HCC Online

Self Discipline

Many students are attracted to the flexibility that online learning offers; however, that flexibility requires students to be motivated and self-disciplined.  A successful online student has the discipline and motivation necessary to prioritize their educational goals and focus on their coursework.  If you are the type of person who can stick to a plan and put in the work necessary to be successful, then online learning might be a great fit for you.  

Time Management

Unlike in a traditional, face-to-face course with scheduled class times and a rigid course structure, an online class requires students to manage their own time and establish their own priorities.  Students need to schedule time to participate in their online course, study, and complete their assignments.  A successful online student can develop a plan and stick to it, keep ahead of tasks, and seek help when needed.  Achieving your educational goals, while keeping up with the rest of life’s obligations isn’t easy, but it is possible with the flexibility of online learning.

Organizational Skills

Organizing a busy schedule and balancing between work, family life, and getting an education can be challenging; however, with the right attitude and approach it is possible.  A successful online student sets goals, establishes a pace to achieve those goals, and keeps track of their progress along the way.  Most importantly, they can adapt when things don’t go as planned.  If this sounds like you, then online learning might be the best way for you to achieve your educational goals.

Technology

Online and hybrid courses rely on technology for the delivery of the course as well as completion of assignments, etc.  Students interested in online or hybrid courses need access to a PC or Mac computer and a broadband connection to the Internet.  In order to be successful in an online or hybrid courses students should have basic computer skills, be competent with office productivity applications, and the use of websites. 

SmarterMeasure

SmarterMeasure is a website that helps students determine their level of readiness for taking online courses.  Students are asked questions on their computer proficiency, motivation, organization, and learning style.  Students are even able to measure their onscreen reading speed and comprehension.  You can access SmarterMeasure at https://hccs.smartermeasure.com.

With an open admissions policy, whether you choose to transfer to a four-year university, decide to enter the workforce, or earn a degree or certificate, we will provide you the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills to be successful in today’s technological and global economy. HCC is proud to be a leader in innovation and student diversity.

The online application is for students who have never enrolled in a course at Houston Community College. If you plan to complete your degree or certificate online, please indicate this when filling out the application.  If you already have an HCC student ID, do not submit another application. Having multiple applications in the system can be problematic.  Visit HCC’s Applying & Paying page to get started today!

Transferring from HCC to a four-year college or university is a popular path to a bachelor's degree. By earning college credits at HCC, you can build a solid academic foundation and save on the cost of college before you transfer.

The HCC Transfers Page is your place to find out transfer information, including transferable courses, transfer scholarships, university admission requirements and much more.  Visit the HCC Transfer Page

Houston Community College is now a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).  This means that HCC can offer online courses to residents in all states that are also SARA members.  Individual colleges must also be SARA members. 

Please be advised that certain online programs, which include internships, practicums, or other experiential requirements, may trigger additional State Authorization requirements. Check with the appropriate licensing or professional organization before you enroll in these types of programs to be sure that the HCC course credits will be accepted.

‌To learn more about state authorization for online students, visit the Cooperative for Educational Technologies (WCET) web site and the NC-SARA website.

Complaints against a SARA participating institution must first go through the institution's own grievance procedures. All complaints regarding student grades or conduct violations are governed by the institution and the laws of the institution's home state. 

Complaint resolution for HCC students enrolled in online courses while residing outside of Texas:

• The first step is to follow HCC student complaint procedures on the Student Procedures website (see both Course Grade Appeal and General Student Complaints).

If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of the institutional grievance process, the student may appeal, within two years of the incident, students may contact:

Certificate/diploma and program Issues: 

• The Texas Workforce Commission's Career School section at 512-936-3100 

Degree-granting program issues: 

• Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's Office of General Counsel
• A form is needed to initiate a complaint and are available at: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/links/student-complaints/
• Complaints can be filed either by email to Studentcomplaints@thecb.state.tx.us or by mail to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Office of General Counsel, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-278

For more information about SARA student complaints visit: https://www.nc-sara.org/student-complaints-process