Online New Student Orientation

Welcome to Montclair Online!

The Montclair Online: New Student Orientation will provide you with a strong start to your online learning experience at Montclair State University. The orientation consists of two parts: a self-paced Canvas Orientation course to guide you through the essentials, followed by a virtual Academic Connection session where you’ll connect with your academic program.

Orientation for Spring 2026 Montclair Online students will run from January 5, 2026 to January 12, 2026.

Montclair State University student on laptop.

Part 1: Canvas Orientation (Asynchronous)

This self-paced course in Canvas is designed to support online program (ONP) students at Montclair. By engaging in interactive modules, you’ll become familiar with online learning tools, student resources (including NEST and the Online Student Center), and virtual success strategies. Canvas course opens January 5.

Learn to navigate the Canvas learning platform
Explore the support services and resources available to you
Connect with other new students

Log Into Canvas to Access Orientation

Montclair Online student in live virtual session.

Part 2: Academic Connection (Live via Zoom)

Jumpstart your academic journey! Join the Academic Connection virtual session to connect with your program’s key members, explore your courses, and meet your academic advisor, program coordinator, and classmates. This is your chance to ask questions and lay the foundation for a successful semester.

Undergraduate SessionGraduate Session

Undergraduate
Academic Connection

Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. EST, 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. EST
Who Should Attend – New bachelor’s degree students in online programs.

Graduate
Academic Connection

Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. EST
Who Should Attend – New graduate certificate, master’s and doctoral students in online programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will receive an email invitation to the Montclair Online: New Student Orientation course to your montclair.edu email address. You can also go to NEST and search for the link to access Canvas. If you’re still unable to access the course, contact Montclair Online at unboundsuccess@montclair.edu or call 973-655-7110 for assistance.

Attendance and registration are required. New Montclair Online students will be invited to the Canvas Orientation course and their Academic Connection session via montclair.edu email address. Please check your email for more details.