Virtual Programs

• Windows 10 or newer
• Mac OS 10.12 or newer
• Additional software may be required (check course syllabus)

• PC, Mac, Chromebook or tablet
• Speakers
• Microphone
• Webcam
• Additional hardware may be required (check course syllabus)

• High speed broadband internet connection is required
• Download speed of at least 25 mbps
• Upload speed of at least 3 mbps
• Ping response of less than 100ms
• Test your internet speed using speedtest.

Please consider the following while participating in online education:

• Using a shared internet connection will impact connectivity, such as additional household members use of streaming TV, gaming, and other usage.
• Wireless connections may be impacted by the distance from the router and interference from microwaves and other electronics.
• Your internet service provider's performance may vary throughout the day based on community usage.

• The most recent release of Chrome or Firefox is recommended.
• Browser and Operating System Check
• Blackboard Learn requires the use of session cookies enabled in the user's browser to provide the right experience for teaching and learning.

Not only has BC3 been selected by Niche.com as the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania for 2025, but it has also been a leader in online and distance education for over 20 years. Since 1999, BC3 has offered students the flexibility of attending courses in various technology-enhanced formats that meet their educational needs and personal schedules.

Distance education, also known as distance learning, e-learning, or online learning, refers to a method of delivering education to students who are not physically present in a traditional classroom setting. It uses various technologies, such as the internet, video or web-conferencing, and email to facilitate communication between students and teachers and to deliver educational materials and content to students remotely. The goal of distance education is to provide access to education to learners who may not be able to attend traditional on-campus classes due to geography, work, or other constraints.

Yes. Students enrolling in a virtual program should follow the recommended course sequence on the Program Planner to complete the program 100% online and within the advertised length of time for that program. Note: Students who test into developmental/prep reading and math may not have the ability to complete these courses 100% online at this time.

Students enrolled in a BC3 virtual program are always welcome to come to any one of BC3’s six campus locations but will never be required to come to campus. From application to graduation, all courses in the chosen virtual program will be offered in the 100% online format. Student services and support are available online, via web-conference, via phone or via other remote formats.

BC3 virtual program classes follow the same semester start and end dates as all other classes offered by BC3. See the credit schedule for the exact start and end dates. Some virtual program courses may also be available during the summer and winter sessions, and in shorter FastTrack timeframes.

BC3 offers its registered students free tutoring for many credit courses. Tutoring is offered remotely or in-person at the Tutoring Center in the Academic Center for Enrichment (ACE), Student Success Center, on BC3 Main Campus and in designated tutoring rooms at each off-campus site. Visit the BC3 Tutoring page for more information.

The BC3 Technology Help Desk is the support center for students, faculty and staff for all questions and/or problems with BC3 authorized educational technology products and software, BC3 campus computers and/or phone related issues, and more. Remote support is available via phone and through our online, 24/7 FastForm ticketing system. Visit the Technology Help Desk for hours and contact information.

Students enrolled in online courses will primarily communicate with their instructors via their free myBC3 email account and through the messaging features of BC3’s learning management system, Blackboard Ultra.

Yes. BC3 makes every effort to accommodate and serve students with disabilities so they may achieve their educational potential. BC3 is committed to offering accessible online courses, services and support to all students. With the help of Blackboard Ally, built into the College’s learning management system, all students, regardless of their learning needs, can view course documents in a variety of accessible formats. Visit BC3’s Disability Services page for more information on the services and support that are available for students with disabilities.