Everything you
need to know.
Zero textbook costs.
With Z-Degree you don’t pay anything for textbooks. Instead of traditional commercial books that can cost thousands of dollars while earning your Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree, Z-Degree uses free Open Education Resources.
What is OER?
OER stands for Open Educational Resource, which replaces traditional printed textbooks with a file accessible online. You can access this file online from many devices and at no cost. There are several advantages to OER.
Save $2,000 on textbook costs.
With Z-Degree, Northland allows you to earn your Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree while spending nothing on textbooks, meaning you could spend 15% less on your degree. That’s less upfront costs, less student debt and less obstacles standing between you and your degree.
Zero textbooks to carry around.
No more lugging heavy books from class to class. Most of your class material will be digital, meaning you’ll be able to access it online from a personal device. Zero books to carry is just another reason how Z-Degree makes getting your degree easier.
Accessible whenever and wherever.
Because Z-Degree textbooks are OER digital files, you can access them 24/7 whenever and wherever you want. No need to worry if you have your textbooks with you, if you have your phone, tablet or computer – you’re covered.
- Liberal Arts & Science Associate of Arts (A.A.)
- Economics Transfer Pathway Associate of Arts (A.A.)
- History Transfer Pathway Associate of Arts (A.A.)
- Sociology Transfer Pathway Associate of Arts (A.A.)
Why would I want a Z-Degree education?
A Z-Degree allows you to earn a full degree while spending nothing on textbooks. This can be a huge savings, averaging $2,000 or 15% of the cost of an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree. That’s less upfront costs, less student debt and less obstacles standing between you and your degree. Use the button below to view the many reasons why Z-Degree is right for you.
Why Z-DegreeIs my class or program covered by Z-Degree?
The list of degree programs fully covered by Z-Degree is listed above on this page. Many of Northland's programs also offer several Z-Degree zero-textbook-cost courses. If you don't see your program or would like to know what courses are Z-Degree, please use the link below to request more information.
Request InformationHow do a I register for a Z-Degree class or program?
If you are not a current Northland student, please fill out our free application. If you are a current student, please contact your academic advisor or use the existing class registration and look for classes that have been identified as Z-Degree. For more information please use the link below.
Request InformationWhat is a Z-Degree zero-textbook-cost class?
A Z-Degree class is the same thing as a regular class except with no textbooks to purchase. So even if the Associate of Arts isn't your current degree plan, Z-Degree courses still offer you the opportunity to save money on your education. Talk to your advisor today about registering for Z-Degree courses.
Can anyone take Z-Degree zero-textbook-cost classes?
Any Northland student can take Z-Degree classes, and students may register for as many zero-textbook-cost courses as desired or available if they meet the course prerequisites. There is no special application to participate in a Z-Degree course.
Can I take some classes that are zero-textbook-cost and some that are not?
Yes! Z-Degree classes are regular classes where there is no required purchase of a textbook; instructors provide textbook instructional materials electronically. Talk to your advisor today about registering for Z-Degree courses.
Where can I apply to Z-Degree?
You can get started by applying at the link below.
Apply NowWhat is an Open Resource Education (OER) textbook?
OER stands for Open Educational Resource, which replaces traditional printed textbooks with a file accessible online. You can access this file online from many devices and at no cost.
How do I access my OER textbook?
Your class instructor will inform you on what zero cost textbook to use and where to download it. Now there is no more waiting to get your hard copy. Once you have the internet link for your instructor to download your book, you're all set.
Are class supplies covered by Z-Degree?
Class supplies are not covered by Z-Degree, however, with zero textbook costs, you could save up to $2,000 while earning your Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree.
Where do I request additional information for Z-Degree?
You can request information from this website. Use the link below to request additional information.
Request Information
We pioneer the ideas of tomorrow.
Get to know Northland.
Northland is located in northwestern Minnesota with campuses in East Grand Forks and Thief River Falls.
About Northland
Take our virtual tour.
See education in action by going on an interactive, virtual tour of Northland from your home or phone.
Virtual Tour
Learn about financial aid.
Northland awards over $16 million annually in scholarships and aid to make your education even more affordable.
Financial Aid Info
Request info.
Looking for additional information around Z-Degree or would like to discuss Z-Degree details with our admissions team? We’re here to help assist you and reduce the obstacles along your path to a college degree.
Request Information