Expectations for Online and Hybrid Students

Featuring exceptional faculty, our online courses meet the same high academic standards of our on-campus courses. Choose from our flexible semester schedules and take a course or earn your degree from anywhere. Below are the expectations, requirements and resources that will help you succeed in a non-traditional learning environment.

How an online class works

• Use your NetID (Hawkmail email account) to access your course on the first day of class through the Canvas link in MyHCC;  
• Read all course communication (announcements, emails, etc.), instructor contact information, Start Here/Orientation Module, and the syllabus.
• Set your Canvas notification preferences to make sure you are notified in the manner that is best for you.
• Complete assignments during the first week of class. Per federal regulations, you will be withdrawn for non-attendance if you do not submit work within the first week of class. Withdrawal for non-attendance affects your financial aid status.
• Log into your course at least 3 times a week to see all communication, participate in activities and complete work on time.  
• Contact your instructor right away with any concerns, via phone, through Canvas or Hawkmail email.

How a hybrid class works

For those of you not ready for a fully online course, HCC offers hybrid courses that brings combine in person and online delivery. Hybrid courses (also known as blended courses) replace a portion of traditional face-to-face instruction with web-based online learning (e.g., video lectures, online discussions, or activities). The purpose of a hybrid course is to take advantage of the best features of both face-to-face and online learning. Typically, hybrid courses will meet 50 percent of the time in the classroom and 50 percent online.