WCC Online Degrees and Certificates

WCC has the curriculum you need to achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself. Take a look at the asynchronous (classes taken according to your schedule) and synchronous (classes taken at specified times) online opportunities available for you here.

While you might handle your online coursework by yourself, WCC provides support from all sides to make sure you have the assets necessary for success. Visit Online Learning Resources for Students.

You need to know if your computer resources will work with the college’s online offerings. Access class and course information any time with a Windows PC or equivalent Mac computer connected to high-speed internet.

Essential computer skills for online coursework:

• Perform basic word processing.
• Use a web browser to visit websites and print web documents.
• Use email to send and receive messages, reply to messages, cut and paste text between messages, open attachments, and attach files to messages.
• If your computer skills aren’t at the level needed, WCC offers non-credit classes where you can get up to speed on everything from word processing to using the web.

Minimum Hardware Requirements

• Macintosh OS X (10.12 or higher) or Windows PC (7 or higher)
• 4GB RAM (8GB RAM or more is highly recommended)
• 20GB of available hard-drive space
• Screen resolution set to 1280 x 1024
• Broadband/high-speed uninterrupted Internet access; minimum speed of 2 Mbps download, 750 Kbps upload
• Webcam, microphone and speakers (a wearable headset is highly recommended)

How to check your computer specifications

Windows
Macintosh

Browser Compatibility

Use a supported browser to display all course content and tools properly. For the best experience, make sure you have the latest versions of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. You also can use Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer and Apple Safari, but you might have unexpected challenges.

Note: Please make sure Pop-up Blocker is disabled in all browsers

System Requirements for Additional Online Tools

Instructors might require additional software during your online experience. Refer to the system demands below for these services:

• Zoom
• GoToMeeting
• MS Teams
• MS Office
• Examity Virtual Proctoring
• Circlein (recommended using Android / iOS Mobile App)
• WebAssign®

Note: Review your instructor’s syllabus for third-party resource requirements that might have technical requirements specific to them.

Google Chromebook and Mobile User

WCC makes every effort to be as mobile compliant as possible. Your Google Chromebook and/or tablet (such as an iPad) most likely will work well for online coursework. However, depending on the technical specifications of your course, you might experience challenges without a Windows or Mac computer.

Some online courses have specified schedules. These synchronous classes mean that you are required to join a group meeting at a specific time via teleconference software (usually Zoom or Microsoft Teams) to discuss course materials, assignments and expectations with an instructor. These meetings also are good opportunities for collaboration and assignment presentations.

Asynchronous classes allow you to work through the course on your schedule, accomplishing objectives with materials (readings, videos, interactives, activities, lectures) and engagement with an instructor who teaches and provides discussion, feedback and assignments. Be aware that specific deadlines still apply to requirements like tests and assignments.

Before embracing the challenge of online learning, it is very important for you to understand and accept the responsibility that comes with it. Completing an online program requires the same level of effort, motivation and time as a course taken on-campus.

First, don’t underestimate the amount of time you need to complete your work. Assume 2-3 hours per week for every credit hour your course earns. For example, a 3-credit hour course requires 9-10 hours of work per week.

Second, check in frequently. Log into your course 5-7 times a week to view announcements. Do not wait until the day an assignment is due to submit work, because it makes it difficult to get help or answers to questions.

Finally, be part of a classmate community, even though you do your coursework remotely. Build relationships for collaboration and success. Use WCC group discussion boards by reaching out to students who share interests and goals with you. Participate in a virtual student life activity or student group. Build relationships with instructors so they can help you.