, taking IT courses and developing your problem-solving skills will make you a desirable candidate in just about any field. 

3. Well-Rounded Skill Set 

Technology is crucial to all businesses. In a competitive job market, having some knowledge of IT can help you stand out to your top-choice employers and offer a versatile skillset. If you go into business for yourself, having IT knowledge can give you the skills to manage your website and social media on your own. 

4. Improved Communication 

IT requires a lot of communication skills. You need to communicate with other technical team members as well as non-technical team members comfortably. With IT courses, you will learn to actively listen, process information, and offer feedback that’s appropriate for the technical understanding of your audience – which is an important skill for any job role. 

5. Flexible Work Environments 

If you pursue a degree in information technology, IT roles may offer incredible flexibility. You may be able to work from home, taking positions in any market or industry you choose. 

You can freelance or become a consultant for control over your own workload. If you prefer a more collaborative environment, you can become part of an IT team for a large company. There are leadership positions available for IT professionals as well. 

6. Job Security 

 There are no industry limitations. All businesses need technology, so IT professionals are better able to weather the fluctuations in the economy and find work, even if it’s not their preferred industry. 

7. New Challenges 

IT pushes you to learn new things and solve new problems. The day-to-day work as an IT professional is rarely routine, and that variety can keep the work feeling fresh, engaging, and challenging. 

8. More Practice, Less Theory 

Some majors involve a lot of theoretical knowledge before putting skills into practice. Often, this means fresh graduates have some experience to gain in their careers. 

By comparison, IT offers practice throughout the entire educational experience. Because technology is so hands-on, much of the coursework for IT involves practicing the concepts like building an app or developing a program. As a result, new graduates hit the job market with practical skills and a portfolio of projects to demonstrate their capabilities. 

9. Advancement Opportunities 

IT has a low barrier to entry. You can start at an IT help desk before moving into cybersecurity, IT project management, network administration, and more. There are numerous opportunities to branch out into other specialties, including roles like database administration or DevOps that combine technical knowledge with business acumen. 

Best of all, once you have the foundational IT knowledge, you can pivot and specialize in other areas to keep your career new and challenging without starting over. 

Can You Take Information Technology Courses Online? 

Yes, you can take information technology courses online. IT courses online offer flexibility and convenience to see if the subject fits, all at your own pace from the comfort of your own home. Trying out a few courses can even prime you to pursue a degree in IT, such as software or computer engineering, cybersecurity, or information systems. 

Sophia offers several computer science and IT courses that are self-paced, online, and recommended for college-level transfer credit at over 60 partner schools. All courses are available with a subscription, allowing you to gain a strong foundation in IT principles without disrupting your other commitments. 

Is IT the Right Fit for You? 

Deciding to learn information technology offers both personal and professional benefits. If you’re interested in taking some IT courses to see if it’s the right field for you, Sophia can help! Browse our self-paced computer and IT courses and start your free trial! 

While you may not think of accounting beyond general education courses, it’s not just for future accountants. Learning the basics of accounting is crucial for entrepreneurs and business leaders – not to mention the benefits for your personal finances. 

Find out why any professional can benefit from understanding accounting in the college experience. 

What Is Accounting? 

Accounting is the process of recording financial transactions in a business. This includes summarizing, analyzing, and reporting transactions to regulators, tax collectors, and oversight agencies. The statements used in accounting offer a summary of a company’s operation, financial health, and cash flow. 

What do you learn in accounting? There are different types of accounting that deal with specific information, including: 

• Financial accounting: This is the process used to generate financial statements that occur during an accounting period, including income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets. 
• Managerial accounting: This is similar to financial accounting, but managerial accounting uses the information in different ways. Monthly and quarterly reports are used to make decisions about business operations. 
• Cost accounting: Like managerial accounting, cost accounting is used to make decisions, but the focus is on the costs of producing products or services and determining pricing. 
• Tax accounting: Tax accounting adheres to the rules set at the federal, state, and local level based on the returns filed. Tax accountants must comply with reporting rules while minimizing the company’s tax liability. 

Naturally, accountants need a strong foundation of accounting skills to work in the field, but these are critical skills to all business professionals. Whether you want to start your own business, work in a high-level leadership position, or manage your personal finances effectively, accounting courses offer numerous benefits. 

9 Benefits of Studying Accounting 

Wondering what accounting can do for you? Here are some advantages of studying accounting: 

1. Proper Budgeting 

Budgeting is important for financial stability, both in a business and personally. Understanding your income and expenses can help to ensure you’re living within your means and prepare you for your financial future. 

Accounting teaches you to evaluate cash flow and expenses to spend your money wisely and budget properly to make the most of your income. This includes setting goals and adjusting your budget to stay on track. 

2. Savings and Financial Security 

Once you have a view of your income and expenses, you can see how much you have left over to allocate to debt and savings. Ideally, everyone should have an emergency fund that covers three to six months of expenses, but it can be difficult to set money aside if you don’t know where your money goes. 

Accounting teaches you how to balance your finances, rein in unnecessary spending, pay down your debt, and save money as a “safety net” for unexpected setbacks like a job loss or accident. 

3. Simplified Taxes 

A big part of an accountant’s job is tax planning to help businesses minimize their tax liability. Taxes aren’t something that’s generally covered in high school curricula, so learning the details of taxes can help you take advantage of tax deductions, incentives, and breaks to reduce your taxable income and streamline the filing process. 

4. Smart Investing 

Savings held in cash will lose value as inflation reduces buying power. Many people invest to gain financial independence and ensure their money works for them, but investing can be daunting if you’re not familiar with how it all works. 

Accounting helps you evaluate opportunities and risks to make smart investment decisions and build your wealth. 

5. Starting a Business 

If you dream of starting your own business and being your own boss, accounting skills are essential. You’ll likely be launching and building your business on your own – perhaps with limited resources – and will need to manage your costs, cash flow, and payroll by yourself. 

Accounting not only prepares you for financial success, but it offers a lot of skills that entrepreneurs need like preparing financial statements for investors and stakeholders, forecasting demand for inventory, evaluating profitability, and preparing for tax season. 

6. Better Decision-Making 

Whether you own your own business or work for another organization, business decisions are informed in part by financial statements like budgets, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. 

When you learn accounting, you can analyze these statements to inform business decisions and communicate with your stakeholders or business leaders. Taking this decision-making approach can also give you skills to make solid, evidence-based decisions in other areas of your life – even if they’re not related to money. 

7. Industry Insights 

Scandals happen in virtually every industry, and they’re often related to money. Understanding accounting can give you insights into the impact of accounting errors or manipulation on your organization or industry to make career decisions. 

8. Safeguarding Your Personal Security 

Accountants are often used to evaluate financial records and detect fraud or suspicious activity. You can use these skills to track your own finances and review your credit card statements, bank balances, and other transactions to detect fraud and improve your own financial security as a consumer. 

9. Career Opportunities 

Even if you don’t choose accounting as your field, having strong accounting skills can help you in your career and current role. You may learn to think analytically, improve critical thinking and management skills, and understand the role big data plays in influencing business decisions. 

If your goal is to transition into a leadership position in your field, accounting builds business acumen that can prepare you for decision-making and make you more effective in the role. 

Why Take Accounting Classes Online? 

If you’re interested in taking accounting classes, online courses can offer a lot of advantages. 

The biggest advantage of online learning is working at your own pace. Many students ask “is it hard to learn accounting?” Accounting can be challenging, but self-paced online college accounting courses allow you to practice and learn in the way that works best for you to ensure you’re building a strong foundation for more advanced courses. 

Online accredited accounting courses are also flexible. You’re not restricted to a specific school or local options. You can take courses anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. With many online courses, you aren’t locked into a strict schedule that may conflict with your other courses or responsibilities. You can study and complete assignments late at night, in the middle of day, early in the morning – whenever works best for you. 

How to Learn Accounting Online 

From your personal finances to future entrepreneurial or leadership roles, accounting principles offer numerous personal and professional benefits. If you want to learn accounting online, Sophia offers both Financial Accounting and Managerial Accounting. Take them both up to the first challenge with a free trial! 

Business is a popular college major for many students – and for good reason. Business management and business administration degrees help to prepare students for management positions across various industries. 

Whether you’re pursuing a degree in business, looking into a business minor, or exploring some business courses for your general education requirements, the coursework often covers management, accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources. 

Common Business Courses 

Business management and business administration are broad majors with a lot of flexibility and several different specializations. The courses can vary from school to school, but they often include introductory courses that cover the basics of business theory and practice. 

1. Accounting 

Accounting focuses on the financial data in a business and helps to inform business decisions. Accounting courses are crucial to understand principles and tools, such as cash flow and forecasting, and prepare accounting statements like income statements and balance sheets. 

2. Economics 

Money is a key factor in any business. Business majors must understand the large- and small-scale economic forces that affect business in the real world. Introductory economics courses cover these concepts, including how consumers make decisions, monetary policy, the global economy, and business cycles. 

3. Management 

Management courses cover both leadership and management principles as an introduction to later course concepts. These may include conflict management, communication, goal setting, and organizational planning. 

4. Marketing 

All businesses need marketing. Core marketing courses cover marketing theories and strategies, including competitor research, consumer behavior, and marketing analytics. Typically, introductory marketing courses prepare you for more advanced courses later on. 

5. Business Communication 

Business communication is specific to written and verbal communication that takes place in the workplace, including communication with clients, stockholders, suppliers, partners, and regulatory organizations, and how effective communication impacts organizational goals. 

6. Business Ethics 

Business ethics is a philosophy course that’s specific to the ethical issues found in contemporary businesses, such as ethical relativism, utilitarianism, and deontology, which inform day-to-day business decisions. 

7. Business Law 

Business law may be included in the core courses for a business degree, since law is an important aspect of an organization’s daily operations. Business law covers the laws and regulations that apply to nonprofit and private organizations, such as employment law and contract law. 

8. Organizational Behavior 

Organizational behavior is a foundation for human resources courses. It focuses on how individuals and groups interact within a business and how those interactions can affect performance and goals. 

Why Are Business Courses Important? 

Whether you’re pursuing a degree in business or taking business courses as electives, they are valuable to develop skills that can be an asset in any industry or role, such as problem solving, teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and leadership. 

If you are pursuing a degree in business, business courses provide comprehensive business training and a broad understanding of the major elements of business. If you choose, you can specialize in a specific area of business, such as accounting, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, international business, and human resources. 

In addition, business degrees position you to pursue post-graduate opportunities to master business concepts. Some business students choose to pursue master’s degrees in business, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). 

What Is the Hardest Class in Business School? 

It depends! What’s hard for you may not be hard for someone else, and vice versa. For example, if you excel at analytical problems, accounting may be a breeze for you. But for someone who struggles with math, that can be a tough hurdle to overcome. 

If you’re not sure where you’d excel in the realm of business, it may take a little research and experimentation. Taking a few introductory business courses can unveil a passion for certain aspects of business and guide your decision about your major and specialization. 

What Is the Hardest Major in Business? 

The hardest major also depends on each student’s strengths and weaknesses. However, one of the widely regarded “hardest” majors in business is accounting. The coursework can be daunting and involves solving numerous business problems. 

In addition, accounting majors must prepare for accounting certification exams to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and more. Accounting majors don’t have a lot of variety, either, as most courses stay under the umbrella of accounting and build upon each other. 

What to Expect from a Business Class in College 

Business courses are multifaceted and cover different aspects of the business environment, so there’s no universal experience. The experience you have will depend more on what aspect of business the class covers, such as accounting, marketing, or management. 

For example, accounting courses cover a lot of math while marketing courses cover marketing theory and best practices. A management or organizational communication course will focus more on people, psychology, and effective communication. Business communication involves a lot of writing and presentations. 

Get Started with Your Business Degree 

Business degrees are highly flexible majors that allow you to learn the core concepts in business and leverage them in virtually any industry. Whether you choose to pursue a degree in business or another field, getting some business courses under your belt equips you with vital skills that you can use in your academic and professional career. 

Interested in business but not sure where to start? Sophia has several different business courses available. Start your free trial today – no credit card required! 

Language courses have been part of high school and some college curricula for decades, but they’ve never been more valuable in the job market. Fluency in multiple languages is a highly sought skill for job candidates across a variety of careers, including government positions, nursing, teaching, finance, and more. 

Learning a new language can certainly help your career, but there’s a lot more to gain from becoming multilingual. Discover the benefits of learning a new language and the unique advantages of taking online college language courses. 

Why Take Language Courses? 

In an increasingly globalized business world, learning a second language is a valuable skill that could impress employers, but there are additional benefits just for you. 

Brain Stimulation 

Learning a new language can help your gray matter grow, which is the information processing center of your brain. As you take in the complexities of a new language, your brain has to adapt and develop. Just like a muscle, your brain gets stronger and more capable as you challenge it. 

In addition to helping your brain now, acquiring new language skills help to delay cognitive decline and mental aging. According to neurological research, multilingual adults experience the first signs of dementia at a later age than their monolingual counterparts. 

Improved Memory 

As mentioned, challenging your brain to learn new skills keeps it sharp and agile. Learning a new language often pushes your brain in different ways as you familiarize yourself with new grammar and vocabulary rules. You not only have to remember new words, you have to connect them with real-world concepts and use them contextually, improving your memory in the process. 

Better Mental Agility 

Mental agility is an important skill to have in the workforce and in life. Multilingual people have the ability to switch back and forth between languages naturally and automatically, including thinking in different languages and translating on the spot, which helps with multitasking. 

Potential to Widen Prospective Job Market 

More and more US-based businesses are expanding into international markets to reach new customer bases. With that, companies need bilingual candidates to not only translate but ensure that the context is appropriate. When you become fluent in a second language, you may widen your prospective job market and become a more desirable candidate for top positions. 

Better Communication Skills 

Written and verbal communication skills are among the top skills employers look for in job candidates. While it may be surprising, learning a second language can improve your communication in English. 

We learn our native language more organically, often without diving deep into the grammar and style rules. As you learn a foreign language and navigate the grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure, it will make you more conscious of the rules that govern your native language. 

Improved Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity 

Becoming fluent in a new language not only provides the means to connect with other cultures verbally, but it can develop culture awareness. As you learn a new language, you’re not just learning words but a new way of thinking. Along with that, you may understand and appreciate the differences in cultures, and more importantly, the similarities that we all share as human beings. 

More Confidence 

Making mistakes is part of the learning process with language learning. Even if you have an ear for language, you will be pushed out of your comfort zone and into new situations. Though you may be nervous at first, breaking out of your shell will develop your self-confidence and equip you to tackle new situations in other areas of your life. 

Well-Rounded Learning 

Colleges and universities often require foreign language as part of the core subjects for applicants. If high school students didn’t take a foreign language, they may have to take them as gen ed requirements for their degree. 

The requirements for a foreign language can vary by institution, but many require at least two years of a single foreign language that count toward your gen ed requirements. The idea behind this requirement is that it will expand your worldview and improve your career options, in addition to providing a well-rounded education. 

Benefits of Taking Language Courses Online 

Learning a language has benefits on its own, but taking language courses online offers unique advantages that you may not get in a cohort learning environment. 

1. Flexible Learning 

Whether you’re trying to get some electives out of the way or you’re an adult learner managing a full-time job and other responsibilities, online courses offer flexible learning that adapts to your schedule – not the other way around. You can attend lectures and complete assignments from anywhere, at any time, to ensure that you’re fully focused on what you need to learn. All you need is an internet connection and device. 

2. Multimedia Environments 

Learning a language is a bit different than learning other subjects. Interactive tools like grammar correction, automation, discussion boards, videos, and audio guides can make a huge difference in how well you grasp the language and retain the concepts. Online learning utilizes more of these tools to enhance your learning experience. 

3. Repetition Learning 

Repetition is essential to mastering a foreign language. Traditional class environments don’t offer the opportunity to repeat lessons and work on concepts without disrupting the instructor and other students. With online courses – particularly self-paced courses – you may able to repeat course modules as often as you need to ensure you have a solid understanding before moving forward. 

4. Practicing in the Comfort of Your Own Home 

One of the challenges of learning a new language is feeling comfortable practicing, especially in front of other people. By combining flexible schedules and multimedia tools, taking a language course online gives you the ability to practice on your own until you get it right. 

5. Learning from Native Speakers 

Taking online language courses for college credit could allow you to learn from native speakers, no matter where you are. You can access some of the “best of the best” language teachers from all over the world, since you can take language courses from anywhere instead of relying only on who’s available in your region. 

6. Better Academic Skills 

Some people are naturally gifted at school, often excelling at test taking and written assignments. But earning a good grade doesn’t necessarily mean you’re gaining practical skills or retaining the information. With language learning, the process continually tests your knowledge and pushes you to develop a new skill beyond intellectual understanding, which is an ability that carries over into other courses and subject areas. 

Online Language Learning at Sophia 

Whether you’re interested in taking a foreign language for your career prospects or you’re simply learning a new skill, Sophia offers self-paced online language courses to help you reach your goals. Check out our language courses designed to transfer at Sophia! 

Anatomy and physiology (A&P) is one of the core courses for a range of health-related fields, including nursing. It’s one of the most important foundational courses to learn the concepts that underpin medicine, human development, and the diagnosis and treatment of disease. 

Still, no matter how passionate they are about nursing, many nursing students are anxious about A&P and its difficulty. Find out what you’ll learn in A&P, what to expect from the course, and how you can maximize your success. 

What Is Anatomy and Physiology? 

Anatomy and physiology are two studies in the life sciences. Anatomy refers to the internal and external structures of the body and how they relate to each other, while physiology refers to the study of how those structures function. 

The anatomy and physiology courses for nursing cover a basic introduction to the broad study of the two disciplines, but they each have branches that cover more advanced and detailed information. 

For example, anatomy includes both gross anatomy, the study of body structures that can be seen without magnification, and microscopic anatomy or histology, which covers the study of the smallest structures of the body. Physiology has branches as well, including cell physiology, endocrinology, exercise physiology, and clinical physiology, some of which may be part of your more advanced nursing studies. 

What Do You Learn in Anatomy and Physiology? 

Anatomy and physiology approach two aspects of studying the human body. 

The anatomy portion deals with the structural organization of an organism, which includes the musculoskeletal, nervous, circulatory, immune, respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It also includes the study of anatomy on a microscopic level with organ and tissue cells. 

Physiology covers the principal organ systems as well, but it focuses more on the functions of the cells and organs in biological systems instead of their structure. It may cover the broad study of physiology or a narrower focus, such as the digestive or cardiovascular system. 

For example, something you may take away from the course is an understanding of how cells develop, how muscle groups are used in different sports, or how a disease moves through the body. 

What to Expect in an A&P Online Course 

A&P online courses include all the information you would receive in cohort (in-person) learning, but you’ll experience it all virtually. These courses comprise lectures, quizzes, assignments, exams, and a lab portion to build laboratory skills. 

• Some of the skills you’ll develop in the course include: 
• Defining the systems that provide protection and support for the body 
• Understanding how muscle tissue and the muscular system support movement and stability 
• Generalizing the chemical, cellular, and tissue levels and their function in the body 
• Summarizing how the nervous system regulates, integrates, and controls the body 

Typically, labs are a very hands-on part of science learning, but technology allows that experience to be recreated online with virtual lab tools, video conferencing, discussion boards, and proctored exams. 

The lab portion of A&P may include: 

• Understanding science labs, the scientific method, and writing lab reports 
• Demonstrating lab safety and processes 
• Analyzing cell types and muscle tissue types in functional groups 
• Demonstrating osmosis in hypotonic and hypertonic solutions 
• Examining the functions and components of the central and peripheral nervous systems 

Is Anatomy and Physiology Hard? 

For many nursing students, anatomy and physiology is one of the toughest prerequisite classes. It encompasses a lot of information and requires strong memorization skills, because A&P will form the foundation you will build upon to learn more advanced information about the human body and its function. 

Anatomy and physiology may be hard, but it’s not impossible. With strong study skills and a commitment to learning, you can succeed in this course. 

How to Study for Anatomy and Physiology 

Does this information seem overwhelming? Anatomy and physiology can be a challenging course that you need to succeed in as a prerequisite for the nursing program, but robust study strategies can help you pass your course with flying colors. 

Here are some study tips to ensure your success: 

Break the Information Down to Manageable Sections 

Part of the challenge of anatomy and physiology is the sheer volume of information the course covers. Keep up with your reading, and instead of reading a whole chapter at once, break it up into smaller sections. Make sure you fully grasp the concept before moving forward, as this course uses scaffolding learning – it all builds on the concepts you learned previously. 

Test Yourself Along the Way 

Most texts and course modules have review tools to self-evaluate your understanding of the concepts and knowledge. Test yourself regularly and note which concepts felt shaky to you. That’s an opportunity to go back through and review the information again or ask your instructor for more guidance. 

Seek Help from Your Instructor or Peers 

Whether online or in person, your instructor and peers are an asset in your learning experience. If you feel that you’re not grasping the material, talk to your classmates and go over the concepts together. You could also reach out to your instructor and ask for clarification. 

Understand Your Learning Style 

Anatomy and physiology uses a lot of memorization, diagrams, and unfamiliar terms, such as names that have origins in Latin or Greek, all of which you will have to learn. You will need to know your learning style and how you study best to succeed. For some, flashcards are the best way to go over terms and concepts to retain them. For others, mnemonic devices to memorize the bones or muscle groups are effective. 

Don’t Get Discouraged 

If you’re struggling in a section, try not to get discouraged. You may excel at memorizing the names of bones and muscles while struggling in more conceptual sections like the function of the respiratory system. You will need to use a range of skill sets to succeed in anatomy and physiology, so try not to be too hard on yourself if it doesn’t all come easily to you. Keep studying and looking toward the finish line. 

Get Started Using Sophia's Nursing Pathway

Curious about what’s in store with anatomy and physiology? You can check out our A&P course at Sophia or explore our Sophia Nursing Pathway - a flexible 13-course science pathway created to help you make progress toward your degree by taking our diverse selection of science and health-related course, all designed to transfer. Get started today! 

If you think math is hard, you’re not alone. Many people lack confidence in their math abilities. But with Sophia, you have the space and flexibility to grow your math skills on your own terms. Sophia puts you in control of your learning thanks to a self-paced online platform, an innovative teaching approach, and tutoring support in some courses.

No matter what career you pursue, you’ll use math more than you might expect. Math can also help you with situations in your own life—like understanding how a bank account earns interest or interpreting the statistics of your favorite sports team. Plus, math courses are a common bachelor’s degree requirement. That’s why Sophia offers a range of college-level math courses to build your skills and help you earn general education credits.

What Math Courses Can You Take at Sophia? 

Sophia offers self-paced college-level math courses that can help you expand your knowledge and make progress toward a degree. Choose from our growing list of course options: 

• Introduction to College Mathematics. See how math can help you understand the world in a new way. Get hands-on with real numbers, linear equations, logarithmic functions, probability and statistics. By the end of the course, you should be able to solve basic arithmetic equations and apply math concepts to real-world situations such as financial transactions.  
• College Algebra. Using scenario-based activities inspired by real-world situations, you’ll learn about linear, non-linear and other mathematical functions that include algebraic, graphic, and numeric properties. You’ll also apply mathematical concepts to algebraic expressions, quadratic equations and more.  
• Calculus I. Learn the fundamental concepts of calculus by reviewing precalculus topics and diving into calculus concepts such as limits and continuity, interpretations and applications of the derivative, and techniques of integration. You’ll also apply what you’ve learned by writing equations of lines and circles, analyzing and graphing combinations of functions, and calculating higher order derivatives. 
• Introduction to Statistics. Learn the basics of statistics including core principles, research methodologies, data analysis and hypothesis testing. Explore key concepts in statistical reasoning, see how data is represented in real-world examples, and learn to apply statistical thinking to real-life scenarios.  
• Foundations of Statistics. Learn the fundamentals of statistics and prepare yourself for college-level statistics courses. Explore concepts like variation, correlation, probability, and statistical analysis. With your newfound stats skills, you can evaluate statistical methods, interpret statistics, and calculate probability.  

Growing your math skills is a smart move for your career, your general education requirements, and your life. Sophia gives you convenient and affordable options to build college-level math skills while crossing general education requirements off your list. Begin your free Sophia trial, which allows access throught the first assessment, and see for yourself. 

Improve your writing, speaking, researching and editing skills with Sophia’s online English and communications courses. They’re designed to let you learn at your own pace – anytime, anywhere.  

On average, Sophia students take 33 days to complete an English and communications course. 

Even if you are not an English major, you may still need to take a couple English and communications courses to meet common general education requirements. Plus, you'll be honing on key writing and communications skills that can help you in your personal and professional life.  

Which Courses Are Right For You? 

Our ten current English and communication courses cover a range of topics. Try one or try them all. These courses are designed to build and improve your English and communication skills, they are not ESL courses.  

• Communication at Work: Explore what makes for impactful written and verbal workplace communications. 
• Conflict Resolution: Dive into the elements of conflict resolution and how to apply them to work and life. 
• Discover the Writer in You: This course takes you through the writing process, from brainstorming, prewriting, and drafting all the way to revising, editing, and proofreading. If you have previously taken English Composition I, you do not need to enroll in this course. 
• Sophia's English Composition I: Learn the tools to become a better writer and a more thoughtful reader. 
• English Composition II: Designed to build upon the concepts taught in English Composition I, refine your knowledge of research techniques for academic writing. 
• Foundations of English Composition: Hone your writing skills and learn to communicate more effectively. 
• Public Speaking: This course takes you through all of the stages of developing a speech, from preparation to rehearsal to presentation. 
• The Essentials of Managing Conflict: Gain foundational knowledge about managing and resolving conflict in your personal and professional life. 
• The Power of Persuasion: Explore how persuasive writing strengthens important professional skills including communication, problem solving, and innovation skills. 
• Visual Communications: Discover the principles of design and what makes visual communication such a powerful tool in getting a message across. 

Reach Your Goals with Online English and Communications Courses 

From their laptops, tablets or phones, Sophia students have successfully completed more than 80,000 online English and communications courses.

Learn more about your options for taking online English courses with Sophia.

Whether you’re seeking online courses for your business degree or hoping to knock out a gen ed, Sophia’s online business courses can help save you time and money.

Here’s what you can expect when you choose to take a business course with Sophia: 

Learn the Ins and Outs of Business at Your Own Pace

Sophia’s online business courses are self-paced, which means you can complete them in the time that is most convenient for you. Some students prefer a slow and steady approach, while others appreciate the opportunity to work through lessons more quickly if they are already familiar with the concepts.

On average, Sophia students take 26 days to complete a business course. 

Not a business major? Chances are you’ll still need to take a few business courses. Many other fields of study incorporate aspects of business learning, including marketing, communications, economics, political science, human resources management, and entrepreneurship. Plus business courses may be a common general education requirement.

Complete Your Business Courses at an Affordable Rate

Sophia doesn’t charge you per course. Instead, we offer a flexible subscription fee of $99 per month that will grant you access to all of our ACE recommended online business courses. You can take up to two courses at a time and work your way through as many as your schedule allows each month. 

So, how does this compare to the cost of taking business courses through your accredited college or university? While tuition costs vary based on the state, institution type, and whether you’re billed in-state or out-of-state tuition, the Education Data Initiative has done a lot of research on the average cost per credit hour at two- and four-year institutions. Check out their latest report or review your school’s tuition fees for a cost analysis. And don’t forget to factor in cost savings on things like books and supplies, room and board, and student loan interest rates.

Take Your Business Learning Anywhere You Go

Our user-friendly business courses are completely on demand, which means you don’t need to commit to taking them at any one time or in any one location. All you need is access to a laptop, tablet, or smart phone. Want to knock out some college-level courses when you’re away from campus on a holiday break? Have a gap in your weekly course schedule? Sophia can help you maximize your time by tackling convenient, college-level business courses that may be transferred to your college or university for general education credit. 

Which Courses Are Right For You?

Our eight current business courses cover a range of fundamental topics. Here’s what you’ll learn from each of them:

• Accounting: This fundamental course covers the basics of accounting that are necessary to run a sole proprietorship, including bookkeeping and preparing financial reports, 
• Business Law: This course is one of Sophia’s newest and will introduce you to the key laws that govern businesses, the fundamentals of liability, the role of contracts, and property law.
• College Readiness: This practical course is designed to help orient you to the college experience and develop strategies for success in your academic and personal life so you can reach your collegiate and professional goals.
• Developing Effective Teams: This is Sophia’s shortest business course; ACE recommends it is worth 1.0 semester credits. But it’s packed with valuable information about the characteristics of high-performing teams and the skills and strategies needed to build them.
• Introduction to Business: This popular course will teach you about the environment of business, the science of marketing, investing, and human resources management—and how these concepts apply to companies of all sizes, including entrepreneurial endeavors.
• Principles of Finance: This fundamental course covers the basics of finance that are necessary to operate a business, including financial statements, capital management, and financial planning.
• Principles of Management: This course focuses on the main functions of management: planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. 
• Project Management: This course is one of Sophia’s newest and will introduce you to the life cycle of managing a project, including the skills and planning needed to ensure each project’s success.

Sophia students have successfully completed more than 34,000 online business courses. We’re proud to have been a part of helping so many learners reach their academic goals.

Learn more about your options for taking business courses online with Sophia.