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Distance Learning Policies & Procedures

Registration and Financial Aid

  • Students register for Distance Learning classes in the same way that they register for any other class. That is, students apply to the College, take any required placement tests, meet with an advisor as necessary, and register for classes.
  • To begin the registration process, contact the Admissions Office.
  • There are four types of Distance Learning classes, hybrid (H), asynchronous online (W), synchronous online (S), and hy-flex (F).
    • A hybrid course is one in which a majority of instruction is delivered online through Canvas, a learning management system. Hybrid courses will have required meetings on campus and required assignments online. These courses typically meet once per week or less for lectures or labs. Calhoun identifies a hybrid course with an “H” in the course section of the semester course schedule.
    • An asynchronous online course is one in which instruction is delivered entirely online through Canvas, a learning management system. Although the course content is delivered entirely online, students may be required to take exams in the Testing Center on either campus, or at an approved testing location. Some courses also utilize online test proctoring software like Respondus or Honorlock. There may be additional fees to use outside testing centers. Calhoun identifies an asynchronous online course with a “W” in the course section of the semester course schedule.
    • A synchronous online course is one that utilizes a web conferencing tool to hold scheduled online meetings on a weekly basis. The course schedule will list specific days and times for these meetings when a student registers. There will be additional course materials and assignments available in Canvas. The instructor may require proctored exams similar to an asynchronous online course. Calhoun identifies a synchronous online course with an “S” in the course section of the semester course schedule.
    • A hy-flex course offers students the option to attend in-person or participate virtually via a web conferencing tool. Students have the option to change their mode of attendance from week to week. Calhoun identifies a hy-flex course with an “F” in the course section of the semester schedule.
  • In most cases, Financial Aid applies to distance learning courses in the same manner as other Calhoun courses. The first step to receiving financial aid is filling out the FAFSA. For assistance with the process and other questions, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

Accessing Distance Learning Courses

  • Students registered for Distance Learning (DL) classes will access their courses through Canvas. DL courses are available by 8am CST on the first day of the semester.
  • Students MUST login to their DL courses in Canvas during the first week of the semester and complete the necessary attendance assignment(s). Failure to do so may result in being removed from the course for nonattendance, and will impact financial aid for those receiving it.
  • Use of Canvas is required for accessing all DL courses so DL students are expected to have moderate computer skills as well as access to a reliable computer and Internet connection. The Technical Requirements are available via the Distance Learning site.

Administrative Information

  • Students enrolled in DL classes at Calhoun have access to all the facilities, services, and resources offered on Calhoun’s physical campuses. For assistance or additional information, please contact the corresponding department directly.
  • Calhoun Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Calhoun Community College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Calhoun Community College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website.

Out-of-State Students & NC-SARA

  • Calhoun Community College has been approved by the State of Alabama to participate in the National Council for State Authorization reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA). NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of postsecondary distance education.
  • Students in all 50 states and the District of Columbia may take Calhoun Community College’s online courses/programs. The following states do not currently participate in NC-SARA, but Calhoun Community College is in compliance with their state regulations:
    • California – As an out-of-state public institution, Calhoun Community College is not under the purview of the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education, thus Bureau approval for Calhoun Community College to offer its online programs to residents of California is not required. Therefore, Calhoun Community College is in compliance with California regulations concerning postsecondary distance education.
  • Distance Learning Complaint Process for Out of State Students – Calhoun Community College desires to resolve student grievances, complaints and concerns in an expeditious, fair and amicable manner. Students residing outside of the State of Alabama while attending CCC who desire to resolve a grievance should follow the College’s Student Grievance Procedure as outlined in the “Calhoun Community College Catalog and Student Handbook”. However, if an issue cannot be resolved internally, you may file a complaint with your State. The Student Grievance Contact Information for Individual States provides phone numbers, emails and/or links to state education agencies.
  • For students seeking information about professional licensure in states other than Alabama, please see our Professional Licensure Disclosure.