Get Started with Distance Education
The application and registration process for Distance Education courses at El Camino College is the same with face-to-face classes. Follow the steps below to apply.
Before You Register
New Students
If you are not a current ECC student, you first need to Enroll at ECC. Enroll Now.
Out-of-State Students
At this time, if you do not physically live in California you are not permitted to register for DE courses from El Camino College.
Steps to Register for Distance Education Classes
Choose your classes from the Class Schedule. Be sure that prerequisites and co-requisites are met.
Register for classes through MyECC.
- Check your registration appointment through MyECC.
- Click on Registration > Add & Drop > Registration Appointment Time.
- You may not register prior to the assigned date and time.
- See priority registration to know more about how you get your appointment.
Take note of any additional information or requirements for your course.
- Look in the Schedule of Classes for on-campus meetings or other specific instructions.
- Once you fees are paid (keep a copy of your receipt), your class will show up in Canvas.
Prepare for your distance education experience! Use our tutorials and resources to begin building skills for success in Distance Education.
Check your ECC Email.
Don't forget to check your ECC email for messages about the course from your instructor.
Before Your Class Starts
Distance Education courses follow the same registration procedures as face-to-face classes. Use the below information to learn about closed classes, the waitlist, and how to add or drop a course.
Closed Classes and the Waitlist
The online Schedule of Classes will tell you if a class is Open, Closed, or Waitlisted. When a class is full, a wait list will open. You may add your name to the wait list if space is available. When both the class and waitlist are full, the class will state "Closed".
Adding a Class
If the class is closed and the waitlist is full, you must contact the instructor and request permission to add. You may reach the instructor by:
- Attending the first class meeting/orientation held on-campus (FOR HYBRID CLASSES ONLY).
- Email. Most instructors prefer email especially if the course does not have on-campus orientation. If you need the instructor's email please contact the Division Office for that class.
If space is available, the instructor will provide you an add code. Add the class through MyECC or use the Add Form and pay your fees on time. It can take up to 24 hours from the time of your add registration until your class is available in Canvas.
More information on adding a class.
Dropping a Class
Voluntary Course Drop
The process for dropping classes is the same for face-to-face classes. Simply drop the class through MyECC. Check the Academic Calendar for final drop dates.
Dropped Due to Attendance
Students who do not show up for the first class session in face-to-face classes are dropped from the roster. In an online class, students who do not engage in the first required interaction of the academic term by the instructor's deadline or within the first five days of the term, if no other deadline is provided, may be dropped from the roster. Make certain to read your syllabus to find out what you need to do for your class.
If you are uncertain about how to access your course or have questions about what is required of you, please remember to contact your instructor so that you are not dropped from the class because you didn't check in.
Dropped Due to Non-Participation
Instructors may withdraw students who do not continue to complete required regular substantive interactions by the assigned due dates specified in the syllabus. According to Federal guidelines, frequent weekly participation is required.
It is not enough to just read the lectures and send in your assignments to the instructor. Make sure you follow the instructions and dates in your course syllabus for participation requirements.
Questions? Contact Us
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