Learning through the World Wide Web!

Internet or Online Courses are a convenient and flexible alternative for obtaining college credit. If your schedule doesn't allow you to attend classes on campus, you can take college courses from any computer with Internet access.

Online courses are held to the same academic standards as campus courses and are taught by distance learning certified faculty members.

Students access assignments, notes, class presentations and exams through our internet learning system Blackboard Vista (BBV).

Internet Course Orientation

Students must complete an orientation for each online course they are enrolled.
Course orientation sessions provide students with information about :

• the instructor
• course syllabus,
• requirements,
• access to assignments,
• software needed,
• exam schedule, and
• review sessions.

See course listing for scheduled orientation times. Virtual College of Texas students MUST contact the instructor via e-mail or phone to get started.

Blackboard Vista Overviews

Blackboard Vista overview sessions are available at the start of each semester and cover how to:

• log in to BBV,
• access course content,
• use the e-mail and discussion tools,
• take a test,
• check your grades.

The overview does not replace your class orientation. Check the Center for Distance Learning for Blackboard Vista Overviews session times.

Online Course Requirements & Skills

Online courses provide flexibility for students. In order to provide you with the best opportunity to succeed we encourage students to:

• be self-motivated and organized,
• have easy access to the internet,
• have basic internet navigation skills,
• check their ACES e-mail account and,
• have working knowledge of Windows or MAC computer software.

For further information regarding the above items, students may contact the instructor listed for each course. Additionally, students may also visit the St. Philip’s College Center for Distance Learning site or call (210) 486-2239.

It is also highly recommended that you take the SmarterMeasure assessment to determine if you are a good candidate for online classes.