Zero-Textbook-Cost (ZTC) Courses

Stack of textbooks with no-cost OER alternatives

What is a ZTC Course?

To reduce educational costs, San José City College (SJCC) offers zero-textbook-cost (ZTC) courses that replace paid textbooks with free options.

Find Current ZTC Courses

See current ZTC courses offered in the SJCC Course Schedule.

Types of ZTC Courses

  • a course that does not require a textbook
  • a course with an optional textbook
  • a course with a textbook available free of charge via lending services or e-book databases
  • a course using a free, open educational resource (OER) textbook
  • a course with all required readings available at no cost via websites or online databases

Students in ZTC courses are not required to pay fees for software platforms or homework sites. Lab materials or supplies may still be required.

All courses offered through the Milpitas Extension are ZTC, as are all ESL noncredit and Summer Bridge courses.

SJCC publishes ZTC offerings in compliance with Senate Bill 1359.