Online Programs

Undergraduate students must complete:

• AlcoholEdu,
• Sexual Assault Prevention,
• Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
• and Money Smarts.

You can only login to AlcoholEdu, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, and Sexual Assault Prevention via the link in the email that you received to your @vt.edu account. Select Virginia Tech Student Login to begin. The Money Smarts course will be located in your Canvas account beginning the first week of classes.

Undergraduate transfer students must complete:

• Sexual Assault Prevention,
• and Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging supports the Virginia Tech Principles of Community by increasing our understanding and acceptance of diversity in all forms. The Virginia Tech Board of Visitors has determined that Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging be a requirement for all incoming students.

Sexual Assault Prevention is an online educational program on the important issues of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking, which impact many college students across the country. Transfer students are asked to take this online program as part of Virginia Tech’s new comprehensive prevention strategy and in response to federal guidelines specified by the Campus SaVE Act.

Should a student elect to not complete Part 1 of each program by the deadline, a registration hold may be placed on their student account. This will prevent them from enrolling in or dropping classes until this training is complete.

You can only login to AlcoholEdu, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, and Sexual Assault Prevention via the link in the email that you received to your @vt.edu account. Select Virginia Tech Student Login to begin.

Graduate students must complete:

• Sexual Assault Prevention for Graduates.

You can only login to Sexual Assault Prevention for Graduates via the link in the email that you received to your @vt.edu account. Select Virginia Tech Student Login to begin.

What is AlcoholEdu?

Question: What is AlcoholEdu?
Answer: AlcoholEdu is a two-part program designed to inform you about how alcohol and substance use may affect your college experience regardless of your choice to use. For those that already use or are curious, it provides education. If you choose not to consume substances, it may help you understand how to help others or cope with the behavior of your peers.

Question: Will this be boring?
Answer: AlcoholEdu is not a lecture, so no. It is interactive and many students are surprised about how much they learned through this program.

Question: Why did Virginia Tech choose AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Virginia Tech has joined other top schools in the country by offering AlcoholEdu because it is an online, science-based prevention program that provides a tailored educational experience focusing on the impact of substance use on the mind and body.

Question: What does AlcoholEdu cover?
Answer: The key content areas of AlcoholEdu include:

• Definition of a standard drink
• Factors that affect blood alcohol concentration
• Short- and long-term effects of alcohol on the body
• Alcohol consequences, including blackouts and hangovers; danger signs of alcohol poisoning
• Prevalence rates for alcohol abstention, high-risk drinking, and alcohol-related sexual assaults
• Factors that influence people’s decisions and attitudes about drinking
• Laws and policies
• Also information on Cannabis/THC and Nicotine

Question: How is the program structured?
Answer: AlcoholEdu is a two-part program with a 10-day intermission between Part I and Part II.

Question: How do the programs address diverse student needs?
Answer: Customized by birth sex, alcohol use patterns, level of awareness, and student choices, the AlcoholEdu program content is relevant to each student. The program pathway is different for every student and based on their individual needs.

Question: Is AlcoholEdu confidential?
Answer: Unless you give AlcoholEdu permission to share certain questions, it’s totally confidential. The only thing we see is that you completed the course. Your parents will NOT have access to any information (including your score on the knowledge exam) unless you share it with them or sign an information release that allows us to share it with them. Virginia Tech only receives the aggregate data to increase the efficacy of our wellness efforts. During the surveys, you will be asked if you would like more information about specific Virginia Tech organizations. If you click "yes," you will receive information (via email) regarding only the organizations you selected.

Why do I have to complete AlcoholEdu?

Question: Why do I have to complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: We care about you and we take your safety seriously. Virginia Tech is deeply committed to your well-being, academic success, and engaging you in a learning experience that creates a healthier campus community. National health data suggests that substance use habits of incoming college students can change dramatically based on a number of factors (expectations, history, environment, etc.). AlcoholEdu engages students to think about some of the situations and environments common in collegiate settings and helps them clarify their values when it comes to choosing to use substances. We believe that people will make the most informed decision for themselves if equipped with accurate knowledge.

What do I have to do? (Requirements)

Question: What will happen if I do not meet the deadline for AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Should a student not elect to take this free online training, a hold may be placed on their student account. This will prevent them from enrolling in classes or accessing their student account until this training is complete.

Question: Who is required to complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: All 2-year and 4-year domestic and international students enrolling in their first semester of classes are required to take AlcoholEdu. This includes the Ag-Tech 2-year program. If you have questions about your status, please contact your department.
What if I don’t drink or it’s against my beliefs?

Question: What do I have to do to complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: You must obtain a grade of 70% or higher on the test to pass Part I. Part II is not required to avoid consequences, but it does help us to make the world a better place. Part II only takes 10 minutes to complete.

Question: What happens if I don't pass the test? (AKA just click through the program)
Answer: You will need to retake the test. Successful completion of AlcoholEdu includes passing the knowledge exam and completing the final chapter and survey.

If you have documented learning accommodations or language barriers, please contact us and let us know. We will work with you to complete the program.

Question: Do I have to do Part II?
Answer: Yes. But there will be no penalty if you choose not to take it. Part II will be emailed to you 30 days after completing Part I.

Question: How do I complete Part II of AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Wait. You cannot take Part II immediately. You will be emailed 30 days after completing Part I indicating that Part II is ready. Part II takes 10 minutes to complete.

Question: Why do I have to wait 30 days to complete the programs after Part I?
Answer: The 30-day wait is in place in order to have students apply the knowledge from the programs to their specific college environment. Students are then assessed at the end of the waiting period to see what changes or differences were made due to the knowledge they gained in the program.

Question: Do I need a textbook or materials for this program?
Answer: No. A textbook and/or materials are not needed.

Question: Will I receive college credit for taking AlcoholEdu?
Answer: No. You will not receive college credit for AlcoholEdu.

What if I am a Parent/Guardian and I want to know more?

Question: What if my student does not use substances or it’s against our religious beliefs?
Answer: Please see What if I don't use substances?

Question: Did my student complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Parents will not have access to any student-specific information (including a student’s score on the knowledge exam) unless the student chooses to share it with them or sign an information release that allows us to share it with them.

Note: The web-based substance use education program is meant for students to complete on their own and not with a parent or guardian. Please allow your student to complete the program on their own.

Question: What if I have more or different questions that weren’t answered here?
Answer: We want to know! Please contact us.

How do I access AlcoholEdu?

Question: How do I login?
Answer: You can only log in via the link in the email that you receive regarding Online Programs. Please use your VT PID when logging in and have your password, and the ability to complete two-factor identification to enter the site. If you do not know your password, please visit: http://www.4help.vt.edu/.

Always be sure to access AlcoholEdu through the emails you receive.

Question: If I don’t have computer access at home do I still need to complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Yes. To take the program you will need access to a computer with internet access and audio capabilities. If you do not have access to a computer at home, you can use any publicly available computer with internet access and audio capabilities. Public computers are available at your local public library, copy center, or community center. Virginia Tech provides computer labs and Wi-Fi Internet access across campus for anyone with a VT PID.

What if I need learning accommodations to fulfill this requirement?

Question: Who do I contact if I believe I need accommodations to complete AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Please contact us and we will work with you to meet these requirements.

* What if I don’t use substances?

Question: Do I still need to complete AlcoholEdu if I don't drink?
Answer: Yes. All incoming first-year VT students need to complete the program. Even if you don't use substances, you may still be impacted by substance use issues in the college environment. AlcoholEdu provides personalized paths through the curriculum so if you don't use alcohol, you will receive support and specific information tailored to your choice. AlcoholEdu will also provide you with important information regarding coping with potential behavior of your peers while under the influence of substances.

Question: Why do I have to do this if my religious beliefs forbid alcohol/substance use?
Answer: Substance use in the college environment has the potential to affect everyone. Even if you don't use substances, you may be impacted by the potential behavior of your peers. AlcoholEdu provides personalized paths through the program so if you don't use substances, you will receive support and specific information tailored to your choice.

If you still have questions or concerns about AlcoholEdu and your beliefs or non-use of alcohol/substances, please contact us and someone will be in touch with you.

How will I find out about AlcoholEdu?

Question: How will students find out about AlcoholEdu?
Answer: Students are informed of the program participation requirements through their VT email account three weeks before classes start in the spring and fall semesters. They are also informed of this program by information in orientation materials, vigorous promotion during new student orientation, and the “You're in... Now What?” website. Emails with directions on how to log in to the program will be sent out three weeks before the first day of classes. Continuous reminders will be sent out until the due date.

Question: When will AlcoholEdu be available?
Answer: AlcoholEdu opens about three weeks before the start of fall and two weeks before the spring semester every year. Summer enrollees will take AlcoholEdu with our incoming Fall students.

What if I have a technical problem with the program?

Question: What if I have a technical problem with the program?
Answer: Please contact us below.

How do I contact someone if I have more questions?

Question: How do I contact someone if I have more questions?
Answer: Please contact us below.

What is Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?

As an inclusive community, Virginia Tech joins our peer institutions, in requiring Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging for all incoming students. This research-based online course introduces concepts such as inclusion, power, privilege, identities, and communication as well as strategies related to ally behavior, self-care, and creating inclusive spaces. Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging is a key part of Virginia Tech's commitment to prepare students for the communities where you live, learn, and build a career.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging is part of InclusiveVT, the “institutional and individual commitment to Ut Prosim (that I may serve) in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence.” It has been endorsed as a requirement by Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors and President Sands.

Question: What does Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging cover?
Answer: Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging comprehensively addresses power, privilege, identities, and communication as well as strategies for ally behavior, self-care, and creating inclusive spaces.
Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging doesn’t tell you what to do or believe but provides tools to help meet expectations of being an engaged member of a diverse and inclusive community.

Question: Who should take Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
Answer: Every incoming first year and transfer student is required to complete Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

What do I have to do?

Question: What do I have to do to complete Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
Answer: You will receive an email with instructions and deadlines for completing Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. The online program takes approximately 40 minutes to complete and can be taken in segments. You have access to the program 24 hours a day, allowing you to complete the program at your own pace before the beginning of classes.

Question: What happens if I don’t do it?
Answer: A hold will be placed on your student account if you do not complete the program. You will not be able to register for next semester's classes until Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging is completed.

Question: What kind of tasks do I have to do to get credit for taking the program?
Answer: Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging requires you to complete short multiple-choice self-assessments and other interactive exercises. These exercises are designed to enhance your engagement with the material and your enjoyment of the program. You are also presented with questions calling for typed-in responses. Self-assessments and exercises must be completed in order to advance through the program. Failure to finish the final survey may cause your completion not to be recorded.

• Survey: All Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging program-takers must complete pre- and post-program surveys. Survey responses are anonymous and are used to make program improvements.
• Program credit: When the survey is submitted your completion of the program is electronically recorded.
• Certificate of completion and printable materials: You have the option of printing out a certificate of completion and other materials.

Question: Who will see my answers? How is the data kept? Will my parents be told what I report?
Answer: All survey responses are strictly confidential; Virginia Tech only receives information about the student body as a whole and NEVER sees anyone’s individual answers.
The Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging administrator at Virginia Tech receives notifications of your completion. This is the only information ever matched with your identity. According to FERPA regulations, your parents will not have access to any information unless you choose to share it with them or sign an information release that allows us to share it with them.
During the surveys, you are asked if you want more information about inclusion and diversity resources at Virginia Tech. If you click "yes," you will receive emails about InclusiveVT events and programs.

Question: Do I need a textbook or materials for this program?
Answer: No, everything that you need is provided online through the program.

Question: Will I receive college program credit for taking Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
Answer: You do not receive college program credit for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

Question: How will students find out about Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
Answer: You will be informed of program participation requirements and login information through your VT e-mail account at the beginning of the semester. Continuous reminders are sent out until the due date.

How do I access Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?

Question: I don't have computer access at home. Do I still need to complete Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging?
Answer: Yes. If you do not have access to a computer, you can use any publicly available computer with Internet access and audio capabilities. Public computers are often available in your local public library, copy center, or community center. Virginia Tech provides computer labs and Wi-Fi Internet access across campus for anyone with a VT PID.

Question: What email should I use?
Answer: Be sure to use your Virginia Tech PID (email address) each time you access Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, rather than using a Yahoo/ Hotmail/ Gmail or other accounts. You are not able to log in to Canvas without a Virginia Tech PID.

Question: I believe I need accommodations to fulfill the requirements of this program. Who do I need to contact?
Answer: Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging programs comply to the highest accessibility standards for educational software, known as W3C. Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging has always complied fully with section 508 of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging program contains closed captioning. If you require an accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact diversity@vt.edu.

How do I contact someone if I have questions?

Question: How do I contact someone if I have questions?
Answer: You may contact the Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging administrator at diversity@vt.edu if you have additional questions.

Question: What additional resources are available to learn more about diversity and inclusion?
Answer: Virginia Tech has a wide variety of programs that promote and advance diversity. Please visit the InclusiveVT website for a list of resources both on and off campus.

Question: How do I login?

Answer: You can only login via the link in the email that you receive regarding Online Programs. Please use your VT PID when logging in and have your password, and the ability to complete two-factor identification to enter the site. If you do not know your password, please visit: 4help.vt.edu.

Question: How will students find out about Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: Students are informed of the program participation requirements through their VT email account three weeks before classes start in the spring and fall semesters. They are also informed of this program by information in orientation materials and vigorous promotion during new student orientation and the “You're in... Now What?” website. Emails with directions on how to login to the program will be sent out three weeks before the first day of classes. Continuous reminders will be sent out until the due date.

Question: When will Sexual Assault Prevention be available?

Answer: Virginia Tech makes Sexual Assault Prevention available to students about three weeks before the start of fall and spring semester every year. Summer enrollees will take Sexual Assault Prevention with our incoming Fall students.

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Sexual Assault Prevention FAQ

General Information

Question: What is Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: Sexual Assault Prevention is an interactive, online program designed to help you learn more about the critical issues of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking, which impact many college students across the country. It is also designed to help students understand the concept and role of consent as it relates to healthy sexual relationships. Virginia Tech takes these issues seriously and is committed to building a community free from sexual harassment and violence. In addition, we want to be sure that students know the resources and support options available them- you are not alone.

We recognize that talking about sexual violence can be difficult and want to acknowledge that some of you may have had personal experiences with this topic. If taking this program is difficult or triggering for you, please know there are resources on campus to support you, even prior to your arrival to campus. If you are a survivor and need to talk before or after taking the program, please visit our SAFE at VT website for help.

Question: Why am I required to take Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: Sexual violence is a significant issue on campuses across the country. We believe that the only way to prevent sexual assault, stalking, and relationship violence is to educate our community and to support open, safe spaces for conversation. At Virginia Tech, we take your health and safety seriously, and we want to work together to create a campus where everyone can live, study, work, and have fun safely.

Question: What does Sexual Assault Prevention cover?

Answer: Sexual Assault Prevention contains information and scenarios related to sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking. The program uses stories and interactive learning activities to help students learn many concepts, including the cultural factors that impact violence, how you build healthy relationships, identify “red flags,” and how to be active and effective members of your community.

The program covers the following topics:

• Ethics of relationships
• The effect of alcohol on relationships
• Consent
• Definitions of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking
• Common myths about sexual assault

Requirements

Question: Who should take Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: First-year and transfer students are asked to take this program. New graduate and professional students also take Sexual Assault Prevention, though they take a program designed specifically for them.

Question: What do I have to do to complete Part I of Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: You should complete all of the lessons, as well as the post quiz.

Question: What will happen if I do not meet the deadline for Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: The University may place a hold on your account if you do not complete Part I of Sexual Assault Prevention, which may prevent you from enrolling in classes until you complete the program.

Accessing Sexual Assault Prevention

Question: I don't have computer access at home. Do I still need to complete Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: Yes. To take the program, you will need a computer with Internet access and audio capabilities. If you do not have access to a computer, you can use any publicly available computer with Internet access and audio capabilities. Public computers are often available in your local public library, copy center, or community center. Virginia Tech provides computer labs and Wi-Fi Internet access across campus for anyone with a VT PID.

Other Important Information

• To avoid technical issues, please use any major web browser released within the previous two years, other than INTERNET EXPLORER.
• You may take the program in multiple sittings.
• The program may include surveys to help personalize your experience and measure students’ attitudes and behaviors. All survey responses are confidential; the school will only receive information about the student body as a whole and will never see individual students’ answers.
• Should you experience problems, technical support is available 24/7 and can be accessed from the “Help” link within the program.

Question: I believe I need accommodations to fulfill the requirements of this program. Who do I need to contact?

Answer: If you require an accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact us.

Additional Questions

Question: Who will see my answers? How is the data kept? Will my parents be told what I report?

Answer: Virginia Tech will only receive information about the student body as a whole and will NEVER see any individual student's answers.

The Sexual Assault Prevention administrator at Virginia Tech will receive your score on the exam, but this is the only information ever matched with your identity. Your parents will not have access to any information (including your score on the knowledge exam) unless you choose to share it with them or sign an information release that allows us to share it with them.

During the surveys, you will be asked if you would like more information about specific Virginia Tech volunteer opportunities. If you click "yes," you will receive information (via e-mail) regarding only the selected organizations.

Question: Do I need a textbook or materials for this program?

Answer: A textbook and materials are not needed. Everything that you need is provided to you online through the program.

Question: Will I receive college program credit for taking Sexual Assault Prevention?

Answer: You will not receive college program credit for Sexual Assault Prevention. 

What is Money Smarts?

Question: What is Money Smarts?
Answer: Money Smarts is a repository of 20 different modules spanning multiple aspects of personal finance ranging from content related to what students need to know in their first year to content specific to international students, student athletes, and students that are financially independent. Modules are also available on topics such as budgeting, credit, and taxes! All incoming, first-year students will need to complete the module titled “Year One in School” by the end of their first semester.

Question: What is the deadline to complete the course?
Answer: Holds will begin getting placed on accounts at the end of fall semester on December 1. We encourage all students to complete the required module early in the Fall semester so that they can utilize the skills and content right at the beginning of their college career!

Question: I do not see VT Money Smarts as a course on my Canvas account, what do I do?
Answer: Money Smarts will be available in your Canvas account the second week of classes. If you do not see VT Money Smarts as an available course in Canvas, please email financialwellness@vt.edu.

Question: Who do I contact if I have additional financial questions?
Answer: If you have additional questions on this content, are struggling to understand, or want to learn more, 1:1 coaching is available at no additional cost from the Financial Wellness team. Submit a Financial Wellness Coaching Interest Form to schedule an appointment.

Question: What do I have to do to complete Money Smarts?
Answer: You must obtain a grade of 70% or higher on the quiz to pass Money Smarts. Additional modules are available in Money Smarts but they are not required.

Question: What happens if I don't pass the test? (AKA just click through the program)
Answer: You will need to retake the test. Successful completion of Money Smarts includes reading through the First Year Student modules and passing the First Year knowledge exam with at least 70% correct.

Question: Will this be helpful?
Answer: Money Smarts is great for students that want to learn at their own pace and come back to as needed. For example, a student that starts working once they are here may find the “budgeting” modules particularly relevant and a senior may be interested in coming back to Money Smarts to complete the “Graduating, Now What?” modules. These are designed to deliver the most pertinent information on what students need to know, when they need to know it.

Question: What are the additional topics in Money Smarts?
Answer:

Modules by Academic Year:

• High School Student
• First Year in College
• Second Year in College
• Third Year in College
• Final Year in College
• Considering Graduate School

Modules by Student Type:

• Student Athlete
• International Student
• Medical Student
• Dental Student
• Graduate Student
• Student Veteran
• Financially Independent Student

Modules by Content Type:

• Budgeting
• Credit
• Debt
• Insurance
• Taxes
• Investing
• Major Purchases

Dear New Hokie,

Welcome to Virginia Tech! I know you are excited about being a Hokie, and we are looking forward to seeing you. The first day of classes is just a few weeks away and I am certain that you are busy getting ready for college life. I am asking you to add a few very important items to your checklist. Several online programs must be completed by all new students before the semester begins. Additionally, Money Smarts will be offered after the semester has started. These programs will provide you with critical information you need to achieve your full potential and thrive in a safe, collegial, and inclusive environment. These programs will help all of us to have the best possible experience at Virginia Tech this year.

Please note that program requirements vary by student enrollment type.

• AlcoholEdu promotes increased understanding of the impacts of alcohol consumption with the goal of reducing the negative consequences of alcohol misuse and abuse for everyone (program to be completed by all first-year undergraduates).
• Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging introduces students to InclusiveVT and our Principles of Community and shares how to contribute to a welcoming, affirming, inclusive environment (program to be completed by first-year undergraduates, and undergraduate transfer students).
• Sexual Assault Prevention introduces students to the critical issue of gender-based violence on our nation’s campuses and teaches skills for engaging as an active bystander and agent for cultural change (program to be completed by first-year undergraduates, undergraduate transfer students and graduate students). Content Warning: This course includes descriptions and scenarios involving sexual and intimate partner violence. Information about support and resources can be found in the Title IX resource brochure.
• Money Smarts enhances one’s ability to use their financial knowledge and skills to manage their financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial well-being. Many students have challenges navigating the increased financial freedom as they enter college, managing their budgets for food, or developing positive money management habits which all contributes to their financial stress. Money Smarts provides students with the tools they need to minimize this stress and support them in this transition to the college environment (program to be completed by all first-year undergraduates).

Again, program requirements vary by student enrollment type; more specific guidelines are provided on the program access page. We are sharing this information with you to help ease the transition to your next phase of life as a Virginia Tech student. You will develop a greater understanding of what is expected from all of us as we live and learn together in this unique and special community of Hokies.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,

S. Mark Sikes, Ph.D.
Dean of Students
Virginia Tech