Vols Online Student Support: A Wealth of Resources

One of the biggest misconceptions about online learning is that you’re on your own. 

In reality, support for Vols Online students begins long before the first day of class and continues through graduation.

Help is available academically, personally, and professionally. You won’t have to navigate college alone. 

Here are some of the key resources available: 

Student Success Coaches 

Many Vols Online programs provide students with access to a dedicated Student Success Coach who offers personalized support throughout their academic journey. That means you have help with navigating systems, accountability, encouragement, and a point of contact you can rely on. 

For students in programs that offer Student Success Coaching, coaches provide guidance from the time students confirm their enrollment plans through graduation. They can help with:  

• Navigating university processes  
• Connecting with campus resources  
• Answering questions  
• Staying on track academically  
• Identifying support services when challenges arise  

 For many students, having a designated point of contact makes a large university feel more personal and approachable. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support 

Balancing school, work, family, and other responsibilities can be challenging. 

That’s why online students have access to TELUS Health Student Support, a service designed specifically for distance education students. Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Services include: 

• Real-time chat support  
• Telephone counseling  
• Short-term counseling  
• Health assessments  
• Wellbeing resources  
• Virtual fitness sessions  

Students can receive support for concerns such as stress, loneliness, relationships, and balancing work, family, and academics.  

Academic Support and Tutoring 

Online students have access to a variety of academic support resources designed to help them succeed in the classroom. 

• Vols Study 24/7 

Undergraduate students can access this free academic support platform at no additional cost. Each semester, students receive five hours of free tutoring, plus access to recorded tutoring sessions, study tools, practice resources, and opportunities to receive feedback on questions. Because it’s available around the clock, students can get help whenever it fits their schedule. 

• Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center  

Strong writing is an important part of many online courses. The Writing Center provides free virtual appointments where students can receive personalized feedback at any stage of the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to polishing a final draft. Support is available for undergraduate and graduate students across disciplines. 

• UT Libraries 

Online students have full access to the University’s extensive library resources, including research databases, e-books, streaming video, research guides, and librarian support. Students who live more than 40 miles from campus can also request delivery of library materials, making it easier to access resources wherever they’re located. 

Career Development Resources 

Earning a degree is only part of the journey. 

The Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration helps students prepare for what’s next by offering support with: 

• Resume development  
• Cover letters  
• Interview preparation  
• Career exploration  
• Job searching  
• Internship opportunities  

Students can also use Handshake to connect with employers and discover available opportunities.  

Support for Veterans and Military-Connected Students 

Military-connected students often balance unique responsibilities while pursuing their education. 

The Veterans Success Center provides support for veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and military-connected students. Services include assistance with educational benefits, tuition assistance, academic success, leadership development, and building connections within the military-affiliated student community.  

For students transitioning from military service to civilian careers, having a team that understands those experiences can make a meaningful difference. 

Christopher Sosa, a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online student and Chief Warrant Officer 3 in the New Mexico Army National Guard, shared: 

“I have also been extremely impressed with the level of support provided by UTK. The staff, particularly the Veterans Department, has been outstanding. They reach out regularly, respond quickly, and genuinely care about student success.”  

Additional Resources Available to Online Students 

Online students also have access to a variety of additional services that support academic success and personal wellbeing, including: 

• One Stop for financial aid, registration, billing, and records assistance   
• Center for Financial Wellness for budgeting, financial education, and money management resources 
• Student Disability Services  
• Dean of Students support and the Center for Care & Resilience  
• Basic Needs resources and emergency support services  
• Title IX resources and pregnancy accommodations  
• Technology support through the Office of Innovative Technologies (OIT)  
• VolCard student identification and discounts  
• TRECS monthly membership for $27 per month 

Final Thought 

Online learning does not mean learning alone. 

From academic support and career services to mental health resources, military-connected student services, and dedicated Student Success Coaches, Vols Online students have access to a network of people and resources designed to help them succeed. 

Whether you are considering your first online course or preparing to earn your degree, support is available every step of the way. 

If you’re exploring online programs at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, know that your success is supported by more than a degree program. It’s supported by a community committed to helping you reach your goals.