May 07, 2024  
2023-2024 Catalog 
  
2023-2024 Catalog

Course Delivery Methods



Northland Pioneer College uses multiple methods for delivering classes at its campus and center locations, educational sites and area high schools through dual enrollment programs. Some courses are also offered online via the internet.

Stand Alone Learning Environment (SA)

Stand-alone courses with the instructor present in the classroom for traditional lecture, discussion, and/or hands-on laboratory or studio

Connected Course Learning Environment (CC)

NPC expands course offerings by using interactive instructional video and multimedia technologies linking all of our locations. In CC courses, the instructor may or may not be in your actual classroom. Many instructors do travel during the semester to be present with students at distance locations.

Multi-Course Learning Environment (MC)

This type of nontraditional instruction allows a single teacher to instruct 16 to 18 students in several classes at once. In these classes, students work at their own pace with individualized instruction materials. The teacher becomes a facilitator working with each student, one-on-one, as the need arises.

MC classes allow the teaching of subjects where there are often only one or two students at any given time. At NPC, “MCs” are used in studio art, business, computer science, film and digital video and several other subjects.

Online Courses (OL)

A variety of internet courses are available through NPC. In these classes, students learn course material presented via the internet. These courses are great for those who have busy schedules or difficulty commuting to an NPC campus or center.

NPC has implemented a program to improve student learning in internet-based classes. Students enrolled in NPC internet classes for the first time are strongly recommended to demonstrate or develop basic skills necessary for online learning. Please complete the online readiness module (https://sites.google.com/mail.npc/itcs/eresources/readiness) by the end of the first week of class. 

For information on online classes, including prerequisites and registration instructions, visit www.npc.edu/online-classes.

Hybrid Courses (HY)

NPC also offers some blended courses that take advantage of the best aspects of stand-alone and online learning. A hybrid course is designed to integrate face-to-face and online activities, reinforce, complement and develop upon one another.

Alternative Learning (AL)

(See also, Alternative Education Services  

NPC offers alternative learning methods that allow students to earn course credit. A dean-approved individual learning contract negotiated with faculty can meet your specific degree completion requirements.

NPC can also evaluate your prior learning certified through military, industry, business or trade school training programs to assess if this education is applicable toward an NPC degree program. Students seeking evaluation of prior military training do not pay tuition charges for their assessed credits. For more information, contact your academic adviser. If you do not have an academic adviser, call the campus or center where you plan to attend and ask to speak with the adviser.

Note: Additional fees may apply for credit by evaluation. Ask your academic adviser for details. Students seeking evaluation of prior military training do not pay tuition charges for their assessed credits.

NPCFlex (PILOT) (NF)

Students have the option of attending any class session through one of the three options:

  1. Live on campus;
  2. Live online;
  3. Watch the recorded lecture

Students must select the campus/center of their choice when registering to ensure a seat is available for the live on campus option.

NPCSync (PILOT) (NS)

Students have the option of attending any class session through one of the two options:

  1. Live on campus;
  2. Live online

Students must select the campus/center of their choice when registering to ensure a seat is available for the live on campus option.

Course Offering Limitations

NPC offers courses at a number of locations throughout the district utilizing college-owned or leased facilities. Through its regular offerings and alternative study programs, NPC attempts to provide as many courses as possible for completion of degrees and certificates at each learning site. However, many vocational programs require specific tools and equipment that may not be available at all locations. Prospective students should check with the academic adviser at the NPC location they plan to attend to determine which programs are available. Housing assistance scholarships may be available for students needing to relocate for a specific vocational degree program.


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