South Piedmont Community College catalog

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2012–2013
SOUTH PIEDMONT
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Serving Anson and Union Counties
2012 - 2013 Catalog
Old Charlotte Highway Campus
4209 Old Charlotte Highway
Monroe, NC 28110
704-290-5100
1-800-766-0319
FAX 704-290-5250
www.spcc.edu
South Piedmont Community College
is a member
of the North Carolina Community College System
The official 2012-2013 College Catalog may be found on our website at www.spcc.edu.
Volume 12 An Equal Opportunity College 2012-2013
L. L. Polk Campus
680 Highway 74 West, PO Box 126
Polkton, NC 28135
704-272-5300
1-800-766-0319
FAX 704-272-5350I-2 General Information (Section I)
ACCREDITATION
South Piedmont Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of South Piedmont Community College.
The Commission may be contacted for the following reasons: 1) to learn about the accreditation status of South Piedmont Community College, 2) to file a third party comment at the time of the South Piedmont Community College decennial review, 3) to file a complaint against South Piedmont Community College for significant non-compliance with a standard or requirement.
Normal inquiries about South Piedmont Community College, such as admission requirements, financial aid, educational programs, etc., should be addressed directly to South Piedmont Community College and not to the Commission on Colleges.
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
South Piedmont Community College does not discriminate against any person on the grounds of race, creed, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin in the admission policies and practices relating to the treatment of students and other individuals, including the provision of services, financial aid, and other benefits, including the use of any building, room, or space.
THE CATALOG
This catalog is effective July 1, 2012, to June 30, 2013. This catalog is for information only and does not constitute a contract between the student and the College. South Piedmont Community College has made every reasonable effort to determine that everything stated in this catalog is accurate at the time of printing. However, the NC General Assembly, the State Board of Community Colleges, and/or the SPCC Board of Trustees may make changes in policy, graduation requirements, fees and other charges, curriculum course structure and content, and other such matters after the publication of this catalog. The NC General Assembly may make changes in tuition without notice.
South Piedmont Community College reserves the right to make changes in program requirements and offerings, in regulations, and in fees. South Piedmont Community College also reserves the right to discontinue at any time programs or courses described in this publication. While every effort will be made to give advance notice of any changes of programs or courses, such notice is neither guaranteed nor required.General Information (Section I) I-3
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
WELCOME TO SOUTH PIEDMONT COMMUNITY COLLEGE!
The famous baseball coach Yogi Berra once said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else.” The decision to go to college says that you have made a decision on a destination and recognize that the shortest path to success is by continuing your education. Why do people choose to attend South Piedmont Community College? Let me give a few of the reasons: More than 90 programs which include high-quality transfer programs and articulations designed to help you succeed at the university level; relevant and current workforce programs taught with state of the art equipment by highly qualified faculty; and Early College, GED, and Adult High School programs that will put you on the path to success, all supported by friendly faculty and staff.
So how do you get started? Make an appointment with a counselor to develop your pathway and create a plan by assessing your interests and aptitudes. Meet with the financial aid office to develop a financial plan that will lay the foundation to be successful. South Piedmont Community College is a comprehensive community college, one of 58 in the North Carolina System. We are affordable. We are convenient with online classes and locations in Monroe, Polkton, and Wadesboro. We care about our students and the communities we serve.
I want to leave you with a final quote from Benjamin Franklin: “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” Feel free to call or email me for assistance in achieving your goals at SPCC.
Stanley M. Sidor, Ed.D.
President I-4 General Information (Section I)
General Information ...............................................................................................................................I-6
Academic Calendar ...............................................................................................................................I-13
Admissions ............................................................................................................................................II-1
Registration and Financial Information .................................................................................................III-1
Student Support Services .....................................................................................................................IV-1
Academic Information ............................................................................................................................V-1
Curriculum Programs of Study ..............................................................................................................VI-1
Associate in Arts Degree ...............................................................................................................VI-1
Associate in Arts - General Education Diploma ....................................................................VI-3
Associate in Arts Criminal Justice Degree (Pre-Major).................................................................VI-4
Associate in Arts Elementary Education Degree (Pre-Major) ......................................................VI-5
Associate in Arts Information Technology Degree (Pre-Major).....................................................VI-6
Associate in Arts Nursing Degree (Pre-Major)..............................................................................VI-8
Associate in Arts Social Work Degree (Pre-Major) ......................................................................VI-8
Associate in Science Degree .......................................................................................................VI-10
Associate in Science - General Education Diploma .............................................................VI-11
Associate in Science Engineering Degree (Pre-Major)................................................................VI-12
Associate in Science Pre-Pharmacy Pathway.............................................................................VI-14
Associate in General Education Degree .....................................................................................VI-15
Accounting Degree ......................................................................................................................VI-17
Accounting Certificate ..........................................................................................................VI-18
Advertising and Graphic Design Degree .....................................................................................VI-19
Advertising and Graphic Design Diploma ...........................................................................VI-20
Advertising and Graphic Design Certificate ........................................................................VI-21
Advertising and Graphic Design - Advertising Layout Certificate .......................................VI-21
Advertising and Graphic Design - Creative Design Certificate ...........................................VI-22
Advertising and Graphic Design - Web Design Certificate .................................................VI-22
Advertising and Graphic Design - Multimedia Design Certificate........................................VI-22
Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology Degree .................................................VI-23
Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology Diploma ........................................VI-24
Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology - Heating Fundamentals Certificate .VI-25
Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology - Heat Pump Fundamentals Certificate .VI-25
Associate Degree Nursing ..........................................................................................................VI-26
Basic Law Enforcement Training Certificate (BLET) ..................................................................VI-27
Biomedical Equipment Technology Degree ................................................................................VI-27
Biotechnology Degree ................................................................................................................VI-29
Business Administration Degree ................................................................................................VI-30
Business Administration Diploma ........................................................................................VI-32
Business Administration Certificate .....................................................................................VI-32
Business Administration - Small Business Management Certificate ..................................VI-32
Computer Information Technology Degree ................................................................................VI-33
Computer Information Technology Certificate .....................................................................VI-34
Computer Information Technology - Operating Systems Certificate ..................................VI-35
Computer Information Technology - Routing & Switching (CISCO) Certificate ..................VI-35
Computer Information Technology - Microsoft Office Certificate ........................................VI-35
Computer Information Technology - Game Development Certificate .................................VI-35
Computer Information Technology - Mobile Apps Foundation Certificate...........................VI-36
Computer Technology Integration - Mobile Apps Development Degree.....................................VI-36
TABLE OF CONTENTSGeneral Information (Section I) I-5
Criminal Justice Technology Degree ..........................................................................................VI-38
Criminal Justice Technology Diploma .................................................................................VI-39
Criminal Justice Technology Certificate ..............................................................................VI-40
Criminal Justice Technology - Latent Evidence Certificate .................................................VI-40
Early Childhood Education Degree ............................................................................................VI-41
Early Childhood Education Diploma ....................................................................................VI-42
Early Childhood Education - Preschool Certificate .............................................................VI-43
Early Childhood Education - Administration Certificate ......................................................VI-43
Early Childhood Education - CDA Credential Certificate.....................................................VI-43
Early Childhood Education - Pre-K Special Education Certificate.......................................VI-43
Electrical/Electronics Technology Degree ..................................................................................VI-44
Electrical/Electronics Technology Diploma .........................................................................VI-45
Electrical/Electronics Technology - Electrical Certificate ....................................................VI-46
Electrical/Electronics Technology - Digital Electronics Certificate .....................................VI-46
Electrical/Electronics Technology - Industrial Electronics Certificate .................................VI-46
Emergency Medical Science - Paramedic Bridge Degree..........................................................VI-46
Entrepreneurship Degree ...........................................................................................................VI-48
Entrepreneurship Diploma ...................................................................................................VI-49
Entrepreneurship Certificate ................................................................................................VI-50
Fire Protection Technology Degree ............................................................................................VI-50
General Occupational Technology Degree ................................................................................VI-52
Human Services Technology Degree .........................................................................................VI-52
Human Services Technology Diploma ................................................................................VI-54
Human Services Technology - Substance Abuse Certificate .............................................VI-54
Infant/Toddler Care Certificate ...................................................................................................VI-55
Licensed Practical Nurse Refresher Certificate .........................................................................VI-55
Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree..............................................................................VI-56
Mechanical Engineering Technology - Mechatronics Certificate.........................................VI-57
Medical Assisting Degree ...........................................................................................................VI-58
Medical Assisting Diploma ..................................................................................................VI-59
Medical Assisting - Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) Certificate ..................................VI-60
Medical Office Administration Degree ........................................................................................VI-60
Medical Office Administration - Medical Insurance Coding Diploma ..................................VI-61
Medical Office Administration Certificate ............................................................................VI-62
Medical Office Administration - Transcription Certificate ....................................................VI-62
Medical Sonography Degree ......................................................................................................VI-63
Paralegal Technology Degree ....................................................................................................VI-64
Paralegal Technology Diploma ............................................................................................VI-66
Paralegal Technology Certificate ........................................................................................VI-66
Practical Nursing Diploma ..........................................................................................................VI-67
School-Age Education Degree ...................................................................................................VI-67
School-Age Education Diploma ..........................................................................................VI-69
School-Age Education Certificate .......................................................................................VI-69
School-Age Education - Special Education Certificate .......................................................VI-70
School-Age Education - School Age Specialist Certificate..................................................VI-70
Simulation and Game Development Degree................................................................................VI-71
Surgical Technology Diploma .....................................................................................................VI-73
Course Descriptions .............................................................................................................................VII-1
Corporate and Continuing Education .................................................................................................VIII-1
Adult Literacy Programs ........................................................................................................................IX-1
Board of Trustees ..................................................................................................................................X-1
Administration, Faculty, Staff .................................................................................................................X-2
Index .....................................................................................................................................................XI-1I-6 General Information (Section I)
HISTORY OF THE COLLEGE
South Piedmont is North Carolina’s newest community college, having been created in 1999 by the North Carolina General Assembly. The legislature’s action abolished Anson Community College and assigned the new college’s service area as Anson and Union counties in south-central North Carolina.
South Piedmont is in the unique position of being a new institution with a proud history. The institution traces its roots to 1962, with the founding of the Ansonville unit of the Charlotte Industrial Education Center. In collaboration with Stanly Community College, it also provided years of service in Union County as Union Technical Education Center.
The institution was originally designated as the Ansonville Industrial Education Center in November 1962 by action of the State Department of Public Instruction. On December 2, 1967, the Anson County Board of Education and County Commissioners officially appointed a local Board of Trustees. As a result, the Ansonville Industrial Education Center became Anson Technical Institute, a unit of the Department of Community Colleges of North Carolina.
Further progress, larger enrollment, and additional support from the community, especially Polkton Mayor W. Cliff Martin, enabled Anson Technical Institute to acquire land, obtain additional funds, and complete construction of a 28,000-square-foot building in Polkton in 1977. To better reflect the offerings of the institution, the Board of Trustees on June 7, 1979, changed the name to Anson Technical College.
In 1981, Union Technical Education Consortium was created when Central Piedmont Community College voluntarily withdrew from Union County and the North Carolina Department of Community Colleges authorized service in the county by a consortium of Anson and Stanly community colleges.
Effective November 1, 1987, the official name of Anson Technical College was changed to Anson Community College.
On May 19, 1999, Gov. Jim Hunt signed a bill, based upon recommendations of an independent study team, that abolished Anson Community College and Union Technical Education Center and created North Carolina’s newest community college. The signing of this bill created a single college with two campuses, one in Anson County and one in Union County, to serve the residents of both counties, and a new 14-member board of trustees was appointed.
The college was named South Piedmont Community College on August 3, 1999, using one of the 441 different names suggested during a contest held during July.
STRATEGIC PLAN
2010-2013
As a Learning College, South Piedmont Community College promotes and celebrates learning as the process that changes and improves lives. This applies to our students, our employees, and the college itself. We are an organization in which people continually expand their ability to create desired new results. Learning is our top priority.
Our Strategic Plan highlights this focus on learning through our Vision (what we want to be), our Mission (who we are), our Values (what directs our decisions), and our Strategic Initiatives (what actions we will take to fulfill our Vision and Mission).
Our Vision is:
•
To be the college of choiceGeneral Information (Section I) I-7
Our Mission is:
•
Learning, student success, and workforce and community development
We Value:
•
Each individual
•
Achievement
•
Ethical conduct
•
Diversity
•
Adaptability and flexibility
•
Accountability
•
Commitment
•
Continuous improvement and innovation
•
Collaboration and teamwork
•
Extraordinary customer service
Strategic Initiative I: SPCC is focused on learning.
Outcome 1: SPCC will create measurable change in individual learners by engaging them as full partners.
Strategies:
1-A Challenge all members of the college community to become responsible partners in their learning.
1-B Ensure that learners experience SPCC as a sequenced plan of activities leading to a diploma, certificate, or degree.
1-C Develop a process to ensure that learners understand and acknowledge defined outcomes for each program of study.
1-D Promote the importance of community service and volunteerism to learners.
Outcome 2: SPCC will increase options for learning as defined by the needs of the individual learner.
Strategies:
2-A Develop front door activities that promote understanding of learning options and opportunities to ensure learning success.
2-B Make learners aware of support systems available to meet individual needs and improve learning.
2-C Provide flexible learning opportunities.
2-D Ensure that the various learning opportunities are of comparable quality.
Outcome 3: SPCC will develop an exemplary learning centered campus climate for employees, students, and visitors.
Strategies:
3-A Ensure that adequate facilities, resources, and qualified faculty and staff are available to support learning.
3-B Ensure that the college community works together to efficiently and effectively meet learning needs.
3-C Create a process through which faculty and staff are provided life-long learning opportunities.
Strategic Initiative II: SPCC is aligned with its market and workforce.
Outcome 1: SPCC will ensure that student learning outcomes are current, relevant, and based on the needs of employers in the global environment.
Strategies:
1-A Align training opportunities with needed skills.
Outcome 2: SPCC will ensure community input into instruction offerings.
Strategies:
2-A Gather community input through focus groups, advisory boards, community connections/involvement.I-8 General Information (Section I)
Outcome 3: SPCC will participate actively in economic development activities that affect its service area.
Strategies:
3-A Maintain local and regional partnerships, including historically under utilized business/partnerships that enhance SPCC’s role in economic development.
3-B Report and educate SPCC staff annually on the state of the local/regional economy.
Outcome 4: SPCC will provide access to college resources that prepare learners to live, learn, work, and prosper in a changing environment.
Strategies:
4-A Maximize utilization of facilities.
4-B Conduct, document, and share training content regarding adaptation to change.
Strategic Initiative III: SPCC is connected with its community.
Outcome 1: SPCC faculty and staff will be highly involved and visible as active partners within the community, working diligently to improve the quality of life for residents of the service area.
Strategies:
1-A Develop a comprehensive communications plan to ensure all targeted constituencies, both internal and external, are informed of activities in a timely fashion.
1-B Promote the importance of community service to SPCC employees, encouraging volunteerism and service in local civic organizations and on local boards and agencies.
1-C Promote the involvement of all SPCC employees, trustees, and foundation board members in communicating the SPCC story to the public.
Outcome 2: SPCC will work collaboratively with public, private, and post-secondary schools, and other educational entities.
Strategies:
2-A Expand opportunities for high school students.
2-B Increase the number of students transferring to four-year institutions.
Outcome 3: SPCC will enrich the lives of service area residents through multifaceted cultural events.
Strategies:
3-A Expand arts-related opportunities for students and residents of the service area.
3-B Expand opportunities for artists and craftsmen.
Outcome 4: SPCC will provide the resources necessary to extend optimum service to its many constituencies.
Strategies:
4-A Increase the amount of scholarship funds available to current and prospective students.
4-B Offer more activities to attract the public to the two campuses.
4-C Increase the value of grants awarded.
4-D Increase total FTE by approximately 10 percent annually.
4-E Explore new programs to address high-growth occupations as identified in the college’s Long Range Plan for 2007-2012.
4-F Offer self-supporting summer semester courses in higher-level General Education subjects to attract university and four-year college students home for the summer.
4-G Develop at least one focal point of excellence at each college site to define distinctiveness and enhance SPCC’s reputation for quality.
4-H Provide enhanced outreach to the growing Hispanic community.
4-I Develop on each campus a comprehensive career center.
4-J Increase enrollment in the Associate Degree Nursing program.General Information (Section I) I-9
Strategic Initiative IV: SPCC is evidence driven.
Outcome 1: SPCC will document learning through authentic assessment.
Strategies:
1-A Collect evidence of assessment through a variety of methods, including program review, student evaluations, and survey data.
1-B Utilize the Learning College portfolio to document student learning and achievement.
Outcome 2: SPCC will integrate data analysis into decision making to validate or modify existing practices and programs.
Strategies:
2-A Evaluate evidence, new and existing, to justify changes to existing practices and/or programs.
2-B Use program review as a vehicle to support the decision-making process.
2-C Evaluate evidence, new and existing, to justify budgetary priorities.
2-D Use a variety of methods for each department to assess quality improvement measurements and strategies.
Outcome 3: SPCC will obtain data through a variety of methodologies and sharing results for continuous improvement.
Strategies:
3-A Obtain data through a variety of methodologies and share results of continuous improvement changes based on those results.
Outcome 4: SPCC will document its business model to ensure accurate procedures and processes for all learners.
Strategies:
4-A Review, maintain, and systematically communicate the college’s policies and procedures.
4-B Institutionalize a Culture of Evidence model.
Outcome 5: SPCC will demonstrate accountability through the attainment of all eight NCCCS Performance Measures.
Strategies:
5-A Collect, analyze, distribute, and communicate the importance of the annual Performance Measures results to the college community.
5-B Ensure that all measures are met on an ongoing basis.I-10 General Information (Section I)
CORE SKILLS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES
South Piedmont Community College advocates Thinking, Learning, and Interacting as critical competencies for student achievement and lifelong learning in today’s global economy. These critical competencies will be supported by six (6) core skills with identified measurable learning outcomes and integrated into the Learning College’s instruction and activities.
To ensure the attainment of these core skills, South Piedmont Community College has established the following Core Skills Learning Outcomes:
Written Communication
•
The learner will organize and express ideas clearly through written communication in a manner appropriate for the intended audience.
Oral Communication
•
The learner will organize and express ideas clearly through oral communication in a manner appropriate for the intended audience.
Collaboration and Teamwork
•
The learner will apply the basic principles of individual or group behavior to current and future challenges of working and collaborating with others with respect to diversity and global issues.
Technology
•
The learner will choose and utilize appropriate technologies to access, organize, analyze, and communicate information.
Analysis and Interpretation
•
The learner will apply the basic principles of interpretation and analysis to synthesize information.
Problem Solving
•
The learner will apply the basic principles of mathematics and/or scientific inquiry to identify, interpret, evaluate, and solve problems.
OUTCOMES AND ASSESSMENT
At SPCC, all students participate in the outcomes assessment process. This process helps answer the fundamental learning college question: Are you, as a student, learning? How do we, as an institution, and you, as a student, know? All curriculum programs at SPCC, from the Associate of Arts to Surgical Technology, have program outcomes, student learning outcomes, and core skill outcomes, which are assessed.
Program Outcomes answer the question, “What should graduates of this program be able to do?” Program Outcome statements focus on the big picture. All programs have outcomes that are unique to that program. Contact your program advisor to see what will be learned in your program of choice.
Student Learning Outcomes are statements that demonstrate what learning is expected in a course. These outcomes are found in course syllabi.
SPCC’s six (6) Core Skill Outcomes are assessed in every program.
All outcomes are assessed in every program. Results of the assessments are analyzed by instructors to determine what students know and how learning can be improved. The College reserves the right to share samples of student work with regulatory and accrediting bodies.
Decisions about learning continuous improvements are made in a systematic way using the data from the assessments submitted in TaskStream, the College’s online assessment management system.General Information (Section I) I-11
PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND STANDARDS
In February 1999, the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges adopted 12 performance measures for accountability. Amended in 2007, the performance measures for accountability were modified to eight (8) measures. In 2012, the measure for Progress of Basic Skills Students was removed. All community colleges are required to publish their performance on the measures annually in their electronic catalog or on the Internet and in their printed catalog. The Performance Measures and Standards and the results for the 2010-2011 fiscal year are as follows:
Data Source: 2012 NCCCS Critical Success Factors Report
Performance Measure
State
Standard
SPCC’s
Performance
Passing Rates on Licensure/Certification
Exams for First-Time Test Takers
Aggregate = 80%
And no Exams
With Pass Rate <70%
85%
1 Exam <70%
Performance of College Transfer Students
83%
82%
Passing Rates in Developmental Courses
75%
81%
Success Rate of Developmental Students in Subsequent College-Level Courses
80%
81%
Satisfaction of Program Completers and
Non-Completers
90%
91%
Curriculum Student Retention, Graduation, and Transfer
65%
65%
Client Satisfaction with Customized Training
90%
93%
The North Carolina Community College System website, www.nccommunitycolleges.edu, contains details about the Performance Measures and Standards.
Visit www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/Publications/index.html. Click on 2012 Critical Success Factors Report.I-12 General Information (Section I)
HOURS OF OPERATION
South Piedmont Community College offers classes, workshops, and seminars six days a week at various times and locations. The College’s normal business hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Hours may be extended during registration periods. Summer hours of operation may differ at all locations.
To obtain information regarding the College and its programs and services to the community, check our website, www.spcc.edu, or call:
L. L. Polk Campus, Polkton
704-272-5300
800-766-0319
FAX: 704-272-5350
Old Charlotte Hwy. Campus, Monroe
704-290-5100
800-766-0319
FAX: 704-290-5250
Lockhart-Taylor Center, Wadesboro
704-272-5300
800-766-0319
FAX: 704-272-5475
South Piedmont Community College observes the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
HIGHWAY 52HIGHWAY 52ROCKY RIVER RD.STALLINGS RD.HIGHWAY 200HIGHWAY 75US HIGHWAY 74MONROEPOLKTONWADESBOROOLD CHARLOTTE HWY.Old Charlotte Highway CampusL.L. Polk CampusLockhart-Taylor Center
Union County
Anson CountyGeneral Information (Section I) I-13
FALL SEMESTER 2012 (16 WEEKS)
August 15...........................First Day of Classes
August 16...........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (1st 8-Week Session)
August 17...........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (16-Week Session)
August 20...........................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (1st 8-Week Session)
August 24...........................Last Day to Drop a Class/Receive a Refund (16-Week Session)
September 3.......................Labor Day Holiday (College Closed)
September 13.....................First Day of 12-Week Session
September 14.....................Last Day for Schedule Changes (12-Week Session)
September 18.....................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (1st 8-Week Session)
September 20.....................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (12-Week Session)
September 24.....................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (1st 8-Week Session)
October 10..........................End of 1st 8-Week Session (Monday classes meet on this Wednesday)
October 11, 12....................Student Break (No Classes)
October 15..........................Classes Resume / Begin 2nd 8-Week Session
October 16..........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (2nd 8-Week Session)
October 18..........................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (2nd 8-Week Session)
October 24..........................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (16-Week Session)
November 5........................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (16-Week Session)
November 5........................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (12-Week Session)
November 13......................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (12-Week Session)
November 15......................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (2nd 8-Week Session)
November 19 - 24...............Fall Break (No Classes)
November 21 - 24...............Thanksgiving Holidays (College Closed)
November 26......................Classes Resume
November 28......................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (2nd 8-Week Session)
December 14......................Fall Semester Ends
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2012 - 2013I-14 General Information (Section I)
SPRING SEMESTER 2013 (16 WEEKS)
January 9...........................First Day of Classes
January 10..........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (1st 8-Week Session)
January 11..........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (16-Week Session)
January 14..........................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (1st 8-Week Session)
January 18..........................Last Day to Drop a Class/Receive a Refund (16-Week Session)
January 21..........................Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (College Closed)
February 7..........................First Day of 12-Week Session
February 8..........................Last Day for Schedule Changes (12-Week Session)
February 12........................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (1st 8-Week Session)
February 14........................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (12-Week Session)
February 18........................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (1st 8-Week Session)
March 6..............................End of 1st 8-Week Session (Monday classes meet on this Wednesday)
March 7..............................Student Break (No Classes)
March 8..............................Classes Resume / Begin 2nd 8-Week Session
March 11.............................Last Day for Schedule Changes (2nd 8-Week Session)
March 13............................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund (2nd 8-Week Session)
March 19............................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (16-Week Session)
March 29 - 31.....................Easter Holiday (College Closed)
April 1 - 5............................Spring Break
April 8.................................Classes Resume
April 8.................................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (16-Week Session)
April 8.................................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (12-Week Session)
April 16...............................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (12-Week Session)
April 18...............................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends (2nd 8-Week Session)
April 24...............................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal (2nd 8-Week Session)
May 10................................Spring Semester Ends
May 13, 14..........................Graduation
SUMMER TERM 2013 (8 WEEKS)
May 28................................First Day of Classes
May 29................................Last Day for Schedule Changes
June 3.................................Last Day to Drop a Class / Receive a Refund
July 1..................................Financial Aid Withdrawal Penalty Period Ends
July 4..................................Independence Day Holiday (College Closed)
July 8..................................Last Day for Student Initiated Withdrawal
July 23................................Summer Term Ends (Thursday classes meet on this Tuesday) Admissions (Section II) II-1
Admissions Policy
South Piedmont Community College subscribes to the “open door” policy established by the North Carolina Community College System. The College will admit all applicants who:
•
Are 18 years old or older and/or
•
Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED, Adult High School, etc.)
Admission to the College does not guarantee admission to specific programs offered at the College. Students must meet additional requirements for the programs. These requirements can be found in the Admissions Process and Information section below.
The College serves all students regardless of race, color, sex, creed, national origin, age, or disability.
SPCC reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant during any period of time that the student is suspended or expelled from another educational entity.
Admissions Process and Information
New students are urged to complete the admissions process at least two (2) weeks prior to registration and apply for financial aid at least eight (8) weeks prior to registration. If you are applying to an SPCC health program, refer to www.spcc.edu for the admissions requirements for that specific health program.
Students interested in pursuing a program of study/major MUST complete all admissions requirements prior to first-time enrollment. Once all admissions requirements listed below are complete, you will be placed into your program of study and may receive financial aid if eligible. Anyone wishing to register for classes prior to completing his/her admissions file may do so as a Special Credit student. Special Credit students are not eligible for financial aid. To ensure your financial aid is in place, make sure your admissions file is complete at least two (2) weeks prior to registration.
Complete the SPCC Application for Admission
•
You may complete an application for admission online at www.spcc.edu. Click on Future Students>Admissions. If you already have an account with CFNC, use your login information to fill out SPCC’s application. If you do not have an account with CFNC, you may create one prior to filling out the application. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may use our library to complete this part of the process or visit your local public library.
Submit official high school, GED, or Adult High School transcript
•
It is your responsibility to request this transcript. It is also your responsibility to pay any applicable fees to the appropriate institution.
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Official transcripts should be mailed directly from the high school, state GED office, or Adult High School to SPCC. Unofficial (student issued, faxed, or emailed) transcripts will not be accepted.
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If you graduated from the GED program at South Piedmont Community College, you may request a copy of your scores from SPCC’s Basic Skills Department in lieu of an official transcript.
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If you plan to submit a high school transcript from non-public institutions or online high school programs, you must contact South Piedmont Community College’s Admissions Office to determine if the transcript is acceptable for admission into your program of study,
Submit official transcripts from all colleges listed on your admissions application
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A Request for Transcript Evaluation Form must be completed and sent to the Registrar for evaluation of prior course transfer credit.
ADMISSIONSII-2 Admissions (Section II)
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All foreign transcripts (secondary and post-secondary) must be evaluated by an authorized translation company at your expense.
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A college transcript waiver may be available for extenuating circumstances.
Prepare for and take the College Placement Test (CPT)
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Check www.spcc.edu or email (llptestingcenter@spcc.edu or ochtestingcenter@spcc.edu) for testing availability, as times may vary. We strongly recommend preparing for the test using the study guide found on our website at www.spcc.edu. The purpose of the College Placement Test (CPT) is to enhance your success as an SPCC student. It helps you, as a new student, determine your skills in reading, English, arithmetic, algebra, and computer competency. Skills identified through the test, along with advisor guidance, will help place you in the most appropriate course for your success. CPT scores are valid for two (2) years.
Complete the New Student Orientation
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New Student Orientation can be completed at www.spcc.edu. Click on Future Students>Orientation. This is a short video which requires FlashPlayer. At the end, you will be asked to answer a few questions and prompted to provide your information to track completion. You must answer all questions correctly; make sure you are paying attention.
Reapplication to the College
If you have withdrawn in good standing and/or have not enrolled for a period of five (5) years or more, you must reapply for admission to the College. Copies of academic transcripts and placement tests may be required. If you have been suspended for academic or disciplinary reasons, you must consult with the Vice President of Student Success.
Admission of High School Students
Career and College Promise
Session Law 2011-145, the Appropriations Act of 2011, authorized the State Board of Education and the State Board of Community Colleges to establish the Career and College Promise program, effective January 1, 2012.
Career and College Promise (CCP) provides seamless dual enrollment educational opportunities for eligible North Carolina high school students in order to accelerate completion of college certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees that lead to college transfer or provide entry-level job skills. North Carolina community colleges may offer the following Career and College Promise pathways aligned with the K-12 curriculum and career and college ready standards adopted by the State Board of Education:
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A Core 44 College Transfer Pathway leading to a minimum of 30 hours of college transfer credit;
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A Career and Technical Education Pathway leading to a certificate, diploma, or degree;
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A Cooperative Innovative High School Pathway approved under Part 9 of Article 16 of Chapter 115C of the General Statutes.
Links to three (3) web pages with information on Career and College Promise are listed below. Each web page targets a specific audience.
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North Carolina Community College System Office’s CCP web page:
http://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/programs/ccp.htm
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Governor Beverly Perdue’s CCP web page:
http://www,careercollegeNC.org/
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North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s CCP web page:
http://www.ncpublicschools.org/ccpromise/Admissions (Section II) II-3
Early College High School
South Piedmont Community College in collaboration with the Anson County School System and the Union County School System offers Early College High School programs for students living in each county. Early College High Schools are classified as cooperative innovative high schools under the Career and College Promise program. Students apply for admission to Anson County Early College (ACEC) or Union County Early College (UCEC) in the eighth grade. Students enter the Early College program as freshmen and earn a high school diploma and a two-year Associate Degree in Arts or Associate Degree in Science within five (5) years. SPCC tuition is paid for ACEC and UCEC students. Upon graduation, students then apply to transfer to the college or university of their choice.
Admission of Senior Citizens
A legal resident of North Carolina who is 65 years of age or older may register for curriculum classes tuition free up to six (6) credit hours for any fall, spring, or summer term. An exception may be a self-supporting class in which all students enrolled share the cost of the class. Verification of age will be required. Senior citizens will be expected to pay all regularly assessed fees for any course in which they enroll. All prerequisites and corequisites must be met prior to enrolling in the course(s). Enrollment in curriculum courses requires students to complete the College Placement Test (CPT) and meet required scores.
Admissions for Allied Health and Nursing Programs
If you are seeking admission into an SPCC health program, you will be required to meet all health program admissions criteria and be officially accepted into the health program prior to taking program-specific health classes. Each program has different admissions criteria. Refer to the specific Allied Health or Nursing Admissions Requirements booklet for the health program in which you seek admission. These booklets may be found in the offices of the Health Programs Admissions Technicians in the Student Success Division of SPCC or on the website at www.spcc.edu.
Reapplication to SPCC Health Programs
Reapplication to a health program is required for students who have not been enrolled in a health program for more than one semester. The guidelines for the admissions process for health programs as described in the catalog section “Admissions for Allied Health and Nursing Programs” above must be followed. If you have been suspended for academic or disciplinary reasons, you must consult with the Vice President of Student Success.
Admission of International Students (Documented)
South Piedmont Community College considers admissions to documented foreign nationals. The following must be completed and submitted to the Admissions Office prior to enrollment:
• •
SPCC Application for Admission Form
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System Data Gathering Form
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Residency Application Form
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Permanent Resident Alien Card (and other acceptable documentation)
SPCC is not able to issue I-20s to international students.
In order to be considered for in-state tuition rates, any Documented Foreign National applicant must provide convincing documentation that he/she intends to make North Carolina his/her residence (see Residency Classification for Tuition Purposes in the Registration and Financial Information section of this catalog).
South Piedmont Community College does not have housing facilities, living accommodations, or associated support programs for individuals from other countries. You are responsible for your own transportation.II-4 Admissions (Section II)
Admission of International Students (Undocumented)
International undocumented students may enroll at out-of-state tuition rates after published registration dates IF you graduated from a United State public high school.
College Placement Testing
The purpose of the College Placement Test (CPT) is to enhance your success as a student at South Piedmont Community College. It helps you, as a new student, determine your skills in reading, English, arithmetic, algebra, and computer competency. Skills identified through the CPT, along with counselor or advisor guidance, will help with placement in the most appropriate courses for your success. CPT scores are valid for two years.
All associate degree, diploma, certificate, special credit, high school, and health program applicants must complete the CPT (reading, sentence skills, math, and computer competency) prior to registration. All degree and diploma students must meet all CPT requirements prior to completing their program of study. Students transitioning from a certificate program into a diploma or degree program must meet the MAT 070 requirement even if there is no math course in the program.
SPCC ACCUPLACER Score Report/Academic Assessment
Placement
Minimum Required Score
Reading Comprehension:
Counselor Referral
No minimum score
RED 080
51
RED 090
70
ENG 111
≥ 80 (with ≥ 86 in Sentence Skills)
Sentence Skills:
Counselor Referral
No minimum score
ENG 080
51
ENG 090
70
ENG 111
≥ 86 (with ≥ 80 in Reading Comprehension)
Computer Skills:
CIS 070
No minimum score
CIS 110
≥ 80
Math:
Counselor Referral
No minimum score
MAT 060
40 Arithmetic
MAT-070
55 Arithmetic
MAT-080 (DMA 060/070/080)
55 Arithmetic and 55 Algebra
MAT 140/140A
55 Arithmetic and 55 Algebra
MAT 151/151A
55 Arithmetic and 75 Algebra
MAT 171/171A
55 Arithmetic and 75 Algebra
MAT 172/172A
55 Arithmetic and 95 Algebra and
86 College-Level Math
MAT 175/175A
55 Arithmetic and 95 Algebra and
65 College-Level Math
MAT 271
55 Arithmetic and 95 Algebra and
103 College-Level MathAdmissions (Section II) II-5
Exemptions to the CPT requirements are as follows:
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Applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher will be exempt from taking the CPT and will be granted exemption for all developmental course prerequisites. Credit for college-level classes taken as part of the degree must meet the time limit requirements as set forth in the “Transfer of Credit” section of this catalog.
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Applicants transferring from another institution who have successfully completed a transferable freshman English, reading, mathematics, or computer course will be exempt from the placement test subject area.
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Applicants with the following scores taken within the last two (2) years are exempt from taking the Accuplacer Reading and Sentence Skills tests:
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SAT = 500 Critical Reading
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ACT = 21 Reading and 21 English
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ASSET = 41 Reading and 41 Writing
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COMPASS = 81 Reading and 70 Writing
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Applicants with the following scores taken within the last two (2) years are exempt from taking the Accuplacer Arithmetic and Elementary Algebra tests:
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SAT = 500 Mathematics
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ACT = 21 Math
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ASSET = 41 Numerical and 41 Intermediate Algebra
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COMPASS = 47 Pre-Algebra and 66 Algebra
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Applicants who are eligible to exempt one or more of the placement tests based on any of the above exemptions must provide the Admissions Office with appropriate documentation. Transcripts are considered to be “official” when issued in a sealed, unopened envelope by the granting institution. If you have questions about whether the transcript you have on hand may be considered as an official copy, contact the Admissions Office.
You must show proof of ID (College ID or driver’s license) before admission to the Testing Center. The Testing Center staff will offer “pre-test” advisement to you regarding the serious nature of the initial test. Resources are available for you before you take your first test. See the Testing Center staff for more details.
Once you have completed the College Placement Test, the Testing Center staff will refer you to a counselor or to an advisor in the Advising Center for further assistance. Contact one of the following for Testing/Assessment information:
L. L. Polk Campus: Director of Enrollment Services 704-272-5324
Testing Coordinator 704-272-5340
Old Charlotte Highway Campus: Testing Coordinator 704-290-5841
Placement Testing for Distance Learning Students
Students outside the College’s service area should contact the Director of Enrollment Services for information on College Placement Testing.
CPT Retest Requirements
Retests are allowed when one or more of the following situations apply:
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If you make within 4 points of the cut score in any given section, you may retest in that section only. You should retest within two weeks of the initial test (after a 24-hour mandatory waiting period), and you may only challenge your scores once per year.
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Special circumstances may apply for retest.II-6 Admissions (Section II)
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If you do not fall into the above categories and are interested in a retest, you must submit proof of intervention (tutorials, workbook, etc.) before a retest will be allowed.
You may not retest more than twice per year under any circumstance.
The Testing Coordinators and/or the Director of Enrollment Services reserve the right to disallow a retest if there are questions about the validity of a request.
The Testing Center will charge $2 per retest section or a total of $10 for all sections of the retest. If you wish to retest, you must provide documentation at the time of the retest, at which time the Testing Center staff will ensure eligibility.
Acceptance of Credit Policy
All requests for transfer credit should be made before enrolling at South Piedmont Community College. In order to obtain transfer credit evaluations, a student must complete a Request for Transcript Evaluation form and supply the College with appropriate transcripts as well as course descriptions or catalogs if the College requests them.
Students who have completed coursework at other colleges and universities should submit official transcripts of all post-secondary work. Proficiency credits from other institutions will not be accepted. Transfer credit may be awarded for appropriate military courses based on American Council on Education (ACE) recommendation. If a student submits transcripts from foreign universities, it is his or her responsibility to provide accurate translations from an approved translation agency (i.e., WES) of the (a) transcript, (b) course descriptions, and (c) grading system. Credit will be evaluated in the context of the current SPCC college catalog and awarded according to the following criteria:
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Prior coursework must correspond in instructional hours and content and must be substantially similar to SPCC courses required in the degree, diploma, or certificate being sought. Quarter-hour courses must equate to the semester-hour equivalent of the current required course, either by a combination of courses or as standalone by using the 3:2 ratio (2/3). Coursework must have been completed at a regionally accredited college recognized by the Commission on Colleges.
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Coursework must have been completed with a “C” or better.
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The time frame for accepting transfer credit is ten (10) years for general education courses, five (5) years for vocational and technical courses, and three (3) years for developmental and computer courses.
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Transfer students must meet Residency Requirement for Graduation.
The decisions as to how much, if any, transfer credit will be awarded and how such transfer credit will be applied are discretionary on the part of the College. The College reserves the right to disallow credit from another institution if the course is deemed to be obsolete or outdated.
A student may petition the Registrar to have related coursework outside the above time frame evaluated. Detailed course descriptions must be provided by the student. The College Placement Test may be used to determine a student’s ability to complete required coursework. Students who place out of developmental courses may have coursework outside the above time frame evaluated for consideration of transfer credit.
Noncredit to Credit Policy
Students interested in receiving curriculum credits for non-credit work (continuing education courses, state or national licenses, or life experiences) may do so through credit by examination or through provisions set forth through numbered memos and/or guidance from the North Carolina Community College System, and/or when a state-approved bridging program is in place.Admissions (Section II) II-7
Comprehensive Articulation Agreement
The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement, approved November 1996, between the State Board of Community Colleges and the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina, allows for the transfer of Associate in Science and Associate in Arts degree program credits from each community college into each of the North Carolina University System institutions. Additionally the Independent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement allows for transfer of Associate in Arts and Associate in Science program credits to some private institutions. For more information regarding the transfer status of specific courses and curricula, visit the Future Students section on the SPCC Website or contact the senior institution.
Advanced Placement (AP) Course Credit
Applicants to SPCC may request transfer credit for subjects taken in high school if they have a designation of Advanced Placement and if you can score appropriately on an Advanced Placement exam at the end of the course. Credit must be applicable to your current degree or diploma requirements. Advanced credit must be supported by official test score reports to be considered for transfer credit. Only hours earned are awarded. Official documentation verifying test scores is required. All approved and recorded Advanced Placement credit will be assigned a grade of “AP”.
The time frame for accepting AP transfer credit is ten (10) years for general education courses. The time frame for technical courses is five (5) years. The time frame for computer courses is three (3) years.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Credit
Applicants to SPCC may request transfer credit for subjects covered under placement examinations. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject area exams may be evaluated for SPCC college credit. Test scores must meet ACE (American Council on Education) recommendations. Credit must be applicable to your current degree or diploma requirements and must be supported by official test score reports to be considered for transfer credit. Only hours earned are awarded. Official documentation verifying test scores is required.
The time frame for accepting CLEP transfer credit is ten (10) years for general education courses. The time frame for technical courses is five (5) years. The time frame for computer courses is three (3) years.
Tech Prep Credit
In cooperation with the local high schools, South Piedmont Community College participates in and supports the Tech Prep (Technical Preparation) program.
The Tech Prep program is a course of study for high school students designed to meet the needs for a more technically oriented educational background. Through a blending of higher level academic and vocational courses, Tech Prep prepares students for the advanced courses required by South Piedmont Community College. Requirements for the Tech Prep advanced placement are:
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Earn a grade of “B” or higher in the course at the high school level and
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Score a 93 or higher on the course post-assessment
In order to receive credit as per the agreement, you must enroll at the community college within two years of your high school graduation date and immediately notify the Registrar of your Tech Prep status.
Courses accepted for advanced placement will appear on your transcript. All approved and recorded Tech Prep credit will be assigned a grade of “TP”.II-8 Admissions (Section II)
Educational Experiences in the Armed Services Credit
It is the policy of South Piedmont Community College to award credit for training experiences in the Armed Services. Such experiences must be certified by the American Council on Education. Credit will be given on the basis of individual evaluation by the Registrar. Creditable military experience must closely correspond to courses in the South Piedmont Community College curriculum for which you are applying. College credit earned while in the Armed Services must be substantiated with an official transcript of coursework from the Department of Defense or applicable college.
International Transcript Credit
International transcripts require an official English translation. If your college or university transcripts are not from the United States, you must have an International Transcript Evaluation completed by an evaluation agency at your expense. Submit your transcript, course descriptions, and the grading system to an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), World Education Services (WES), or International Education Evaluations, Inc. (IEE) for an international evaluation. A letter grade of “A,” “B,” or “C” and earned credit hours must be provided for each course. Course equivalencies based on terms such as “Excellent” or “Good” are not acceptable. If you submit transcripts from foreign universities, it is your responsibility to provide accurate translations of (1) the transcript, (2) course descriptions, and (3) the grading system.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) OF 1974
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 grants to you certain rights, privileges, and protections relative to individually identifiable student educational records which are maintained by SPCC. Specifically, SPCC has adopted the following general guidelines and specific procedures on access to and release of student records.
Directory Information
Certain information is considered to be “directory information” and may be used for directory purposes unless you specifically request directory information to be protected. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), directory information relating to a student includes the following:
•
Student’s name
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Address
•
Telephone number
•
Date and place of birth
•
Major program of study
•
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
•
Dates of attendance
•
Degrees and awards received
•
Most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student
Right of the College to Refuse Access
SPCC reserves the right to refuse to permit you to inspect the following records:
•
Financial statement of your parents
•
Letters and statements of recommendation for which you have waived your rights of access or which were filed before January 1, 1975Admissions (Section II) II-9
•
Confidential letters and statements of recommendation concerning admission, employment, honor or honorary recognition if you have signed a waiver of your right of access
•
Record being withheld for failure to meet financial obligations
Disclosure of Educational Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Educational Records means those records, files, documents, and other materials that contain information directly related to a student and are maintained by SPCC or by any person acting for the College. Not included in the term “educational records” are records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel and records created or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or para-professional acting in his/her professional capacity. Any student has the right to his/her educational records. This includes the right to:
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Inspect and review the contents of these records.
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Obtain copies of those records at the cost of reproducing those copies.
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A response from the custodian of the records to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of those records.
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An opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of those records.
Disclosure of Educational Records to Third Parties
SPCC will disclose information from a student’s educational records only with the written consent of the student, except to:
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School officials (administrators, professional staff, faculty, and Board of Trustee members) who have a legitimate educational interest in the records.
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Certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Controller General, and state and local education programs.
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Comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena, only after a reasonable effort has been made to notify the student involved of such order.
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Appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.
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Accrediting agencies if the information is necessary to the accrediting organization in order to carry out their accrediting function.
For additional information pertaining to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), consult the Registrar or Vice President of Student Success.II-10 Admissions (Section II) Registration and Financial Information (Section III) III-1
REGISTRATION
Once you have completed the admissions process, you are ready to register for classes during the registration times listed on the SPCC website, www.spcc.edu. New students must meet with a counselor or Advising Center advisor to register. Advising Centers are available at both the L. L. Polk campus and the Old Charlotte Highway campus and are staffed with SPCC faculty and staff to assist you in the advising and registration process. Currently enrolled students may register through WebAdvisor or in person. Registration is conducted online via http://go.spcc.edu. This website gives you access to online registration, grades, advising, financial aid, class schedules, college updates, and more. Visit http://go.spcc.edu. Enter your Username and Password if you are a current student. Click on Active Campus Portal. Under the WebAdvisor tab, click on “Registration.” Then select “Search for Sections” or “Search and Register” to begin your online registration.
Access to the registration system may be blocked if a financial or academic hold has been placed on your record. Some classes require special permission to register. Your registration will be deleted if payment is not received by the deadline listed for the period in which you registered. You are responsible for paying for all scheduled classes by the published due date.
Gmail Accounts
South Piedmont Community College provides you with an email account through Google email, also known as Gmail. Gmail accounts will be the primary tool for instructors and staff to communicate with you regarding important announcements and official College business. Therefore, you should access the Gmail account regularly so important information and/or dates are not missed.
Gmail is accessible through this link: http://partnerpage.google.com/students.spcc.edu. Instructions for setting up your Gmail account may be found on the SPCC website at www.spcc.edu.
Schedule Changes
If you decide that the course load you’ve registered for may be too heavy or too light, you may visit the Advising Center or go online to WebAdvisor to drop or add courses during the Schedule Change period without grade penalty. The Schedule Change period is published in the Academic Calendar in this catalog and is posted on SPCC’s website.
NOTE: If the course you wish to take has a prerequisite or a corequisite, you are required to meet those course requirements. All prerequisites must have been satisfactorily completed before registering for the course. When dropping a course with a corequisite, both the corequisite and the course requiring the corequisite must be dropped.
TUITION AND FEES
Tuition for in-state and out-of-state residents is set by the North Carolina General Assembly and is subject to change by the NC General Assembly without notice. Fees are set by the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges, and/or the South Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees and are subject to change without notice.
REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATIONIII-2 Registration and Financial Information (Section III)
Residency Classification for Tuition Purposes
To qualify as an in-state resident for tuition purposes, you must be a U. S. citizen and have established legal residence in North Carolina for a period of at least twelve (12) months prior to your enrollment at South Piedmont Community College. Proof of residency can be determined by (but not limited to) the following criteria:
••
North Carolina driver’s license
••
North Carolina State Income Tax Return
••
Proof of acquired property in NC (no rent or lease agreements will be accepted)
••
Listed personal property for taxation purposes
Once you provide satisfactory information to the SPCC Admissions Office, in-state tuition rates will be applied. Failure to provide the requested information will result in being classified as an out-of-state resident, and you will be charged out-of-state tuition rates.
In-State Tuition
In-state tuition is $69.00 per semester hour of credit plus fees up to 16 semester credit hours. Students taking 16 or more semester credit hours:
Tuition (maximum) $1,104.00
Technology Fee (maximum) 16.00
Activity Fee (maximum) 32.00
Accident Insurance 1.20
Academic Support Fee (Tutoring) 5.00
Career Assessment Fee 5.00
Learning College Portfolio Fee 15.00
Total $1,178.20
Out-of-State Tuition
Out-of-state tuition applies to any student whose legal residence is outside of North Carolina (see Residency Classification for Tuition Purposes). Out-of-state tuition is $261.00 per semester hour of credit plus fees up to 16 semester credit hours. Students taking 16 or more semester credit hours:
Tuition (maximum) $4,176.00
Technology Fee (maximum) 16.00
Activity Fee (maximum) 32.00
Accident Insurance 1.20
Academic Support Fee (Tutoring) 5.00
Career Assessment Fee 5.00
Learning College Portfolio Fee 15.00
Total $4,250.20
Technology Fee
The Technology Fee is $1 per semester hour up to a maximum of $16 for 16 or more semester hours. This fee is used to support the procurement, operations, and repair of computers and other instructional technology including supplies and materials that support the technology.Registration and Financial Information (Section III) III-3
Activity Fee
The Activity Fee supports cultural activities, entertainment, and recreational activities sponsored by the Student Government Association. This fee is $2 per semester hour up to a maximum of $32 for 16 or more semester hours.
Accident Insurance
The College provides all students who pay the $1.20 student accident insurance fee with accidental injury, accidental death, and dismemberment insurance while on campus or while participating in off-campus, College-sponsored, supervised activities. This is a limited supplemental policy.
Academic Support Fee
The Academic Support Fee is $5 per student, per semester. This fee supports the efforts of providing academic support to students through tutoring services. The $5 Academic Support Fee is required and payable with tuition.
Career Assessment Fee
The Career Assessment Fee is $5 per student, per semester. This fee helps to offset the cost of career assessment/planning tools available through the Student Success Division. The $5 Career Assessment Fee is required and payable with tuition.
Learning College Portfolio Fee
The Learning College Portfolio Fee is $15 per student, per semester. This fee helps to offset the cost of assessment tools provided by the Student Learning Division. The $15 Learning College Portfolio Fee is required and payable with tuition.
Lab Fees
A $15 per semester lab fee is charged for certain courses with lab hours. An additional $10 per course fee is charged for online courses. An additional $5 per course fee is charged for blended courses.
Special Fees
Additional fees may be charged for some programs (e.g., equipment fees, liability insurance, etc.). SPCC does not charge a fee associated with verification of the identity of online students. Should the need arise, students will be notified of any fees associated with identity verification at the time of registration through standard venues for curriculum fee notifications.
Payment of Tuition and Fees
After you have registered, you must pay your tuition and fees. These may be paid with cash, check, money order, credit card, or through the approved SPCC payment plan. Check the SPCC website at www.spcc.edu or contact the Business Office at 704-272-5348, 704-272-5358, or 704-290-5849 for additional information.
With a valid driver’s license, personal checks are electronically processed upon receipt. Returned checks incur a fee of $25. SPCC accepts credit card payment by phone from the cardholder only.
If you have an unpaid balance on your student account at the end of a semester, you will receive a bill in the mail from SPCC’s Business Office. If the matter is not resolved within 30 days, your account will be turned over to the North Carolina Attorney General’s office for collection proceedings. If the matter still is III-4 Registration and Financial Information (Section III)
not resolved within the next 30 days, the account is reported to a collection agency for further collection proceedings. The North Carolina Department of Revenue is also notified of the debt. If it becomes necessary for South Piedmont Community College to refer an unpaid balance to a collection agency, you will be expected to pay all fees associated with the collection of the unpaid balance.
Textbooks and Other Costs
You will be expected to purchase textbooks and supplies for classes in your program of study. The SPCC bookstores on the L. L. Polk campus and on the Old Charlotte Highway campus sell textbooks and supplies. Information on textbook refunds, textbook rental and textbook buy-backs is available at the bookstores. You may contact the L. L. Polk campus bookstore at 704-272-5376 or the Old Charlotte Highway campus bookstore at 704-290-5848.
Refund Policy
Refunds are processed under the North Carolina Community College System refund policy.
••
SPCC will refund 100% of the tuition paid if the College cancels a class or if you drop class(es) before the first day of the semester.
••
SPCC will refund 75% of the tuition paid if you drop the class(es) during the Drop period. If classes are dropped during the Drop period, you are responsible for paying 25% of the tuition. NOTE: Financial aid will not pay the 25%.
••
Tuition refunds will not be granted if you withdraw after the Drop date of the semester, even if you have not attended any class.
••
Refunds will not be made in the amount of $5 or less.
Military Tuition Refund
Upon request by the student and appropriate documentation, the College will grant a full refund of tuition and fees to military reserve and National Guard personnel called to active duty or active duty personnel who have received temporary or permanent reassignments as a result of military operations taking place outside the state of North Carolina that make it impossible for that student to complete his/her course requirements during the current semester or term.
Death of Student Refund
In the event of a student’s death during a semester or term, all tuition and fees the student had paid that semester or term may be refunded to the estate of the deceased.
FINANCIAL AID
To apply for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You may choose any of the following methods to file a FAFSA: (1) Log in to www.fafsa.ed.gov and apply online (recommended); (2) Complete a PDF FAFSA obtained online at www.fafsa.ed.gov/options.htm which must be mailed in for processing; or (3) Request a paper FAFSA by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or 319-337-5665. If you are hearing impaired, you may contact the TTY line at 1-800-730-8913.
Always be sure to list South Piedmont Community College’s school code (007985) in Step 6 of the FAFSA to ensure the South Piedmont Community College Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs receives your application.
Information entered into the FAFSA is reviewed according to federal guidelines. This ensures that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably. Income, assets, family size, marital status, and the number of family members in college are used to determine financial need. Once your eligibility for financial aid has Registration and Financial Information (Section III) III-5
been determined, your award letter will be available for viewing or printing on your SPCC Go! Account. Financial aid covers the cost of tuition, fees, and books (not to exceed the eligible amount). Your SPCC ID card will be required when making purchases in the College bookstores. Each semester, any remaining financial aid balance will be sent to your current mailing address as listed with the SPCC Records Office.
NOTE: Students who withdraw or stop attending before the 60% point of the semester have not earned their awards and will be required to repay unearned financial aid funding.
The FAFSA is available beginning January 1 of each year for the upcoming academic year (July 1 through June 30). Each academic year, you must complete or renew the FAFSA. You are encouraged to apply at least eight (8) weeks prior to registration for the semester you intend to enter the College. To receive priority consideration for all types of financial aid, students should complete all financial aid forms and requirements by the listed dates:
Fall Semester Enrollment June 15
Spring Semester Enrollment November 15
Summer Term Enrollment March 15
If your eligibility for financial aid has not been determined or your file is not complete before the tuition payment deadline for each semester, you will be responsible for payment of tuition, fees, and all other applicable charges. Payment deadlines are published on college calendars and generally occur 30 days prior to the start of each semester.
Student Responsibilities
To receive Federal Financial Aid and State assistance, you must:
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Demonstrate financial need as determined by a completed FAFSA
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Have an official high school diploma or a GED on file with the College
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Be enrolled in an eligible academic program
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Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards
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Courses not eligible for federal financial aid include, but are not limited to:
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Special Credit (not claiming a major)
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Credit by Examination (test-out)
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Audited courses
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High school programs (Career and College Promise, Early College)
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Certificate programs that are less than 16 credit hours in length
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Be a U. S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
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Have a valid Social Security Number
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Certify that federal student aid will be used for educational purposes
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Certify that you are not in default on a federal student loan and that you do not owe money on a federal student grant
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Certify that you have not been convicted of possessing or selling illegal drugs
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Register with Selective Service
Types of Financial Aid Available
Federal Financial Aid
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Federal Pell Grants are based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. Pell grants are for college undergraduates who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree.
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Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) offer financial assistance to students who have exceptional financial need. Eligibility is based on the financial need established by completing the FAFSA application and awarded to students who meet the priority filing deadlines.III-6 Registration and Financial Information (Section III)
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Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for students who meet eligibility requirements and wish to earn part of the cost of attending SPCC. Work-study employment is available on both campuses on a part-time basis (usually 10-27.5 hours per week). If you are interested in a work-study job with the College, you must complete a FAFSA and an SPCC Application for Federal Work-Study Employment. The application for Federal Work-Study Employment is located on the College’s website at www.spcc.edu. Click on Faculty & Staff>Jobs@SPCC.
State Financial Aid
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North Carolina Community College Grant (NCCCG) may be awarded to students who are North Carolina residents enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours per semester in an eligible curriculum program. Eligibility is based on the same criteria as the Federal Pell Grant; some students who are not eligible for the Pell Grant may be considered for the NCCCG based on their estimated family contribution (EFC) as determined on the Student Aid Report. Applicants must complete a FAFSA in order to be eligible for this grant.
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North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship (NCELS) is available to NC residents for tuition purposes who enroll in at least six (6) credit hours per semester in a curriculum program and make satisfactory academic progress. Eligibility is based on the same criteria as the Federal Pell Grant; some students who are not eligible for the Pell Grant may be considered for the NCELS based on their estimated family contributions (EFC) as determined on the Student Aid Report. Applicants must complete a FAFSA in order to determine eligibility for this grant.
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North Carolina Community College Child Care Assistance provides child care assistance to students who have custody or joint custody of their children who are under six (6) years of age and are not yet enrolled in school. Child care providers must be licensed and regulated by the State of North Carolina. Applicants must complete the FAFSA, be enrolled in at least eight (8) credit hours of seated classroom instruction, and be making satisfactory academic progress.
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North Carolina Targeted Assistance Program includes the Less Than Half-Time Funds and High Demand Low Enrollment Funds. The Less Than Half-Time funds provide funding for students who are enrolled less than half-time in certificate, diploma, or associate degree programs. Students must complete the FAFSA and have an EFC between 801 and 4,000 and be enrolled in less than six (6) credit hours. Qualified students are eligible for $30 per semester hour. High Demand Low Enrollment funds are awarded to students who enroll in low-enrollment programs of study that prepare the students for high-demand occupations in local communities. High demand programs are selected on an annual basis and funding amounts vary.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available from federal, state and local sources. They are awarded based on donor criteria, financial need, academic performance, and/or time of application. Students applying to receive scholarships must complete the FAFSA and the SPCC Online Scholarship Application accessible through the financial aid section on our college website www.spcc.edu.
Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS)
The Forgivable Education Loans for Service Program was established by the General Assembly in 2011 to provide financial assistance in the form of forgivable loans to qualified students who are committed to working in North Carolina to lessen identified critical employment shortages. The program is designed to be flexible so that it will respond to current as well as future employment shortages in the State. The program currently targets future teachers, nurses, and allied health professionals. The program is administered by the State Education Assistance Authority and potentially eligible programs can be found on the College Foundation of North Carolina website. The following programs of study may qualify as eligible programs at South Piedmont Community College: Emergency Medical Science, Medical Technology programs, Sonography, Nursing, and education programs that lead students to obtaining licensure from the North Registration and Financial Information (Section III) III-7
Carolina Department of Public Instruction and teaching in a qualified position in North Carolina. Applications become available in January and award selection is made in April of each year. Additional information and updates about the application process are available at www.cfnc.org/FELS.
North Carolina Community College Loan Program
The North Carolina Community College Loan Program provides eligible students with short-term emergency loan funds. Funds are normally limited to $150 and all loans must be fully repaid within 30 days of disbursement. To be eligible, a student must have completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be making satisfactory academic progress. Funding is limited and approved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Alternative Loans
South Piedmont Community College is not affiliated with and does not maintain a preferred lender agreement with any private loan company or program. The Office of Financial Aid and Verarans Affairs will provide student selected loan companies with certification information in accordance with unmet need and enrollment satus as determined by a completed FAFSA application and college registration.
Direct Loans
South Piedmont Community College does not currently participate in the Federal Direct Loan program. Therefore, students are not currently eligible for subsidized, unsubsidized, or parent PLUS loans under the current Federal Direct Loan programs while attending SPCC.
Payment Plans
SPCC has partnered with NELNET Business Solutions to provide an automatic payment plan for students who wish to self-pay by making scheduled payments for school-related charges. The plan offers online enrollment, flexible payment options, and no interest fees. Contact SPCC’s Business Office at 704-272-5348 for more information. A credit/debit card and $25 enrollment fee are required for plan activation.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Certain students who have mental, physical, or emotional disabilities that limit employment opportunities may be eligible for financial assistance through local Vocational Rehabilitation offices or the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Department of Human Resources, in Raleigh.
Workforce Investment Act
WIA funds are intended to provide financial assistance to students who have recently become unemployed. Assistance may be provided for tuition, fees, textbooks, supplies, child care, and transportation. The duration of any individual WIA award is based upon the availability of funds as well as student satisfactory progress measures that may be imposed. More information about WIA can be obtained by contacting the Toll Free Joblink Career Centers information line at 877-632-2447.
Enrollment Status
A student’s enrollment status has a direct effect on financial aid that can be awarded. Most state and federal grants are prorated based on the enrollment status. Students who are enrolled in 12 or more credit hours are considered to be full-time students. Students who are enrolled 9-11 credit hours are three-quarter time, 6-8 credit hours are half-time, and students who enroll in 1-5 credit hours are considered less than half-time. Credit hours can only be counted if they apply to an eligible program of study and cannot include more than 30 credit hours of developmental courses. Annual awards cover a 9-month period and are split between two semesters. The number of authorized credit hours each semester is used to calculate the actual authorized semester awards. Awarded financial aid can be viewed on the student’s college-provided GO account.III-8 Registration and Financial Information (Section III)
Satisfactory Academic Progress for Students Receiving Financial Aid
Federal regulations require that students receiving financial aid maintain strict academic (Qualitative) and progress (Quantitative) standards while pursuing their educational goals. Students receiving financial aid should note that the college-wide Probation Policy for academic progress contains the same grade point average (GPA) requirements as the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy; however, the SAP policy for students receiving financial aid is stricter than the college-wide Probation Policy for students enrolled in the same educational program who are not receiving financial aid. The SAP policy is applied to all student categories, i.e., full-time or part-time, who receive financial aid within eligible curriculum degree, diploma, and certificate programs established by the school.
Students receiving financial aid are evaluated at the end of each semester to determine progression. Students must meet the Academic Standard (Qualitative), the Program Completion Standard (Quantitative), and stay within the Maximum Timeframe Standard (Quantitative) to remain in a satisfactory status.
Academic Standard (Qualitative)
Students receiving financial aid must maintain a cumulative 2.0 SAP GPA. SAP GPA includes “all” curriculum classes taken at South Piedmont Community College and any accepted transfer credits, regardless of timeframe. Classes with an “incomplete” (I) or a “withdrawal” (W) grade are included in the SAP GPA just like an “F” and count toward the attempted credit hours. All classes that are repeated count toward the SAP GPA and the attempted/completed credit hours.
If a student’s cumulative SAP GPA falls below 2.0, the student is placed on a financial aid warning status and will be notified by the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs. The student then has a warning period of enrollment, which is the next semester the student is enrolled at SPCC, to achieve the cumulative 2.0 SAP GPA. The student is eligible for financial aid during this warning period of enrollment. If at the end of the warning period a cumulative 2.0 SAP GPA is not achieved, the student is no longer eligible to receive financial aid and will be placed in a financial aid unsatisfactory status. The student may regain financial aid eligibility by reaching a cumulative 2.0 SAP GPA through self-pay or outside resources.
Program Completion Standard (Quantitative)
All students receiving financial aid must complete at least two-thirds or 67 percent of all curriculum hours attempted at South Piedmont Community College including accepted transfer credits, regardless of timeframe. The percentage is determined by taking the cumulative total of credit hours completed divided by the cumulative total of hours attempted. For example, a student who has completed 32 credit hours and attempted 64 credit hours has a completion rate of 50 percent (32 divided by 64). Attempted but not completed credit hours include: incompletes, withdrawals, repeated classes, and courses with a grade of “F.”
If a student’s percentage rate falls below 67 percent, the student is placed on a warning status and will be notified by the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs. The student then has a warning period of enrollment, which is the next semester the student is enrolled at SPCC, to earn a 67 percent or more completion rate. The student is eligible for financial aid during this warning period of enrollment. If at the end of the warning period a cumulative 67 percent completion rate is not achieved, the student is placed in an unsatisfactory status and is no longer eligible for financial aid. The student may regain financial aid eligibility by reaching a cumulative 67 percent or more completion rate through self-pay or outside resources.
Maximum Timeframe Standard (Quantitative)
All students receiving financial aid must complete their educational program within 150 percent of the published length of that program. The Maximum Timeframe Standard includes all curriculum hours attempted at South Piedmont Community College and any accepted transfer credits or developmental education credit hours, regardless of timeframe. The SPCC college catalog provides a course listing Registration and Financial Information (Section III) III-9
for each educational program and the number of credit hours needed to complete the program. The published program lengths do not include developmental education hours that may be required for individual students. For example, the Associate Degree in Computer Information Technology is 66 credit hours in length; therefore, a student receiving financial aid enrolled in that program may attempt, including accepted transfer and developmental education credit hours, up to 99 credit hours (66 credit hours times 150 percent) and remain eligible for financial aid.
Students who exceed the 150 percent maximum timeframe are not eligible to receive financial aid at South Piedmont Community College. The Maximum Timeframe Standard does not provide for a warning or probationary status.
Additionally, students who cannot mathematically complete their program of study by the 150 percent maximum timeframe will no longer be eligible for financial aid. For example: A student is in a program which would allow for a maximum of 99 credit hours and the student has attempted 90 credit hours and needs 4 additional courses which total 16 credit hours to complete the program. Adding the 90 credit hours attempted to the 16 credit hours still required equals 106 credit hours which is more than the 99 credit hours allowed. Mathematically the student could not complete the program prior to the 150 percent maximum timeframe and would no longer be eligible for financial aid at South Piedmont Community College.
Appeal Process
Students in an unsatisfactory SAP status may appeal their loss of financial aid eligibility. Appeals must be made at least 10 days prior to the start of the semester in which a student wishes to receive financial aid. Financial Aid Reinstatement Appeal forms are available on the College’s website or in the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs. Student statements on the form and attached documentation must include: (1) the circumstances that rendered them unable to meet the standard(s), (2) what has changed to allow the student to meet the standard(s) and (3) the student’s educational goal and plans to meet that goal. The reinstatement appeal form and supporting documentation can be submitted in person, by mail, by FAX, or via email to the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs. The Director of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs will consider reinstatement appeals and the decision will be final. Students will be notified through email of appeal decisions.
Students who have their appeals granted will be placed on probation and will be eligible for financial aid, provided they meet all SAP requirements and complete the SAP Academic Success Plan. The SAP Academic Success Plan requires that students receiving financial aid successfully complete all registered classes and achieve a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher. Withdrawing from or failing a class does not constitute successful completion. During the student’s probationary semester of enrollment, the student will also be required to meet with a counselor and complete all assigned intervention modules. The modules are designed to improve the student’s academic focus and promote student success. Students who follow and complete all requirements within the SAP Academic Success Plan will stay on probation in a continued probation status as long as they successfully complete all registered classes and achieve a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Reinstatement of Financial Aid Eligibility
If a student loses financial aid eligibility by failing to meet the Academic Standard and/or Program Completion Standard and after self-pay or the use of outside resources feels that the standards are met, the student must contact the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs to have their SAP status re-calculated. If the standards have been met, the student will regain financial aid eligibility for the semester following the semester in which the standards were met provided all other financial aid requirements have been completed.III-10 Registration and Financial Information (Section III)
Return of Title IV Funds
The Higher Education Amendments of 1998 changed the formula for calculating the amount of financial aid funds that may be retained when you totally withdraw from all classes. If you are receiving Title IV funds, i.e., Pell Grant or FSEOG, and officially withdraw from or stop attending all classes before the 60 percent point of the semester, SPCC will recalculate your eligibility for financial aid based on the percent of the semester completed.
For example, if you withdraw after having completed only 30 percent of the semester, you will have “earned” only 30 percent of any Title IV funds received. The remaining 70 percent must be returned. The Financial Aid Office will notify you through your SPCC Gmail account of the repayment requirements and contact information to determine amounts due.
Financial aid recipients still enrolled after the 60% point of the semester will have “earned” 100% of the federal financial aid awarded.
VETERANS BENEFITS
Qualified veterans, wives, and children of deceased veterans may be admitted and approved to receive educational benefits, providing they meet requirements established by the Veterans Administration. To qualify, you must:
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Have a high school diploma or GED.
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Be enrolled in a specific curriculum program.
Certain other requirements may also apply. All previous college coursework must be received and evaluated by the Registrar. All admission requirements must be met before the enrollment certification can be sent to the Veterans Administration. Distance learning courses must be required courses within the veteran’s major to qualify for educational benefits. Contact the Financial Aid Office for a list of programs or classes that are eligible.
NOTE: Test-outs, independent studies, and audits are not eligible for VA benefits. Classes of 8-weeks, 12-weeks, or any other schedule deviation from 16-week classes may be subject to a pro-rating of monthly benefits from the VA.
The College is approved for the training of veterans under Public Law 16 of the 78th Congress and under Public Law 550 of the 82nd Congress, and Chapter 34, Title 38, United States Code. For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs at 704-272-5391 or via email to finaid@spcc.edu.
Satisfactory Progress for Veterans
A veteran enrolled at South Piedmont Community College is required to make satisfactory academic progress. The measure of academic progress for veterans is the same as for students receiving other forms of financial aid. Student Support Services (Section IV) IV-1
The mission of the Student Success Division is to provide systematic support services to help you reach your educational and career goals. These services support the instructional programs and are in keeping with and complement the philosophy of South Piedmont Community College.
Counseling
The College provides counseling services to help you succeed in your educational program. Counselors can also help you with more personal problems that might affect your progress. Requests for these services can be made at the Student Success Office. NOTE: Personal counseling may be referred to local mental health facilities based on the intensity of the student’s needs.
Services for Students with Disabilities
SPCC recognizes its responsibility under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) to provide equal access to education for students with disabilities. Support services are available to individuals with learning, hearing, visual, and other health impairments. Brochures containing self-referral forms are available to all applicants and students. Note the following:
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Applicants or students who feel that they need accommodations due to a disability should contact the Disability Services Provider in the counseling office at South Piedmont Community College.
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Applicants or students must provide official, supporting documentation describing the disability. This documentation must be from an authorized professional(s). Federal regulations obligate the applicant or student to provide information on identifying appropriate and effective auxiliary aids. This documentation is held confidential for five (5) years after enrollment and will be destroyed after that time. To renew accommodations after the five (5) year period, new documentation must be provided. Documentation for learning disabilities should be no more than three (3) years old. Documentation provided for any disability must indicate the applicant’s or student’s current level of functioning.
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Students who have identified themselves as having disability may request accommodations from the Disability Services Provider. New students should make such requests at least 30 days prior to the beginning of their first term of enrollment. Early communication of special needs provides the time needed to arrange for services and/or the procurement of equipment that the student may need.
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Each request will be evaluated by the Disability Services Provider, who will recommend reasonable accommodations to faculty.
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Students will be responsible for delivering accommodation information to each faculty member for discussion of how accommodations will be provided in each class.
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Students who do not feel that they are receiving agreed-upon accommodations should see the Disability Services Provider for clarification.
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Applicants or students who are not satisfied with the accommodations that they are receiving from the College should see the Vice President of Student Success.
Reasonable Accommodations: The following are considered reasonable accommodations to be made for students with disabilities:
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The process must be an interactive one involving “a reasonable reciprocal effort” on the part of both parties.
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The College may not make a unilateral decision regarding the existence of a disability or the accommodation that is necessary.
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What is “reasonable” involves a detailed analysis of the specific circumstances of the case in question. Broad generalizations are not acceptable. An “individualized assessment” of the student’s situation must be conducted.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESIV-2 Student Support Services (Section IV)
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The College is not required to provide specifically what the student requests. An alternative accommodation may be provided if it is effective.
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The College does not have to provide accommodations that are not effective. The College has a right to refuse to provide auxiliary aids and services that do not, in fact, provide equal access.
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The College must be given a reasonable amount of time to evaluate requests and to offer necessary accommodations.
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Determining what is reasonable requires one to balance two important rights: the student’s rights to be provided equal access and the College’s right to protect the integrity of its services and programs.
Career Services
SPCC’s Career Services Centers provide comprehensive career exploration to students. Career counselors can help you (1) explore and decide upon a career and academic major, (2) discover options for occupations related to your major, (3) identify factors to consider in making career decisions such as required education level, salary, working conditions, skills, certification or license requirements, 5-to-10 year job projections, etc., and (4) develop a career plan.
You may identify career interests through assessments that relate to your personality, interests, skills, and values to various career fields. You may explore the world of work through a wealth of online and hard-copy resources. Career development is a life-long process. Once you learn the steps of the process, you will be able to repeat it whenever you need to throughout your life.
South Piedmont Community College’s Career Services Centers are located on both campuses:
L. L. Polk Campus, Garibaldi Building, Room 264
Old Charlotte Highway Campus, Building B, Room 136
College Days and Transfer Information
During the fall semester, SPCC hosts a College Day for students, alumni, employers, and community residents who wish to obtain their bachelor’s degree. Representatives from four-year colleges and universities attend this important event. College materials (catalogs and admissions applications) and transfer information are available in Career Development Services. SPCC counselors and Arts and Sciences faculty can answer questions about the transfer process.
Voter Registration
Students and employees who have not registered to vote may register in the Student Success Office at either the L. L. Polk campus or Old Charlotte Highway campus. Students and employees may register throughout the semester; however, the deadline to register in order to participate in an election year is twenty-five (25) days prior to the Election Day. Any individual with a disability who needs help completing the voter registration form should ask for assistance from a Student Success staff member.
Student Orientation
All new students are required to attend orientation either online at www.spcc.edu or in person. A schedule of in-person orientation sessions is available on the College website. The purpose of the orientation is to acquaint you with the campus, academic services, and student support services, as well as to discuss policies and regulations of South Piedmont Community College. The orientation will provide you with information concerning:
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Campus regulations and policies
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Financial aidStudent Support Services (Section IV) IV-3
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College support services, i.e., counseling, career services, disability services, tutoring services
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Academic policies to include drop/add, withdrawal, and change of program procedures
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Library services
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Student activities
Services to Continuing Education Students
The following support services are available to continuing education students:
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Curriculum admission and program information
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Placement testing
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Personal counseling
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Reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities
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Career guidance through assessments, inventories, and resume tools
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College IDs for students requiring off-site program identification
Academic Support Centers/Tutoring
Academic Support Centers are available at both the L. L. Polk campus and the Old Charlotte Highway campus to assist you in strengthening your academic skills.
Tutoring is available to students needing help in a specific course of study. Tutors provide individual and/or group help to build stronger understanding of course material outside of regularly scheduled classes. Tutoring services are available face to face and online. Additional information and a form to request a tutoring session are located under Academic Support Centers/Support on the SPCC Website.
Developmental Education Courses
Students placing into developmental education courses as determined by the College Placement Test (CPT) are required to take these courses first, prior to any other curriculum courses (exceptions may exist). Required developmental education courses include English, reading, math, and computers. These courses are instrumental in building the foundation for the curriculum-level courses.
Library Services
SPCC has libraries in two locations: The Horne Library at the L. L. Polk campus in Polkton and the Carpenter Library at the Old Charlotte Highway campus in Monroe.
Services to Students: Each library has computers, laptops, and printers available for student use. Wireless access is also available. The library staff is happy to assist you and provide a wide variety of services such as assistance with using the computers, formatting papers, searching the Internet, and answering your research questions. Librarians also provide a variety of workshops including Informational Literacy classroom instructions that will help you find appropriate sources for assignments. Library orientations on how to use the library’s resources are provided online when you register and on campus during the summer. Students coming to campus or attending online can find a variety of tutorials, links to resources, library orientation, and other helpful information by going to SPCC’s website and clicking on “Libraries.”
Library Resources: You have access to over 25,000 items in the libraries. Resources include books, magazines, newspapers, videotapes, and DVDs. The libraries also offer several online databases including NC Live. NC Live offers over 100 databases, 25,000 electronic books, and over 1,000 audiobooks to meet your needs whether you are on campus or online. IV-4 Student Support Services (Section IV)
Library Card: The SPCC College ID also serves as your library card. Every student should have a current College ID, which is obtained in the Student Success Division. Once you obtain an ID, it should be brought to the library so your library account can be created and library materials can then be checked out
Technology
Students at SPCC utilize many different technologies in their studies. Moodle, TaskStream, go.spcc.edu, and Gmail are the main technologies required. The better you, as a student, understand the functions of each system and how to use them, the more successful you can be.
Moodle is a course management system used by all of SPCC’s curriculum online, blended, and web-enhanced courses. It stands for Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment. To get to SPCC’s Moodle site, go to http://online.spcc.edu.
TaskStream is a web-based system for electronic portfolios, academic assessment, and reporting. Tools are on-demand and students interact with TaskStream via the Internet to access tools, resources, workspaces, and their own files whenever or wherever. To get to TaskStream, go to http://www.taskstream.com.
SPCC students have access to online registration, grades, advising, financial aid, class schedules, college updates, and more. To get to this website, go to http://go.spcc.edu to sign in.
Gmail allows access to email accounts and Google applications for use at SPCC. These accounts are provided to you free and are available in accordance with our Google agreement. To access Gmail, go to http://partnerpage.google.com/students.spcc.edu. Your new email address will be username@students.spcc.edu.
Student Government Association
The purpose of the Student Government Association (SGA) is to enhance the College through the representation of the student body in matters affecting student life. Moreover, the SGA promotes and supervises student organizations and activities in order to enhance educational, personal, social, and cultural growth for all South Piedmont Community College students. All enrolled full-time and part-time students who pay the student activity fee are members of the SPCC SGA.
The SGA Executive Board consists of six (6) members who are elected annually. The Executive Board along with the SGA Senate serve to provide leadership and coordination for all student-sponsored activities and events at SPCC. The SGA Senate is comprised of two (2) delegates from each of the academic programs. Delegates are selected by academic program advisors and serve a term of one year. Delegates serve on committees to organize and conduct activities throughout the year and to provide a vital communication link to all of the students at SPCC.
Clubs and Organizations
Active student clubs and organizations are the cornerstone of quality student life programs and events. Clubs allow students to fellowship with others with like interests and benefit from the diversity and talent within each club. SPCC sponsors clubs for students. Most are program-related, but there are general interest organizations such as Campus Crusade for Christ, Extreme Players Club, and Japanese Culture Club. Students interested in transferring to a four-year institution can find support and resources through the College Transfer Club. A complete list of clubs and organizations is available on the SPCC website, www.spcc.edu. Click on Future Students, Student Life, Student Clubs and Organizations.Student Support Services (Section IV) IV-5
College IDs
SPCC curriculum students should obtain a College ID free of charge at either the L. L. Polk campus or the Old Charlotte Highway campus. You must present an official registration form to Student Success prior to receiving the ID. Your SPCC College ID will also serve as your library card.
Class Rings
SPCC class rings are available to all students. Students wishing to purchase rings should check with the Student Success Office to find out when to order. A ring sales representative will be available during specific times that will be announced in advance.
Health Services and First Aid
SPCC recognizes the correlation of health and academic productivity. Health information is provided that addresses the health and well being of individuals. SPCC’s student activities provide on-campus health services opportunities to students, alumni, and employees through local community outreach programs at SPCC events.
Emergency First Aid kits are maintained throughout the campuses of SPCC. Injuries requiring more than minor first aid will be referred to local physicians. In case of an emergency, a physician and/or ambulance service may be called at your expense to provide necessary medical services.
Drugs and Alcohol
South Piedmont Community College, through its policies and programs, is dedicated to providing an atmosphere that encourages:
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The reinforcement of a positive, drug-free lifestyle.
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Respect for laws and rules prohibiting the use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol.
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An understanding of the effects of drugs and alcohol on personal health and safety.
It is the policy of SPCC that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance or alcohol, is prohibited while in the workplace, at any official function sponsored by the College, on all college premises, or as part of any college-sponsored activities (except in those college facilities approved for renting to the public for functions and where the distribution and use of alcohol have been approved for the rented facility). Any employee or student violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion and referral for prosecution. Refer to the current Student Handbook for more details.
Firearms or Other Dangerous Weapons Policy
South Piedmont Community College will provide a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Therefore, any unauthorized possession of a firearm or any other dangerous weapon, as defined in the North Carolina General Statutes 14-269.2, may result in the following actions:
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The College may file charges under North Carolina General Statutes 14-269.2.
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Any student who violates this provision may be expelled from the College for a period of not less than one year.
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Violation of this provision by any employee may be considered a breach of the terms and conditions of employment.
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Action will follow in accordance with the College’s personnel or student due process procedures.IV-6 Student Support Services (Section IV)
Student Conduct
Students at SPCC are expected to conduct themselves as adults in accordance with generally accepted standards of behavior and decency at all times. Student rights, responsibilities, and procedures are outlined in the current Student Handbook, which can be obtained from the Student Success Office and online at www.spcc.edu. Any student subject to dismissal from SPCC for disciplinary reasons is entitled to due process, including the right of appeal as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Inclement Weather
SPCC will follow the closings of Union County and/or Anson County Public Schools. The College (all campuses/sites) will be closed or open depending upon the announcements of the county schools. If the county schools open late, SPCC will open on time.
Students, staff, and faculty should use care and caution in traveling to and from campus during periods of inclement weather.
SPCC administration will announce closings via television stations and the SPCC website, www.spcc.edu. The same schedule of notices will apply with any other emergency situations that may occur. Television stations that will carry announcements of closings are WBTV (3) Charlotte and WSOC (9) Charlotte.
Children on Campus
South Piedmont Community College, as an adult educational institution, does not maintain child care facilities on campus and is not equipped or authorized to maintain such facilities. Therefore, students, faculty, and staff of the College may not bring children to class, to work, or leave children unattended on campus. The College assumes no responsibility for supervision of children. Students, visitors, and employees who fail to comply with this policy may be asked to leave the campus.
Tobacco Use
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products are prohibited in all South Piedmont Community College facilities and vehicles. Smokers are required to use designated smoking areas outside each building where smoker stations are provided.
Campus Housing
SPCC does not have dormitory facilities. The Student Success Office may assist in obtaining information about area rentals when available.Academic Information (Section V) V-1
South Piedmont Community College operates on the semester system. The fall and spring semesters are each sixteen (16) weeks and may include two or more shorter sessions. The summer session is eight (8) weeks and may contain two shorter four-week sessions.
Student Classification
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Full-time curriculum students are enrolled in 12 or more semester hours of credit.
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Part-time curriculum students are enrolled with fewer than 12 semester hours of credit.
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Special credit students are enrolled in individual credit courses but not working toward graduation.
Academic Credit Hours
Semester hours are awarded as follows:
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One semester hour of credit for each hour per week of class lecture
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One semester hour of credit for each two or three hours per week of laboratory or shop
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One semester hour of credit for each three hours per week of clinical
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One semester hour of credit for each ten hours per week of cooperative work experience
Student Course Load
You must carry 12 semester hours to be considered a full-time student. Permission from the dean/ associate dean within the educational division must be obtained to schedule more than 20 credit hours in one semester.
Your decision about the best course load for you in fall or spring semesters or summer term depends on the amount of time you have to complete your academic work in addition to your other responsibilities. College coursework requires more of you than just the time to attend class. You need to allow time for reading, studying, assignments, research, projects, etc. Plan to devote two (2) to three (3) hours outside of class for every hour that the course meets. For example, if the course is a three (3) contact hour course (meets three (3) hours per week), plan to devote six (6) to nine (9) hours outside the classroom.
Distance Learning
Distance learning delivery systems at SPCC include online courses, blended courses, web-enhanced courses, and interactive television courses.
Online (Internet) courses are taught via the Internet, which gives you the flexibility of accessing course information, submitting assignments, and participating in course discussions at a time and place that is convenient to your schedule. All online courses have schedules and due dates that you will have to meet in order to be successful. Online courses are offered as part of the College’s regularly scheduled classes; that is, they have published start and end dates. Courses conducted totally online have “IN” section numbers.
Blended courses combine online learning with required, scheduled, face-to-face instructional time. The primary delivery is online with a requirement that students also meet in traditional face-to-face sessions as determined appropriate by the College. The online portion replaces classroom instructional time with activities and assessments that are done online. You must attend all scheduled classes just as you would any other traditional college course. Blended courses have “B” section numbers.
ACADEMIC INFORMATIONV-2 Academic Information (Section V)
Web-Enhanced courses are regular, face-to-face classroom courses that use an online course site to supplement instruction. Instructors will post the course syllabus there along with other course materials. They may use the online gradebook to help keep you up-to-date on your grades. Or, they may require you to submit assignments electronically in your course’s online site. Some others may do all course testing on the course site. All of SPCC’s seated courses are now web-enhanced. You will be required to submit at least one assignment by going to the course’s online site. Web-enhanced courses have “W” section numbers.
SPCC uses the Moodle course management system for online learning. To access Moodle, go to http://online.spcc.edu. Your username and password are automatically created for you. Usernames are the first letter of your first name, the first three letters of your last name, and the last four digits of your SPCC student ID number. (Your student ID number can be found under your name at the top left corner of your registration form.) Your initial temporary password is “Temp” followed by your two-digit birth month, your two-digit birth day, followed by the plus sign. The “T” in the word “Temp” must be capitalized. For example, John Q. Public (student ID 1234567) would log in:
Username: jpub4567
Password: Temp0712+
You will be required to change your password the first time you log into Moodle. Your new password must be at least eight (8) characters long and include at least one (1) lower case letter, at least one (1) capital letter and at least one (1) number or special character.
Interactive Television (ITV) courses have two-way interactive video technology that connects teaching locations among SPCC campuses and throughout the state. ITV enables the course instructor and students in the classroom at one location to see, hear, and talk to students in comparably equipped classrooms at other locations. There are ITV classrooms on the L. L. Polk campus in Polkton, the Old Charlotte Highway campus in Monroe, and the Lockhart-Taylor Center in Wadesboro. These courses are taught by SPCC instructors and have “ITV” section numbers.
Registration for distance learning courses is handled in the same way as traditional course registration. Credit hours earned for taking these courses are the same as those earned for taking the same courses in a traditional classroom setting. The cost for distance learning is the same as for traditionally scheduled courses. There is, however, a $10 fee for online (“IN” sections) courses that use Moodle as the sole mode of delivery. There is a $5 fee for blended (“B” sections) courses.
Students participating in distance learning courses must:
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Complete the College Placement Test (CPT).
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Complete or test out of prerequisites listed for the course in the College catalog.
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Possess the necessary skills and technical requirements needed to participate in distance learning courses.
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Complete all assigned coursework, discussions/chats, and assessments within the time constraints defined by the instructor.
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Access online and blended courses using the Internet on or before the last published access date. These dates are published on the College website, www.spcc.edu.
Distance learning is not for everyone. Although everyone might like the idea of not having to attend class, the flexible scheduling comes with extra demands. You must decide if you are a good candidate for a distance learning course. As a distance learning student, you need to be self-motivated and willing to work 12 to 15 hours every week on a course. You should be very disciplined and be able to create and adhere to a schedule of study, to read textbooks and articles, to do assignments, and to prepare for and take online tests. Academic Information (Section V) V-3
To see if you are a good candidate for being a successful online learner, you are encouraged to complete the orientation activity, which includes viewing modules and taking assessments, available on the SPCC Distance Learning page of the SPCC website.
Distance learning students must not only have access to the right equipment for the course but must know how to use it. When taking online and blended courses, you must have access to a computer and a reliable Internet connection. Although computers on campus are connected to the Internet, you must not rely on campus computers as your sole means of accessing your courses.
Some courses will require specific versions of software packages, such as a Microsoft Word version prior to 2007. Many courses will require that you view PowerPoint presentations and/or create one as part of a course project. Your computer must be loaded with the required software, or you must have the ability to save your documents in a forma