Learn More About Virtual Classroom Courses

APCO Virtual Classroom courses are delivered online in real time by APCO’s adjunct instructors in an interactive and engaging virtual classroom environment. These courses follow a set schedule and are completed within a defined timeframe, allowing participants to earn certification more quickly than through a traditional online course. Camera use is required for the full duration of the course.

  • Course Format and Benefits
    What are the benefits of a virtual classroom course?
    We created our virtual classroom course delivery method to enable APCO customers to receive certification as quickly as possible, while engaging in live interaction with Institute adjunct instructors and other learners from ECCs across the country without travel expenses.

    Do virtual classroom courses have real instructors?
    Our virtual courses are instructor-led by one of our esteemed adjunct instructors who will interact with participants in real time during the scheduled course time frames.

    How long does it take to complete a virtual classroom course?
    APCO delivers virtual, instructor-led courses via Microsoft Teams on the specific dates and times outlined in each course registration description. Participants follow a structured schedule and engage in guided learning activities led by an instructor. Course lengths vary by program, typically 1 to 5 days, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. This time includes online activities, such as coursework and interaction with instructors and fellow participants.

    What are the scheduled class times?
    Unless otherwise indicated, classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 5:00 p.m. ET.
  • Technical Requirements

    What requirements are needed to attend a virtual course?
    Each participant must have access to an individual computer with internet connectivity, as well as a microphone, speakers and a webcam.

    Can I use a tablet or cell phone for a virtual classroom course?
    No. The technologies used for virtual classes are optimized for desktop and laptop computers. You may not use any other device for the course.

  • Attendance Policy

    APCO has a 90% rule (attendees must attend a minimum of 90% of a course) for all courses. Attendees must not miss more than 10% of the course time or assignments to be eligible for course credit.

    What if I am on vacation during the course?
    Participants of a virtual course are expected to be logged in and in attendance during the designated class dates and times. To be eligible for certification, students must commit to attending the scheduled course in its entirety to meet the required training hours and successfully complete the required coursework in accordance with certification standards. Students who miss more than 10% of the course will not be eligible to take the final exam or earn credit for the course.
    We recommend that you do not register yourself or others for an online course if you anticipate being unavailable during the course period.

  • Final Exams

    How are virtual course final exams conducted?
    All attendees must complete the final exam for certification through the APCO Institute Online Training site. The final exam will be available starting at 2 p.m. ET on the last day of the course and will automatically close at 5:00 p.m. ET two days after the course end date.
    Work with your instructor to ensure access to the final exam. Allow yourself ample time to complete. Any issues must be reported to APCO and your instructor immediately.

  • Course Materials

    Is there a cost for textbooks?
    A digital manual is included in the tuition cost for all virtual courses. Digital manuals may be downloaded and printed.
    Several courses offer an option to purchase a hardcover manual at an additional cost.

  • Logging In and Course Access

    Where do I log in?
    If you do not already have one, set up an account on the APCO Institute Online Training site. Please be sure to use the same email address and legal name that you use for My APCO. A confirmation email will be sent to your email address within 30 minutes.
    Please whitelist apcointl.org and add [email protected] to your address book to ensure important updates are delivered to your inbox and not your spam folder.

    Where can I find my enrollment key?
    You will receive an email four days prior to the course start date, which will include the course information, including enrollment key and instructor contact information. You can also find your course information, including enrollment key, under My Classes Taken in Training Central. Select the blue “Class Info” button next to the course name.

  • Support

    What if I have questions or get behind?
    Please reach out to your instructor and/or [email protected]. If you have questions or problems keeping pace with the course, they are ready to help.

Important Information Applicable to All APCO Courses

REGISTRATION

Please visit our Schedule and Registration page to register for an upcoming course.
As per the registration policy, any registration received within ten days of the course start date will receive a $25.00 late fee and must be included with the tuition payment.

For more information, access the APCO Institute registration policy.

CANCELLATION & TRANSFERS

Per the APCO Institute registration policy, the following applies to cancellation requests prior to the course start date:

  • All cancellations must be submitted in writing and may be emailed to [email protected].
  • Any registration canceled more than 21 days prior to the start of the scheduled course will receive a refund, minus a $25.00 administrative fee.
  • Cancellations less than 21 days before the course will receive a 50% tuition refund.
  • No refunds for no shows or cancellations received on or after the course start date.

Transfers and substitutions

  • Transfers or substitutions are only permitted before the course start date.
  • Only one transfer or substitution is allowed per registrant/per course.
  • Transfer/substitution fee: $50.00.
  • Please visit our registration policy for more information.

CERTIFICATION

Upon successful completion of the course, please allow up to three weeks for certificate processing. Once your certificate is available, you will receive an email containing instructions and a link to download and print it.

Certificates are also accessible through APCO’s Training Central, an online platform that securely stores your training records. Training Central provides 24/7 access to your course history and certificates, allowing you to view, download and print your records at any time.