Online courses are a convenient way to take courses and work towards an educational goal; however, the online course format may not be a good fit for everyone. Successful online students are self disciplined, organized and have good time management skills.
Step 1. Apply for Admission and Financial Aid
- Apply Online You will receive a letter in the mail with further admission requirements based on the type of student cohort you have chosen.
- Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at .
Step2. Email Enrollment Management at [email protected] for general online questions – and about your online future!
Step 3. Contact an Advisor
- AA or AS Degree
Todd Knispel 406- 377-9414 / email
- Business Management
Gail Ring 406-377-9436 / email
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Holly Dershem-Bruce 406-377-9432 / email
Step 4. Take a Compass Placement Test for all degree seeking students and if you are taking an English or math course.
Contact Kortney Diegel at 406-377-9417 or by email.
Step 6. Fee Payment
Contact DCC Business Office by phone 406-377-9400
Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
For a list of CCC online courses being offered, click here.
If you are wanting to complete your degree fully online or thinking of transferring to a four year institution, DCC Online can provide you with quality programs to fit your needs.
Online courses are not easier than on-campus courses. In fact, many students will say it requires much more time and commitment. Although taking online courses does allow you to study at home or the office and you have access 24/7 during the semester, it takes a real commitment and discipline to keep up.
CCCOnline courses are not self-paced or independent learning. Students are required to complete course work by the due dates indicated by the instructor within the course.
Online courses use technology for teaching and communication. You will need to be comfortable with up- and downloading your assignments, as well as moving them in and out of your word processing software.
Some students prefer the independence of online learning; others find it uncomfortable.
Some people learn best by interacting with other students face-to-face rather than electronically; online courses do not afford the opportunity of face-to-face interaction.
You must be willing and able to commit your time – approximately 8-10 hours of work per week, per course – this includes at least 5 hours of work online per week.
You must be self-motivated and self-disciplined.
In other words, understand that the requirements for online courses are no less than that of any other quality educational program. The successful student will view their online courses as a convenient way to receive their education – not an easier way.
There is a flat per credit fee of $150 for each course you take with a $30 per course fee. This does not include textbooks or other supplies.
Several courses now have a digital content fee, which replaces the need to have to order a physical book. The content fee is added to the tuition and for those courses. To see if your course has a digital content fee, please click here.
Prior to classes starting, you will need to order your course materials so you will be ready on the first day of class.
See what materials you need
Cost of textbooks vary dependent on course(s). Several courses now have a digital content fee, which replaces the need to have to order a physical book. The content fee is added to the tuition and for those courses. To see if your course has a digital content fee, please check the list: Summer 2015 CCCOnline course listing. The same is true for lab kits. Lab kit fees are now added to your tuition so you will be sent the kit when you register and pay for the course.
For courses that do not have a digital content fee, you will need to order your book. You can order books online through Pikes Peak Community College (the DCC Bookstore does not carry CCCOnline materials).
5.Who do I talk to about what classes to take?
If you are degree seeking, you will be assigned an academic advisor to work with you on your educational plans. If you are non degree seeking, you can visit with one of our advisors:
- AA or AS Degree – Todd Knispel
- Business Management – Gail Ring
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement – Holly Dershem-Bruce
- Early Childhood Education – Brenda Stockert
6. Do I have to take a placement test?
Classes requiring pre-requisite scores will need a placement test. Kortney Diegel can set up the placement test.
7. Do I have to know a lot about computers to take an online class?
You certainly don’t have to be a computer “genius,” but you do need to know the basics about your computer, how to get around on the Internet, how to create and download documents, etc.
8. Do I have to log on at a certain time?
No, online courses are asynchronous (meaning you can log on at any time). However, you do need to submit coursework (assignments, exams, etc.) by the due dates indicated by the instructor within the course. Courses are NOT self-paced or independent learning!
9. How do lab courses work online?
The science courses do not require attendance at a local campus for laboratory work. Some courses, including biology, chemistry, and geology make use of laboratory kits, which students are required to purchase along with texts. Other courses may use “virtual labs” Some courses may also require special supplements such as Thinkwell disks or CDs. Lab assignments, when required, are performed in the home or outdoors.
The student interacts with a sophisticated program in which she or he instructs the program to perform certain sequences of events, which the student can watch occurring on the screen as though taking place in a laboratory. Experiments done, for example, in a physics virtual lab can have far more impact on the student than working in a “real” lab. The consequences of error can be very strikingly portrayed on the screen, but without the risk of injury, making such labs potent learning tools.
10. Do I need to apply if I am only taking one class?
Yes, all students need to apply. Admission applications must be on file by the first day of classes or you will not be able to register for that term.
11. Do I have to send my immunization records if I am taking online classes?
No, however your account will be placed on hold every semester without proof of two vaccinations against measles and rubella.