FAQS: OER & Z-Degree

1. Does South Central College have any Z-Degree programs?

South Central College is among the second cohort of Minnesota State colleges to develop Z-Degree programs. As of 2025, these programs are underway. Speak with your advisor for the most up-to-date information.

2. What are Open Educational Resources (OER)?

Open educational resources are teaching, learning, and research resources that make use of appropriate tools, such as open licensing to permit their free reuse, continuous improvement, and re-purposing by others for educational purposes (UNESCO).

3. What is a Z Degree?

A Z-degree is a complete associate or bachelor's degree program that exclusively use course resources that are no cost to students, such as: 

• open educational resources (OER)
• open textbooks  
• library-curated materials

To be considered a Z-degree course, the instructor cannot require students to purchase any course resources. Optional or supplemental resources that are a cost to students may be recommended. (Minnesota State)