Central Iowa Times

Iowa Central Community College offers programs and options to fit the needs of all its students- even those who work full time and need the flexibility to learn at their convenience.

The 8-Week Online Programs offer students the opportunity to study part-time or full-time as their schedules allow, with the possibility of completing their degree in approximately two years without stepping into a physical classroom.

“Classes are taught in eight-week blocks,” said Brittany Bush, 8-week online programs coordinator. “It is taught 100 percent online and our full-time students complete two classes at a time.”

Students in the online program can complete weekly assignments and discussions on their own time without coming to campus. 

“They log in throughout the week to complete assignments,” said Bush. “As long as they have access to the internet, they can complete their work.”

“You can go on vacation and still complete your courses,” said Kari Otto, distance learning associate. “It does not require you to be in Iowa. Throughout the years we’ve had students from nearly every state and even around the world.”

Online programs offer a variety of class start dates throughout the calendar year including August, October, January, and March as well as summer terms for enrollment to fit their needs.  

The 8-Week Online Programs are available to all Iowa Central students but is designed especially for those who work during the day.

“Many of our students are non-traditional,” said Bush. “They work full-time jobs, they have families.”

The courses are offered online through the college’s Learning Management System, called Canvas. Prior to starting, students have the option to attend a virtual meet and greet session with the 8-Week team.  Online students have the same amenities and academic assistance as on-campus students.

“Our online students may not be in the area or on campus, but they have the same access,” said Bush. “We have online tutors available 24/7. They can also contact their instructors for assistance.”

Iowa Central presently has around 400 students enrolled in 8-week online programs. Iowa Central offers a total of 16 programs online including seven career focused programs in Accounting Associate, Business, Computer Networking Technology, Criminal Justice, Digital Arts, Healthcare Administration and Human Services and nine transfer programs in Business, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Human and Family Services, Psychology, Sociology and Associate in Arts.

For more information on our 8-Week Online programs visit https://www.iowacentral.edu/online_learning/programs_offered.asp or call 1-800-395-0292

Original source can be found here.