Online Learning

Our Online Offerings

Whether you're looking for one course at a time, a full program or a schedule that offers both online and in-person training, we can provide coursework that will work with your busy schedule. 

Online Courses

From Art History to Accounting to C++ Programming, PTC offers a wide range of courses that can be completed entirely online. Since many of the requirements for most of PTC’s academic programs can be completed in either a traditional classroom setting, or online, this option offers students who are comfortable with computers additional flexibility while completing a degree.

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Earn a Degree or Certificate Online

PTC offers a variety of complete programs available totally online.

The following degrees, diplomas, and certificates available totally online are listed by program type. Click on each title for a complete list of course requirements and information about advisement.

Associate Degree Programs

• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Science
• A.A.S., Major in Administrative Office Technology
• A.A.S., Major in Computer Technology
• A.A.S., Major in Criminal Justice
• A.A.S., Major in General Technology
• A.A.S., Major in Business Administration

Certificates

• Accounting
• Certified IT Professional
• CompTIA
• Customer Service and Support
• Cybersecurity
• Entrepreneurship
• Human Resource Management
• MOS Certification
• Office Technician
• PC Technician
• University Studies

Hybrid Courses

Hybrid courses combine online learning and required on-campus activities. The dates and times of the on-campus activities are announced no later than the first class meeting.

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Preparing for an Online Course

Online students must be independent learners. You will need to regularly access and operate the D2L (Brightspace) course management system. You will also need to practice strict time management and study skills. We strongly urge new online students to complete the Self-Paced Student Brightspace D2L Training.

All PTC online courses require at least one proctored exam or assignment. Students are encouraged to review the Proctored Testing webpage and their course information for more details.

Currently enrolled students, please note: All D2L courses open on the FIRST day of class in the D2L "My Courses" area. You will not be able to access your courses in your D2L account in the My Courses box until the start date of the course.  

Learning Resources

• Proctor Form for Non-PTC Campuses
• D2L Getting Started Quick Guide
• D2L Technical and System Support Information
• Help with Supplemental Products
• Pathway to Online Success

Services and Information

• Academic Catalog
• College Resources
• Student Policies and Procedures
• Student Grievance Procedure
• Instructional Complaint Process
• State Authorization
• Student Complaints
• CHE Student Complaint and Procedures

Minimum Hardware Requirements

• 2 GHz processor or faster
• High-speed internet connection of 3.0 Mb/s or higher (Recommended 10 Mb/s or higher. Connection speeds can be tested at fast.com)
• 4 GB Ram or greater (Recommend 250 GB or greater)
• Built-in or external speakers
• Built-in or external webcam
• USB 2.0 port or adapter
• Preferred Operating System: Windows 10 version 1709 or higher

*Please note that some programs may require program specific configurations.

*Chromebooks are not recommended, as they are not compatible with all platforms that may be used in classes.

Minimum Software Requirements

• Microsoft Office 365; license and software provisioned by PTC to all students
• How to Install Microsoft Office 365 for Students
• Preferred Browser: Google Chrome
• Multimedia apps or plug-ins: Adobe Reader

 

Internet Access

Having reliable internet access is an important component to success in online learning. There are a number of alternative options if you do not have a reliable internet connection at home. Many establishments within the PTC service area provide access to computers and/or high speed internet.

Note Regarding Additional Fees

Piedmont Technical College does not charge any additional fees for distance education (teleclass/PEN, hybrid, and online) courses. However, if a student needs to take a proctored assessment/test at a location other than one of the seven Piedmont Technical College campuses, the institution where proctoring is provided may charge a fee. The student is responsible for these fees which may vary from site to site. All PTC online courses require at least one proctored exam or assignment.

During the proctor approval process, college staff will work with the student to secure an assessment/testing site.

Piedmont Technical College is an approved member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). As a SARA member, PTC adheres to an established set of standards for offering distance learning among SARA member states, districts and territories.

More information regarding the SARA student complaint policy can be found on the SARA Student Complaints Quick Start Guide.