Online Prerequisite Courses FAQ
Have questions about completing your prerequisites with Fast Track online courses? You will find many of the answers you need right here. We’re also happy to help by phone or email. Call us at (585) 275-0446, or send an email to SONCLL@urmc.rochester.edu.
How do online prerequisite courses (Fast Track) work?
Each class is made up of a number of modules. These modules may include readings from a textbook or articles, PowerPoint presentations and/or video instruction. At the end of each module, you will take an online test covering that material. The nature of the learning and testing varies from knowledge-based learning to applied learning. There are also optional assignments designed to help you learn the material. These assignments generally do not need to be turned in to the instructor unless you would like faculty assistance or feedback.
Do I need to come to the University of Rochester to take the tests?
No, all the tests are administered online and can be taken anywhere with internet access.
Is there a cumulative final?
No, there is a test after each module covering only the material from that module.
Is there a lab component?
We offer lab components for Microbiology and Anatomy and Physiology I & II. Please check with your college or university to check what is required.
Can you please explain the lab courses?
To conduct hands-on labs in your home setting, you will purchase a kit from eScience Labs. This kit includes all necessary resources, including lab materials, instructional videos, practice questions, a virtual lab manual and worksheets, presentations, and recommended websites. In addition, your course faculty will provide instructional support and eScience Labs will provide technical support for the virtual program. You will complete the lab at your own pace via the interactive online modules, submitting lab reports, pictures of your progress, and a knowledge quiz for each lab topic. You will be graded by your School of Nursing course faculty.
Will this course transfer to my college or university?
We encourage you to check with your college or university before taking any course to be sure the course credit will transfer. UR School of Nursing courses are generally transferable; however each individual school makes the final decision whether or not to accept the course.
The University of Rochester is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. In addition, the School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
How many hours should I plan on spending on my Online Prerequisite Course (Fast Track)?
The amount of time required for a Fast Track course varies from person to person. On average, a 3-credit course will require 125 hours of work. You can choose to complete your course in the normal 14-week period, or you can condense this time period and spend more hours per week on your course.
Is there faculty or an instructor I can contact if I have trouble or need additional help?
Yes, each course has a faculty member or an instructor who is available to facilitate your learning. If you are having difficulty understanding a concept or would like to learn more, you should email your faculty member or instructor using the contact information listed in Blackboard.
Are there specific computer services or software I need to take this course?
For up-to-date information on technical requirements needed, please visit Technical Requirements.
How will I get the login information I need to start the course?
You will receive an email from us which will provide a link to create your username and password, and the web address for Blackboard, our online learning software. We will send the email a few days before the course is scheduled to begin. If you register during the semester, it will take up to five days to receive your login information. Please add University of Rochester School of Nursing SON_HelpBB@urmc.rochester.edu to your address book to avoid the confirmation being sent to your SPAM folder. If it has been over five days, please check your spam folder.
What if I cannot login to Blackboard or haven't received my email?
If you have trouble logging in to Blackboard, contact SONHelp@URMC.Rochester.edu or (585) 275-7500.
If you have not received an email, first check your spam/junk folder and/or add SONHelp@URMC.Rochester.edu to your list of accepted senders. If you still are having issues finding them email, you can contact the SON Registrar's Office at (585) 273-1402 or SONRegistrar@URMC.Rochester.edu
How do I find out my test grades and final grade?
You can view your test score immediately after completing a test by accessing your grade book on Blackboard. Your final numerical grade will also appear in the grade book upon completion of the course. Final grades are submitted as follows:
- For 1-credit courses (labs), you may choose to complete and submit by 11:59 p.m. EST on the optional early deadline or the final deadline. Grades will be submitted on the 20th of that month.
- For 3-credit courses, you may choose to complete and submit by 11:59 p.m. EST on the optional early deadline or the final deadline. Grades will be submitted the following day.
If you are using the course to meet an application deadline, as a prerequisite to begin another course, or to meet graduation requirements at another institution, please be aware of your course’s completion deadlines and grade submission timeline. If you need an earlier submission for any reason, contact the instructor.
How can I get a transcript?
After your grade is submitted, you can order an official transcript to be sent to your school from the University of Rochester.