Online Campus

Overview

Welcome to the Online Campus for Central Ohio Technical College!

At COTC, we are proud of our commitment to supporting our students in a number of ways. One of the ways we do this is by offering a variety of classes that allow students to study WHEN they want, WHERE they want and in a format that works best for them. We recognize that for many of today’s learners, “traditional” college courses just aren’t an option… we invite you to explore what makes COTC’s online campus an affordable, accessible and exciting place to start or continue your education!

“Our goal is to meet students where they are and to do our best to offer each student an educational experience that works best for them — allowing them to choose their preferred academic delivery method — whether that’s on campus, online, or a hybrid model.”
COTC President John M. Berry, PhD
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Online Learning and the Online Campus

A female students sits at a laptop focused on its screen.

In a post-pandemic world, we know that there may still be a lot of confusion about different forms of online learning. Let us help clarify our commitment to technology-enhanced higher education.

What exactly do we mean by “Online Campus”?

Central Ohio Technical College has four physical campuses where you can go to take classes, meet with classmates, take advantage of support services like tutoring, or access resources like the library or your academic advisor.

Well, through our Online Campus, you can do many of these same things without having to drive to Coshocton, Knox, Newark or Pataskala!  We have invested significantly in technology and human resources that enable us to provide high-quality academic and support services for students across Central Ohio and beyond.

Coming soon: Learn more about the virtual and in-person support services we offer to online campus students

What is the difference between online, hybrid, remote and other formats?

Here’s how COTC defines these formats:

  • In-person: Students come to one of our physical campuses and meet with an instructor on a certain day at a certain time (often twice per week).
  • Online: Students in these courses do NOT meet on campus at a specified day and time. Course materials and activities are delivered through the college’s web-based learning management system, and students can generally work on their own time (while making sure to meet any due dates set by the instructor). Students learn via recorded lectures, self-directed readings, watching videos, doing research, collaborative work and/or online discussions.
  • Hybrid or HyFlex: These courses are a combination of in-person and technology-enhanced class sessions. Hybrid and HyFlex classes typically meet at a regularly scheduled time, but may use Zoom or other video technology to meet remotely (on- or off-campus). Students in these courses often have the option to choose how they want to engage with the instructor and their classmates; individual instructors may have different expectations for participation, and your advisor can help you determine what’s expected.

Which degrees or certificates can I complete online?

Students can complete the following programs COMPLETELY ONLINE:

Associate Degrees
Business Management Technology
Human Services/Social Work Assistant

Short-term or One-year Certificates
Accounting: Bookkeeping Certificate
Business Management: Human Resources Certificate
Business Management: Management Certificate
Business Management: Office Administration Certificate
Health Services: Case Management Healthcare and Gerontology Certificate

More programs coming soon.

There are several programs at COTC that offer most (but not all) of their required courses in a remote asynchronous (i.e., “online”) format. Students can complete the following degrees or certificates MOSTLY ONLINE:

Associate Degrees
Associate of Arts, Economics
Associate of Science, Business
Associate of Arts, Social Work
Associate of Arts, Psychology
Associate of Arts, Sociology
 

Short-term or One-year Certificates
Digital Media Technology Certificate
Health Services: Home Health Care Certificate
Human Services: Addiction Studies Certificate

Many of our degrees and certificates — for example, those in the health sciences, engineering, public services and nursing — do require some in-person learning. However, several of the general education classes required for these degrees can be taken online.

Such classes include:

  • English Composition
  • Algebra, Calculus or Statistics
  • Psychology
  • Critical Thinking or Ethics
  • Sociology or Cultural Diversity
  • Speech or Small Group Communications
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Is online learning right for me?

We understand that online classes may not be for everyone. Some learners prefer in-person connections with instructors and classmates. But, sometimes you may not be able to come to campus, or an online course may fit better with busy work and family schedules. 

We want to assure you that our online campus provides the same academic rigor, expert instruction from seasoned faculty, opportunities to connect with classmates, and support services you’ll get when enrolled in face-to-face classes. Taking classes online may not be as bad as you think… in fact, it may help you reach your goals faster!

It might be helpful to highlight characteristics an online learner should possess.

  • Are you a self-directed learner?
  • Are you comfortable asking questions?
  • Can you stay motivated?

If you answered yes, then you should be successful taking classes online. 

What kind of technology do I need?  What if I’m not very tech-savvy?

At a minimum, you will need to have access to a computer and a good, reliable internet connection. Most of today’s laptops or desktops should be just fine. We do not recommend relying solely on an iPad or other tablet for your school work. They’re great for taking notes, creating and annotating readings, but not as good for typing lengthy papers or using specialized software.

Similarly, while Chromebooks are a popular option for many students, they are not always compatible with specialized software that you may need for some classes. Check with your advisor or a faculty member first to be sure.

Of course, students with some existing technology skills will be able to better navigate the tools and systems that support online learning at COTC. If you’re unsure about your tech skills, take this online readiness assessment to learn more.

Do online classes cost more?

No, our online classes are covered by the same tuition and fees policies as other courses. You can learn more about the cost of a COTC education on this webpage.

As is the case with all major financial decisions, you should speak with a student financial services representative to understand costs of various programs, ways to pay for college, and how starting college may affect your personal financial situation.

How do I get started with online learning?

All COTC students will go through the same application and enrollment process.

Once you’ve chosen your program of study and completed your orientation, you can begin scheduling online classes (if available). You’ll need to meet with your academic advisor to discuss which classes to take and in what order.

You can recognize online classes in our course catalog by looking for an “N” in the section number (e.g., DMD-103-NA) and a computer/globe icon near the course title ( Icon of a computer.)

The “locations” column will also give you information about the format of the course. You’ll notice that we have a variety of options available, including face-to-face, live Zoom video sections, classes offered in both formats and, of course, classes that you complete on your own schedule. Again, we recommend speaking with your academic advisor about which courses are right for you.