CECS Distance Learning Frequently Asked Questions
What is Distance Education?
Distance Education is the process of providing instruction when students and instructors are separated by physical distance. Technology, often in tandem with face-to-face communication, is used to bridge the gap. (Taken from Going the Distance: A Handbook for Part-Time and Adjunct Faculty Who Teach Online, Beck and Grieve, 2005).
What is the Distance Learning Network (DLN)?
The CECS Distance Learning Network is the name that has been given to the CECS distance learning program. The CECS DLN website provides information for current students, faculty and potential applicants.
Is distance education right for me?
Distance learning courses require that a student be proficient with computer usage. Distance learning students must also be organized and be able to allocate time to complete assignments. It is a myth that distance learning courses are easier than face-to-face courses. To see if you are prepared for a distance learning course, complete the self-assessment and computer skills assessment (links)
What is Virtual Learning Tool (VLT)?
Virtual Learning Tool 2 (VLT) is the course management system that is used for CECS web-based course delivery. VLT is an advanced server based software package (developed with the grant from SBC Ameritech) to help instructors create a classroom presence on the World Wide Web. VLT is used to enhance on-campus courses, or to facilitate a web-based distance education offering.
Is the University of Michigan – Dearborn accredited?
UM-Dearborn is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission.
Is the UM-Dearborn College of Engineering and Computer Science programs accredited?
UM-Dearborn CECS programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
What programs are offered through the Distance Learning Network?
Currently we offer full graduate programs in Automotive Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering and Engineering Management. Several Graduate Certificate Programs are now available on the web as well as many individual courses. We plan to continue to adding courses and programs to the Distance Learning Network.
What department should I contact for additional information about the CECS Distance Learning Network?
Please contact Engineering Professional Development at 313-593-4000, Monday through Friday.
How can I apply for a Distance Learning Network graduate program?
Admission to DLN programs is the same as admission for campus based programs. Please read all of the information before completing the application. Your application materials and application fee should be sent to the following address. Please DO NOT SEND MATERIALS TO THE RACKHAM SCHOOL IN ANN ARBOR.
Distance Learning Network Office
College of Engineering & Computer Science
Engineering Professional Development
2040 Professional Education Center
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128-1491
Distance Learning Network Office
College of Engineering & Computer Science
Engineering Professional Development
2040 Professional Education Center
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128-1491
How can I apply for a Distance Learning Network graduate certificate program?
Admission to DLN certificate programs is the same as the campus based certificate programs. Please complete the application and submit it with copies of your transcripts and, if available, a copy of your resume. Submit all materials to:
Engineering Professional Development
College of Engineering and Computer Science
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128
Engineering Professional Development
College of Engineering and Computer Science
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128
How can I apply as a graduate guest student?
You should request permission from your home school first. Then complete the Guest Student application and submit it, along with a copy of your home-school transcripts. These documents should be sent to either the Engineering Professional Development office, or to the academic unit that the course you wish to enroll in belongs to.
I am a student at UM-Ann Arbor. How can I enroll in a Distance Learning Network course?
You must first obtain permission from your academic unit at UM-Ann Arbor. Once you have received written permission from your UM-Ann Arbor you can apply for guest student admission (see previous question).
How can I find out about my admission status?
Please contact Susan Guinn at 313-593-4000 or sguinn@umich.edu to confirm your admission status.
Can I take distance learning courses if I am enrolled as a campus student?
Yes! You are welcome to register for a CECS Distance Learning Network course.
Can I take distance learning courses and campus-based courses at the same time?
Yes!
How can I register for a CECS Distance Learning Network course?
Register via UM-Connect. You will need your UMID# and pin (your date of birth unless you have changed it). No special permission is required, although you may need permission from the academic unit depending on your major.
How do I drop or add a course?
Drop or add courses via UM-Connect. You will need your UMID# and pin (your date of birth unless you have changed it).
What if I need to withdraw from courses?
Withdrawing means that you are discontinuing all courses for the term. You can withdraw from the term via UM-Connect. You will need your UMID# and pin (your date of birth unless you have changed it).
What are the tuition and fees for CECS Distance Learning courses?
Tuition and fees for CECS Distance Learning Network courses are the same as campus courses, plus an additional $100 per credit hour web tuition assessment. Non-resident students pay an amount less than campus-based non-resident tuition.
How do I make payment for my tuition and fees?
Tuition and fees can be paid in person at the Cashier’s Office or via the Student Accounts Website .
How do I notify UM-Dearborn that my employer is paying for my tuition and fees?
Students whose fees are to be paid by an employer, agency, or other sponsor must have authorizations on file with the Student Accounts Office by the first day of classes. Late fines WILL NOT be waived for students that submit authorizations after the term has ended.
Am I eligible for financial aid or scholarships?
Federal financial aid may be available to assist with the expenses of your CECS Distance Learning Network graduate program. As a graduate student (enrolled at-least-1/2-time), you may be eligible for assistance through the Federal Direct Loan Programs, the Federal Perkins Loan or Federal Work-Study programs. Please visit the Office of Financial Aid for funding options, application instructions and other helpful information. You can also visit the CECS Scholarship web page to apply for the non-resident graduate tuition scholarship.
Where can I receive academic advising?
Academic advising can be obtained through the academic unit for your program.
How do I obtain textbooks and course materials for my course?
Textbooks and course materials are available at the University of Michigan – Dearborn Bookstore (a Barnes and Noble franchise). Textbooks can also be purchased at many other retailers, web sites or from students, however the UM-Dearborn Bookstore is the official supplier.
Is there a buy back policy for textbooks?
Yes. Please check the UM-Dearborn Bookstore web site for details.
How do I access on-line library materials?
CECS Distance Learning Network students can access the UM-Dearborn Mardigian library at http://library.umd.umich.edu. You will need your student ID# and Pin (your birth date unless you have reset it) to access secure areas. Students that are in the area may also visit the library in person. A valid student ID is required to check out materials from the library.
How are homework and assignments submitted?
Homework and assignments are submitted through the VLT course management system. Some instructors may also permit students to submit homework as an email attachment, by fax, or in person at the instructor’s office.
How will I interact with the instructor and students in the class?
VLT contains a question board, a threaded discussion board and an internal email system. Instructors are also available through VLT “Virtual Office Hours”, by email and by telephone.
Will there be group projects in DLN courses?
Some instructors do require group projects. VLT has a platform for group project work.
How are examinations administered for DLN courses?
All DLN course examinations are proctored. Students may take their examinations with the face-to-face class, or have their examinations proctored by and EPD staff member or a certified examination proctor. A form is collected from each student at the beginning of each term, which indicates the student preference for examination completion.
How will I receive my grades?
Grades are available via UM-Connect. You will need your UMID# and Pin (your birth date unless you have reset it). Most instructors also post assignment, examination, project and final grades on VLT.
How can I request my transcripts?
Visit the Records Office website to review guidelines and request a copy of your transcripts.
Are the DLN and VLT websites secure?
Yes
How do I obtain a uniqname and password?
Please visit the Information Technology Services web page to learn about uniqnames and passwords.
How do I obtain access to CECS
Please visit the Engineering Computer Services web page for assistance with CECS servers, email, etc.
How do I log on to VLT?
If you are enrolled in a CECS Distance Learning Network, create a free account in VLT by going to the main page of the site and click on Sign Up For Free. If you already have a VLT account, simply log in with your username and password. Prospective students can also create a VLT account to view the course management system.
I forgot my VLT password
Click on Forgot Your Password? and follow the instructions. Your new password will be sent to the email account associated with the username of your account.
How do I obtain required software for my Distance Learning Network course?
Students enrolled in CECS Distance Learning Network courses can access all the software programs available on CECS servers using their unique name and password. Other specialized software required for the class can be purchased online from the bookstore or from the software vendor directly. Please contact your course instructor directly for more details.
I am having technical difficulties - who do I contact?
You can submit a Help Request form on line or contact one of our technical staff members directly via e-mail or phone. (link to help page on DLN site)
