W.Va. joins multistate online course agreement

West Virginia is joining a movement that makes it easier for students to take online college courses offered by campuses in other states.

The state Higher Education Policy Commission announced the reciprocity agreement Saturday. It becomes effective on Dec. 1.

The agreement lets accredited institutions operate in other participating states without seeking independent authorization, making it easier for them to expand access to online courses.

At least 16 other states, including Virginia, are part of the agreement.

The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements oversees the program.