Distance Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the procedures and policies different for students who take distance learning courses?

HCC does not have different procedures and policies for students who take distance learning courses. Everything from the application process to registering for courses is identical. There are no additional fees for distance learning courses, and distance learning students have the same access as students who take traditional courses to all services, including but not limited to financial aid, admissions, and tutoring.

How do I start the process for taking an online course?

In order to enroll in an online course at HCC, you must apply for admission. The application for admission is found at this Web site: Admissions.

If you are plan to courses for transfer credit, you should check with the appropriate personnel at your primary institution to make sure that any course you take at HCC will transfer for credit.

Please note that most courses have prerequisites. In order for HCC to determine that you are eligible to be enrolled, all transcripts that reflect your past academic history must be submitted with your application. OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS ARE REQUIRED. For a list of courses and pre- or co-requisites, please refer to this Web site: HCC Catalog.

When you mail your application for admission, you must also include a signed photocopy of your social security card.

Return the application for admission to the following address:

HCC Admissions Officer
Halifax Community College
P. O. Drawer 809
Weldon, NC 27890

Also, please note that placement tests in reading, writing, and math might be required if there are prerequisites and/or co-requisites.

What is the cost of a distance learning course?

The cost of courses in the North Carolina Community College System is set by the general legislature and is subject to change. Please refer to this Web site for the current charges: Tuition & Fees.

There is a refund policy. Please refer to the catalog for more information.

Additionally, the North Carolina Community College System has put in place a 25% tuition penalty for students who do not withdraw from or drop classes they do not wish to take before the first day of classes. Your advisor should provide you with more information regarding this policy.

Which courses are online and where is the academic calendar?

For the most recent distance learning course offerings and the academic calendar, visit these Web pages:

Schedule of all HCC Courses (Note: Online courses have this designation: IN.)
Calendar

These pages are updated at least 3-4 weeks prior to a new semester.

How do I pay for an online course when I am not able to visit the HCC campus?

HCC accepts cash, cashier’s check, personal check, money order, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa. You may make tuition payments over the telephone, as well, using a credit card. If you would like to use a credit card to pay tuition and fees, please call the cashier’s office at (252)536-7224.

How do I pay for and receive books and materials needed for the class?

If you would like to purchase your books/materials from a third-party vendor, the book title, author, edition, and ISBN check with your instructor, course syllabus, or the bookstore on campus. However, please make sure that your purchase matches the course requirements.

The bookstore may help you, as well, by mailing your textbooks directly to you. Please contact bookstore personnel for assistance by visiting this Web site: HCC Bookstore.

Once I have paid the tuition and fees and received my books/materials, how do I get started?

There is an online orientation that is required for first time Blackboard HCC students. Start the online orientation at this Web page: Online Orientation.

Do I have to use the e-mail address that Halifax Community Colleges issues?

Yes, all students are required to use their HCC-issued e-mail address for school-related communications. For details regarding how to access your HCC e-mail account, refer to this Web page: HCC Gmail Instructions.

What do I do when I cannot access my online class or when I have questions?

You should direct all questions about the course content to your instructor. Click the "DL Faculty" link to the left of this page.

If you have technical issues with Blackboard, the software used to deliver HCC’s online courses, you can call technical support 24/7, including holidays and weekends: 1-866-834-3083. Refer to this Web page for more information: Technical Assistance. Note: You will need your 7-digit student identification number.