The network, called MediaVision, helps students earn up to twenty-four quarter credits toward college graduation. Each quarter, Cal Poly broadcasts by microwave three freshman-level courses to participating high schools. Students view the courses in their high school library, and can speak with the instructor by using a microphone. Although the instructor cannot see the students at the various schools, the interactive audio system provides a lively classroom environment. Testing is done at the high school, and homework is mailed directly to Cal Poly.
Students earn regular university credit for all courses successfully completed.
After high school graduation, the credit can be used at Cal Poly or transferred to other institutions including other California State Universities, the University of California campuses, or private schools such as USC, Stanford, and Pepperdine. The second reason students take televised university courses is to experience a college course while still in high school. In addition to learning about new exciting areas of interest, students have the chance to see how college courses are taught. The third reason for taking these courses is to support university and scholarship applications. The only other cost is for the textbook.