Frequently Asked Questions

Are these “official” OSHA courses?
Yes, the numbered courses include the same learning objectives and topics that you would find in a classroom setting at the OSHA Training Institute or one of the OSHA Education Centers – just in an online format.  While the Fall Protection/Competent Person course is not an official OSHA Training Institute course, it does cover the applicable standards (OSHA and other) related to this topic.

When can I start?
You can start (almost) anytime! We run the online courses in two terms each year: January-June and July-December. Students may register and start anytime within the term, then have until the end of the term to complete their course(s). As it gets near the end of a term, we verify to make sure that the prospective student has the time available to be able to complete their course in a short timeframe. If not, we enroll them in the next available term. 

How long will it take me to complete my course?
A student in an online course will spend approximately the same amount of time as they would if they took the same course in a classroom setting. Some students will take a little longer and some a little less, depending on their previous knowledge and experience and their level of interest in the topics covered.
For example, a three-day classroom course is considered 21 contact hours (class time minus breaks and lunch). You would want to allow the same amount of time to complete the online course. The good news? You can spread those hours out over a period of weeks or months, working at your own pace.

Do have to be online at any certain time?
No. We have students from multiple time zones and with different work schedules.  All coursework can be completed at a time that is convenient for you.

Can I access my course from more than one computer?
Yes. Once you have your user ID and password, you can access your course from anywhere you have Internet access.

How does the course work?
The course is divided into units, each with learning objectives, preview questions, topic sections that relate to the learning objectives, OSHA and resource links, a discussion forum where you can communicate with the instructor and other students, and review questions. Some courses also include Exercises or Workshops which ask you to apply what you’re learning in a specific activity. Just start with the page that opens when you log in and follow the directions.
Specific course completion requirements are listed in the syllabus found in each individual course.

Will you send me course materials in the mail?
No materials will be sent in the mail. Everything you need to complete a course is contained online. For references to specific OSHA regulations, programs or resources, we link directly to the OSHA web site.

What happens if I need help?
Your welcome email includes a list of support functions that you have access to throughout the course, including 24/7 technical help desk support by email, phone or chat.

What is your substitution/cancellation policy?
In the event you are unable to participate, substitutions are welcome at any time – just let us know.  Please notify us IN WRITING of cancellations within three (3) business days of registration confirmation to avoid a $150 processing fee. You may email our registrar, Robin Allen, at rallen23@emich.edu or fax your cancellation to 734.481.0509. If  you do not participate and do not cancel or transfer your registration within five (5) business days after receiving your “welcome email” with user ID and password information, the course fee is non-refundable.

What happens if I don’t finish my course by the end of the term?
If you don’t complete all course requirements by the end of the term, you may transfer to the next term. Coursework completed to date does not transfer with you. A $150 transfer fee applies.

What do I get when I’m done with the course?
When your instructor has verified that you have completed all course requirements, we will send you a congratulations email, followed by a certificate of completion sent out by mail.