Our on-line courses are pretty straight forward: Sign up, gain access to course materials, meet online with your instrutor once a week, and have fun learing about the hobby!

Our programs are administered in English and open to anyone, but APS members will have priority enrollment for classes. All students must strictly adhere to the APS' Code of Ethics; misconduct may result in being suspended from the class.

You may elect to take a course or simply purchase the course materials for self-guided learning.

Computer Requirements

What are the minimum computer (hardware) requirements?

We’ve kept the course designs simple so that students need only an email account and Internet access to participate.

Cost

Are tuition fees for APS members different from nonmembers?

Yes. APS members pay lower tuition fees than nonmembers. We invite you to join today!

How much does a class cost?

Tuition fees vary depending on the length of the course. APS members enjoy discounted fees.

How are tuition payments handled?

Tuition is due prior to the first class. You may pay by credit card (MasterCard or VISA), money order, or by check. All fees are in U.S. dollars.

How can I purchase materials?

If a course requires special materials to be purchased, we will provide information on how/where to purchase such materials. The APS also has a Shop area where we offer books, supplies, stamps sales, and more.

Course Information

How long will it take to complete a course?

Course lengths vary from 4 to 8 weeks.

What do the courses include?

Each course will include assigned reading material as well as homework assignments, as listed in the course workbook. Students should review this material prior to class and finish any homework assignments.

What times, dates, and days are classes offered?

Classes will be offered at different times and days, depending on instructor availability. All class discussions will be saved and posted for those courses that include a class discussion. Class times will be posted as part of the class description.

Can I receive academic credit for these courses?

Not at this time. Our Virtual Campus operates independently of any educational accreditation body. In addition, our courses are designed for self-enrichment and to help you get more out of your chosen hobby.

Can courses be completed entirely by home study?

Yes. All work is completed at home, via email and/or regular mail.

What do I do if I am unable to attend a class?

Class discussions are saved and made available in the Student Center (we notify students as soon as they are available). Lesson material is available at all times in the Student Center, so no make-up class is required. Assignments should still be completed and e-mailed to your instructor.

Enrollment

When can I enroll in the program?

StampCampus uses an open enrollment system so that students may enroll anytime prior to the start of a class, provided space is available (some courses may have a student maximum).

How do I register for a course?

You may register online by clicking "Register" by the appropriate course located on the Course page or contact the APS Virtual Campus/Education Department by phone at 814-933-3803 ext. 239, or by printing out the enrollment form and mailing it to: Stamp Campus Registration, American Philatelic Society, 100 Match Factory Place, Bellefonte, PA 16823.

Must I be an APS member to enroll in the program?

No, but non-APS members pay higher fees for courses.

If I am interested in becoming an APS member, what kind of membership benefits would I enjoy?

APS membership carries a variety of privileges and benefits, click here for more details.

Student Support

How many students are in an online class at one time?

In order to maintain the best student-teacher ratio and to ensure adequate time is spent with each student, class sections are limited to no more than twenty students.

Do students keep in regular contact with other students?

Yes. Students may keep in contact via our message board for each class, where they can discuss any questions that may have arisen during the week. In addition, students are encouraged to correspond by e-mail with their classmates (a course roster is provided with the names and e-mail addresses of fellow students).

In addition to classes, do students have regular contact with their teachers?

Students can email their teachers and/or contact a Campus Administrator at any time with any questions or assistance they may need.

Is there any support for students who do not have access to major libraries?

Yes. If you are an APS member, you may request photocopies of articles (for a small fee) and you may borrow books by mail from the American Philatelic Research Library. Nonmembers may borrow materials via interlibrary loan.

Questions If you still have questions regarding on-line courses, please feel free to contact Gretchen Moody by phone at 814 933-3803 ext. 239.