You have several options. Online course descriptions list all required and optional course materials along with textbooks. Buy books from your favorite neighborhood bookstore or through an online bookstore, including the U of U Bookstore . Some videos and CDs may be rented. The enrollment period options for each course are listed in the course description.
Most courses begin and end with a traditional semester.
Some courses are also taught in a compressed format, such as a half semester. Others are available as open enrollment, which gives you nine months from the day you enroll to complete the course. Assignments can be submitted by email, fax, or regular mail. Classes may have unique submission options listed with each assignment. Exams are generally proctored.