Orientation Highlights

BOT Orientation:

Understanding the Basics of the Program

Ordering course materials for Independent Study courses
You may order textbooks and other course materials by calling the University Union Bookstore toll-free at 800/338-6369, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m, Central Time, beginning with the following dates:
August 1: to order Fall semester materials
December 15: to order Spring semester materials
May 15: to order Summer term materials
Ordering course materials for Online courses
You should call the bookstore to determine if any print materials must be ordered for your Online course(s) – if so, order beginning with the above dates.
Course Guide
All Independent Study courses require the use of a Course Guide – the course-specific Guide may be obtained from the Distance Learning Website after registration for the specific Independent Study course. Online courses provide the Syllabus on the Distance Learning website.
Faculty contact
Specific contact information will be available in the Course Guide/Syllabus. All faculty office telephone numbers and e-mail addresses may also be located in the University Faculty Directory.
Completion timelines for Independent Study courses:
These courses have an extension available that allows approximately six months total to complete a course. You must meet all interim deadlines and any other requirements set by the instructor to be eligible to use the extension. Carefully read the Course Guide/Syllabus and any correspondence from the instructor to be aware of the eligibility requirements.
Note: Academic extensions are not applicable for financial aid recipients. To remain eligible for financial aid, you will need to complete all coursework by the official end of the campus semester.
Completion timelines for Online courses:
Extensions are not available for Online courses. You will need to complete all coursework by the official end of the campus semester.
Proctored exams
Most WIU distance courses require exams to be proctored. Examinations must be taken at the designated site in Macomb, at WIU-Quad Cities in Moline, or in your local area under the supervision of an approved proctor. (Learn more about acceptable proctors...)
Grade reports
You will be notified of your grades by e-mail from the Registrar’s office (grades will not be sent through U.S.Mail). Notification will be sent to your WIU e-mail account . Check your WIU e-mail account at http://zimbra.wiu.edu/.
You may also access grades via STARS on the Web.