Your Virtual Future, Our Answers
Fort Hays State University is proud to be at the forefront of the innovations that come along with a virtual education. As we continue to focus on what education is – and what it should be – we continue to push on and inspire purposeful change in all of our students.
And, as we push ourselves to higher ground in the ever-changing landscape of technology-based learning, we know that you may have many questions. Explore some of the most frequently asked questions.
COSTS
What is the cost of an FHSU Online Course?
FHSU offers an affordable tuition rate to all of our online students (no matter where you live or how many credit hours you're taking). The cost per credit hour is different for Undergraduate, Graduate, and MBA/Doctorate courses. For current tuition rates, check here.
Can I apply for financial aid?
Yes. All U.S. Citizens can apply for financial aid. For additional information on applying for aid, please visit financial assistance. If you have additional questions, you can call the FHSU Financial Assistance Office at (785) 628-4408. For exceptions for non-U.S. Citizens, please visit https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/eligibility/non-us-citizens
What are the application fees?
The undergraduate application fee is $30, the graduate application fee is $40, and the international student application fee is $50. The application fee is applicable for both degree and non-degree seeking students.
Are textbooks and materials included in tuition?
No, textbooks and course material costs are not included in the tuition cost. To order textbooks and materials, please visit the FHSU Bookstore.
Do you have any additional fees with tuition?
You pay an application fee when you apply for admission and a graduation fee when you fill out the intent to graduate form. The tuition rate you see is what you pay. There may be additional costs associated with the courses, such as textbooks, supplies, and proctoring fees.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Is FHSU accredited?
Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Do you offer my program online?
We offer online associates, bachelors, masters, education specialist, doctorate of nursing practice (DNP), and many certificate programs. Click here to view available online programs.
What will my online course(s) look like?
Courses are offered online in Blackboard, which is where you will log in, with your TigerNet ID, on the first day of class. Online courses may include, but are not limited to: discussion boards, videos, presentations, individual and team projects, labs, and exams. Instructors will have different requirements for each course. Make sure to look at your syllabus on the first day of class! Courses will not be loaded into Blackboard until the first day of class. Click here to view the demo course.
How long are online classes?
The fall (August) and spring (January) semesters are 16-weeks (some courses are offered within the semester in 1st or 2nd 8-week format), summer term (June) is 8-weeks, and winter Intersession (December) is 3-weeks (this term has limited course offerings). Once you are admitted to FHSU, you can begin working with an assigned academic advisor to prepare for pre-enrollment.
Which student services are available for online students?
We provide a multitude of services for online students, such as free online tutoring and writing center through Smarthinking.com; FHSU Tiger ID cards; Career Services; Career Exploration; Technical Support and software purchasing. Students can run for seats on the Virtual Student Senate, and students with specific GPA’s are invited to join the Fort Hays Honor Society and/or the National Society of Leadership & Success. Online students can sign up for faculty-led and study abroad trips, and once you graduate from FHSU you can travel to campus and walk at Commencement! More information is sent out via email to all enrolled students each semester!
What if I have questions or concerns about FHSU?
Whether you are a prospective or current student, you can always contact the FHSU Online. Our phone number is (785) 628-4291, email virtualcollege@fhsu.edu, or chat with us on our website!
State Authorization
On April 3, 2015, Fort Hays State University was approved to join the NC-SARA initiative. The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement is an agreement among member states, districts, and territories that establishes comparable national standards for interstate offering of postsecondary distance education courses and programs. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by postsecondary institutions based in another state.
Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Fort Hays State University is committed to resolving grievances and concerns in an expeditious and fair manner. Students who wish to file a complaint, must first file it with the university at this link. If the student is not satisfied with the decision, it may be appealed to the Kansas Board of Regents.
Professional Licensure
All programs that lead to licensure at Fort Hays State University will prepare the student for licensure in Kansas. If the student resides outside of Kansas, the student should refer to the appropriate licensing board in their state to determine the licensure requirements.
ADMISSIONS
How do I get started?
Your first step is to apply for admission! The applications are split between Undergraduate Freshman or Transfer Student, Applying for Re-entry, International Student, and Graduate Student. You can apply for re-entry if you have previously taken courses at FHSU.
Do I need to be admitted to take classes?
Yes, you must be admitted as either a degree-seeking or non-degree seeking student to enroll in classes.
What if I have previously attended FHSU?
At the undergraduate level, if you have previously taken courses at FHSU, you will complete a re-entry application. You will not have to repay the application fee. If you applied for admission and did not enroll in courses, your application fee is good for one calendar year. Graduate level students must re-apply if they have taken more than five years off from taking classes. Also, graduate-level degrees must be completed within eight years.
Do you accept transfer credits?
We accept credit from all regionally accredited U.S. institutions. FHSU also accepts military credits evaluated by the American Council on Education. AP, CLEP and DANTES examination credits are also accepted based upon the evaluation. International credits may also be evaluated when completed by NACES members. For more information, click here.
We have a few processes in place for credit for prior learning. This includes credit by examination, credit by portfolio, and credit by documentation.
I am in the military, who could I contact to learn more about tuition assistance?
If you are current or former Military, you can email the FHSU Military Success Specialist at military@fhsu.edu. For additional information, click here.
Can I apply as an international student?
Yes, you can apply! You need to decide if you are planning to be an online or on-campus student since the requirements will be different. Click here for information on the online international student application. https://www.fhsu.edu/future-international/vc-admission-requirements/index.
Did you receive my application materials?
For an undergraduate domestic student to check the status of your application, contact the FHSU Registrar’s Office. You can call (785) 628-4222 or email Registrar@fhsu.edu. For an undergraduate international student application, you can email international@fhsu.edu. If you applied to the FHSU Graduate School, you can check on your application by phone at (785) 628-4236 or by email at gradschool@fhsu.edu. If you need to send transcripts, they will need to be sent officially from your previous school. You can have them emailed or mailed to: Fort Hays State University, Attn: Registrar’s Office, 600 Park St., Hays, KS 67601.
How can I find my academic advisor?
Once you are admitted to FHSU, you will be assigned an academic advisor. Make sure you have set up your Tiger Net ID, as this will give you access to TigerTracks. Your advisor’s information will be listed on the “Online Services” tab, under “Advisor information”. To set up your TigerNet ID, please visit: https://www.fhsu.edu/tigertech/new-student-information/
When can I start classes?
Online classes follow the same traditional academic calendar as on-campus. For a list of important dates please visit the FHSU Academic Calendar at: http://www.fhsu.edu/registrar/academic-calendar/. The fall (August) and spring (January) semesters are 16-weeks (some courses are offered within the semester in 1st or 2nd 8-week format), summer term (June) is 8-weeks, and winter Intersession (December) is 3-weeks (this term has limited course offerings). Once you are admitted to FHSU, you can begin working with an assigned academic advisor to prepare for pre-enrollment.
ENROLLMENT
How do I find out what classes to take?
When first admitted to FHSU, you will work with your academic advisor to determine the required coursework. After your first semester at FHSU, you will also be able to view your degree summary in TigerTracks.
How can I pre-enroll/enroll in courses?
You must log in to TigerTracks and then to TigerEnroll in order to complete the Enrollment Worksheet. You can add courses to your worksheet, then you must add them to your Student Schedule. After this step, your advisor will get an email to approve your course. PLEASE NOTE: Courses will not automatically move from your worksheet to your schedule, you must click ”add the selected courses to Student Schedule”.
You can make changes to your class schedule in TigerEnroll. Dropping a course can affect your financial aid. Click here to learn more.
How do I file an academic appeal?
For information regarding the academic appeal process for FHSU Online students, contact the FHSU Registrar’s Office by email at registrar@fhsu.edu or call 785-628-4222. Before filing an academic appeal, please review the Fort Hays State University policy regarding the academic appeal process. To view the appeal form.
STARTING CLASSES
How do I find my course textbooks?
Visit the FHSU Bookstore online. You can log in to the FHSU Bookstore site with your TigerNet ID. A personalized page of the courses you are registered for plus the required and suggested course materials will be available. If a textbook is unavailable or has not been selected, you can sign up to be notified when it is available. You can select from new, used, eBook, and rental textbooks! There is also a peer-to-peer marketplace to shop for textbooks. You can also sell your books back on the website. If you have any questions, visit https://fhsu.textbookx.com/help .
How do I find my classes?
Classes will be loaded into Blackboard on the first day of classes. Enrolled courses can be viewed in your Blackboard account. This is a great time to look through each course and read the syllabi. Instructors have creative control of their courses and not all courses will look the same. Check out the Blackboard tutorials.
What if my classes are not available or showing up?
Courses are loaded into Blackboard on the first day of classes. If today is the first day of classes, you can email your instructor. You can locate instructor contact information in the FHSU Directory located in the menu bar on the website. If you do not hear from your instructor, please email virtualcollege@fhsu.edu and we will look into the course.
How do I find a syllabus?
Syllabi are located in Blackboard within the individual courses. If you are looking for syllabi before the course begins, you can get a generic syllabus from the academic department. If you have questions about who to contact, email virtualcollege@fhsu.edu
How are exams offered?
The majority of exams are offered online in Blackboard. Some classes will have test proctors required. You are not required to visit a specific facility! The test proctor requirements differ by department. Some will have the flexibility to choose a person or an online proctor, while other departments require an online proctor service, which could have additional fees.
Do I need to find a test proctor?
The majority of FHSU courses do not require a test proctor, so you do not need to automatically find a test proctor before the semester/term begins! Once you are in the class, you will get additional testing procedures from your instructor for your courses. If a course needs a test proctor, there will be information in the notes section in TigerEnroll.
STUDENT SERVICES
FREE Online Tutoring & Writing Center – offered from Smarthinking.
This service has live tutors 24/7 for the majority of subjects. You can schedule tutoring for a future session. There is also a writing center to submit papers to for evaluation.
You can gain access through TigerTracks on the Online Services tab, under academics. After clicking on “Smarthinking” a few web browser checks will be performed and you will have access to the service. If you have any questions, please email us.
Accessibility and Counseling Services
The FHSU Kelly Center has many support services for students, faculty and staff. These include personal counseling, counseling location recommendations in your area, and accessibility services. Online students have access to Smarthinking.com, the online tutoring service. If you are in the Hays area, you can also look into the Kelly Center's tutoring options.
You can request an ID card in TigerTracks. Under the Personal Information category, click “Tiger Card Request (Online Students Only)”.
You will have to submit a few items:
1.) A headshot photo on a solid white or black background
2.) A copy of government identification (a driver’s license, passport, military ID, etc.)
3.) A $10 fee
Resources include:
- Big Interview – Develop your interview skills through mock interviews with our online video interview training software.
- Handshake – Explore full-time-job and internship listings, resume referrals, and alumni networking. Students can login at our web portal.
- GoinGlobal - Get information for students and alumni looking to job search globally and internationally. Login in TigerTracks.
Don’t wait until your final semester to get started! Be watching for upcoming events including mock interviews, online career fairs, etc.
Porvides assistance in determining a career path. Take a Career Assessment on TigerTracks, or visit “What can I do with a major in . . .”
Software and Technical Support Through TigerTech
For assistance with university email, your TigerNetID, Blackboard, or TigerTracks, please call 785-628-3478 or chat live with TigerTech. Students can take advantage of a variety of options to get FREE and/or discounted software for use on their personal devices.
Software Tutorials and Assistance
Forsyth Library provides technology assistance and one-on-one training for technology, software, devices and apps. Whether you have questions about a presentation or a video editing project, contact learningcommons@fhsu.edu for help. Additionally, the library promotes Hoonuit software tutorials which are a collection of brief, self-guided videos about Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Blackboard and other skills. Hoonuit tutorials are a quick reference when you have a specific question about performing a task in a program you're using, or you can view the series of tutorials to master an entire application.
Forsyth Library Resources and Research Help
- Library Resources - Access an extensive collection of electronic articles, e-books, scholarly journals, and research databases through the library website.
- Interlibrary Loan - Request specific resources to be mailed to your personal address or delivered electronically through Interlibrary Loan.
- Research Help - Ask a Librarian for research help to find, use, and cite sources more effectively. One-on-one research help is available via live chat, scheduled video conference appointments, by phone at 785-639-6180, or by email at refserv@fhsu.edu. Visit http://libanswers.fhsu.edu/ to ask a librarian a question.
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
CPL allows students to demonstrate learning that they already have to earn college credits.
All students are invited to come to Hays to walk at Commencement! We have commencement ceremonies every fall and spring semester. In May, there are two large ceremonies, separated by college, for the Spring Event. In December, there will be one ceremony for Fall commencement. These are usually very busy days on FHSU campus. On Friday, there are many individual events, as well as the graduate faculty luncheon. There are also two tours of the campus! If you are planning to travel to Hays, be sure to book your hotel early!
Events, Clubs/Organizations, and Opportunities
We offer a variety of different events and organizations that are available to virtual students.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
What are the system requirements for courses?
To meet basic security, networking, and upgrade requirements, your computer should be running Windows 7 (or newer) or Mac OS X (or newer). Ideally, your computer's warranty should be supported by the manufacturer throughout your college career. Chromebooks and iPads are not recommended for use as your primary device due to limited functionality. Ask your instructor or academic department to learn about any specific technology requirements that may apply for each course in which you are enrolled.
What if I have technical problems?
You can call FHSU TigerTech at (785) 628-3478 or Chat with them online at https://www.fhsu.edu/tigertech/
Can I get discounts on software?
Enrolled students at FHSU can get FREE and/or discounted software for use on personal devices at www.fhsu.edu/tigertech/software/.
GRADES, CREDITS, & GRADUATION
When will I receive my grades?
The final grade entry deadline is listed on the academic calendar. This date is usually the Monday after the semester/term ends at noon. For more information, visit: https://www.fhsu.edu/registrar/academic-calendar/index.
I am a non-degree seeking student. Can I change to degree-seeking? Will my credits count?
Yes, you can change to degree-seeking if you submit the required materials and meet the application requirements. At the undergraduate level, contact the FHSU Registrar’s Office at (785) 628-4222. At the graduate level, contact the FHSU Graduate School at (785) 628-4236. Credits taken as non-degree seeking status can count toward a degree. Speak with an advisor or FHSU Registrar’s Office degree analyst to see if the courses would be needed for the degree in which you are interested.
How and when will I get my diploma?
Diplomas are mailed 4 – 6 weeks following the end of your final semester. They are mailed to the address you indicated on your intent to graduate form, NOT your permanent address. To change the address your diploma will be mailed to, you will need to contact your degree analyst in the Registrar's Office, 785-628-4222, before the end of your final semester.
Who issues my diploma? Will it say “FHSU Online” on it?
The student's FHSU degree will be awarded through one of the five colleges: College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; College of Business and Entrepreneurship; College of Education; College of Health and Behavioral Sciences; College of Science, Technology and Mathematics at Fort Hays State University. The words “FHSU Online” will not appear on the diploma.
Can I attend commencement?
Yes, all FHSU graduates are invited to walk at commencement. For additional graduation information, please visit: https://www.fhsu.edu/commencement/.
Contact FHSU Online
FHSU Online
Hammond Hall 201
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: 785-628-4291
Email: online@fhsu.edu
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