Western Carolina University

Student Authentication and Proctoring

Western Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges. Western Carolina University’s last reaffirmation of accreditation was granted in 2006. The next reaffirmation of accreditation is scheduled for 2017.

Western Carolina University complies with SACS policies and requirements regarding Distance Education, including those related to student verification/authentication. Each student enrolled in a WCU online course is provided with, and must use, a secure login and password to access and participate in the online course. This method of student verification and authentication complies with SACS’ "Distance and Correspondence Education – Policy Statement."

Western Carolina University online courses taught as part of an approved distance education program may require proctored exams or writing assignments. This means that a student is monitored by an approved person, or proctor, while taking an exam.  The use of proctored exams is determined by the instructor. The course syllabus will indicate if proctored exams are required.

In Summer, 2009, Western Carolina University opened a Professional Testing Center with proctored exams for Distance Learners.  Western Carolina University's Office of Continuing Education offers professional test proctoring for any distance learning student regardless of the college, university or school you attend. The service is available Monday through Friday during normal business hours between 8am and 5pm by appointment only.

Students will need to schedule their exams a minimum of two weeks prior to the scheduled testing date(s).  They may schedule their proctored exam by telephone 828-227-7397 or by email.  Students requiring a change within the 14 days preceding the exam will need to contact Professional Testing for scheduling options.

A fee of $15.00 per scheduled hour is charged.   Additionally, Distance Education students who use the Testing Center are responsible for payment of the fees required to park on campus.

WCU Distance Learning students may also arrange to have their tests or assignments proctored by a qualified individual or organization located in closer proximity to them.  For ease in identifying qualified proctors, Western Carolina University participates in the UNC Online Proctoring Network .    This Network has been established to enhance the academic integrity of online courses by providing students with an easily accessible pool of qualified proctors located within as well as outside the state of North Carolina. The UNC Online Proctoring Network includes proctors who do not charge, as well as proctors who do charge, for their services. Students are personally responsible for payment of any proctoring fees if they choose to utilize a proctor who charges for this service.  Students are also responsible for any parking fees that may be associated with their use of a particular proctor.