Z-Degree
Z-Degree is a Zero Textbook Cost Degree or Course
A Z-Degree, or Zero Textbook Cost Degree, is a complete degree program that exclusively uses course materials that are of no cost to students. Examples of these course materials include open textbooks, library resources, or open educational resources.
The Z-Degree project is a statewide initiative that colleges and universities within the Minnesota State system can choose to participate in to give students Zero Textbook Cost course and program options. This initiative is provided by funding from the Minnesota Legislature and Minnesota State System Office.
MSUM participates in the Z-Degree initiative to provide a more affordable college experience. Starting spring 2026, students will be able to begin working towards an Associate in Arts (AA) Degree without textbook costs.
To be designated a zero textbook cost course, the instructor cannot require students to purchase any textbook materials (although optional or supplemental materials can be recommended).
Z-Degree programs and courses provide the same educational quality as regular programs and courses, but without the cost of textbooks.
Z-Degree courses are available for course registration like any other courses.
Beginning fall semester 2025 you will begin seeing ‘no textbook cost’ courses as you register in eServices with full Z-degree offerings by spring 2026.
You can see available Z-Degree courses in eServices:
- Go to eServices
- Enter your StarID and password
- Select “Student eServices”
- Select “Courses & Registration”
- Select “Search for a Course”
- Make applicable campus/semester/other selections then “Expand/Collapse for Advanced Search”
- Locate “Textbook Cost” in expanded menu and select “No cost for textbooks," then hit “Search”
All courses on resulting page will be Z-Degree courses
No. You can take some courses that are Zero Textbook Cost and some courses that are not. You do not receive a formal Z-Degree upon completion but rather it's a pathway of zero-cost textbook courses.
Any MSUM student can take Z-Degree/ “no cost for textbooks”-labeled courses. There’s no special application process or enrollment required.
Typically, materials can be viewed online. However, some materials may also be available in article or book form via the library. In many cases, materials may be downloaded to a personal device or printed. Check with your instructor for course material information.
No. There may be additional charges for course supplies such as notebooks, equipment, supplies or tools.