LSU Independent Distance learning questions

[Publius]

I'd like to start my LSU accounting courses by this time next month (it will be ACCT 2101 that I start with as it's a preq for ACCT 3001). The courses include the following:
Introductory Managerial Accounting (ACCT 2101) (Prerequisite: ACC 101 DE - Financial Accounting DSST)
Intermediate Accounting I (ACCT 3001)
Intermediate Accounting II (ACCT 3021)
Cost Analysis and Control (ACCT 3121)
Advanced Accounting (ACCT 4022)
Auditing (ACCT 3222)

I'm going to have to take the Accounting DSST before any of the classes (which isn't scheduled until March 1st though).
Do I have to have the DSST completed before I enroll or just have it done before I start the class?

Looking at just Managerial Accounting, it says two exams are required which will have to be proctored... How are those set up? Do I talk with my current testing proctor about it or will LSU set that up with them? I've heard of instances of libraries being able to proctor TECEPs, would they be able to proctor LSU midterms and finals? I'm not sure why they wouldn't but didn't know if there were exceptions let alone the normal proceeds.

Also, are they're any other places where the required textbooks could be purchased (cheaply)? I've become accustom to spending no more then $35 on study materials. I'd also hate to pay the full price for a book when I can get second (or even third or fifth hand) somewhere else at half the price and not pay the full $125. I googled the listed ISBN numbers, and searched for their book but couldn't find it anywhere. Is this normal? That's the books info for Managerial Accounting (Jerry J. Weygandt, Paul D. Kimmel, and Donald E. Kieso. Managerial Accounting: 4e with Study Guide. 4th edition. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Custom Services, 2009. ISBN: 0-470-89901-8 ISBN-13: 978-0-470-89901-4)

Is there anything else that someone who's anticipating starting an LSU course should be aware of?

Thanks much for any help and God Bless!