Frequently Asked Questions
- How do online courses work?
While students do not have to access courses at a specific time, there are definite beginning and ending dates. Courses are not self-paced. Assignments are typically due each week just as in traditional college courses. Successful students usually access their online courses four to five times per week in order to keep up. Most reading, research and writing are done the same as with traditional courses.
- May I start my online class early?
Online classes begin the first day of the term.
- Whom do I contact for answers to other questions about online learning courses?
Email the IT support desk at: support@atc.edu.
- How do I know if I will succeed in an online learning course?
A student must have excellent time-management and study skills to be successful in an online course where there is no immediate interaction with an instructor and classmates.
- May I take individual courses without having to come to campus?
Yes, however some courses do require occasional travel to campus for proctored exams, library assignments and lab activities. Check with the instructor before enrolling if travel to campus is a concern.
- How do I get started in my online class?
Log into Blackboard on the first day of classes and click on your class. Read your instructor's welcome message thoroughly and follow their directions. If you still have questions, e-mail or call your instructor. You should also thoroughly read the syllabus and ask your instructor anything that is unclear. In addition, clicking on each of the links and exploring each area will help you understand how the course is set up.
- I signed up for an online class. When will my instructor contact me?
Do not wait for your instructor to contact you. Log onto Blackboard immediately. Our online courses are not self-paced. Online classes begin on the first day of the semester and end on the last day of the semester. Online classes have the same attendance policy as face-to-face courses.
- May I take all the courses leading to a degree without coming to campus?
ATC offers the Associate in Arts degree completely online. More information about this degree can be viewed on the Associate in Arts program page or by contacting our Enrollment Services Center at (803) 508-7263.
- How do I receive my online course materials?
Students access lessons and assignments through their Blackboard course. Textbooks and other required materials are available through the Aiken Technical College Bookstore located in the Gregg-Graniteville Student Activities Center (Building B).
- Are books and materials the same for online learning and on-campus courses?
Not always. Students must verify that they purchase the textbook required for a course by its specific section number or by its specific syllabus.
- Does it cost more to enroll in an online learning course?
Tuition and fees are the same as other courses offered by the College regardless of delivery format.
- Do online learning courses transfer as easily as other Aiken Technical College courses?
Yes. The mode of delivery does not impact a course's acceptance at another institution with which the College has an articulation agreement.