“No Textbook Cost” Initiative
1. What is a “No Textbook Cost” course?
Marking courses with the attribute “No Textbook Cost” in Banner is a student success initiative promoted by the Open Educational Resources (OER) project under the Title III grant.
If a course meets the following requirements, it qualifies for the “No Textbook Cost” attribution in Banner:
- Students do not need to purchase a textbook for your course.
- Students will not be required to pay any online book, inclusive access, or subscription fees.
This does not include course fees, which are a separate category.
2. How does “No Textbook Cost” meet Title III grant objectives?
Course markings in Banner alert students to one of our Affordable and Accessible Pathways initiatives, to decrease the overall cost burden of students by offering OER courses.
Course markings are easily recognizable in Banner and direct students to course options with FREE learning materials.
The objective, by September 30, 2028, under the Title III grant is to increase yearly student cost savings of textbooks purchases to $391,047.00.
Lowering the cost of higher education, promotes the overall mission of Utah Tech as an open, inclusive, and comprehensive university.
3. How can faculty promote the “No Textbook Cost” initiative?
If you are a faculty member who believes your course should be marked “No Textbook Cost” in Banner, please be in conversation with your department Admin Specialist.
If you are a faculty member who would like more information on how to convert your course to OER, follow the link: OER FAQs for Faculty.