ACCESS Online Education

Do students who take ACCESS’s Online Education courses have to be enrolled at Mississippi State University or in the ACCESS program?

No. The courses are taught by an ACCESS instructor; however, the courses are separate from the on-campus program. Please do not enroll through the MSU's Center for Distance Education website. Students enrolling for the ACCESS online courses must complete the following steps: 1) Complete the ACCESS Online Education Registration Form 2) submit $40 registration fee and 3) register for the course(s). Returning students only need to complete step 3!

What days and times do classes meet?

Classes will be asynchronous; students will complete courses at their own pace but are required to meet assignment deadlines. Each week, students will participate in chats and discussion boards via videos or messaging. The ACCESS instructor will hold weekly office hours to meet with students and families.

Is there an age requirement for the class?

Courses are designed for students 14 years and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

What is the cost of an ACCESS online course?

Estimated Costs Per Semester:

Distance Fee = $100 Per Credit Hour
Instructional Support Fee = $25 Per Credit Hour
Tuition and Required Fees / Undergraduate (T&RF UG) - Distance = $366.75/credit hour

*Each course is 3 credit hours

Tuition is subject to change. These estimates are accurate as of 12/1/2020.

The $40 registration fee is not a part of the course tuition and fees. 

What types of technology and devices will I need to be successful in an online course?

Courses will require access to a computer, headphones (if necessary), and reliable internet. Visit the MSU Online Education requirements page

What math and reading skills are required for distance education courses?

The following are necessary for success in an ACCESS Online Education course:

•    Ability to read and perform basic math at a 3rd grade level and/or have a family member to be able to assist if needed
•    Ability to navigate Canvas and the internet independently and/or have a family member available to assist if needed
•    Ability and willingness to commit 3-6 hours each week on self-paced course materials and coursework

Will ACCESS staff be available to assist my student with the coursework?

ACCESS staff will hold weekly office hours and will be available by appointment. Students are encouraged to utilize family members for additional support.

Will these courses count as credit hours towards a degree?

No. These courses are designed for personal enrichment and growth. They are pass/fail courses and are non-credit bearing. The courses are non-transferable towards our on-campus program if a student applies and is accepted.

How are the distance ed courses like the on-campus courses?

Our distance ed courses have the same learning objectives and course content as our on-campus courses. Some projects or assignments may be modified to meet the learning environment and layout for each course. The distance ed courses are asynchronous allowing students to work through the coursework at their own pace each week.

Is financial assistance available for ACCESS online courses?

ACCESS partners with Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) and other Voc Rehab facilities throughout the country. If your student is VR client, please contact your VR counselor and inquire about financial assistance. If your student is enrolled in a MS public school, he/she may qualify for Pre-ETS funds. Please see your student's school counselor or transition coordinator.

Who do I contact for assistance?

Reference the following departments for assistance:

• For online registration questions, contact the MSU Center for Distance Education at 662.325.3473
• For registration fee ($40) and/or waiver questions, contact Brooke Hathorn at 662.325.2663
• For ACCESS Online Education course information questions, contact ACCESS at access@msstate.edu or 662.325.8375