Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

What do I need to do to get started?

When can I start?

How long will it take?

Do I need to come to campus?

Can  I use the credit towards a University Degree?

Are the courses different for credit and non-credit?

Will I be able to contact the course instructor?

Will I have access to NC State resources such as the library?

Is there a particular order in which I must take the courses?

Is there a time limit for completing the certificate program?

Can I choose only one certificate?

What special equipment will I need?

Is Financial Aid available for these courses?

Website with Frequently Asked Questions about Distance Education

When can I start?

You can check the Distance Education course catalog for the most current dates. All courses are offered on a semester basis (Fall and Spring Sessions). The SSOP course is also offered every summer.

How long will it take?

Each course is offered on a semester basis, so you can take the entire semester or summer session to complete the course. These courses are not designed to be any longer than the traditional courses for each credit hour given. Students may work at any time of day or night. It is very important to keep in touch with the instructor to make sure that he or she is on target to finish the course on time.

Do I need to come to campus?

All of the courses are completely online and do not require you to come to campus.

Can I use the credit towards a University Degree?

Yes, these are official University credits that may be used towards a degree at NCSU or another institution. However, please check with your University or your degree program to see if the credits are eligible to count towards your specific degree program or will just serve as general electives. The same is true for the eligibility of transferring these credits.

Are the courses different for credit and non-credit?

No, the courses are the same rigor regardless of whether you take them for credit or for no credit (please list Audit on your registration form if you do not desire credit). Academic credits are good for up to 5 years, so it is always best to take it for credit if you are not sure about your future plans.

Will I be able to contact the course instructor?

Yes, it is strongly encouraged that you contact your instructor or course assistant, not only when you are having problems, but also throughout the course. The instructors are a crucial part of your learning experience and also appreciate any feedback, both positive and negative.

Will I have access to NC State resources such as the library?

Yes, once officially registered, you will be an NC State student and will have a vaild Unity ID.

Is there a particular order in which I must take the courses?

No, except that FS 350 is a prerequisite for FS 407. Also, you can not receive a certificate for tier two until you have completed all courses in tier one.

Is there a time limit for completing the certificate program?

You have up to 5 years to complete the program if you plan to request a certificate. Courses will be offered every semester, at least twice a year. The SSOP course is also taught in the summer.

Can I choose only one certificate?

Yes, but completion of the Food Safety Managers Certificate automatically gives you two certificates, since completion of Tier One is required for Tier Two. However, you may elect to just complete Tier One or just to take courses on an individual basis.

What special equipment will I need?

Most courses only require you have access to a computer with Internet access and you have an email account. Courses are offerred on the World Wide Web through the Webct Vista course environment, so you will need a web browser such as Firefox, Netscape or Internet Explorer. All courses are accessed by going to http://vista.ncsu.edu on the web and entering your Unity ID and password to begin. Once you are officially registered, you will receive this login information.

Is Financial Aid available for these courses?

These courses are like any other NCSU courses, therefore if you are a Degree Seeking Student and qualify for financial aid, then financial aid should be available to you. If you are not working towards a degree at NCSU or another Academic institution, financial aid is most likely not available. If you have additional questions, please contact NCSU's office of Financial Aid directly. However, you should check with your tax advisor about potential tax benefits for continuing your education.