Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fresno Pacific University an accredited University?

Yes. Fresno Pacific University is accredited by the Commission for Senior Colleges and universities of the western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is authorized to offer course work through the Center for Professional Development.

When can I enroll in an independent study course?

Open enrollment is available for all Center for Professional Development independent study courses. Students register by returning a completed registration form and appropriate fees to the Center for Professional Development office, by dialing 1-800-372-5505 using Visa, MasterCard or Discover, or using our online form.

How do I know if there is an independent study course that is right for me?

The Center for Professional Development offers over 200 courses in 17 different subject areas. Visit our home page to begin the search for the course that best fits your needs.

What is the difference between a distance learning course and an Online course?

All courses are independent study, meaning they are completed at your own pace and on your own time. With a distance learning course you will receive materials by mail or e-mail from your instructor, and return the coursework back to your instructor upon completion. With an Online course, all assignments are provided and completed Online via a website or a course management system (i.e. Moodle).

If I register today, how long will I wait before receiving my materials?

Within 5-10 business days. Registering for a course must be done through the Center for Professional Development office. Instructors are notified daily of new registrations. Course materials are sent to students directly from individual instructors. Please allow 5-10 business days to receive course materials.

How many units may I take at one time?

Students may enroll in up to 9 semester units at once, but may not complete more than 15 units in one semester.

How long does it take to complete a course?

As little as 3 weeks…or up to 1 year. A minimum of one week per unit of study has been set, by design, as a standard for all Center for Professional Development Independent Study courses. However, students may take up to one year to complete a course.

My school district requires a letter grade for advancement on the salary schedule. Can I receive a letter grade for my coursework?

Yes. Independent study courses are graded as either “A,” “B” or “Credit,” “No Credit” (Credit” is equivalent to a letter grade of “B.”) If a student wishes to receive a letter grade instead of a credit/no credit grade, the request for letter grade box must be checked on the triplicate grade form, which is to be returned to the instructor with the completed course assignment.

Are these courses graduate level?

Yes. The Fresno Pacific Center for Professional Development offers independent study courses that are primarily designed for students who have baccalaureate degrees and appropriate teaching credentials.

These courses are graduate level, professional development units that are not part of a degree program, but instead are primarily used for professional advancement. Students should seek approval of appropriate district or college officials before enrolling in these courses to satisfy any degree, state credential, or local school district requirements.

How long does it take instructors to grade my coursework?

Allow two to four weeks from the date materials are mailed to the instructor for mailing/processing time. Grades are posted by Fresno Pacific University within five business days upon receipt of the Grade Form from the instructor.

How soon can I receive an official transcript after completing my coursework?

Students do not have to wait until the end of the semester to receive an official transcript!

Once the student receives the blue, official computer-generated Grade Report, an official transcript may be requested directly from the Registrar (not the Center for Professional Development office). Visit the Registrar's Office for all information and the official transcript request form or call 559-453-2268 for information on how to order transcripts.

What is the difference between a partial and full materials fee?

For courses listing a partial materials fee, certain materials may be shared with another student. Students ordering partial materials must ascertain that they have access to all the required updated materials before ordering.

I registered for a course and am finding it is not what I need. May I return the course or register for another?

Students are permitted to withdraw from a course, or withdraw from a course and add an alternative course within four weeks of the registration date.

A full refund for tuition and instructional materials, less a $30 handling fee, will be granted if a course is dropped within four weeks of the registration date and all materials are returned to the instructor in their original condition.

After four weeks, a 50% refund will be granted through nine weeks. After nine weeks, there is no tuition refund.

Do these courses qualify for financial aid or student loan deferment?

No, these courses do not qualify for financial aid or student loan deferment. However, some school districts have funds available to assist their teachers in professional growth. Contact your school district to find out if those funds are available to you.