Professional Development

FAQs

Overview

What is eCornell?

eCornell is Cornell University’s online learning platform offering professional development courses. It combines Ivy League education quality with online convenience, catering to professionals seeking career advancement or new skills.

I travel a lot to attend to company matters. How suitable are eCornell programs for me?

eCornell programs are highly ideal for frequent travelers and busy professionals. Here’s why:

  • Flexibility: You can access course materials 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Mobile-friendly: Study in hotel rooms, airports, or during travel downtime
  • Offline access: Download resource materials and tools for future reference.
  • Self-paced: Complete coursework around your schedule, with no fixed class times
  • Time-efficient: Courses typically require 10-12 hours over two weeks, which can be spread out as needed
  • Structured learning: Despite the flexibility, courses have set start and end dates to keep you on track.

This format allows you to advance your education without disrupting your work commitments or travel schedule.

Why should I register and pay through Genashtim?

Registering and paying for eCornell courses through Genashtim, eCornell’s authorized distributor offers several advantages:

  1. Local support: Genashtim assists in your time zone and regional language, making it easier to get help when you need it.
  2. Exclusive discounts: As an authorized partner, Genashtim offers special alumni discounts per course, which are not available directly from eCornell.
  3. Flexible payment options: Genashtim offers various payment schemes to make the courses more financially manageable.
  4. Corporate packages: Genashtim can arrange attractive corporate pricing for companies or groups and provide progress monitoring for learners.
  5. Certification support: In some regions, Genashtim is a registered training provider, making eCornell courses eligible for certain professional development funds (e.g., HRD Corp Claimable in Malaysia).
  6. Tailored guidance: Genashtim’s Learning Consultants can help you choose the right course or certificate program to enhance your career.

By registering through Genashtim, you can benefit from local expertise, potential cost savings, and additional support throughout your eCornell learning journey.

I am a corporate client and wish to tailor the courses to the specific needs and wants of the company. Is this possible?

Yes, through our team of Learning Consultants, we can help customize a corporate package for your company. Please email us at ecornell@genashtim.com, or call us at our local number, as indicated on our website.

Enrollment

What are the requirements for enrolment?

Enrollment requirements for eCornell programs include:

  • Relevant work experience
  • Resume review by Genashtim

These requirements ensure participants can benefit from and contribute to the program, maintaining the quality of the collaborative learning environment.

How do I enroll in an eCornell certificate through Genashtim?

Our Learning Consultants will guide you through finding the suitable course/certificate to enhance your career. They will help and support you from enrollment until program completion.

Are there any prerequisites for any of the certificates or courses?

There are generally few prerequisites as long as you are a working executive. Your Learning Consultant will advise you on the prerequisites after getting the information you provided in the above mentioned question. Most certificates have no course sequence to follow when enrolling, except for some certificates with technical-related topics.

What will happen if I move to another country in the middle of my program?

It will be seamless. You just continue with your courses. You only need to inform us of any change in contact details if we need to contact you. We also need to know your new country so we can set the right time for your course reminder.

Can I enroll in a course on my own?

Your Learning Consultant is responsible for your course enrollment.

We will provide you with available schedules from which you can choose. You will be enrolled in one course at a time to allow you to manage your schedule. However, if you already have planned your schedule and wish to be enrolled for the rest of your courses, just let your Learning Consultant know your preferred dates, and they will enroll you accordingly.

Can I enroll in my next course right after finishing my current one?

Enrolling in your next course immediately after finishing your current one may be challenging due to high demand. For better availability:

  • Choose a start date at least 2 weeks ahead
  • Your Learning Consultant will inform you of earlier openings if available

This approach increases your chances of securing a spot in your desired course.

Can I avail of a single course only and not a certificate?

You can enroll in a single eCornell course without committing to an entire certificate program. However, completing a single course only earns you a letter of completion, while finishing a certificate program awards you a Cornell University certificate. Certificate programs are recommended as they offer more comprehensive learning, hold more excellent professional value, and often come with discounts. You can still take certificate courses one at a time and have up to 2 years to complete the program, maintaining flexibility while gaining more benefits.

How will registering as a student of eCornell be different from registering as a Cornell University student?

When registering as a Cornell University student, you must physically attend classes on the Ithaca campus in New York. When you register as an eCornell student, you will study in a virtual online classroom with actual international classmates and an instructor in the USA. You can access your courses and classes anytime, anywhere in the world.

Why can't a full class take just one additional learner?

We cannot add extra students when the class is full because Cornell University is very strict about this. They have determined the maximum class size so the instructor can ensure that every participant understands all the content and demonstrates the learning application. This will also ensure that the facilitator can give enough time for every participant whenever they have questions or clarifications. Cornell University needs to ensure this outcome quality as they will issue a Cornell University certificate should the right combination of courses be taken.

Pricing & Payment

How can I pay to take the course/certificate through Genashtim?

Avail your desired course or Certificate through Genashtim’s registration page, and you can pay either by credit card or bank transfer as a mode of payment.

What is the cost of an eCornell certificate or course?

The certificates range from 3 courses to 18 courses, with prices ranging from US$ 999 to US$ 7,999. Most certificates comprise 5 or 6 courses and are priced at US$ 3,750.

The per-course price is US$ 999. You may take each course individually to build up to the Certificate of your choice.

How long can I be enrolled in a course/courses using the "pay as you go" scheme?

When using the “pay as you go” scheme for eCornell courses, you have a maximum of 3 months to be enrolled in a course from the time of payment. This option allows for flexibility in course selection and payment, with most courses lasting 2-3 weeks and requiring 10-12 hours of self-directed study time. You can complete courses at your own pace within this 3-month window, making it suitable for busy professionals who need to balance their studies with other commitments.

Do you offer any group or corporate discounts?

Yes, Genashtim offers group and corporate discounts for eCornell programs. If multiple learners are enrolling together or considering implementing eCornell courses within your company, you can contact Genashtim’s Learning Consultants to discuss a tailored corporate package. These packages often include attractive pricing, learner progress monitoring, and customized support to ensure program completion. This option allows organizations to provide high-quality professional development opportunities to their employees while potentially reducing costs.

Do you have a physical office where I can visit?

Genashtim is registered in Singapore but operates without a physical office. Instead, they offer flexible meeting options with representatives who can meet you at your convenience. Alternatively, you can directly contact a learning consultant through various messaging apps, providing multiple ways to discuss your needs without the need for a physical office visit.

Can I request a refund if I decide not to proceed with my certificate/course?

Yes, you can request a refund for eCornell certificates under specific conditions. If you’ve paid the full retail price for a certificate, you have a 30-day window from the payment date to request a full refund, minus any banking or transaction charges. However, if you’ve completed any courses within the Certificate, their retail per-course price will be deducted from your refund. It’s important to note that individual course payments, special promotions, and discounted purchases are not eligible for refunds. This policy ensures flexibility for learners while maintaining fair compensation for completed coursework.

Certificates and Courses

Are there exams to take at the end of the certificate program?

As Cornell University will issue the certificates, there are rather stringent processes to ensure you have acquired the learning. For each course, there is a combination of:

    • Quizzes (multiple choice questions)
    • Discussions
    • Boards with a certain degree of mandatory participation
    • Assignments and projects
    • Reflective essays

      Hence, no examination is necessary.

How are the courses organized?

eCornell courses are typically organized as follows: Most certificate courses run for 2 weeks, with some lasting 3 or 4 weeks. Classes start on Wednesdays and end two or three Wednesdays later, providing two weekends for catch-up. Courses begin at 8 pm Jakarta time (9 pm Malaysia/Philippines/Singapore, 10 pm Japan) and end at 10:59 am Jakarta time (11:59 am Malaysia/Philippines/Singapore, 12:59 pm Japan) two weeks later, with a one-hour adjustment during Daylight Saving Time. There are no fixed online times, but regular access is recommended for meaningful discussions. Courses typically require 10-12 hours of study over two weeks, equivalent to a 2-3 day workshop. Most courses start monthly, with some offering bi-monthly or alternating month schedules. After enrollment, you can plan your entire program, with the flexibility to change dates with 48 hours’ notice. You have up to 2 years to complete a certificate, though most 6-course certificates can be finished within 3 months.

Please click here for a 5-minute video on how a class is run.

What is the time commitment?

You can expect to spend 10 to 12 hours over 2 weeks of self-directed study time to complete your course.

Is there any prerequisite for each of the certificates or courses?

Please refer to the third question under “Enrollment”.   

Is there any suggested sequence for taking the courses in a certificate?

Most eCornell certificate courses can be taken in any order. However, following those suggestions for certificates with recommended sequences is advisable to optimize your learning experience. This flexibility allows you to customize your study plan while still benefiting from the program’s designed progression when applicable.

What does a course length of 2-3 weeks mean?

Most courses at eCornell are 2 weeks long and will require 10 to 12 hours over 2 weeks of self-directed study time over the two weeks. Some courses are 3 weeks long and require 12-18 hours of self-directed study.

Why do the courses have start dates?

eCornell courses have specific start and end dates to provide structure and promote collaborative learning. Courses open at 9 am EST on Wednesdays and close at 11:59 pm EST on Tuesdays, two or three weeks later. This schedule ensures all participants progress together and complete coursework within the designated timeframe, including readings, videos, and assignments.

Why are there assignments in this course?

Assignments in eCornell courses serve two primary purposes:

    1. Application of knowledge: They ensure that students can apply the concepts and skills learned in the course to real-world scenarios.
    2. Practical learning assessment: Graded assignments provide a way to evaluate whether students have gained theoretical knowledge and can use it effectively in practical situations.

This approach aligns with Cornell University’s goal of providing education that translates directly to professional skills and competencies. The assignments are designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing the learning process and preparing students for real-world challenges in their respective fields.

Are my assignments graded?

Yes, assignments are graded by the course facilitator. Each assignment has a grading rubric to help you understand how you earn a passing grade.

Why do assignments have due dates?

Assignment due dates in eCornell courses serve multiple purposes. They help students stay on track and fully engage in the collaborative aspects of the course. These deadlines ensure that facilitators have sufficient time to provide comprehensive feedback, allowing students to revise and resubmit assignments if needed. While late submissions are still graded if received before the course ends, they may receive limited feedback and lack the opportunity for resubmission. This structure promotes timely completion, enhances the learning experience, and maximizes the benefits of instructor guidance throughout the course.

If a course is available on more than one Certificate, will I need to retake the course for the 2nd Certificate?

No, you can use one course for more than one Certificate. You do not need to take it more than once.

How will I get my Certificate?

Once you complete all the courses within a program, you will be given an electronic copy of the Certificate that you can download and print.

Is there a degree program or an MBA?

eCornell offers executive education programs, not degree programs or MBAs. You need to enroll on-campus at Cornell University for academic degrees like MBAs. Through eCornell, you can earn Certificates and Master’s Certificates from Cornell University. These online programs are designed for professional development and executive education, typically shorter in duration than full degree programs. They provide valuable skills and knowledge but differ from traditional academic degrees in format, duration, and credentials awarded.

Can I be transferred to another course schedule?

Yes, if something comes up along the way and you cannot attend any particular class, you need to give us a 48-hour notice before the class starts to change to a later class date.

Can I take 2 courses at the same time?

While taking multiple eCornell courses simultaneously is possible, new students are advised to start with one course to become familiar with the learning approach. Once comfortable, you can consider taking two courses simultaneously, but be prepared for an increased workload, including quizzes, discussions, and projects for both classes. Taking three courses concurrently is possible but challenging, potentially requiring a break from work to manage effectively. The key is to balance your learning goals with your available time and energy to ensure a successful and enriching educational experience.

Can I take 2 certificates at the same time?

Yes, but we don’t recommend it unless you are very familiar with the eCornell program.

Can I be given an extension if I exceed the period of completion?

Generally speaking, you might be given an extra day if you have completed more than 50% of your course. This is at the discretion of the facilitator. You need to ask your facilitator early and cite the reasons for your request. Again, it is at the discretion of the facilitator. Contact your facilitator from your eCornell student dashboard (Help > Ask Your Facilitator a Question). If your circumstances warrant and you have been working diligently but are struggling to complete the course, your facilitator can arrange a brief extension (24-48 hours).

Can I still inquire from my facilitator even though the course has ended?

You can only interact with your facilitator during the course period. Should you have final clarifications, we encourage you to post your inquiries a few days before the course ends.

Can I use my smartphone or tablet to do my course?

Yes, since eCornell student portal is accessible through any device. You are encouraged to answer all the requirements using the eCornell student canvas.

How do I know that I passed the course?

To determine if you’ve passed an eCornell course, check your grade page 24-48 hours after submitting each assignment. Simply submitting assignments doesn’t guarantee passing. Review your course grade before the end and ensure you see “85% Complete.” If not, contact your facilitator for clarification. Regularly monitor your grades and reach out to your facilitator through the student dashboard if you’re having trouble completing the course.

What if I fail to complete a course?

If you cannot finish a course on time and are marked incomplete, you have the option to retake the course for a fee of $75.

My course is over; why am I not marked as completed?

After your eCornell course ends, your facilitator needs time to evaluate your final course project. If it meets all requirements, you’ll be marked as complete within two days of the course ending. It’s best to submit your course project well before the deadline to ensure you have time for any necessary revisions. Last-minute submissions may not allow sufficient time for feedback and improvements, potentially affecting your completion status.

Can I still access the course materials even after the course ends?

Once your course period ends, you have one additional week to access the course content from your Canvas Dashboard. This will allow you to download and save any files you want to keep, print the course content if you wish, do a final review of the course discussion boards, etc. Take Note, however, that unless you were given a time extension, you can no longer do any assignments, submit or interact with your fellow learners and facilitator during this period. After this, your course will be archived and can be found by clicking Courses > All Courses from the Canvas Dashboard.

I have enrolled only for 1 certificate with eCornell. When I log in to the student portal, I see another certificate name, which I have not enrolled, being listed in the portal. May I know why?

When you log into the eCornell student portal and see additional certificate names you haven’t enrolled in, many courses are part of multiple certificate programs. eCornell lists all possible certificates on your student profile when enrolling in a course included in multiple programs. This feature allows you to track your progress toward other certificates, allowing you to pursue additional qualifications if you choose to do so in the future. It’s a way of showing you potential learning paths and opportunities based on the courses you’re already taking.

Will I get a printed copy of my certificate?

After completing all courses for the Certificate, you will be given an electronic certificate, which you can download and print from the student portal.

What are the languages available in eCornell?

Course materials are provided in English. However, account settings are available in the following languages:

Flag of Algeria.svg Arabian
Korean
Flag of the People's Republic of China.svg Chinese (Simplified)
Flag of Haiti - Wikipedia Kreyòl Ayisyenx`x`
Flag of the People's Republic of China.svg Chinese (Traditional)
Flag of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Nederlands
Flag of Denmark.svg Dansk
Flag of Norway.svg Norwegian (Bokmal)
Flag of Germany.svg Deutsch
Flag of Norway.svg Norwegian (Nynorsk)
Flag of Egypt.svg Egyptian
Flag of Poland.svg Polski
Flag of Australia (converted).svg English (Australia)
Flag of Portugal.svg Portugues
United Kingdom - Wikipedia English (UK)
File:Flags of Brazil and Portugal.svg - Wikimedia Commons Portugues do Brasil
Flag of the United States of America | Britannica English (US)
Flag of Punjab, Pakistan - Wikipedia Punjabi
Flag of Spain - Wikipedia Español
 Reo Maori (Aotearoa)
Flag of France Français
Flag of Russia.svg Russian
Flag of France Français (Canada)
Flag of Sweden.svg Svenska
File:Flag of Iceland.svg - Wikimedia Commons Íslenska
Flag of Thailand.svg Thailand
Flag of Italy.svg Italiano
Flag of Turkey.svg Türkçe
Flag of Japan - Wikipedia Japanese
How fast can I finish my certificate?

Depending on the number of courses in a certificate, you can finish all courses within a few months. For example, a 6-course certificate can be completed within 3 months if courses are taken successively. On the other hand, you are given a maximum of 2-year validity from the date of the 1st course to finish a certificate.

Do you have any tips for success?

Before your course begins

  • Take the self-paced New Student Orientation course (approximately 45 minutes). This can be found on your student dashboard. While you only need to complete it once, it is a great resource throughout the student journey at

On the FIRST DAY of class:

  • Log in to the course
  • Review the table of contents
  • Look at assignment due dates and add them to your calendar
  • Download resources and tools for future references.

Throughout the course:

  • Accomplish  the course project before the course deadline to give you time to revise if asked by the facilitator
  • Check your grades after every assignment is submitted
  • Plan to spend 10 to 12 hours over 2 weeks on your course
  • Contact your facilitator if you need help or are getting off track

Last day of class:

  • Confirm that you have the grade of COMPLETE (a minimum of 85% grade) before the course
  • Contact your facilitator with any final questions or concerns.
Where do I get help if I need it?
  • During your course the course facilitator is your primary point of contact. All communications with your facilitator happen from your eCornell student platform.
  • eCornell Knowledge Base is a great place to get answers to many of your questions. You can navigate to the Knowledge Base from the Help icons on the student platform.
  • Before and after your course your primary point of contact is your Learning Consultant. Please contact them for any queries. Even during your course, the Help Desk (helpdesk@ecornell.com) is your best resource for technical assistance. Please also cc your Learning Consultant to update them about your concern.

Benefits of Enrolling with Genashtim

Benefits of Enrolling with Genashtim
  • Sign up for a certificate program and get 30% off your next course or Certificate.
  • Receive local support in your time zone and your local language (subject to country)
  • Available payment schemes will make the cost more pocket-friendly.
  • All eCornell courses and certificates are HRD Corp Claimable. Genashtim Sdn Bhd is an HRD Corp Registered Training Provider.
  • Companies and organizations can benefit from our corporate package, which offers attractive pricing.
  • For corporate clients, receive progress monitoring of learners to ensure course or certificate program completion.

Genashtim Pte Ltd. is the legitimate partner and exclusive representative for eCornell in Southeast Asia.