Frequently Asked Questions

How is Distance Education different from a regular face-to-face?

An Online Educational course "simulates" a traditional classroom. A group of students - from geographically dispersed areas-begins a course at the same time. On the website they find their syllabus, and each week their assignments and activities are fully explained in detail on the course pages. Students are not required to be on the web at a specific time, so they need to be very self-directed to discipline themselves to do the course work.

Students read/study a textbook, complete assignments, take quizzes and exams, complete group or team work, and participate in on-going threaded discussions.

Is Online Education for everyone?

No. Many students want and need the personal interaction that a traditional classroom gives to them. Good candidates for Distance Education courses are those students who are self-directed and self-motivated. This may include professionals who travel extensively, students in remote locations, or those who, for personal or professional reasons, need the flexibility to attend classes.

What computer equipment do students need to take an online course?

To take full advantage of the interactivity of the courses, the following system profiles are required:

Note: Courseware cannot be accessed using Web TV

• You will need an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An ISP is a company that can provide you with the software necessary for getting onto the Internet. You will need Internet access to take your courses.
• You will need to establish an email address when you sign up with an ISP. Check with your ISP if you do not know what your email address is. 

For further specifics see Technical Information.

Do students have to be an expert in computers to take classes this way?

No. Students should, however, know how to use the computer; how to navigate the WWW browser; how to save and retrieve files; how to use standard business software; how to use a CD-ROM; and how to use a modem to connect to the Internet.

How do I register for an online class?

Students must first apply to their home institution.  After a student has been accepted into the program, he or she will be contacted by their college and given instructions on how to register for classes.

Will my credit hours transfer to another school?

Credits earned through the ICOC are transferable to accredited institutions. All participating institutions will accept courses taken through ICCOC and students interested in transferring ICCOC courses to non-participating institutions are advised to directly contact that college or university.

How to I get my textbooks?

You may order your textbooks online through any of the seven colleges; however, you may want to check your home college first. Additional materials may be required by an individual professor. If required, all information will be included in the online course syllabus. Very often, these additional materials may be obtained directly from a professor.

How do I drop a class?

Students needing to drop a class must follow the course drop procedure of their home college.  Please consult your home college for the course withdrawal procedure and the last day to withdraw.

Does Financial Aid cover online classes?

Yes, Financial Aid covers online classes just as it would on-campus courses. Any financial aid awards that you receive can be applied to any online course cost, such as tuition, fees, or textbooks.

For more information on financial aid, contact your home institutions financial aid office. You may apply for the FAFSA through the Department of Education's website. For more information, visit their website at www.fafsa.ed.gov

How can I access my online classes?

Your course will be accessible over the World Wide Web using any computer with an Internet connection. When you register for your online course, you will be given a login ID and password. Your personal login ID and password will give you access to your courses. If you have questions at any time please contact the helpdesk.

How much time will I need to devote to my
online classes?

Students generally have the misconception that because a course is online, it will not be as challenging as the on-campus version. In fact, just the opposite is true. In many cases students say that online courses are more challenging than face-to-face classes. Although online classes do not take place in a traditional classroom, you can expect to invest as much, if not more, time and energy to successfully complete an online course. Just like in the traditional classroom, online students complete assignments, take tests, write papers and participate in discussions.

Who do I contact if I have any problems
or questions?

Begin by letting your instructor know if you are having problems with the course. If your problems are technical, you may contact eCollege for support.