Frequently Asked Questions

What CIS class should I take first?
This all depends on your abilities and interest. Check the campus catalog and course link to see a detailed description of each class. Many certificates and degrees are available in the CIS area. It is also best to make an appointment with one of our counselors on campus. Day and evening appointments are available or send an e-mail to one of our counselors, Jean England (jengland@cypresscollege.edu) or Don Tyrrell (dtyrrell@cypresscollege.edu).

What does TBA mean?
The term TBA means "To Be Announced." This term is often used when a lab time is required, but the time can be arranged based on the student's schedule. TBA may also be used to indicate a room or other information was not available at the time of scheduling. Check with the instructor listed, a counselor, or the Business & CIS office for more current information.

Who is Mr./Mrs.Staff?
A teacher assignment listed as "Staff" indicates that a teacher has not been assigned at the time the schedule has gone to the printer. You can obtain the assigned teacher's name on the first day of class or from the Business & CIS Division Office if it is an emergency.

Do I need software for my computer classes?
Computer labs are available on campus at several locations and with convenient lab hours. Computer labs are available on the first and second floors of the Business Education Building for CIS students with extended hours Monday through Saturday and provide all equipment and software materials required as part of your lab fee. If you choose to work at home, you may purchase software at a discounted educational price at the campus bookstore. Contact the Cypress College Bookstore for pricing information.

Do I need to purchase a textbook for my class?
Most classes require that you purchase the class textbook to ensure successful completion of the course. You may purchase your textbooks anywhere, but textbooks are available at the campus bookstore and online at www.cypress.bkstr.com. It is best to attend your first class before purchasing your textbook.

What if I need a tutor, or child care, or other services during the semester?
Cypress College has many services available for the student, including special services for the disabled student and financial assistance. Office hours, locations, and a description of the services available are listed in the Class Schedule or check out their website at cypresscollege.edu/sss.

How do I add a class if it is listed as being full? How do I drop a class?
You can officially add or drop a class by completing the colored add/drop form and submitting this form to Admissions & Records in the Administration Building. Depending on the time of the semester, you may also be able to complete these activities online through WebStar.

What if I don't want a grade? How does Credit/No-Credit Work?
Some classes offer the option of Credit/No-Credit instead of receiving a grade of A to F. Not all classes have the credit/no-credit option available. Check the class description in the Class Schedule or Catalog for more information. Students must specify to the instructor that they wish to take a course Credit/No-Credit by the second meeting of the course and will be unable to change the grading system during the term or thereafter.

Can I get credit for a class or get it waived if I think I already know the material?
This procedure is called "challenging a class." A completed challenge form must be filed with the Office of Instruction and there are deadlines for the procedure. Refer to the Class Schedule or Catalog for "Challenging Prerequisites or Other Limits on Enrollment; see a counselor for completing the form required.

When are final exams and can I take an exam at another time?
Final exams are given the last week of the semester or the class meeting time for a short-term class. The terms vary so refer to the calendar listed in the Class Schedule for the exact date and time. Instructors will also have this information in their syllabus.

How do I find out my final grade?
Students who have completed a course can view their grades online at the WebStar site. It usually takes a few days after the final exam for your instructor to calculate and post grades, so be patient.