Distance Education Information

Important Term Dates and Deadlines

The information in this section provides a very brief overview of the regular deadlines and events that happen over a term at COCC. For the full list and all details, please refer to the Institutional Syllabus and Academic Calendar.

• Enrollment and Registration

  Enrollment and Registration Deadlines

  • Pre-Term - Bobcat Orientation sessions
  • Week 1 - Administrative Withdrawal deadlines
  • 5PM Friday, Week 2 - Last day to drop with refund
  • 5PM Friday, Week 7 - Last day to drop with no grade on transcript
  • 6PM Wednesday, Week 10 - Last day to drop
  • Thursday, Post-Term - Final grades posted to Bobcat Web

• Bobcat Orientation

  Bobcat Orientation Sessions 

  Whether you're new, returning, or transferring in, Bobcat Orientation is an excellent way to get familiar with essential COCC process, systems, technology, and spaces. You'll review things such as:

  • Your COCC email, Bobcat Web, and Canvas accounts
  • Learn what instructors expect from you, your time, and the quality of your work
  • Identify resources that will help you succeed academically, stay healthy, and build connections
  • Get answers to your questions - including financial aid, student involvement, and more

  Visit the Bobcat Orientation website for dates and registration information.

• Holidays and Closures

  Holidays and Closures

  COCC observes and closes for the following holidays and breaks:

  • Veterans Day - November 11
  • Thanksgiving - Thursday and Friday of Thanksgiving Week
  • Winter Break - Typically the full week of December 25
  • New Years Day - January 1
  • MLK Jr Day - Third Monday in January
  • Spring Break - Typically the third week of March
  • Memorial Day - Last Monday in May
  • Juneteenth - June 19
  • Independence Day - July 4
  • Labor Day - Last Friday of August & First Monday of September

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Student Preparation Timeline

• Before the Term Starts

  1. Get Tech Ready
     • Review our Tech Readiness Guide to identify what tools you'll use as a COCC student, what skills you'll need and whether you have any gaps to address.
  2. Download Zoom
     • Many COCC classes use Zoom. Install the Zoom app any device you plan to use: iOS | Android | Windows | Mac
  3. Set Up Microsoft 365
     • All students get Microsoft 365 for free, including OneDrive storage and desktop apps. You'll need to use Microsoft software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) to turn in assignments so don't skip this!
  4. Log into your COCC Email & Canvas
     • Email and Canvas are your main sources for class information. Make sure you can log in.
  5. Find Instructor Contact Information
     • Knowing how to contact your instructors is important. Use the Campus Directory or Class Search if your syllabus isn’t available yet.
  6. Purchase Textbooks
     • You can find what books you'll need and order them through bookstore.cocc.edu. If your course uses digital materials, make sure you review the Digital Course Materials page.
  7. Connect With Support Services
     • COCC offers help with writing, tutoring, accessibility services, library resources and lots more. We're here to help!
  8. First-Time Students: Attend Bobcat Orientation
     • Bobcat Orientation helps you prepare for the start of classes, relieve anxiety, and build confidence that is important for your success. It is highly recommended for anyone new to COCC.

• First Week of the Term

  1. Check Your Email
     • Look for messages from your instructors.
  2. Log Into Canvas
     • Explore each course. Each instructor uses Canvas a little differently, so expect that the layout may be different from class to class.
  3. Read the Syllabus
     • Know the expectations, deadlines, and how the class will run. Save a copy.
  4. Complete Attendance Activities
     • COCC requires you to participate in the first week. Check email and Canvas for instructions.
  5. Ask Questions Early
     • If anything in the syllabus or course site is unclear, check in with your instructor right away.
  6. Review Important Deadlines
     • Use the Academic Calendar to keep track of drop dates and other key events.

• Ongoing (All Term)

  • Goes without saying: attend classes and complete your assignments!
  • Check your email and Canvas regularly
  • Attend your instructors virtual office hours, stop by Tutoring, and never be afraid to reach out if you need help.

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Tools and Technology

Tools and Technology

Mobile Hotspots If you don’t have reliable internet at home, you can borrow a hotspot from the library. Technology Lending You can borrow laptops, Chromebooks, iPads, Kindles, and media equipment through the COCC Library's Technology Lending services. Computer Labs & Tech Support See open lab hours on the COCC website. Student Tech Support is available by email, phone, chat, or in person. Library Resources You can access journals, newspapers, ebooks, audiobooks, videos, and more through the digital library. Librarians are available to help.

Canvas Canvas is where most instructors post assignments, grades, and class materials. You can learn how to: Submit assignments Take quizzes Post in discussions Create videos using Kaltura A sample course and student training are available to see and practice using Canvas before your classes start. Zoom Zoom is free and works on computers and mobile devices. You don’t need an account to join a meeting...just click the link provided from your instructor or on the Tutoring schedule.

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Support Services

COCC offers many support options that are available to students in-person and online, including:

• Writing Center
• Tutoring (through COCC and Western eTutoring)
• Personal Counseling
• Student Accessibility Services