Affordability
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Columbus State is committed to affordability. There is a cross-functional Textbook Affordability Committee that collaborates and determines opportunities to reduce the costs of educational materials for classes. The ongoing work of the textbook advisory team along with the support of faculty represents an overall savings to students of $9.6 million on textbooks and learning materials as of July 2019.
Affordable eBook and Access Code Options
There are a variety of eBook and access code options available which is an affordable
solution versus a traditional print textbook. Stop by the Bookstore to learn more
about these options.
Courses with NO Required Textbooks = Huge Savings
There are a number of courses at Columbus State which do not require a textbook or
learning material, so that means affordable in a big way!
Instant Access (IA)
Instant access is an affordable digital option where students have access to the correct e-book through blackboard the first day of class, so no textbook purchase is necessary.
Instant Access Courses for AU23
Instant Access Courses for SU23
How do students get access on the first day?
As long as the student is enrolled on the first day of classes, the e-book will automatically be linked to their Blackboard the first day of classes. If you have any questions, or can't find the link, please contact your instructor for assistance.
How do I get technical support?
- Students should submit a ticket or email help@redshelf.com.
- Instructors should reach out to their Department Chair, see FAQ, or email help@redshelf.com
How does the fee work?
Each Instant Access course section is identified and noted in CSCC's course listings; when a student registers for one of these sections an IA fee will be included on the student's tuition and fees statement. Note: for College Credit Plus (CCP) funded courses, the IA fee gets charged to the high school district during invoicing.
As long as you drop the class during the 100% refund period for tuition and fees, the Instant Access fee will be refunded to your account. Please see the academic calendar for the 100% refund date.
Yes. Students on a payment or deferred plan are eligible to sign up for Instant Access classes. Course information will also be accessible on blackboard as it is for all other students.
The United States Department of Education published new rules (34CFR668.161-167) on October 30, 2015. The rules require all colleges and universities to provide students the ability to opt out of fees charged to a student account that are associated with books.
It is recommended you attend the first week of class and talk to your instructor about Instant Access before you opt out. If you choose to opt out, complete and return the drop form per the instructions: right click here and save as-is to download the opt out form.
The completed form must be returned by 5:00 p.m. on the 100% refund date for the class. Once you complete the process, your access to the digital material will be revoked and you will be responsible for obtaining the course material in a timely manner. You will not be able to opt back in.
If you need assistance with the opt out process, contact csbookstore@cscc.edu.
Cengage Unlimited
Cengage Unlimited is a digital subscriptions service that gives students access to all Cengage Materials for one price. Consider purchasing Cengage Unlimited at the bookstore if you have more than one course with a required cengage course material.
Subscription Options:
One Term (4 months) $119.99
Multi-term (12 months) $179.99
iBook Courses
Columbus State offers some select course sections that use ibook course materials. Students must have an Apple device to be able to enroll. Click here to find out more!
Used Books
The Columbus State Bookstore orders used books through multiple wholesalers, trying to stock as many used books as we possibly can. Supply can be limited for newer titles, but if it’s out there as a used book, we are going to do our best to get it for you. Used books are typically priced 25% - 30% lower than their new book counterparts. This helps to pass savings along to our customers! You can’t go wrong with used books, and coupled with our competitive buyback program you are sure to save big!