Earning CEUs with Distance Learning Courses.

We get asked this question often: "Can I earn CEU Credits by completing distance learning courses?" 

The short answer is: "In most cases yes, but..." 

What’s distance learning anyway?

Distance learning is any formal learning activity delivered in such a way that the learner and the instructor are separated by time and/or space. Most common examples include:

• Correspondence Courses 
• Online Courses

NOTE: Distance learning courses typically undergo a more strenuous review and approval process, including beta testing, before being approved for continuing education credits.

What about self-directed learning?

Any informal learning activity that YOU planned and want to claim CEU credits for. As opposed to:

1. A formal learning activity (seminars, distance learning, etc.)
2. Designed by a third party (such a provider of continuing education)
3. Reviewed and approved for continuing education credits (by the AIA or IDCEC for instance)

NOTE: Most states do not allow CEU credits for self-directed learning. When they do, it is very few credits and, because it is not a pre-approved CEU, the states require you keep detailed documentation (receipts, notes, etc.) about the activity in case of audit.

In Brief

• In most states, you can earn CEU credits via distance learning to satisfy the continuing education requirements for the renewal of your architecture, interior design, or landscape architecture license/registration.
• Some – very few – states limit the number of credits you can earn via distance learning (New York for architects and Alabama for interior designers are two examples of states that have such limitations).
• Of course the course must meet your state’s requirements for acceptable CEU Credits, which typically consists of approval by AIA, IDCEC, ASLA, and/or your state board under the desired designation (usually HSW / Health, Safety, and Welfare)

Keep in mind that each state has its own set of rules. When in doubt:

• Check out your state board’s website
• Visit our blog at http://www.designarts.org/blog
• Reach out to us: info@designarts.org | @DASceu | 1.800.264.9605

Did you know?

• DAS offers a wide range of AIA- and IDCEC-approved distance learning courses.
• For details, visit us online at:
  • www.designarts.org/webinars
  • www.designarts.org/text-based-ceus