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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What programs are available online?

Medical Transcription Certificate of Applied Science, Health Information Coding Certificate, Medical Billing and *Associate of Applied Science degrees in Health Information Technology and Medical Transcription are offered online as well as many prerequisite courses for other programs and general education core classes for transfer to another college or university. The Computer Technology AAS degree is 90% online with a few key courses offered on campus.

*Note:  Fundamentals of Speech and Interpersonal Communications require additional mandatory class meetings on the Great Falls campus.  Please refer to the list of distance classes for the posted dates.

 
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What is the cost for tuition?
Click here for a tuition and fee schedule. To qualify for our reduced out-of-state tuition.

 
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How do I apply?

You can now access an application form online. To download an application form, click here. Either fax this completed application to 406-771-4317 or mail it to the College at: MSU - Great Falls College of Technology, 2100 16th Avenue South, Great Falls, MT 59405.

New this summer, if you are attending an Montana University System (MUS) college or university, you can now fill out a transmittal application for an $8 fee (paid to your home school) and have all of your records (application, transcripts, shot records, etc.) sent to another MUS college or univeristy. Read more about this option by clicking here.

If you prefer, you may contact the Information Desk on our campus at 1-800-446-2698 or information@msugf.edu and request an application packet.


 
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How do I register?
If you are a new student, contact Academic Resources at 406-771-4414 or 1-800-446-2698 to sign up for a Compass test or STAR orientation or schedule a telephone appointment with a counselor. For detailed information on registering using Banner Web, please click here.

 
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Are there advisors available?
Yes, a New Student Academic Advisor for new students and non-degree distance students will help you choose your courses.  Contact the receptionist in Academic Resources by phone at (406) 771-4414 or 1-800-446-2698, ext. 4414 to make an appointment.

Once you are officially in a program, you will be assigned a program advisor to help you select courses each semester. However, if you are a non-degree distance student, the Academic Advisor can help you select your courses if your assigned advisor is unable.

 
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If the course is closed, what are my options?
If the course is closed, click on Forms and scroll for an Override Authorization Form. Print it off and return it to the College or fax it to (406) 771-4317.  Please put your phone number or email address on this form so we can contact you if your override is approved.  You may email the faculty teaching the course directly for approval; however, you will still be required to fill out this form.

 
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Can I start any time?
Distance learning courses are available on a semester basis.  Courses begin the first day of the semester and end the last day of the semester just like the classes taught on campus.

 
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How do I start?
If you are new to distance learning, orientations are available to acquaint you with the technology. For times and dates of the next distance learning orientations clicking on Orientation Schedule.  If you are unable to attend a face-to-face orientation, be sure to click on Online Orientation and acquaint yourself with WebCT by going through Student Content section of the Student Resource Course.

 
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How are distance courses delivered?
Most of our distance courses at MSU - Great Fall are offered either via WebCT. However, a few courses are offered directly off our website. 

 
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Do I need a password to access my class?
Usually you will need a password to access your distance class.  If you are taking a course via WebCT, your Banner ID number will be your username and password. And you have the option of changing your password after you log on.  Your Banner ID number is the eight-digit number beginning with a hyphen (-) on your billing statement. If you do not know your Banner I.D. or forget it, please fill out the Contact Form and we will notify you as soon as possible.  If you forget your Banner I.D. number you may also contact the College and ask for Student Services or the Distance Education Department.

If you are taking a class directly off our website, please email your instructor for your password to get started.  Click on the directory and click on your instructors name for a direct link to their email address.

 
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Do I have to be online at a certain time?
Although your course will have a schedule with due dates, you have the flexibility of being online anytime--24 hours a day--that is convenient for you. 

 
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How do I get my textbooks?
You may purchase your texts in the bookstore or order your textbooks online at http://www.thecottagebookstore.com/

 
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How do I contact my instructor?
Search Banner Web to determine who is teaching the course and then refer to our campus directory for phone number and email address. If your instructor is not listed or you have any questions, please contact the Distance Ed office for assistance at distance@msugf.edu or by phone at 406-771-4440 or 800-446-2698, ext. 4440.

 
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How are tests given on the Internet?
In most cases tests are either open book, timed, or project based. You may be asked to find a professional in your community to proctor an exam, especially for Math or Accounting. For more information on proctors, please email your instructor.

 
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How long do I have to be online?
We recommend you log in to your course 2-3 times a week.  Most of the course work can be done offline. You will need to be online to retrieve messages, send messages, take tests, and do research.

 
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Are there library services available to me?
Yes, you can research library databases from your home by applying for the library proxy server at http://library.msugf.edu/ and click on "proxy server form."  After filling out and submitting this form, you should receive an e-mail in approximately a week that will instruct you on configuring your computer in order to access the library databases.  This is a great tool for research!

 
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MSU-Great Falls College of Technology | 2100 16th Ave. South | Great Falls, MT 59405
Toll Free 800.446.2698 | FAX: 406.771.4317 | TDY: 406.771.4424 | Copyright 2004. All rights reserved.