Frequently Asked Questions

What is an online course?
Should I consider enrolling in an online course?
Will I be successful in an online course?
What courses are available at A&M-Commerce?
What is the cost of an online course?
Do you have a payment installment plan?
Are these courses accredited?
When do courses start and end?
What are the computer and software requirements?
Is there technical assistance available in case I have trouble?
How do I access my online courses?
Is an on-campus orientation required?
How do I register for the courses?
Is there someone I can call for assistance?
Is there someone I can email for assistance?
What student services are available to distance learners?

What is an online course?

An online course uses a computer and the Internet to deliver lessons and for interaction between the instructor and the student and the student to other students. For students who are unable to attend classes on the A&M-Commerce campus because of distance or time conflicts, online classes allow flexibility of time and place while the objectives and content of the courses are essentially the same as those offered in the traditional classroom setting. In an online course, the student accepts responsibility for learning outcomes. The instructor's role is that of a facilitator and guide. Rather than face-to-face lectures, the instructor will provide information through online course materials and learning activities that are accessed through the Internet. Presentation of course materials will vary according to instructor design. The instructor will provide feedback and evaluation as the student completes weekly class sessions.

There are several important sources of information in addition to the instructor. Books and printed materials, as well as web-based resources, will be important. Another important source will be other students enrolled in the course.

Online learning emphasizes process. That is, online learning involves more than the accumulation and memorization of information. In online courses, high levels of collaboration and interactivity are required to seek, evaluate, and process the almost limitless amount of available and useful information. Online courses present students with opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary in the 21^st century workplace.

Should I consider enrolling an online course?

Online courses are not easy. They are designed for students who need flexible schedules and/or reduced commuting time. You will be spending at least the same amount of time completing assignments as you would in a traditional class. Actually, most students say they devote more time to online courses. The difference is that students complete assignments at their convenience, rather than meeting a scheduled class. Research indicates that students learn as much as they do in traditional classes. In fact, many students say this type of instruction is more effective because they are active, rather than passive, learners.

You will need access to a computer that meets certain requirements and you will need access to specific software. Of course, you will also need a connection to the Internet. Depending on the course, your instructor may also have other technical and software requirements.

Will I be successful in an online course?

Online courses are not for everyone. You may want to complete our online quiz to determine if you possess the characteristics necessary for successful online instruction.

What courses are available at A&M-Commerce?

You can determine the online courses offered each semester by accessing this site. Once you have selected the semester in which you are interested, click on web-based offerings.

What is the cost of an online course at A&M-Commerce?

Undergraduate, graduate, and out-of–state students are charged differently. You can determine current tuition and fee costs at this site.

The State Legislature and the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents set tuition and fee rates. Tuition and fees during registration periods may be estimated and are subject to change. Legislation has established a tuition payment plan for the fall and spring semesters.

Do you have a payment plan?

Yes. The payment plan is offered at a fixed charge and additional charges may accrue if not paid in a timely manner. The first installment is equal to one-half of all tuition and fees and is due in advance of the beginning of the semester. The second installment payment is equal to one-quarter of total assessed tuition and is due prior to the start of the sixth class week. The final one-quarter is due prior to the beginning of the eleventh class week. A payment of less than 100% of tuition and fees may result in an installment plan charge. You may make your payment online, by telephone, in person, or by mail.

Are these courses accredited?

Yes. Furthermore, there is no distinction made on your transcript to indicate you have chosen a different delivery method.

When do courses start and end?

Online courses use the semester-based schedule. They begin and end at the same time as other courses. Please review our academic calendar for more information.

What are the computer and software requirements?

Online course management system technical requirments can be found at the following location:

http://online.tamuc.org/index.learn?action=technical

Is there technical assistance available in case I have trouble?

If at any time you experience technical problems (e.g., you can't log in to the course, you can't see certain material, etc.) please contact the eCollege HelpDesk, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The HelpDesk can be reached by sending an email to helpdesk@online.tamuc.org or by calling 1-866-656-5511. Additionally, you can click on the "Help" button located at the top of each page for more information.

If you have questions pertaining to the content of this course (e.g., exam questions, course dates, etc.), please contact your instructor via email, through the "Virtual Office," or during office hours.

How do I access my online courses?

You must first be admitted to our university: and registered for the course(s).

All university registration for courses are handled on the web with myLEO. Follow these steps to access myLEO and register for your courses:

Click on Registration/Student Information Access.
Enter your Student ID (your social security number) and your Personal Identification Number (PIN).Your PIN is your birth date (mm/dd/yy). After you enter your birth date initially, you will be asked to change your PIN for security reasons. This number can be any six-number sequence. Write down your new PIN and keep it in a safe place. You will need this number every time you access your account, check your grades, etc.
Click on Registration and Schedule.
Click on Select Term and select the correct semester in which you desire to
enroll.
Click on Drop/Add courses
Select Course Sections and determine five-digit call number (s).
Insert call number (s).
Select account summary.
To make a credit card payment, select credit card payment.
Follow instructions. Remember, you may use the installment plan, rather than paying the full amount.

Online courses are available on the first official class day of each semester and 14 days after the end of each semester. To access an online course, select the “MyLeo” link from the homepage for the University. Once you have successfully entered the “MyLeo” portal, select the “eCollege” link at the top right of your screen. To locate your online course in the eCollege system:
1. Select "My Courses" in the upper left corner under the TAMU-C Lion logo.
2. Select the hyperlink to your course.

Click here to view a tutorial demonstrating how to login to your online course.

A Student Orientation Tutorial is available that will help you become proficient in using the online course management system, eCollege. As your course will be available five days prior to beginning of the semester, be sure to complete the Student Orientation Tutorial before the first class day of the semester.

Is there someone I can call for assistance?

Yes. You can contact our office at 1-866-656-5511.

Is there someone I can email for assistance?

Yes. You may email distance education support services and someone will answer your email within two hours.

What student services are available to distance learners?

Students completing online courses have access to library resources, career services, financial aid, and the university bookstore.