REGENTS ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAM (RODP)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is RODP?
Columbia State has joined the Tennessee Board of Regents in a collaborative effort to offer the Regents Online Degree Programs (RODP). All thirteen two-year community colleges deliver and award associate degrees, while the six TBR universities deliver and award bachelor and master degrees. Courses completed in the Regents Online Degree Programs are entirely online and transferable among all participating institutions. Students choose the college or university (home school) for their admission, registration, and degree award.
2. Where do I find a list of RODP courses?
For details and listings of all the RODP degrees and courses click on: http://www.rodp.org/degrees/default.htm
3. How do I register for RODP courses?
You register for RODP classes the same way as you would register for any other Columbia State course. Go to www.columbiastate.edu and click on MyCN. RODP section number is R50. To avoid deletion of your classes pay your fees and confirm by the scheduled deadline.
4. What is the RODP Tuition?
RODP students pay the same tuition as on ground courses plus a RODP online fee. RODP students pay for every credit hour regardless full-time status.
5. Can I use my financial aid to pay for RODP classes?
Yes.
6. Where do I buy my RODP textbooks?
To order your RODP textbooks go to http://www.rodp.org/campus/coscc.htm
and click on Bookstore. Columbia State Bookstore does not carry RODP textbooks.
7. Can I charge my RODP textbooks to my financial aid?
When buying your books through the RODP Bookstore you will need to use a credit or debit card, or go in person to the RODP bookstore located on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University – MTSU. You may be reimbursed later in the semester when your financial aid fund becomes available.
8. Where do I go to access my RODP courses?
Students access RODP classes on the first day of class at http://www.rodp.org/degrees/default.htm and click on Go To Class. Follow the instructions to establish your username and password. RODP classes are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
9. How often should I log into my RODP courses?
You will need to participate regularly as part of the overall learning experience; in fact most students access their courses five to seven times each week.
10. Can I use Columbia State computers to do my class work?
Columbia State computer labs are available on scheduled times. However, if you course requires specific computer programs you will not be allowed to download any program on Columbia State computers. You will need to make your own arrangements.
11. Where can I find a proctor for my RODP exams?
RODP proctor information is available at http://www.rodp.org/students/proctor.htm
12. How can I ask for help if I am having problems understanding course material?
Students are encouraged to seek help early in the semester. RODP students have access to all college resources plus live, free-of-charge tutoring through SMARTHINKING at http://www.smarthinking.com
13. Who do I contact if I am having technical problems?
RODP Technical Support is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-550-7637.
14. Who do I contact if I am having RODP course issues?
Email or call Dr. Marilia Gerges, Columbia State RODP Contact, at gerges@columbiatstate.edu or 931- 540 2618.
15. How does my instructor evaluate my progress?
Your instructor will evaluate course progress based on course assignments, quizzes, and participation as described in the course syllabus. Your instructor may also monitor how many times you log on, your course navigation patterns, pages visited, and time spent reading course materials.
16. Do I have to attend an RODP Orientation?
The key to succeed in an online course is to be prepared before classes start. If you are a first time RODP students, it is recommended to complete the “12 Steps to Becoming an RODP Student” available at http://www.rodp.org/enrolltoday/12steps.htm
For additional information about the RODP Programs and courses send an email to: rodp@columbiastate.edu or call at 931-540 2618 or 931-540-2619.