Inclusive Access

What is Inclusive Access?
The Inclusive Access program is a new textbook model in collaboration with Faculty, the Upstate Bookstore and top publishers. All students in a class buy into the content, lowering the cost for everyone. All students in that class also get digital access to the content on the first day, and will be billed with your tuition.

How does this program benefit me?
Our partnership with publishers and faculty allow us to offer your course materials at the best price and conveniently on the first day of class. Our goal is to provide ease of access and affordability to bolster the success of our students!

Why am I automatically enrolled in this program?
All enrolled students are automatically opted in to the program so that everyone has access to the materials on the first day of class through Blackboard. If you cannot access your course materials, please let us know.

How and where do I access the Inclusive Access materials?
You may access your course materials through your course's Blackboard site.

How much does Inclusive Access cost?
The price varies depending upon the platform and content used by the instructor, but Inclusive Access prices are lower than the cost of purchasing access direct from the publisher, and average 50% to 70% below the cost of a new, printed text.

When and how will I be charged for the digital materials?
All enrolled students who have not opted out of the program or dropped the course will have the discounted price billed to their tuition bill. You will only be charged for the Inclusive Access materials if you remain opted in to the program.

What are Interactive or Adaptive Courseware Platforms?
Interactive Courseware is much more than just an e-book. While platforms like Mastering, MindTap, Connect, and LaunchPad typically include a full digital text, they have added interactive content designed to make the reading more engaging, which increases comprehension and retention of the material and can ultimately lead to greater student success. They can include videos and interactive animations, quizzes, and homework sets which can include hints and/or links to the related text for incorrect answers, serving as a virtual tutor. They also allow for various levels of customization by the instructor, peer-to-peer sharing of notes, and the creation of digital flashcards you can use with smartphone apps.

What does it mean to opt-out?
If you do not wish to participate in Inclusive Access, you must opt out of the program online before the Opt-Out deadline. If you opt out by the deadline given, access to the online content will be turned off and you will not be billed.

How do I opt-out?
To opt-out of the program, you will need to access the Blackboard course site, click the VitalSource Inclusive Access tab and once directed into a new window, please click the button that says "opt-out" to do so. If you do not see this, please let us know. You can also Opt-Out by clicking on the link within your welcome email that was sent to you.

I dropped the course. Do I still need to opt out?
Students who drop the course during the normal drop period for the course will automatically be "opted out" and will not be billed.

I opted out by mistake and realized that I still need my access. Can I opt back in?
Yes, just go back into Blackboard and opt back in via the VitalSource Inclusive Access link. If it pass the drop/add period simply email the Upstate Bookstore Textbook Department at uscupstatebookstore@uscupstate.edu to request that your access be reinstated.

Who should I contact if I am having trouble with access to the online content?
First, email the online help desk of the publisher for your course content. The publisher of your content should be listed in the initial email you received about your access. If you are unable to find your publisher is, or if you are unable to get resolution from your publisher please contact the Upstate Bookstore Textbook Department at uscupstatebookstore@uscupstate.edu for further assistance.