Students—FAQs
Q: How long does it take to complete a course?
A: Self-study students have six months. Instructor-led online courses are typically 12 weeks. Accelerated courses generally run four days. Semester-length and Corporate group classes vary depending upon the course. See a listing of our courses.
Q: Am I required to take an exam?
A: Yes. In order to obtain a BOMI International designation or certificate, students are required to take, and pass, an exam at the end of each required course. If a student does not wish to obtain a designation or certificate and does not plan on applying the credit towards a college program, then he or she is not required to take an exam.
Q: How long does it take to complete a designation program?
A: Students can complete their designation in two years based on completing one course per quarter for a total of eight courses. However, there is no time limit in which students are required to complete their designation. Review the Designation Chart and determine which courses you would like to take.
Q: Can I obtain college credit for the BOMI International courses I’ve taken?
A: All of BOMI International courses, with the exception of Ethics Is Good Business® ShortCourse™ and seminars, are applicable towards college credit. Visit the American Council on Education’s website at www.acenet.edu for more information.
Q: Can I apply college credits towards BOMI International courses?
A: Yes. Students may receive credit for college courses based on BOMI’s “Administrative Competency Guidelines.” Additional details are available here.
Q: Who are BOMI International’s instructors, and how do you qualify them?
A: BOMI International instructors are dynamic individuals who are accomplished leaders in the property and facility management industries. All prospective instructors go through an extensive review process before they are asked to teach a course. Characteristics of a BOMI International instructor include:
- Technical competence in the subject matter to be taught
- Good presentation skills and the ability to communicate effectively with adults
- Enthusiasm for the subject matter and for teaching
- Willingness to provide support and guidance to students regarding their careers and their progress in our designation programs
- Accessibility and approachability to answer questions and discuss matters of concern, both in and out of the classroom
Q: How can I become an instructor?
A: BOMI International is always looking for talented individuals to teach our course materials. We hold courses nationwide and are looking for instructors who are willing to travel. Most of the courses that BOMI International sponsors are four-day Accelerated Review courses (with the exception of Ethics, which is a one-day accelerated review course). In addition, with new technologies, we are also looking for dynamic individuals to facilitate and present courses in our Instructor-led Online format.
If you are interested in becoming an instructor for BOMI International, please complete the instructor application and submit a resume. Our Education Administrator will contact you after receiving your inquiry. For more information, please contact BOMI International at service@bomi.org.
Q: What if I don’t have three years’ experience—can I still get my RPA®?
A: No. However, students can begin taking courses while accumulating their three years of experience. Click here for more information regarding RPA® requirements.
Q: What is the difference between the study methods?
A: BOMI International offers a variety of study methods, enabling us to offer you flexibility according to your lifestyle and professional needs. Visit our Course Delivery Options page for more information.
Q: How do I access an Instructor-led Online course?
A: Students need to obtain an ID and password to our learning management system. These are set up individually. To view a demo, visit BOMI International eCampus and type “demo” as the username and password.
Q: Is there a specific time to log in to BOMI International’s eCampus?
A: No. This can be done at your own pace.
Q: What course should I take first?
A: There is no set order in which to take our courses. We suggest that you first determine which designation and/or certificate program fits your professional needs and goals, and then choose a course that complements your immediate responsibilities.
Q: Can I take more than one course at a time?
A: Yes. However, keep in mind that taking a BOMI International course is a time commitment, and we do not suggest taking more than two courses at once, especially if you are working full-time.
Q. What forms of payment does BOMI International accept?
A: BOMI International accepts checks, credits card (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express), or a company purchase order.
Q: May I just purchase the book without taking the course?
A: BOMI International does not sell coursebooks unless the student is taking the course. Existing students who have completed a BOMI International course may purchase an updated coursebook for that course at a discounted price.
Q: How long does it take to obtain a coursebook?
A: We typically ship books within 48 hours upon receipt of the order. The books are shipped via ground unless the student requests expedited shipment, which includes an additional charge. If the books are shipped via ground, students will receive their shipment within 7-10 business days.
Q: Who do I contact if I have any questions?
A: You can e-mail a Customer Representative 24/7 at service@bomi.org, or call 1-800-235-BOMI (2664) between 9 am and 5 pm ET. We are happy to help you find an educational path that fits your specific needs.