This article discusses the role of student motivation and learning experiences in online course environments at the post- secondary level. We offer guidance for instructors to design online experiences that encourage students to learn actively, allowing them to persist at academic goals and get the most out of the material. In discussing relevant motivation theory and research, we address two questions: (1) What factors motivate post-secondary students to persist at academic goals; and (2) What online learning experiences promote student motivation and persistence? If online instruction fosters student motivation and concurrently equips them with strategies to succeed, students will be more likely to transfer learning strategies and productive work habits to future coursework and beyond. Taking teaching online can prepare students for success wherever their futures take them.