The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) has taken a major step toward reducing the cost of higher education by transitioning nearly all courses to Open Educational Resources (OER) and Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) materials.
By utilizing faculty-provided materials, open-access digital textbooks, and zero-cost learning tools across a wide variety of academic and technical disciplines, UACCB is significantly lowering out-of-pocket expenses for students. The initiative aligns with Arkansas Code § 6-60-601, ensuring students have transparent, timely, and affordable access to required academic resources before registering for classes.
Students can view complete textbook requirement lists and access free digital course materials directly through the college’s online textbook portal at the UACCB textbook portal. OER resources are embedded into each course as well. Additionally, these online resources are in accessible formats for students needing accommodations. UACCB has made tremendous strides in making in-person and online resources accessible, and is a leader amongst higher education institutions for this.
“Our priority is to remove financial barriers that stand between students and their academic goals,” said Jeanette Youngblood, Dean of General Education and Transfer at UACCB. “By shifting to Open Educational Resources and Zero Textbook Cost materials, we are making higher education more accessible and equitable. Students can walk into class on day one with full access to their learning resources without worrying about the heavy burden of textbook costs.”
The transition to OER/ZTC materials spans a wide array of programs, including general education, business, agriculture, computer science, criminal justice, early childhood education, and technical trades. Programs like nursing, EMS, and welding still do have costs associated with scrubs, boots, and equipment – all of which can be charged to a student’s financial aid.
For more information on available courses, registration, or textbook lists, visit UACCB’s Find Your Textbooks page.