The JBLFMU Online Distance Learning unit is established to provide a non-linear approach to learning. It serves as a coordinating department of the academic unit’s online delivery system with the primary aim of affording students access to instruction and helping them achieve educational goals. The ODL also enhances faculty excellence by making trainings available for faculty teaching empowerment for pure online application or blended instruction.

The JBLFMU online learning system uses the internet as its learning environment. The strength of which is on its accessibility, ease of circulation, dynamic and systematic filing and storing capacity.

Distance learning is a course or program completed remotely from the school or university which offers the educational opportunity. E-learning, online learning, and distance education are other terms used for distance learning.

Most distance learning now occurs online, which requires that a student simply have access to a computer and the Internet. However, distance learning is a broad term which also describes coursework completed through the mail, as in the more traditional form of correspondence courses. Independent institutions, as well as traditional schools and universities, offer distance education. Some distance learning programs offer degrees, in addition to other educational certifications.

There are several benefits that an online learner can experience:

- Students experience a sense of equality
- Instructors are more accessible
- Enables student-centered teaching approaches.
- Accommodates different learning styles
- Provides opportunities for exploration
- Provides 24/7 accessibility to course materials.
- Provides just-in-time methods to assess and evaluate student progress.

Distance learning degree programs differ from traditional college programs in that the college comes to the student rather than making the student come to the college. College credit is earned in a variety of ways; courses are offered over the Internet, by DVD, by correspondence as well as end-of-course examinations. Credit is also is awarded by assessment of a student's experiential learning; assessment of professional licenses and certificates; and compilation of prior schooling, whether academic, business, or military. In short, distance learning students choose the learning format that best suits their learning style.

Some people are hesitant to pursue a degree externally because they fear they would be "on their own" without benefit of teachers or lectures. In reality, external degree students have one-on-one relationships with their teachers and lecture material is as comprehensive as classroom lectures, but much more convenient.