About Online Learning

Online learning is a convenient alternative to taking courses in a traditional classroom setting. To achieve the best results in a distance learning course, students must be able to work independently with little or no supervision. The distance learning courses are no different from the regular courses taught on campus in the amount of time it takes to do the lessons and assignments. Students have ample opportunities to interact with the instructor and other students through electronic means. Students must be well organized and have a basic understanding of computer functions to be successful in distance learning courses.

Important Links

Programs offered 100% Online

  • Accounting
  • Business Technology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Early Childhood Care and Education
  • General Business
  • General Studies
  • Marketing Management
  • Paralegal Studies

Requirements

Students who take online courses need a computer with Internet access. Good study habits and reading comprehension skills are also necessary to be successful in the courses. Skills specific to individual courses may be required; for example, proficiency with a word processing package may be needed for an online course.

There are also specific computer hardware and software requirements associated with online education at Coastal Pines Technical College. Online students need to expect to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for each online course.

Students participating in a fully online course must complete a proctored event. Please review the course syllabus and communication from your instructor for detailed information.

Hardware and Software Requirements

To participate in online courses at Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC), students must have access to a reliable computer and internet connection. The most current hardware and software requirements are maintained by our partners and can be accessed through the links below.

Minimum Technology Requirements

  • Operating System: Windows 10 or newer, macOS 11 or newer, or ChromeOS (latest LTS version)
  • Internet: High-speed DSL or cable connection
  • Device: PC, Mac, Chromebook, or tablet
  • Mobile devices such as smartphones and iPads are not recommended
  • Accessories: Webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones
  • Required for proctored events

Learning Management System: Blackboard Ultra

CPTC uses Blackboard Ultra as its Learning Management System (LMS). Students should ensure their browser and device are compatible by using the Blackboard Browser Checker. For help with Blackboard, students can also submit a support request through the CPTC Student Support Portal.

Software Requirements

  • Students are responsible for installing any additional software required for their courses.
  • CPTC students have free access to Microsoft Office 365 using their student email accounts.

Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor

Some courses require the use of Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor for secure online testing. These tools have specific system requirements that may change over time. Please refer to the official Respondus pages for the most up-to-date information: · Respondus LockDown Browser Requirements · Respondus Monitor Requirements

For questions about online education at CPTC, contact us at distanceed@coastalpines.edu.

Out-of-state online students:

Any complaints pertaining to a Coastal Pines Technical College online course or program should be filed with Coastal Pines Technical College in accordance with the process outlined in our Student Handbook with the Grievance Form available online.

Complaints needing further investigation beyond the college level may be submitted to TCSG using the Program Integrity Complaint Form. Before submitting to TCSG, students need to ensure they have followed the institution’s process.

A student may appeal to the  Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (GNPEC) if the institution’s and TCSG’s resolution is not satisfactory; however, please note that the Commission will not investigate a complaint unless the student has exhausted all available grievance procedures outlined by the institution. GNPEC does not resolve complaints about student grades and student conduct violations. These complaints fall under the jurisdiction of institutional policy