Textbooks can be expensive — but did you know many courses at Pikes Peak State College offer more affordable (or even free!) options? Here’s a quick guide to the main types of Affordable Course Materials and how you can find Zero Textbook Cost classes when registering.
Video Overview
This video explains what Open Educational Resources (OER) are, how they can save you
money, and how to find these money-saving classes in your course schedule. You’ll
also learn how to spot the “No Textbook Cost” tag when registering for classes!
At Pikes Peak State College, you'll most frequently encounter two primary textbook models: Open Educational Resources (OER), which are free, and Inclusive Access, where the cost of textbooks are automatically billed to your tuition. Both options offer first-day access to your textbooks.
Not all classes use these options. Some courses will still require you to purchase a textbook, lab kits, and other instructional materials through the bookstore, so it's important to check each course before you register.
Still have questions about the types of affordable course materials? Learn more about each type of assistance below.
Benefits |
OER |
Inclusive Access |
Equitable Access* |
| Materials available first day of class: | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Predictable cost: | Yes | No | Yes |
| Adaptable for DEI & regional context: | Yes | No | No |
| Pedagogical flexibility: | Yes | No | No |
| Creative Commons Licensed: | Yes | No | No |
| Access materials after course ends: | Yes | No | No |
| FREE: | Yes | No | No |
*PPSC does not offer "equitable access" to obtain course materials, but many other colleges in Colorado do. If you are planning on transferring, be sure to check it out!
Not sure what to take or how to register? We’ll guide you through it!