PVCC Learning Options

We have five different learning options that allow you to choose the right classes to fit into your busy schedule and balance your life. Many of our classes are offered in-person at the Union Hills-Main and Black Mountain campuses so you can benefit from the face-to-face experience with other classmates.*

At the same time, many of our classes are provided in online and hybrid formats. This means you can study from home, an office, a park, or the coffee shop - anywhere you have an Internet connection.

FAQs About Online Learning

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions our students have about our courses.

Why should I take Face-to-Face classes?

Research shows the best learning occurs with students physically present in the classroom. In-person learning is active and involved, allowing for meaningful connections with faculty and classmates. Whereas virtual classes allow for virtual participation, in-person classes urge you to be active and alert during class time.

What safety protocols will be in place if I am scheduled for a Face-to-Face class on campus?

PVCC’s priority is to protect the safety, health, and well-being of our students, employees, and visitors. Students, faculty, staff, and visitors are required to wear a mask or face covering in all buildings and classrooms at all times. Masks and face coverings will not be required outdoors. If you do not have a mask or face covering, one will be provided. Classrooms and other spaces have also been set up to allow for social distancing.

What’s the difference between Live Online, Online, Hybrid/Virtual and Face-to-Face classes? 

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. 

For Hybrid/Virtual, part of the class will be held online without a set time to attend; the other part will occur at the time listed in the class schedule, either in a Face-to-Face format on campus or in a virtual format using a virtual platform. 

Face-to-Face classes will meet in-person and vary by course, so the best way to see if you will be required to be in-person is through searching on Find A Class. 

Are Live Online, Online or Hybrid/Virtual 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. From the support of your academic advisors and instructors to tutoring services, 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/Virtual classes?

There are many benefits to enrolling in these learning options. PVCC 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.

To learn more about Live Online, Online, and Hybrid/Virtual formats, visit the Getting Started with Online Learning webpage.

Do online classes cost more?

PVCC’s tuition is the same for all learning options and is affordable, especially when compared to other colleges and universities. 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. For more information, contact financialaid@paradisevalley.edu, 602-787-7000 (option 7) or via Instant Message.

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

To participate in PVCC's online and virtual classes, we have free resources available to download or for web access. In addition, you may need a working camera and microphone for your computer.

Are there any low-cost or no-cost options for textbooks?

Maricopa Faculty have been working diligently to provide Open Educational Resources (OER) for our students.  Saving students money while using quality resources is a goal of the OER community at PVCC. To find out if a class has this option, click here.