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What are OER and ZTC?

Zero Textbook Cost, or ZTC for short, are digital textbooks available for FREE to students. Many instructors at College of the Canyons have chosen to use these textbooks, which are created by using Open Educational Resources (OER) content in their classrooms to cut educational costs for students. As textbook prices rise, more and more courses are utilizing ZTC textbooks to provide a free alternative to traditional textbooks.

I can take classes with FREE textbooks?!

Yes! Classes that use Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) textbooks are listed in the class schedule. You can click on a class section to verify that it is a ZTC textbook course. There will be a note explaining that the class uses a no-cost digital textbook.

How can I find ZTC Classes?

It's easy! To enroll in a class without any textbook fees, open the schedule of classes and filter class results by Course Types. Then, check the box, “Zero Textbook Cost". The class results will automatically populate to show only ZTC classes. Watch the short video below to learn more.

How will I access my ZTC Digital Textbook? 

Your instructor will direct you on how to access your free textbook. You may also find this information in your course Orientation Letter, and in Canvas. You may also explore ZTC Textbooks for a full list of the ZTC textbooks developed and adopted by College of the Canyons faculty. ZTC classes typically offer instructional material for free in a digital form. 

Can I also get a printed copy of the textbook? 

Printed versions of the ZTC textbooks may be offered at the Bookstore for a fee. Visit coc.bncollege.com for more information. Free printing is also available to College of the Canyons students at the ASG Computer Labs


If you need help finding your ZTC textbook, or have any questions, please email oer@canyons.edu