When you register for an online course, you should expect equivalency in content and course activities as students who take the course on campus. Online courses are not easy, fast-paced replacements for traditional face-to-face classes. In fact, distance learning requires self-motivation and a serious dedication to learning since much of the work is done individually without the in-person instructor leadership as in traditional learning environments. However, instructors are available to answer your questions and provide guidance through the learning experience. You are encouraged to reach out to them by phone, e-mail, face-to-face meeting, or a video-conference.

How do I know if I am suited to take an online course?

Visit the eLearning Student Support Course for more information about learning styles and your suitability to take online courses. Or, take our “ Should I take online courses? ” assessment to see if your learning style is compatible with online learning.

What is the difference between an online course and a hybrid course?

Online courses are courses that are offered through the Mississippi Virtual Community College (MSVCC) consortium. These courses are offered entirely online, usually with no campus component – with the exception of Proctored Exams. Online courses require at least one proctored exam for each course that will require the learner to go to the campus to take an exam. Students will need to show a picture ID to take a proctored exam. Students will log into a learning platform to access course information. MSVCC uses Canvas, by Instructure to host all online courses.

Hybrid courses at MGCCC are a blending of the traditional on-campus courses with an online component. In this format you will complete a portion of the course online using Canvas and then only meet on campus at MGCCC as outlined in your course detail schedule.

Do I have to log onto my course at a certain time?

Course instructors determine when and how often the learner must log in. Most courses do not require learners to log in at a specific time. However, many courses do have a specified number of times you must log into the course site each week. Contact your instructor to find out what the attendance policy is for each course in which you are enrolled.

Are online courses self-paced?

No, online courses have specific start and end dates. See the eLearning Calendar for these dates. Each instructor determines when assignments are due for their specific course. Check the course syllabus/schedule for more information on required assignment due dates.

What is the attendance policy for online courses?

The attendance policy for each course may vary depending on which college is hosting the course. The attendance policy should be outlined in each course and can be accessed when you log into your course site. If you have any questions concerning the attendance policy, contact the instructor of the course for clarification.

Do I have to come to campus?

All coursework for online courses is completed online. Some courses will require that you purchase additional course materials so that you can complete labs etc. “virtually”. Check the MSVCC course listing prior to registration to see if any additional materials are required for each course.

The only time you will be required to come to campus is to take your proctored exams. Each course is required to include at least one proctored exam. Some courses may have up to three. Check the MSVCC course listing or contact the instructor prior to registration to determine the number of proctored exams for each course. If you are living outside the state of MS, you may work with your instructor to obtain an off-campus proctor. Please contact your course instructor discuss this option if necessary. To locate MSVCC proctor contact information, click here .

How will I get my course assignments?

Your assignments will be provided by the instructor for your course. The first message or email from your instructor should indicate how to get started and where to find course information inside the course. If this information is not provided, you will need to search the course to locate it. While every instructor sets up his/her course differently, you can usually find this information by logging into Canvas, entering your course, and clicking Modules on the left Navigation menu.

If you need additional assistance locating course information, please contact your instructor.

How much do online courses cost?

Tuition and fees for online courses are the same as for traditional on-campus courses, however, students authorized to use off-site or virtual proctoring may be assessed a testing fee for site utilization. No fee is assessed to students enrolled in an online course when using a proctoring site on a Mississippi community/junior college campus.

Before enrolling in an online course, you should perform an assessment of your aptitude for success in this type of learning environment.