What to Expect From an Online Community College

You’re thinking about attending community college, but online. Not only are you new to community college in general, but you have no idea how it’s going to be like remotely. You’re worried about feeling isolated, and whether you’ll be able to interact with classmates. You’re wondering what your classwork will be like. Here’s what to expect from an online community college.

What is Community College?

Let’s start there. Once known as junior colleges, community colleges are primarily public, two-year, undergraduate institutions that generally offer associate degrees or certification across a range of study areas.

What are the Benefits of Community Colleges?

Community colleges in general offer a number of potential benefits, including affordability, smaller class sizes, flexible schedules to accommodate family/work life, and a supportive learning environment. Students are also attracted to the path the schools can offer to a four-year degree, an easy application process, and workforce training.

What to Expect From Online Courses

While each college is different, online courses are very similar to in-person classes. For example, the teacher-to-student ratio will often be the same ratio, but with students dispersed from all over the state and even the country.

What Will Coursework Be Like?

It will essentially be the same as what you’d get in person. Depending on the course and instructor, you can expect a mix of essays, quizzes, group discussions and assignments. You also may work with classmates in groups, debate topics on discussion boards, and participate in peer review. Typically, your assignments will be uploaded for review and grading.

What’s the Culture Like?

No, you’re not on campus, but neither are you all alone. You can email your instructor questions or communicate via discussion boards. Many instructors will meet you over the phone or in person.

These days, particularly since the pandemic, a lot of on-campus services are also available to online students. For example, tutoring and counseling services are usually accessible digitally, and books may usually be ordered and shipped to you straight from the bookstore.

What About Registration?

Usually, students register for online classes the same way they register for in-person courses. Your school will have an easy way to add online classes to your schedule.

Will I Have Actual Teachers?

Yes, your instructors are humans, and not some auto-grading bots. They typically teach a mix of face-to-face and online classes.

Will I Ever Have to Go to Campus?

The vast majority of online courses are totally online, which means you’ll likely never have to visit campus. That’s one of the benefits of online attendance. You could go if you wanted to, of course.

What About Orientation?

For many online courses, orientation materials are posted within Blackboard or similar program. You’ll learn how to log in, submit assignments, and whatever else you need to be successful online.

What Kind of Hardware Will I Need?

In general, any device that can connect to the internet and has a web browser will allow you to access your online class to read and view materials. However, a laptop or desktop computer with full keyboard and mouse are recommended. You also may need extra software.

How Will Online Courses Show Up on My Transcript?

There is no discrimination: Online class grades will appear on your transcript as they would an in-person course.

In Summary

Whether you’re in high school or are an adult mulling returning to school, taking community college courses online might be the right move. It’s certainly more convenient. And while online learning can be just as challenging as on-campus education, support services are available to keep you on track.