FAQs About Online Learning

What’s the difference between In-Person and Live Online, Online and Hybrid classes?

For the Fall 2020 semester, the majority of Phoenix College classes will be taught in Live Online, Online or Hybrid formats. In-person classes on campus are limited to only a few programs. With Live Online, you will meet weekly with your instructor at your scheduled class time, allowing you to interact with your instructor and classmates. With Online classes, you have no set time in which you need to be in front of your computer. You’ll still participate – only instead of in-person lectures, it will be through weekly online assignments. As the name suggests, Hybrid classes are a blend of both In-person and Online, and are mainly for Lab Science, Physical Education and Occupational classes.

Are Live Online, Online or Hybrid classes harder than Face-to-face classes?

Online classes are no more or less difficult than campus classes – you’re just spending more time on your computer. Support of your instructors tutoring services, academic advisors, counselors, and even our Technology Help Desk, we’re here to help when you need it.

Are there benefits to taking Live Online, Online or Hybrid classes?

There are many benefits to enrolling in these learning options. Phoenix College believes in providing affordable, accessible education catering to your own schedule that helps you stay on track with your educational goals. Our online platform allows you to personalize your college experience to how you learn best. What’s more, these learning options allow you to stay motivated and learn more, while still balancing other life priorities.

Do online classes cost more?

No. Phoenix College tuition is the same for all learning options and is very affordable. In fact, the average annual tuition for a full-time student attending one of the MCCCD's ten community colleges is about $2,070 ($85 per credit hour/24 hours/2 semesters). Earning scholarships, grants and other aid can also help you lower your costs.

To provide financial support for students impacted by COVID-19, the Maricopa Community Colleges are offering a 'Flat Rate Full-Time' for students taking more than 12 credit hours. Students registering for more than 12 credits per term will receive the discounted Full-Time Flat-Rate Tuition and only pay for 12 credits.

Students who recently moved to Maricopa County with a local permanent address will receive the in-state tuition rate for up to 6 hours. For additional hours, these students will then be charged at current applicable out-of-state rate.

Are all of PC’s classes offered online?

For Fall 2020 and Spring 2021, the majority of classes will be offered in either an online or live online format. However, there are still some in-person and hybrid courses available in career and technical education programs, specialized courses, and science labs. If you have questions about your learning options, please feel free to contact us at 602-285-7777 or ar@phoenixcollege.edu, or take a look at our Fall class schedule for more details.

What are the minimum system requirements to take Live Online, Online or Hybrid classes?

To participate in Phoenix College online classes and hybrid classes, we have free resources available to download or available through web access. In addition, you may need a working webcam and microphone for your computer. For more information, please visit our technology training page.