Orientation to eLearning at Virginia Tech

Online Training (Non-Credit)

Description |  Requirements |  Timetables |  Enrollment |  Payment

Description

Example of a non-credit course website

Online non-credit courses at Virginia Tech award no college credits; they are simply designed to enhance your personal or professional development. In some cases, a certification is awarded (check individual descriptions for details).

The courses are completely online (delivered over the Internet) and are self-paced. Some are designed for students to work independently, and others involve interaction, such as email or online chats, with an instructor.

Online non-credit courses can be taken from anywhere in the world. Most can be taken at any time and repeatedly during the subscription period.

Requirements

To participate in an online non-credit course, you need:

You may need:

  • reliable access to email
  • to use software such as Centra, Real Player, or Flash. These have certain hardware and bandwidth requirements.

Timetables

Since most courses are self-paced, you can start and end at any time. Registration is always open. Once you register for the self-paced courses, you'll have open access to the course content for one full year. (Note: there are a few exceptions to this timetable; some courses are shorter so check the course description carefully before registering.)

Enrollment

You can register for online non-credit courses through the VTOnline website. Registration works like an online shopping cart. Browse the courses that interest you, add the ones you want to a list, and 'check out' when your list is complete.

More information about the Registration Process

Once you have enrolled in the course, Virginia Tech will assign you a PID (personal identifier) and password. You must use this PID to access your course website. We will notify you by email once your PID has been assigned, and you will need to follow the instructions at www.computing.vt.edu; ?> to change your password (thus activating your PID).

Payment

Payment for non-credit courses must occur online with a credit card during the registration process. We cannot enroll you unless you pay online (our payment system is completely secure and all information you submit will be encrypted when transferred over the web). Credit cards accepted include VISA and MASTERCARD only.

Note that this payment method differs from payment for CREDIT courses. You will be billed for CREDIT courses by the University Bursar and must meet payment deadlines. Refunds for non-credit courses are possible under certain conditions.