aspire advising guide
TRANSCRIPT
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
FUNDED BY TITLE III
Mount Wachusett Community College
Advising Matters.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Table of Contents Advising Framework
-Goals of Advising at MWCC-Learning Outcomes-Recommended Advising Outreach Plan-Advising Theory-Warm Handoffs-Advising Session Self-Assessments (New Student And Continuing Student)-Advising Session Flowchart-Green Sheet Version 2-Academic Advising Resources
Our Students-Developmental Students-Non-Traditional Students-Veterans-First-Generation Students-Re-Admitted Students-International Students-Transfer And Career Advising
Financial Planning-Financial Aid-Bookstore Voucher Process -Payment Plan-Health Insurance -Three Step Loan Process -Maximizing Credits Under Financial Aid -Financial Aid Probation/Suspension Basics -Satisfactory Academic Progress -Scholarships -Work Study -Billing Process -Tuition And Fees -Advising Merging With Billing/Financial Aid
ASPIRE | Advising Matters.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Selective Program Advising
Support Services-Disability Services-Personal Counseling-Academic Support Center-Visions/Rx-Veterans Success Center-CCAMPIS
Community Resources -Community Resource Guide
Advising Nuts & Bolts-Career Ladders-Math Flowchart-Course Options for Developmental Students-Program Cheat Sheets For Advising Part-Time Students.-Intake Process-Placement Testing-Retest Policy-CLEP & DANTES-Challenge Exams, AP, And Experiential Credit-Program Changes-Course Substitutions-Division Deans Chart-Dual Enrollment-Tech Prep Articulations-FERPA-FAQs
Student Engagement-Orientation-Student ID-Student Passport Program-Student Clubs And Organizations
Technology-Degreeworks (Coming Soon)-The Link-Web Connect-Blackboard-Student Log-In/Email/Portal
Forms
Notes
The contents of this binder were developed under a grant from the US Department of Education Strengthening Institutions Program (Title III). However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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Major Goals of Academic Advising at Mount WachusettThe advising process begins at a student’s first contact with the institution. Using a broad range of tools, advisors and students construct a comprehensive educational plan. In addition, advisors provide students with accurate and up-to-date information regarding academic programs and policies at the college and refer students to necessary college and community support services as needed.Through continuous contact with their advisor, students develop skills essential to student success. By helping students develop skills such as goal-setting, critical thinking, decision-making, communication, and self-appraisal, advisors provide students tools that prepare them for success beyond Mount Wachusett and productive lives within a changing and evolving society.
Academic Advising at Mount Wachusett Community College will…
•DevelopareaswithinthesixdomainsofAcademicAdvisingProgramssetforthbytheCouncilfor the Advancement of Standards (CAS) in Higher Education.
1. Knowledge acquisition, integration, construction and application (connecting knowledge to other knowledge)
2. Cognitive complexity (critical thinking)3. Intrapersonal development (self-understanding)4. Interpersonal development (meaningful relationships)5. Humanitarianism and Civic Engagement (social responsibility)6. Practical Competence (effective communication, technology use, living purposeful
and satisfying life, etc.)
•Assist students in all areas of academic and life planning.
•Seektoincreasestudentself-awarenessandabilitytoself-assessstrengthsandchallenges.
•Evolvetomeetthechangingneedsoftheindividualstudent.
•Bedeliberateandcoherentinitspractices.
•Seektoactivelyengagestudents in all areas of college life including the curricular and co-curricular.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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Academic Advisor Expectations
Academic Advisors at Mount Wachusett Community College: •Embrace their role as student mentors and referral agents.
•Treatstudentsandcolleagueswithrespectandsupportstudentsinallareasofcollegetransition.
•Areavailableandaccessibletostudents.
•Arecommittedtoprofessionaldevelopment and improving student learning outcomes through assessment of overall program goals and effectiveness of practice.
•Encourage and promote student development and growth.
•Assiststudentsinexploringtheirinterests,strengths,andchallenges.
•Assiststudentsinthedevelopmentofcleareducational,career,andlifegoals.
•Aidstudentsintheirunderstandingofacademicpolicy.
•Monitortheacademicprogressofstudentsandaidtheminnavigatingtheir academic program efficiently and effectively based on established educational goals.
Student Expectations
Students at Mount Wachusett Community College:•Play an active role in the advising process.
•Seekouttheiradvisorwhenquestionsarise.
•Attendscheduledappointmentsorappropriatelyrescheduleappointmentsifnecessary.
•Attendadvisingmeetingspreparedandwithquestions.
•Activelyparticipateinadvisingsessionsthrougheffectivecommunicationandactivelistening.
•Followthroughwithadvisorreferrals.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Recommended Advising Outreach PlanKeeping in touch with students on a regular basis is an important part of the relationship-building process between and advisor and an advisee. Not only does it provide advisees with timely information regarding important upcoming dates, but it shows that their advisor is invested in their success at the college while creating multiple opportunities for communication outside of the registration process. Listed below are suggested timepoints and reasons to send emails to your advisees.Thisisaquickandeasywaytostayintouchwithstudents.
Advisors can access their complete assigned advising roster within WebConnect. There is an option that displays all advisee emails at the bottom of the advisee listing. Advisors can then click on “Email Advisees” which will automatically import all advisee emails into Outlook to send emails to all assigned advisees. See the WebConnect section under the Technology Tab of this binder for more information on using WebConnect.
Recommended Semester Outreach Points
Date Topic
First Day of Classes........ Introduction/Add/Drop•Introduceyourself,officelocationandhours,contact
info, reminder on Add/Drop Date (1st week)
4th week........................ Early Warnings• Emailstudentsreceivingearlywarnings(listedinyourWebConnect)torequestmeeting
Review campus support services
7th week........................ Cycle 2 Reminder•Remindertostudentsthatcycletwocourseswillbe
starting soon for those wishing to pick up an extra course
Withdrawal deadline reminder
10th week...................... (Spring only)• FinancialAidprioritydeadlinereminder
11th week...................... Upcoming Advising & Registration Period•Requestthatstudentsmakeappointmentforadvising/
registration•Remindstudentsofofficelocationandgivetheman
overview of what to expect in the advising session
15th week...................... Semester Wrap-up•Wishstudentsagreatbreakandinformthemof
the college holiday break schedule…….see you in January!
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Best Practices-Theory
Advising IS TeachingAccording to NACADA (National Academic Advising Association), more institutions are attempting to communicate the similarities between academic advising and teaching to faculty and staff. Academic advisors should begin to consider their roles in promoting student learning and success.
Many MWCC students, and community college students in general, are confused about life and educational goals, lack motivation and direction, are uniformed regarding their options, and are overwhelmed by the college environment. It is the role of the advisor to help the student diagnose existing barriers to their success and work with the student to formulate success strategies for addressing those barriers.
Prescriptive vs. Developmental AdvisingFor many years a prescriptive method of advising was the predominant form of advising at most institutions. A student would visit their advisor and the advisor would tell them what courses they neededtoregisterforandwhatstepstheyneededtotaketofulfillacademicrequirements.Overtime,however, developmental advising practices have increased and are now seen as the “gold standard” in academic advising. Using the developmental approach, advisors and advisees work TOGETHER to help the student navigate their college career. The chart below compares developmental advising practices to the more traditional prescriptive view of advising.
Prescriptive Developmental
Advisor knows about College policies and tells a student how/what to do.
Advisor directs student to the College policies and explains how they apply to the current situation
Advisor only provides information about courses and grades.
Advisor talks about planning for success and reviews strengths and weaknesses; student chooses the schedule.
Advisor monitors and evaluates student progress.
Advisor realizes that personal, social and academic issues all impact retention. Advisor asks about progress and teaches the student to monitor courses and credits earned.
Advisor sees student as lazy and unmoti-vated and presents solutions.
Advisor teaches student to weigh alternatives and consequencestotakecontrol.
Advisor is more interested in “whats” than the “whys”.
Advisor asks “why” to encourage student introspection and control.
*Chart provided courtesy of John Kruszewski of Middlesex County College
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Intrusive AdvisingResearch has shown that Intrusive Advising increases student retention. Intrusive Advising, by definition, must be action-oriented. Thus, advisors should seek out students and attempt to intervene inordertoassisttheminreachingtheireducationalgoals.Thisrequiresasizableandoftendifficultshift from some of the classic principles of higher education that view students as the ultimate bearer of their own success and thus must be responsible for initiating contact with desired campus resources. Intrusive Advising is a means of ensuring as many students as possible are armed with the information necessary to access campus and community resources integral to their development as independent learners and successful students and citizens.
An example of intrusive advising would be instead of simply posting your office hours and hoping students will make appointments, an advisor could call, email, or write to students to ask them to make an advising appointment.
For more information on theories of academic advising, as well as practical information, check out the website of the National Association of Academic Advising (NACADA) at www.nacada.ksu.edu
What is a Warm Hand off?
It is the difference between sending someone over….there
And walking someone over there!
A Warm Handoff involves walking a student from our office to the next place, as they navigate the physical, academic, and emotional space of the college.
When we take time to walk a student to Financial Aid, the Veterans Success Center, the Advising & Counseling Center, or any other physical space on the campus, we convey our commitment to their success.
Instead of sending them out with instructions, we help them navigate the physical space of the college. We have all seen students walk out of our offices and turn left to their car instead of right to the office we suggested they head to next.
When we take the time, either in person, or by asking a work study or student ambassador to walk the student to the next office, we convey our commitment to their success in practical ways.
We show students our commitment to their success by guiding them from one step to another.
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Advisor Self-Assessment Checklist
New Student Intake Advising Session
Did You….???
Set a welcoming tone for the advising session?• Introduce yourself to the student, giving them your name and role?• Explain the content and purpose of the intake advising session?• Givestudenttheopportunitytoask“burning”questionsupfront?
Interpret the placement test results, explaining what each score means and how it impacts your advisee’s course placement?
• Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of retesting?• Refer retest students to refresher courses?
Clarify the student’s chosen program of study? • Ask how they arrived at their choice? • Discussed career ladder options with students? • Discussed alternative options or a back-up plan?• Submit a program change form if necessary?
Create an educational plan with the student?• Help the student understand how credits/semester impacts time to degree? • Encourage students to take summer courses?
Choose first semester courses based on location, time, and best instructional fit?
□• Engage student in making that choice?□• Teach the student how to register in WebConnect?
Review “The Link” and make referrals to campus/community resources based on the student’s risk factors and needs?□ • Make sure to explain connections between risks and referrals in a supportive, positive manner? • Print recommended resources report
Discuss the student’s financial plan?□ •Insurethestudentunderstandstheirnextsteps(financialaid,billpayment,paymentplan,
3rd party payment)?□ •Assiststudentswithwaivingtheirhealthinsurance
Sign students up for summer student ID dates? •Givestudentawrittencardwiththeirassigneddate?
Adequately prepare and motivate students for their next steps?□ •Summeroutreachplanandimportanceofcheckingemailorfacebook?□ •Settingstudentsupon“NewMWCCStudents”Facebookpage?
Remind students of orientation dates.
Allow time for other questions about their first semester.
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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Advisor Self-Assessment Checklist
Continuing Student Intake Advising Session
Did You….???
□ Set a welcoming tone for the advising session?•(Re)Introduceyourselftothestudent,givingthemyournameandrole?•Explainthecontentandpurposeoftheadvisingsession?•Givestudenttheopportunitytoask“burning”questionsupfront?
□Check-in on the student’s current courses? •Askaboutoverallprogress?•Discussearlywarningsreceived?•Supportivelyprocessacademicstrengthsandchallenges?
□Confirm the student’s program of study?•Relatesuccessincurrentcoursestodiscussion?•Submitaprogramchangeformifnecessary?
□Check on the progress of the student’s educational plan?•Reviewandconfirmupcomingplans?•Reviewandconfirmthestudent’sdegreeaudit?•Encouragestudentstotakesummercourses?
□Review and confirm the student’s degree audit?•Identifymissingcoursesstillneededfordegree?•Runupdateddegreeauditforanyprogramchanges?
Review “The Link” and check-in on resources/referrals? •Discusspastreferrals(ifnecessary)?•Makenewreferralstocampus/communityresourcesbasedonthestudent’sriskfactorsandneeds?•Makesuretoexplainconnectionsbetweenrisksandreferralsinasupportive,positivemanner?•Printrecommededresourcelist
□Choose courses based on location, time, and best instructional fit? •Engagestudentinmakingthatchoice?•AllowstudenttoregisterselfonWebConnect,orreferthemtodosoontheirown?
Consider career and transfer advising?•Determineifthestudentisdevelopmentallyreadytobegincareeradvisingprocessifstillunsureofprogram?•Determineifstudentisatappropriatepointintransferprogramtoreceivereferraltotransferadvising?•Answergeneralcareerandtransferadvisingquestionsthatmaynotrequireareferral?
Discuss the student’s financial plan?•Insurethestudentunderstandstheirnextsteps(financialaid,billpayment,paymentplan,3rdpartypayment)?•Assiststudentswithwaivingtheirhealthinsurance?
Adequately prepare and motivate students for their next steps? •RemindstudentsoftheimportanceofcheckingemailorFacebookoverthesummermonths?•Remindstudentswhereandwhentopurchasetextbooks?•Answeranyotherquestionsthestudentmayhave?•Walkstudentstothenextoffice(asneeded),oraskaworkstudytodoso,whenpossible?
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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Intr
oduc
tions
Prog
ram
of
Stud
y
Inte
rpre
t Te
st S
core
s
Res
ourc
es/R
efer
rals
Choo
sing
Cou
rses
Educ
atio
nal P
lan
Fina
ncia
l Pla
n
ID D
ate
Sele
ctio
n
Nex
t St
eps
New
Stu
dent
Int
ake
Advi
sing
Ses
sion
Flo
wch
art
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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(Re)
Int
rodu
ctio
ns
Chec
k-in
on
Curr
ent
Cour
ses
(Re)
Con
firm
Ed
ucat
iona
l Pla
n an
d Pr
ogra
m o
f St
udy
Chec
k-in
on
Res
ourc
es/R
efer
rals
Choo
sing
Cou
rses
Deg
ree
Audi
t
Cons
ider
Car
eer
&
Tran
sfer
Adv
isin
g
Fina
ncia
l Pla
n U
pdat
es
Nex
t St
eps
Cont
inui
ng S
tude
nt I
ntak
e Ad
visi
ng S
essi
on F
low
char
t
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
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ctiv
ate
your
Acc
ount
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to ic
onne
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tiva
te Y
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rty
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pri
or t
o th
e du
e da
te .
Failu
re t
o do
so
will
res
ult
in t
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ance
llati
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f al
l co
urse
s.
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nlin
e w
ith
a D
ebit
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du a
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ent
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tact
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id,
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art;
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and
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arti
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nd o
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arge
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fter
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eek
ther
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no
refu
nd.
NO
TE:
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ncia
l aid
rec
ipie
nts
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ow
e a
bala
nce
as a
res
ult
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ithd
raw
ing.
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k to
you
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ofes
sor
and
advi
sor
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e de
tails
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orin
g A
vaila
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adem
ic S
uppo
rt C
ente
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dner
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pus
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ides
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e tu
tori
ng t
o AL
L st
uden
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intm
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oom
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78)
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eom
inst
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even
s by
app
oint
men
t.
Ach
ieve
suc
cess
Atte
nd a
ll of
you
r cl
asse
s.
Atte
ndan
ce is
VER
Y im
port
ant
and
ofte
n pa
rt o
f yo
ur g
rade
.
Keep
you
r sy
llabu
s (l
ist
of c
ours
e re
quir
emen
ts a
nd
expe
ctat
ions
) an
d ch
eck
it r
egul
arly
.
U
se a
pla
nner
-not
e al
l im
port
ant
due
date
s.
Vi
sit
your
aca
dem
ic a
dvis
or o
n a
regu
lar
basi
s fo
r as
sist
ance
.
Atte
nd y
our
prof
esso
rs’
offi
ce h
ours
. T
his
is t
ime
set
asid
e fo
r th
em t
o m
eet
wit
h st
uden
ts in
divi
dual
ly.
G
et in
volv
ed!
Stu
dent
Lif
e of
fers
man
y cl
ubs.
M
eet
new
peo
ple
and
deve
lop
lead
ersh
ip s
kills
. G
o to
w
ww
.mw
cc.e
du/s
tude
ntlif
e fo
r de
tails
.
Vete
rans
Ser
vice
s
Con
tact
the
Vet
eran
s Su
cces
s C
ente
r at
(97
8) 6
30-
9408
for
ass
ista
nce
and
deta
ils.
Child
Car
e
MW
CC
has
a c
hild
-car
e ce
nter
on
site
for
chi
ldre
n 2.
9 to
5 y
ears
of
age.
C
onta
ct t
he M
OC
chi
ld c
are
cent
er
at (
978)
343
-018
5 fo
r de
tails
and
ava
ilabi
lity.
Pa
rtia
l fun
ding
(al
l age
gro
ups)
may
be
avai
labl
e fo
r qu
alif
ied
stud
ents
thr
ough
the
CC
AMPI
S G
rant
. P
leas
e re
ques
t m
ore
info
rmat
ion
at (
978)
630
-919
0 or
dm
oran
@m
wcc
.mas
s.ed
u.
Stud
ents
wit
h D
isab
iliti
es
M
WC
C is
ope
n an
d ac
cess
ible
to
all q
ualif
ied
indi
vidu
als
wit
h di
sabi
litie
s.
Th
ere
are
supp
ort
serv
ices
and
acc
omm
odat
ions
for
st
uden
ts w
ith
appr
opri
ate
docu
men
tati
on.
Con
tact
the
C
ouns
elor
for
Stu
dent
s w
ith
Dis
abili
ties
, D
onna
Th
ibau
lt,
at (
978)
630
-912
0 or
dt
hiba
ult@
mw
cc.m
ass.
edu.
Aca
dem
ic A
dvis
ing
M
eet
your
aca
dem
ic a
dvis
or a
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Advising Resources
NACADA (The National Academic Advising Association)http://www.nacada.ksu.edu/ •Theclearinghousesectionofthiswebsiteincludesvaluableresourcesforadvisingdifferent
student populations as well as information regarding advising theory, assessment, and innovative programming.
•Thewebsitealsoincludestheassociation’scorevaluesaswellasinformationregardingtheCAS(Council for Advancing Standards in Higher Education) standards.
•AcademicAdvisingTodayisthequarterlyelectronicpublication(e-zine)oftheNationalAcademicAdvising Association. It exists to provide a venue for academic advisors, faculty advisors, and advising administrators to share their experiences and discuss their ideas about the theory and practice of academic advising in higher education.
The Mentor: An Academic Advising Journalhttp://dus.psu.edu/mentor/overview.htm •ThisfreeonlinejournaldevotedtoAcademicAdvisingispublishedthroughPennStateUniversity.•Thegoalofthejournalistoprovideamechanismfortherapiddisseminationofnewideasabout
advising and for ongoing discourse about advising issues.
The Chronicle of Higher Education: Community Collegeshttp://chronicle.com/section/Community-Colleges/33/ •ThecommunitycollegespageofTheChronicleofHigherEducationcanprovideexcellent
information regarding challenges facing all community colleges as well as particular student populations. It also can provide excellent data and great insight into the actions of other community colleges around the country.
Inside Higher Edhttp://www.insidehighered.com/home •Thiswebsiteprovidesexcellentinformationandinsightintocriticalissuesfacinghighereducation
today. Similar to the chronicle, there is a community college focus page that looks at issues specific to community colleges across the country. While not specifically geared towards advising or advising issues, this site is a wonderful resource for anyone working in the field.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising Students Testing into Developmental CourseworkWhen advising students testing into developmental coursework, advisors must take many factors into consideration. We must make sure that the student leaves the appointment fully aware of the facts regarding developmental coursework, why it is important, why they have to take it, and what options are available to them regarding course scheduling.
It is crucial for advisors to take their time when discussing these matters with developmental students and to constantly check-in with the student to ensure that the information is clear and understood by the student.
The following are some things to keep in mind when advising these students: •Don’tassumeanythingregardingstudentknowledgeofcollegecoursework.
•Beawareofyourlanguage.Studentmaynotbefamiliarwithmanytermsusedinacollegesetting.Just because we use them every day does not mean all students know their meaning. If a student isunfamiliarwithtermssuchaspre-req/co-req,semester,gened,major,orientation,etc.,itcould seem like they are encountering a foreign language. Constantly check-in to make sure they understand.
•Makesurestudentsunderstandsthatdevelopmentalcourseworkdoesnotcounttowardtheirdegree.
•Makesurethestudentunderstandsthatdevelopmentalcourseworkisnottransferrable.However,insome cases it could be used in lieu of placement testing at another community college-though that would be at the discretion of that community college.
•StudentmustunderstandthatinordertopassadevelopmentalcoursetheymustearnaCorbetter.
•Studentshouldunderstandtheimpactofdevelopmentalcourseworkontimelinetodegreecompletion.
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising Non-Traditional/Adult LearnersAdvisingnon-traditionalstudentsoradultlearnersrequiresadvisorstodoalotofdetectivework. It is crucial for advisors to be diligent in their information gathering regarding institutional and non-institutional barriers to student success as adult learners can be at various stages of their life and pursuing a degree for a myriad of reasons. Career Changers with earned degrees, the unemployed, first-time students, the under-employed, and career climbers (those seeking a specificcredentialinordertoreceiveapromotion)arejustsomeoftherolesnon-traditional/adultlearners fill. This student population may have returned to college after a traumatic life event and are seeking to re-invent themselves-the recently divorced or unemployed are good examples.
•Theirdecision-makingcanbecloudedastheyoftenwanttoachievetheirrecentlyidentifiedgoal as soon as possible. This can lead to poor decisions regarding realistic course-load and work/life balance assessments.
•Thispopulationbringswiththemanumberofpotentialanxietiesthatmustbeappropriatelyaddressed:
- Technology Anxiety- Age Anxiety-Being the oldest person in all or some of their classes- Math Anxiety- Low Educational Self-Perception- Low Academic Expectations
•Advisorsshouldintroducenumerousstudentsupportservicesaswellasacademicsupportand tutoring for students concerned about specific areas.
•Advisorsshouldreiteratethediversityofourstudentpopulationthatincludesdual-enrollment students as well as senior citizens.
•Advisorsshouldmakesurestudentsarecomfortablewithtechnologyneededforstudentsuccess at MWCC (email, iConnect, Blackboard, etc.), offer their assistance in helping students familiarize themselves with college technology, and refer students to library computer lab that has available staff to help.
•Thisstudentpopulationmayhavedifficultyidentifyingthemselvesascollegestudentsdueto the other identifying factors in their lives. It’s important for advisors to help adult learners cultivate an identity as a student.
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising VeteransAdvising Veterans has become an increasingly important role of the college community. As more and more Veterans return from combat and pursue educational opportunities the need for greater awareness and support increases. Veterans present various administrative and professional challenges foradvisors,especiallyadvisorsunfamiliarwiththeiruniqueneeds.Thefollowingareimportantthings to keep in mind when advising Veterans.
•MakeVeteransawareofourVeteransSuccessCenterwhichprovidesveteranswiththeirownspace (couches, chairs and study area), computers, and support staff.
•VeteransmustsubmittheirpaperworkthroughtheVeteransAdministrationinordertotakeadvantage of the GI Bill. Advisors should refer them to the Veterans Success Center for answers tospecificquestionsregardingtheprocessbutadvisorshouldknowthatpaperworkcanbesubmitted online via www.va.gov .
•ITCANTAKEUPTO90DAYSTOPROCESSPAPERWORKTHROUGHTHEVASOITISCRUCIAL THAT VETERANS APPLY ASAP.
•Advisorsmustrecognizetheintenseimpactofcombatonreturningveteransandworkwitheach individual to understand their concerns and needs.
- Cycle courses may not be a good option as their accelerated format can create heightened anxiety and pressure.
- Logistical issues within the classroom such as seating arrangements can be problematic.- Many returning veterans prefer to take classes with older student populations.- Self-advocacy and communication with the campus community must be continually
emphasized and encouraged.
•AdvisorsmustbecognizantofthedifficultiesVeteranshavere-adjustingtocivilianlifeandworkwith each Veteran to ease this transition by showing an active interest in the difference between service life and civilian life and a committed attitude toward the individual success and well-being of the student.
Contact Information:
Kristine E. Larkin Thomas Tobin AssistantProjectDirector-VeteransCenterCounselor CareerDevelopment/VeteransAffairs [email protected] [email protected] 978-630-9534
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising First-Generation StudentsA First-Generation College student is a student that comes from a family where neither parent completed college. These students enter higher education with a distinct disadvantage as they have little or no familiarity with college culture and the responsibilities that come with being a college student.Thesestudentsrequireagreatdealofsupportespeciallyduringthefirstyearastheyacclimate themselves to the college experience.
Below are some tips for advising first generation college students. •Beawareofyourlanguage.Thestudentmayhavelittleornounderstandingoftermsweuseeverydaysuchassemester,pre-req,major,financialaid,CPT,etc.
•Advisorsmustcreateawarmandwelcomingenvironmentforallstudentsbutbodylanguageand tone are even more crucial when advising first-generation students. It is imperative that they know they are not alone in this process and that we are committed to their success.
•Supportingfirst-generationstudentsinallareasoffinancialplanningisessential.Manystudentsrely on their parents to help them understand the financial aid process. First-generation students often lack that element and thus must be heavily supported in their financial planning process.
•Advisorsmustconnectfirst-generationstudentstoavailablecampusresources.However,thefunction of those resources must also be explained in great detail. For instance, first-generation students may not be familiar with how the Academic Support Center operates so an explanation of the various services provided in the Academic Support Center as well as how to access those services is important.
•Allfirst-generationstudentsshouldbemadeawareofourTRIOprograms(seesupportservicessection, Visions and Rx). These federally funded programs support first-generation students. Students must apply and meet program eligibility.
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising Re-Admitted StudentsA re-admitted student is a student who has been absent for one or more years since their last date of attendance at MWCC. The students are also sometimes referred to as “stop-outs”. It is imperative that these students are made aware of policies and programs that may benefit them as well as all available campus support that may help them make this experience at MWCC a more positive one than the last. Below are some things to keep in mind when advising re-admitted students.
•Re-admittedstudentshaveoftenhadamajorlifeeventinterrupttheireducationalandcareer plans.
•Theirre-enrollmentcanoftenbepartofalargerpatternofrepeatedbehavior-enrolling,withdrawing, dropping out. It is important to identify past experiences and how this experience will differentiate from the past.
•Itisimperativeforthesestudentstoconnectwithsupportservicesasearlyaspossiblesotheyknow they have help and don’t feel lost, overwhelmed, or left behind. Making that campus connection is huge for students in generating initial success and building upon that success.
•Appropriatecourse-loadiscrucialforre-admittedstudents.Oftentimestheirliveshavechangeddramatically since they were last enrolled and setting them up for success right off the bat is crucial in providing a framework of success to build upon. Going slow and working toward a full course-load might be appropriate in many cases, though not all.
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Advising International Students• Advising International & Out of State Students
- It is less expensive for International and Out-of-State students to register for evening, off campus,online,or“S”courses(daycoursestaughtbyadjuncts).
- Some online/LEO/DEV courses taught by full-time faculty are now treated like day courses. Therefore, out-of-state and international students would pay the higher cost.
- Please note: It is very unlikely that students will be able to get all of the “less expensive” courses thattheyneedtofulfilltherequirementsfortheirprograms.Wearenotobligatedtogettheminto all cheaper courses.
• International Students Studying on an F-1 Visa
-InternationalStudentswhoarestudyingintheU.S.onanF-1visahavespecificrequirementsthey must follow to maintain their immigration status.
Contact Information:
Admissions: Advising:
John Walsh Glenn Roberts Director of Admissions Director of Enrollment [email protected] [email protected] (978)630-9194(978)630-9237
Aaron SpencerAssistant Director of [email protected](978)630-9135
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Transfer and Career AdvisingThere are two very distinct types of transfer students-those transferring into Mount Wachusett Community College and those seeking to transfer out. When advising each of these very different types of students it is important to always keep in mind what is most important to this student group as well as the existing college resources available to help them make their important decisions.
It’s good to keep the following in mind when advising these students:
Students Transferring In•Studentstransferringcreditintothecollegemustknowthatthemaximumnumberofcreditsastudentcantransferinis30.
•Studentstransferringinmaybedoingsoforvariousreasonsandmaybeatvariouspointsintheireducation, career, and life. It’s important to understand the student’s educational goals and history. For example, you may see a student with an earned bachelor’s or even master’s degree returning to school for a career change (most common with older students returning to pursue a health career).
•Studentstransferringinmayhavefinancialorotherholdsthatpreventthemfromacquiringanofficial transcript from a previous institution-in these cases, students must be aware of how that impacts their education here. No institutional credit can be applied to their degree without an official transcript.
Students Transferring Out•Studentswhoidentifytransferringoutasaneducationalgoalaregenerallymostconcernedwith
how earned and future credit will transfer to the bachelor’s degree program of interest.•Frameallexplanationsofhowcourseswilltransfertootherinstitutionswithintheframeworkof
the appropriate agreement (Mass Transfer, Transfer Agreement, 3 Plus One) and point students to resources that will help them decipher how various schools evaluate transfer credit (online transfer dictionaries,courseequivalencies,etc.).
•Helpstudentsunderstandhowtheseevaluationtoolsareusedandhowtoapplytheinformationgained from them.
•2+2Transferagreements-requireassociates’degreecompletion,generallyallowstudenttoenterasajunior.Currenttransferagreementsandsuggestedcoursesformanyarelistedonthetransferadvising website, http://transfer.mwcc.edu .
•MassTransfer-programthroughthecommonwealthofMassachusettsthatlinksdegreeprogramsat public community colleges to degree programs at public state universities. Provides different benefits for students completing an associate’s degree in a linked MassTransfer eligible program. For a complete list of MWCC degrees linked through the MassTransfer program visit the MassTransfer website at www.mass.edu/masstransfer.
•3PlusOne-programthatallowstudentsupongraduatingfromanAssociate’sdegreetocompleteanadditionalyear(upto30credits)atMWCCatMWCCpricesbeforetransferringtooneofourfouryear partnering schools to complete their last year of their Bachelor’s degree. Final year could be done online, at the partnering four year school or satellite campus, or even at an MWCC campus.
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Contact Information:Limari Rivera, Transfer [email protected] 978.630.9197Tomakeanappointment,pleasecall978-630-9568
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Career AdvisingAcademic advisors are increasingly called upon to provide students with preliminary career counseling and advising. While academic advisors are by no means expected to be experts or have extensive career counseling knowledge or experience, they must be able to articulate the connections between academic programs and potential career outcomes. Advisors must be able to help students identify potential career interests, and connect them to potential academic programs and transfer options.
Further, advisors must be able to provide students with preliminary information gathering resources andtechniqueswhilereferringthemontomoreextensivecareercounseling.Belowareafewthingsfor students to consider as well as some beginning resources for students unsure of their career goals.
Advisors Should:•Encouragestudentsto honestly assess themselves.
•Helpstudentsidentifytheirinterests,skills,passions,values,strengthsandchallenges.
•Discusspastorcurrentworksituationswithstudentsidentifyingareasofenjoyment(i.e.co--workers, environment, etc.) as well as areas of dislike (i.e. schedule, pay, etc.).
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Contact InformationNancy GreenlawAssociate Director of Transfer [email protected] 978-630-9321
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Resources:Massachusetts Career Information System (MassCIS): http://masscis.intocareers.com/ •Excellentinformationgatheringtoolforstudents•CareerinformationaswellasinformationregardingcollegesandprogramsinMassachusetts•Financialaidresourcesandscholarships•Variousonlinecareerassessmenttools
America’s Career InfoNet:http://www.acinet.org/acinet/
•Excellentresourceforuser-friendlyemploymentandindustrytrendstatistics•Greatcareerandindustryinformation•Practicaltoolssuchassalaryinformationandresumeandinterviewtechniques•Jobsearchandnetworkingtechniques
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
O*Net:http://www.onetonline.org
•Greatresourceforgreenindustry•Offersdifferentsearchmechanismssuchassearchingbycareerswitha“brightoutlook”•Cansearchcareersbydifferentskills
The Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco/
•Greatresourceforindepthcareerinformation•Canbealittleintimidatingtostudentssowalkthemthroughthistool•CanbefoundontheBureauofLaborStatisticsWebsite•Providesvaluablecareerinformationregardingtrends,salary,employmentoutlook,aswell as common tasks
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Financial PlanningFinancial Aid BasicsTo be eligible for Financial Aid you must:
•CompletetheFreeApplicationforFinancialStudentAidonlineatwww.fafsa.ed.gov •Beacceptedinadegreeorcertificateprogram•BeaUScitizenorpermanentresident•Demonstratefinancialneed•Maintainsatisfactoryprogressaccordingtocollegepolicy.
•StudentsmustlistMWCC’sfederalschoolcodeontheFAFSAapplication,whichis002172.TheymayalsocompleteapaperFAFSAandapplythroughthemail,butthistakes4-6weeks.Itisrecommended that students complete the FAFSA online.
•WhentheSARisreceived,theMWCCFinancialAidApplicationandverificationmaterialswillbesent to the applicant. These forms must be returned to the office of financial aid within 2 weeks oftheirreceipt.Studentsmayprinttheformsrequiredforcompletionofthefinancialaidprocessthrough links on the Financial Aid page of the MWCC website. Students should only submit forms requesteddirectlybytheMWCCofficeoffinancialaid,sincenotallapplicantsarerequiredtofillout every form.
•TheFinancialaidprocesscanbelengthy,sostudentsshouldallowatleast3-4weekspriortotheir enrollment for all paperwork to be finalized. When the process is complete, they will receive an email from the Financial Aid office outlining the type and amount of assistance that they qualifiedfor.TheseemailswillbesentstartinginearlyMayforapplicantswhohavecompletedtheapplicationcorrectlyandprovidedallrequireddocuments.Lateapplicantswillhavetheirapplications considered for an award on a rolling basis.
•Part-timestudentsMAYbeeligibleforfinancialaid.
•StudentsMAYbeeligibleforsummeraid.
Contact Information: Financial Aid Office978-630-9169
Bookstore CreditSome low-income students receive enough grant funding to cover the entire tuition and fees bill, including book expenses. Other students may receive partial grant funding and choose to borrow a studentloantocoverremainingtuition,feesandbookcharges.Attimes,studentswillnotqualifyforany grant assistance but can borrow a student loan to pay for part or all of their tuition, fee and book expenses. There are situations where the maximum student loan and other aid awards may not cover direct educational expenses. When the aid awards are greater than the tuition and fee bill, an advance of this difference will be made in the form of a bookstore credit. Students can view this credit in WebConnectshouldtheyqualify.
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PAYMENT PLANAdvantages•Easyonlineenrollment •Flexiblepaymentoptions•Monthlypaymentplan •Nointerest
Payment Methods•Automaticbankpayment(ACH) •Paymentsareprocessedonthe5th of each month •Creditcard/debitcard andwillcontinueuntilthebalanceispaidinfull.
Cost to Participate•$30enrollmentfeepersemester •$1enrollmentfeeforanimmediatefullpayment(ACH&creditcard) •$25returnedpaymentfeeifapaymentisreturned
Simple Steps to Enroll in the Payment Plan 1. Go to www.mwcc.edu 5.Clickon“MWCC Interest-Free Payment Plan (FACTS)” 2. Click “Register Online,” 6.Selectthetermthenlogin 7.Clickthe“e-Cashier” logo4.Clickon“Student & Financial Aid”
Target Dates to Enroll By:
Fall 2011 (e-Cashier available on May 15, 2011. Full payments may be made on e-Cashier)
Last day to enroll online Req down payment # of payments Months of paymentsJune2 none 6 June–NovemberJuly30 none 5 July–NovemberAug3 none 4 August–NovemberSept14 25% 3 October-December
Spring 2012 (e-Cashier available on Nov 1, 2010. Full payments may be made on e-Cashier)
Last day to enroll online Req down payment # of payments Months of paymentsDec1 none 5 December–AprilJan3 none 4 January–AprilJan24 25% 3 February–April
NOTE: All down and full payments are processed immediately!
•Studentsshouldnotassumetheirbalancewillautomaticallybeadjustediffinancialaidisreceivedora class is dropped or added. •StudentsshouldreviewtheiragreementbalanceonlinethroughMyFACTSAccountorcalltheMWCCStudentAccount’sOfficeat978-630-9149toconfirmthechange.
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Have additional questions on how the payment plan works? Refertothe“FrequentlyAskedQuestions”or“Howe-CashierWorks”linkslocatedonthe toolbar of e-Cashier. Nelnet Business Solutions (formerly FACTS Management Co.)
Foradditionalhelp,pleasecallusat800-609-8056Customer service representatives are available Monday - Thursday Friday7:30AM-7:00PM(CST) 7:30AM-5:00PM
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Health Insurance
•Studentstaking9ormorecreditswillautomaticallybebilledandsignedupforinsurancethroughMWCC. If students can provide proof that they are covered by another plan this cost will be deductedfromtheirbill.Thefeeunderthenewcollegeplan(HarvardPilgrim)willbe$928fortheyear(2011-2012).Thisisasignificantcosttostudentssothoseeligibletowaivethefeeshoulddoso. Coverage runs from September 1st through August 31st of the following year.
• For the year 2011, health coverage for students through the college insurance plan will not begin until September 1st due to the change in carriers. It is important for students to know that though their bill will reflect the fee, their coverage will not kick in until September, 1.
Studentstakinglessthan9creditsarenoteligibleforMWCCstudentinsurance.
•ImportantpointsoftheMAhealthinsurancelawforadvisorstocommunicatetostudents:-Young adults can stay on their parent’s health insurance for up to 2 years after they are no longer dependentORuntiltheir26thbirthday.
-Young Adult Plans offer unsubsidized, low-cost products through the Connector (see below) to residents19-26yearsofagewhodonothaveaccesstoMassHealthoremployerhealthcoverage(either on their own or as a dependent).
• Health Insurance Waiver: If students have comparable health insurance through another carrier, theymaywaivethecharge.Duetothechangeininsurancecarriers,asofApril2011,thisprocessis still being defined and will be updated as soon as possible. The waiver form will be available at www.commonwealthstudent.com a customized MWCC page is currently under construction through this site.- Students are eligible to waive the insurance fee beginning on July 1st and must do so before the
“cancellation for non-payment date in August”.- The waiver must be completed no later than the first day of classes or students name will
be submitted to the insurance company. Once submitted there will be no waiver or refund of the fee. Please note: “free care” (Health Safety Net or Commonwealth Care) does not constitute comparable coverage.
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All Massachusetts residents are required to be insured.
For more information on obtaining affordable health insurance visit www.masshealthconnector.org.
Students that want details of the school plan can visit www.universityhealthplans.com/intro/MassCC.html
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Tips for Advising Health Career StudentsDue to the selective nature of some health career programs these students represent a distinct student population at open enrollment institutions. While providing clear and accurate information is an essential role of the advisor when dealing with all student populations, it is particularly important whenadvisingthisstudentpopulationduetothesometimesconfusingnatureofcoursesequencing,multiple steps acceptance into the program, and selective admissions process. The following are things to keep in mind when advising students who express interest in one of our health programs. Please see the individual program sheets on the following pages for more specific information.
•Firstandforemost,studentsmustunderstandhowhealthprogramsatthecollegeareacademicallystructured., i.e. you cannot take nursing classes until you are accepted into the nursing program.
•Studentsmustunderstandtheadmissionsrequirementsoftheirprogramofinterest.
•Studentsmustunderstandthatthereisnoguaranteeofacceptanceintotheseprograms.Spaceislimited and these programs are very competitive.
•Studentsmustunderstandthatshouldtheynotbeacceptedtotheirprogramofinteresttheywillneed to re-apply and will be evaluated against a new group of students every year.
•Studentsmustunderstandthecoursesequencinginvolvedwithhealthprogramsandthevarioussteps involved before applying.
•Finishpre-requisitecoursework•CompleterequiredTEAStestingwithappropriatescorelevels•SubmitApplicationbyrequireddeadline•Haveaback-upplan
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For more information or questions contact: Eileen CostelloDean of Health Sciences and Community Service [email protected]
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Health Science Advising
Selective AdmissionsWhile most of MWCC’s certificates and degrees are open admissions, several Health Science programs are selective, meaning students must apply to the program.
Program Deadlines
Program Priority Deadlines
LPN Bridge Program to Nursing (Advanced Placement) January15forDevens,Maystart
Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) May 1, September start
Massage Therapy (MTC) March 1, September start
Dental Hygiene (DHY) February 1, September start
Dental Assisting Certificate April 1
Nursing (NU/NUE) January15,Septemberstart
Practical Nursing (PN) September 1 for Gardner, January start
Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) June 1 for September start
Students working toward most of these programs are placed into the Allied Health Degree (GSAH), Studentstypicallyenrollinthisprogramfirst,completeprerequisiteandco-requisitecourses,andthen apply to the selective program.
When advising these students, make sure to explain to them that they are enrolled in the General Studies - AHD designation and are working on admission to the selective program. However, when advising them about course selection, you should TYPICALLY USE the selective program curriculum.
•Forexample,forapotentialNursingstudent,usetheNUcurriculumtoadvise,NOTtheAHDcurriculum
•AstudentDOESNOTneedtocompletetheentireGeneralStudiesorAHDcurriculumbeforethey can apply to the selective program
•SomestudentsmaywanttocompleteAHCorAHDbeforeorinsteadofapplyingtoselectiveprogram
Details about each of the selective programs can be found in the College Catalog. Make sure to refer students to info sessions (info in the Enrollment Center or on the Homepage).
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For more information or questions contact: Admissions Office 978-630-9204
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
TEAS Test New Cut off Scores for Nursing Requirements
TEAS 4.0 Scores Before March 1, 2011Program Composite Score Math Science English Reading
NurseEducation N/A 50% 55% 70% 75%
PracticalNursing 60% N/A N/A N/A N/A
Teas V Scores Starting March 1, 2011Program Composite Score Math Science English Reading
AdnProgram N/A 53.3 43.8 56.7 59.5
PnProgram N/A 40.0 29.2 46.7 47.6
TEAS V® TEST OF ESSENTIAL ACADEMIC SKILLS
What is the Test of Essential Academic Skills?The Test of Essential Academic skills (TEAS) is a four part, web-based, supervised assessment that includes subtest in Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English language usage. The TEAS Test was developed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) to predict the academic readiness of applicants prior to admission into a healthcareprogram.Thereare170questionsintotalonthetest.
Thetotaltestingtimeforallfourtestareasis3hoursand29minutes.Theamountoftimeallottedforeachsubtest is:
• Reading = 58 minutes 48 questions Paragraph and Passage Comprehension Informational source Comprehension • Mathematics = 51 minutes 34 questions Numbers and Operations Algebraic Applications Data Interpretation Measurement • Science = 66 minutes 54 questions Human Body Science Life Science Earth and Physical Science Scientific Reasoning • English and Language Usage = 34 minutes 34 questions Grammar and Word Meanings in Context Spelling and Punctuation Structure
The TEAS Test is a computer based test, requiring only that you are able to point with a mouse and select the answer. Scoring is automatic; you will receive your score when you have finished the test.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
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Why do I need to take the Teas Test?MountWachusettCommunityCollege(MWCC)hasmadetheTEASTestarequirementforadmissiontotheAssociateDegreeinNursingandPracticalNursingCertificateprogramsasof2009academicyear.MWCChasset the following standards on TEAS Test scores for admission to improve the success of students in completing the program and obtaining licensure and certification.
MWCC strongly recommends that applicants complete program pre-and-co-requisite courses especially English Composition I, Math and a four-credit lab science before taking the TEAS Test to enhance their knowledge base.
Registration and PaymentThe registration fee is $50.00 which is nonrefundable/nontransferable. Applicants who cancel or fail toshowuponthedateofthetestwillberequiredtocompleteanotherregistrationformandpaythefullregistration fee when rescheduling. Students are allowed to take the TEAS Test only twice within a one year span.Shouldyouneedtoretestitisadvisabletowaitatleast30dayswithremediation.ToretesttheapplicantisrequiredtocompletetheregistrationwithATIandpaythe$50.00fee.
Theregistrationpaymentof$50.00mustbepaidbycreditcardtoATIwhenyouregisteron-line.AllexamsareadministeredbyappointmentattheGardnerCampusinTestingServices,Room128C(totherightoftheLibrary).
IfyouneedtocancelorchangeyourappointmentyoumustcallATI913.685.2740atleast48hourspriortoyour test date.
Preparation for the TEAS TestThere are several available study options for TEAS V, including online and/or book practice assessments and a study manual. Go to www.atitesting.com/onlinestore for more information. The study manual is available at our bookstore.Also go to www.testprepreview.com , select TEAS Test Practice.
On the Day of the Test•StudentsmustbringavalidpictureIDtobeadmittedintothetestingroom.
Students will not be allowed to take the test without photo identification•Pleasearrive15minutesbeforethestartingtime.•Studentswillreceivetheirtestresultsbeforeleavingthetestingsite.•Calculatorsarenotpermittedinthetestingroomorduringthetest.•Pencilsandscrappaperwillbeprovidedandcollectedwhenthetestiscompleted.•Cellphones,IPods,pagers(andotherelectronicdevices)andbooks,notesorstudyguidesareprohibitedfrom
use during the test session. Any applicant using any of the above during the test session will be asked to leave the testing room immediately.
•Testdatesaresubjecttochange.• Registrations are accepted on a first come, first served basis. Seats are limited.
Affective March 2011 TEAS test will be TEAS V and the fee will be $50.00.Testing Days And TimesProgram Composite Score Math Science English ReadingAdnProgram N/A 53.3 43.8 56.7 59.5PnProgram N/A 40.0 29.2 46.7 47.6
GO TO www.atitesting.com AND REGISTER ONLINE.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
RN
Adv
isin
g Sh
eet
Not
e: InordertoapplytotheRNprogramatMWCC,youmusthavecompleteda4creditlabsciencewithaC+orhigherandMAT126orhigherwith
aC+orhigher.However,inordertobeacompetitivecandidateforadmissions,youshouldfollowtheadvisingguidelinesbelow.ALLstudentsare
STR
ON
GLY
EN
CO
UR
AG
ED
to
atte
nd a
Hea
lth
Info
rmat
ion
Sess
ion
in a
ddit
ion
to m
eeti
ng w
ith
a Se
lect
ive
Prog
ram
Adv
isor
.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
Janu
ary
15, _
____
___
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Cour
ses
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
Experience
(C+ORHIGHER)
In H
ealt
h Fi
eld
BIO203
EarnedDegrees
BIO204
CreditsCompleted
At
Mw
cc V
s. T
rans
fer
BIO205
TEASTest
ENG101
Per126/130
(non
-poi
nt e
arne
r)
ENG102
HUM+BUSElective
(Non
-Poi
nt E
arne
rs)
PSY105
NUR099(MinimalPoint
Earner,NotRequired)
PSY110
•TEASTestmustbecompletedPRIORtoadmissiondeadlineandresultsaregoodfor3yearsfromdateoftest.
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andNURcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•StudentswillnotearnpointstowardadmissionforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.Iftheytestoutofthemaththeydo
NOTneedtotakeareplacementmath.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126orhigherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
•Englishrequirementsaredifferentfornon-nativespeakers.TestofEnglishasaForeignLanguage(TOEFL)scoresrequiredifapplicable.Pleaseseepages21-22
of t
he c
olle
ge c
atal
og.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
LPN
Adv
isin
g Sh
eet
Not
e: InordertoapplytotheLPNprogramatMWCC,youmusthavecompletedMAT126orhigherwithatleastaC+.However,inordertobea
com
peti
tive
can
dida
te fo
r ad
mis
sion
s, y
ou s
houl
d fo
llow
the
adv
isin
g gu
idel
ines
bel
ow.
ALL
stu
dent
s ar
e ST
RO
NG
LY E
NC
OU
RA
GE
D t
o at
tend
an
Adm
issi
ons
Info
rmat
ion
Sess
ion
in a
ddit
ion
to m
eeti
ng w
ith
a Se
lect
ive
Prog
ram
Adv
isor
.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
Sept
embe
r 1,
____
____
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Cour
ses
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
Experience
(C+ORHIGHER)
In H
ealt
h Fi
eld
BIO203
EarnedDegrees
BIO204
CreditsCompleted
At
Mw
cc V
s. T
rans
fer
BIO205
TEASTest
ENG101
Per126/130
(non
-poi
nt e
arne
r)
ENG102
HUM+BUSElective
(Non
-Poi
nt E
arne
rs)
PSY105
NUR099(MinimalPoint
Earner,NotRequired)
PSY110
•TEASTestmustbecompletedPRIORtoadmissiondeadlineandresultsaregoodfor3yearsfromdateoftest.
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andNURcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•StudentswillnotearnpointstowardadmissionforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.Iftheytestoutofthemaththeydo
NOTneedtotakeareplacementmath.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126orhigherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
•Englishrequirementsaredifferentfornon-nativespeakers.TestofEnglishasaForeignLanguage(TOEFL)scoresrequiredifapplicable.Pleaseseepages21-22
of t
he c
olle
ge c
atal
og.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Com
plet
ion/
Plan
MAT126(C+ORHIGHER
BIO115or(BIO203&204)
ENG101
PSY105
PSY110
EX
PER
IEN
CE
IN
HE
ALT
H F
IELD
EA
RN
ED
DE
GR
EE
S
CR
ED
ITS
CO
MPL
ET
ED
AT
MW
CC
VS.
TR
AN
SFE
R
TE
AS
TE
ST
•TEASTestresultsaregoodfor3yearsfromdateoftest.TheTEAStestmustbesuccessfullycompletedpriortotheadmissiondeadline.
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andNURcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.AlthoughallcoursesotherthanMATdonotrequireaC+orbetterforADMISSIONto
theprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardadmissionforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126or
higherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Brid
ge A
dvis
ing
Shee
tN
ote:InordertoapplytotheBridgeprogramatMWCC,youmusthavecompletedMAT126orhigherwithatleastaC+,ENG101,PSY105,andBIO203withaC+or
high
er.
You
mus
t al
so h
old
a cu
rren
t LP
N li
cens
e an
d ha
ve w
orke
d as
an
LPN
for
one
year
. H
owev
er, i
n or
der
to b
e a
com
peti
tive
can
dida
te fo
r ad
mis
sion
s, y
ou s
houl
d fo
llow
the
adv
isin
g gu
idel
ines
bel
ow.
ALL
stu
dent
s ar
e ST
RO
NG
LY E
NC
OU
RA
GE
D t
o at
tend
an
Adm
issi
ons
Info
rmat
ion
Sess
ion
in a
ddit
ion
to m
eeti
ng w
ith
a Se
lect
ive
Prog
ram
Adv
isor
.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Cour
ses
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
SOC103
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO203
ExperienceIn
Hea
lth
Fiel
d
BIO204
Earned
Deg
rees
BIO205
Credits
ENG101
CompletedAtMwcc
Vs.
Tra
nsfe
r
ENG102
TEASTest
PSY105
PER126/130(non-point
earn
er)
PSY110
HUM+BUSElectives
(non
-poi
nt e
arne
rs)
NUR099(minimal
pointearner,notrequired)
•TEASTestresultsaregoodfor3yearsfromdateoftest.TheTEAStestmustbesuccessfullycompletedPRIORtotheadmissiondeadline.
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andNURcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•AlthoughelectivecoursesdonotrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardacceptanceforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126or
higherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
Janu
ary
15, _
____
___
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Cour
ses
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
SOC103
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO203
ExperienceIn
Hea
lth
Fiel
d
BIO204
Earned
Deg
rees
BIO205
Credits
ENG101
CompletedAtMwcc
Vs.
Tra
nsfe
r
ENG102
TEASTest
PSY105
PER126/130(non-point
earn
er)
PSY110
HUM+BUSElectives
(non
-poi
nt e
arne
rs)
NUR099(minimal
pointearner,notrequired)
•TEASTestresultsaregoodfor3yearsfromdateoftest.TheTEAStestmustbesuccessfullycompletedPRIORtotheadmissiondeadline.
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andNURcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•AlthoughelectivecoursesdonotrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardacceptanceforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126or
higherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
Febr
uary
1, _
____
___
DH
Y Ad
visi
ng S
heet
Not
e:InordertoapplytotheDHYatMWCC,youmusthavecompletedMAT126orhigherwithaC+,BIO203and204withaC+orhigher,ENG
101,andPER130.However,inordertobeacompetitivecandidateforadmissions,youshouldfollowtheadvisingguidelinesbelow.ALLstudentsare
STR
ON
GLY
EN
CO
UR
AG
ED
to
atte
nd a
n A
dmis
sion
s In
form
atio
n Se
ssio
n in
add
itio
n to
mee
ting
wit
h a
Sele
ctiv
e Pr
ogra
m A
dvis
or.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
Cour
ses
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
(C+ORHIGHER)
SOC103
BIO203
(C+ORHIGHER)
PSY105
BIO204
ExperienceinHealthField
(C+ORHIGHER)
ENG101
EarnedDegrees
PER130
HUM/BUSElective
(non
-poi
nt e
arne
r)
BIO205
CreditsCompletedat
MW
CC
VS.
Tra
nsfe
r
ENG102
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllDHYcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•AlthoughelectivecoursesdonotrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardacceptanceforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126or
higherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
•CertifiedDentalHygienistAssistantsorapplicantsholdingaCertificateinDentalHygienewillreceiveadditionalpointstowardtheiracceptance.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Sele
ctiv
e He
alth
Pro
gram
Ad
visi
ng
CLS
Advi
sing
She
etN
ote:InordertoapplytotheCLSatMWCC,youmusthavecompletedMAT126orhigherwithatleastaC+,ENG101,BIO203,BIO204,BIO205,CHE203,
PLB101,CLS102,&CLS103.However,inordertobeacompetitivecandidateforadmissions,youshouldfollowtheadvisingguidelinesbelow.ALLstudents
are
STR
ON
GLY
EN
CO
UR
AG
ED
to
atte
nd a
n A
dmis
sion
s In
form
atio
n Se
ssio
n in
add
itio
n to
mee
ting
wit
h a
Sele
ctiv
e Pr
ogra
m A
dvis
or.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
C
ours
es &
Oth
er E
xper
ienc
e
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
CLS102
(C+ORHIGHER)
ENG101
CLS103
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO203
CLS104
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO204
Exp
erie
nce
in H
ealt
h Fi
eld
(C+ORHIGHER)
(notreq.butrecommended)
BIO205
EarnedDegrees
(C+ORHIGHER)
CHE203
CreditsCom
plet
ed a
t
(C+ORHIGHER)
MW
CC
VS.
Tra
nsfe
r
PLB101
Attendance
at a
CLS
(C+ORHIGHER)
In
form
atio
n Se
ssio
n
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.StudentsworkinginthehealthcarefieldmaypetitiontotheCLSDepartmenttohaveoldersciencecredits
accepted.AbsolutelyNOlabsciencesolderthan10yearswillbeaccepted.
•AllPLB,BIO,MAT,andCLScoursesrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogramandadvancementtothenextlevel.
•AlthoughelectivecoursesdonotrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardacceptanceforanygradelessthanaC+.
•StudentscannottestoutofthemathrequirementviatheCPT.Theymustcompleteamath(orusetransfer/CLEP/DANTEScredits).
N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
Mar
ch 1
, ___
____
_
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Cour
ses
Gra
de
Sem
este
r of
C
ours
es &
Oth
er E
xper
ienc
e
G
rade
Sem
este
r
Co
mpl
etio
n/Pl
an
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
anMAT126
CLS102
(C+ORHIGHER)
ENG101
CLS103
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO203
CLS104
(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO204
Exp
erie
nce
in H
ealt
h Fi
eld
(C+ORHIGHER)
(notreq.butrecommended)
BIO205
EarnedDegrees
(C+ORHIGHER)
CHE203
CreditsCom
plet
ed a
t
(C+ORHIGHER)
MW
CC
VS.
Tra
nsfe
r
PLB101
Attendance
at a
CLS
(C+ORHIGHER)
In
form
atio
n Se
ssio
n
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.StudentsworkinginthehealthcarefieldmaypetitiontotheCLSDepartmenttohaveoldersciencecredits
accepted.AbsolutelyNOlabsciencesolderthan10yearswillbeaccepted.
•AllPLB,BIO,MAT,andCLScoursesrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogramandadvancementtothenextlevel.
•AlthoughelectivecoursesdonotrequireaC+orbetterforAPPLICATIONtotheprogram,studentswillnotearnpointstowardacceptanceforanygradelessthanaC+.
•StudentscannottestoutofthemathrequirementviatheCPT.Theymustcompleteamath(orusetransfer/CLEP/DANTEScredits).
N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Appl
icat
ion
Dea
dlin
e:
June
1, _
____
___
PTA
Advi
sing
She
etN
ote:InordertoapplytothePTAprogramatMWCC,youmusthavecompletedMAT126orhigherwithaC+orhigher,anda4creditlabsciencewithaC+or
higher(pref.BIO115or203).However,inordertobeacompetitivecandidateforadmissions,youshouldfollowtheadvisingguidelinesbelow.ALLstudents
are
STR
ON
GLY
EN
CO
UR
AG
ED
to
atte
nd a
n A
dmis
sion
s In
form
atio
n Se
ssio
n in
add
itio
n to
mee
ting
wit
h a
Sele
ctiv
e Pr
ogra
m A
dvis
or.
Cour
ses
G
rade
S
emes
ter
of C
ompl
etio
n/Pl
an
MAT126(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO203(C+ORHIGHER)
BIO204(C+orHigher)
ENG101
ENG102
PSY105
PSY110
EA
RN
ED
DE
GR
EE
S
CR
ED
ITS
CO
MPL
ET
ED
AT
MW
CC
VS.
TR
AN
SFE
R
HUMANITIESELECTIVECIS127OROTHERBUSINESSELECTIVE
CIS127ORHUMANITIESELECTIVE
•Sciencesmustbecompletedwithin5yearsofdateofapplication.
•AllBIO,MAT,andPTAcoursesrequireaC+orbetterforpromotiontothenextlevel.
•StudentswillnotearnpointstowardadmissionforanygradelessthanaC+.
•Studentsmustearna65orhigheronthecollegelevelmathportionoftheplacementtesttotestoutofthemathrequirement.IftheytestoutofthemaththeydoNOTneedto
takeareplacementmath.StudentsareadvisedtocompleteMAT126orhigherwithaC+orhigherwheneverpossible.
• N
ote:
Sel
ecti
ve p
rogr
am a
dm
issi
on r
equ
irem
ents
ch
ange
eac
h y
ear.
Ple
ase
chec
k ba
ck w
ith
an
ad
viso
r or
ad
mis
sion
s re
pre
sen
tati
ve.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Disability ServicesDisabilitiesdefinedinsection504oftheAmericansWithDisabilitiesActincludebutarenotlimitedto:
•AutismSpectrumDisorders •Diabetes•AttentionDeficitDisorder/ •EpilepsyAttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder •Heart Disease •PostTraumaticStressDisorder •MultipleSclerosis•TraumaticBrainInjury •MuscularDystrophy•Blindness/VisualImpairment •PsychiatricDisability•Cancer •OrthopedicImpairments•CerebralPalsy •SpecificLearningDisabilities•Deafness/HearingImpairment •SpeechImpairment
College ServicesThere are various types of assistance available to support students with disabilities. Mount Wachusett Community College offers:
•Lowdistractiontestingrooms •Personalcounseling•Reservedparking •Tapedlectures•Elevatorprivileges •Computer-assistedinstruction•Notetakers/scribes •Consultationwithfaculty•Extendedtimeexams/alternativetesting addressingindividualissues•Specializedtutorialservices •Assistanceinobtainingauxiliaryaids•Adaptivetechnology
Contact Information:Donna Thibault Amy LaBargeCoordinator for Students with Disabilities Transition Counselor for Students with Disabilities [email protected] [email protected] 978-630-9330
Elaine Murray (evening students) Joyce Kulig - Visions Perkins Advisor-Disabilities Learning Disabilities Specialist (Visions)[email protected] [email protected] 978-630-9185
Supp
ort S
ervi
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Advising Students with DisabilitiesIf a student has a disability that is evident, (as in the case of a student bringing an interpreter to the meeting, or a cane, or comes in a wheelchair), the advisor may give student specific information about the disability services at MWCC. Students must come through the Student Disabilities Office and meet with a counselor to get accommodations. Any time a student discloses a disability, the advisor should refer the student to the Disability Services Office.
Otherwise, an advisor must never assume a student has a disability unless he/she discloses it to the advisor. An advisor may never ask or imply about a student’s disability, even if a disability is suspected. However, there are conversations that all advisors should engage in with their advisers that may reveal information relating to a disability.
Advisors should have discussions with students regarding the following topics and should a disability be revealed a referral should be made:
•Pasteducationalexperiencesandinterests(i.e.highschool,previouscollegecoursework,etc.)
•Academicstrengthsandweaknesses
•Learningstyles
• College culture/ academic environment-what to expect in the classroom both in terms of thephysical environment and academic expectations
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Personal Counseling ServicesThe personal, academic, and social adjustment of each student is a prime concern of MWCC.Professional counselors are available to assist students with:
•Personalconcerns•Understandingfeelingsandattitudes,values,andlife-styles•Educationaldevelopment•Academicconcernsrelatedtoadisability•Careerplanning•Referralstocommunityresources
Our goal is to:•Provideaprivate,confidential,supportiveenvironment•Helpstudentsovercomebarriersinordertomaximizetheireducationalopportunity•Facilitatetheprocesswherebystudentsmayworktowardasatisfyingandmeaningfullifestyle
Counselors are professionally trained and experienced in helping students deal effectively with personal difficulties. They maintain strong ties with community mental health agencies and refer students for assistance with problems that are outside the scope of college counseling.
Hours:Servicesaregenerallyavailablefrom8:00a.m.-4:00p.m.ontheGardnerCampus.Othertimesmaybeavailable by arrangement. For students who cannot easily come to the Gardner Campus, the College Counselor may be contacted by e-mail at [email protected] .
Confidentiality:Confidentiality will be maintained by adherence to the ethical standards of recognized professional organizations. These standards provide, with some limitations, assurance that a student may address his/her concerns openly with the counselor. Confidentiality is discussed with the student when he or she first visits a counselor.
Personal Counseling and Advising:Personal counseling services are an invaluable resource to students on any campus. Still, advisors can struggle with how and when to refer students to personal counseling. It can be difficult for advisors without a counseling background to recognize when a student needs greater support than that which the advisor is capable of providing.
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Personal Counseling Services (continued)Below are some tips for how to approach students in distress as well as signs to look for when considering a referral.
•Alwaysrespectwhatthestudentchoosestoshare.•Helpdeterminecourseofaction.•Refocusonmanageableareaoftheproblem.•DONOTJUDGEORCRITICIZE!•Helpidentifyusefulcampusresources.•Helpthepersonrecallconstructivemethodsusedinthepasttocope;getthepersontoagree to do something constructive to change things.•Attempttoaddresstheperson’sneedsandseekappropriateresources.•Alwaysrespectthestudent’sperspectiveandvalues,eveniftheydifferwidelyfromyourown.
Things to look for when considering a referral to personal counseling•Changesinpersonality.•Aggressiveorabusivebehaviortoselforothers.•Inappropriatebehaviorsoremotionsbasedonthesituation.•Signsofdepression(novisibleemotionsorfeelings,appearslethargic,losesweight, looks exhausted and complains of sleeping poorly, displays feelings of worthlessness or self- hatred, or is apathetic about previous interests). •Unusualpatternsofbehaviorsuchasnoteatingorexcessivelyeating.•Deterioratingacademicperformance(poorattendanceorextendedabsencesfromclass).•Alcoholorotherdruguse.• If a student threatens harm to his/her self or others, please contact security at ext. 150. A follow-up call should also be made to the college counselor at ext. 170.
Additional Information: Visit the personal counseling website at www.mwcc.edu/services/counseling
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Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Academic Support Center•Drop-intutoringinmathandwriting•Tutoringinothersubjectsbyappointment•Opencomputerlabs•WirelessAccess•Summerandeveninghours•MathandEnglishtextbooks,dictionariesandthesauruses•HandoutsinMLA,APA,andotheraspectsofwriting•AdaptiveLabresourcesforstudentswithdocumenteddisabilitiesinclude:extendedtime and lower distraction testing; alternative format for testing; scribes; and audio texts available through RFB&D and publishers’ e-Files
Hours of Operation
The Academic Support Center is open
Monday - Thursday Friday8a.m.-7p.m. 8a.m.-4p.m.
Drop-in hours for writing and math tutoring, Gardner campus, Room 116Monday - Thursday Friday8a.m.to7p.m. 8a.m.to4p.m.
Leominster and Devens Campus tutoringMath tutoring by appointment only. Writing tutoring by appointment only.
Contact InformationJoAnn DonovanAssistant Dean, Academic Support [email protected]
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Effectively Using the Academic Support Center in AdvisingThe Academic Support Center is a crucial tool for student success. However, advisors often struggle with when to recommend a student seek out the center and access the wide variety of services available. Below are some things to keep in mind when advising students and considering a referral to the academic support center.
•TheAcademicSupportCenterisaresourceforALLstudents,notjuststrugglingstudents.Allstudents should be familiar with the services available to them through the Academic Support Center.
•BesuretochecktheAcademicSupportTabwithin“TheLink”advisingtool
• Be proactive in your referrals. Should a student express concern or anxiety about a particular subjectorskill(i.e.writing,math,reading)referringthemtotheAcademicSupportCentercanbea means of addressing the issue before it causes them academic hardship.
•WhileMathandWritingtutorsarealwaysavailablefordrop-ins,tutoringinotherareascanbemade via appointment. So encouraging students to recognize and self-asses their comfort level with their courses early in the semester is crucial so that appropriate tutoring can be arranged if needed.Tutoringinspecializedsubjectareascantakelongertoarrange.
•Use the academic support center for isolated academic struggles as well as ongoing issues. The Academic Support Center can be utilized as an ongoing tool aiding students in all aspects of their academic pursuits, or by students seeking help with a particular topic or assignment. If a high achieving student is really having trouble organizing a research paper, perhaps meeting with someone in the Academic Support Center is appropriate to help them get on track with the assignment.
•Shouldastudentreceiveanacademicwarningorbeplacedonacademicprobation,connectingthem to the Academic Support Center is critical. Use academic events such as a warning to review services available with students and where and how to access support. Walk them to the center if necessary. Su
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Visions ProgramWhat is the Visions Program?
The Visions Program is an educational opportunity TRiO program funded by the United States Department of Education. The Program helps participants (non-health science majors) persist incollege through graduation and assists those who wish to transfer to a four-year institution.
Who can participate?InaccordancewithTRiOeligibilityrequirements,theVisionsProgramprovidessupportservicestostudents:
•fromfamilieswhereneitherparenthasearnedafour-yeardegree•fromlimited-incomebackgrounds•whohavedisabilities
What services does the Visions Program provide?Personal counselingAcademic advisingCareer counselingProfessional tutorsSeminars/workshopsTransfer counselingServices for students with learning disabilitiesLearning communitiesAnnual awards ceremony and receptionCultural/recreational activitiesStudent Leadership Program Monthly newsletterTech centerHighly motivated staff
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Motivated students who meet at least one of the above criteria are strongly encouraged to apply.
Contact Information978-630-9297
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Rx ProgramThe Rx Program is an educational opportunity TRiO program funded by the United States Department of Education. The Rx Program helps student participants persist in health science programs through graduation and assists those who wish to transfer to a four-year institution.
Associate Degree•AlliedHealthConcentration(GSAH)•ComplementaryHealthCare-YogaTeacherTraining(CHY)•DentalHygiene(DHY)•GeneralStudies—ClinicalLaboratoryScienceTrack(GSCL)•GeneralStudies—DentalHygieneTrack(GSDH)•LPNBridgetoNursing(NU)•MedicalAssisting(MAS)•Nursing(NU)•PhysicalTherapistAssistant(PTA)
Certificate•AlliedHealth(AHC) •ComplementaryHealthCare(CHC) •PracticalNurse(PN)
What services does the Rx Program provide?•Testtakingandstudyskills •OrientationtoHealthcareProfessionalOptions•Tutoringforsciencecourses •FinancialAssistanceforqualifiedstudents•Individualmathtutoring •Summerprepprograms•TEASandNCLEXpreparation•Academicandtransferadvising
Who can participate?InaccordancewithTRIOeligibilityrequirements,theRxProgramprovidessupportservicestostudents:
•fromfamilieswhereneitherparenthasearnedafour-yeardegree•fromlimited-incomebackgrounds•whohavedisabilities
Visions and Advising:•Alladvisorsshouldbeawareofthesestudentsupportprogramsandhowtheyfunctiononcampus.•AdvisorsshoulduseinformationavailabletothemthroughtheMWCCLinkTooltorefereligiblestudents to the Visions and Rx programs.•TheVisionsandRxsupportprogramsshouldbepartofallsupportservicesconversationsthattakeplacewitheligiblestudents(seeaboveforeligibilityrequirements).•StudentsshouldbeawareoftheapplicationprocessandlimitedspaceavailableinboththeVisions and Rx programs.•Advisorshouldbefamiliarwiththelevelofindividualizedcareprovidedeachmemberoftheseprograms as well as the variety of services offered students in both programs.•Alleligiblestudentsshouldbereferredappropriately.WALKTHEMTHEREIFNECESSARY.
Motivated students who meet at least one of the above criteria are strongly encouraged to apply. Su
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Contact Information978-630-9297
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
FIPSE Veteran’s Success CenterMWCCwasoneof15collegesinthecountryselectedtoestablishaCenterofExcellenceforVeteran Student Success through a Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Serving as national models, the centers are being created to help ease the transition to college life for veterans and their families, as well as to provide ongoing support for current active members of the military and their families.The missionoftheVeteransSuccessCenteratMWCCistoaddresstheuniqueacademic,financial,physical and social needs of veterans transitioning from solider to student.
Advisors should always refer veterans to Kristine Larkin or Tom Tobin of the Veteran’s success center. It is a critical component of student success among this increasing and evolving student population. The Veterans Success Center provides students with all levels of assistance in their transition to college as well as providing a physical space within the college specifically designated for veterans. Computers and study space as well as support services are all available through the newly developed center.
Advising Veterans can be challenging and complex. Refer to the tip sheet in this guidebook for tools that may help during an advising session with a veteran. However, the most important piece of advising veterans at MWCC is connecting them to this center which is presently located across from Health Services right next to the LaChance Library.
Below is useful information that can benefit veterans even before connecting with the Veterans Success Center. This information can help students understand the process of applying for and timeline of receiving benefits even before meeting with the Success Center to review the process.
Apply For BenefitsAllinformationcanbecompletedonlineinquickanduser-friendlyformat.
Apply online on www.va.gov under GI Bill Benefits
Launch VONAPP and Apply for Benefits. http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/
Ifyoudon’thavethecapabilitytoapplyonline,youcancall1-888-GIBILL-1(1-888-442-4551)to have a form mailed to you.
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Excellencefor Veteran
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Contact InformationKristine E. Larkin Tom TobinAssistantProjectDirector CareerDevelopmentVeterans Center Counselor Veterans [email protected] [email protected] 978-630-9534
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Veteran’s Benefits - Determine your best Benefit
Where will you take classes?
Online/distance learning onlyIfyou’reonlytakingdistanceoronlineclasses,youwon’tqualifyforthemonthlyhousingallowanceunderthe
Post-9/11GIBill,butyoucanstillreceivethebasiceducationallowanceundertheMontgomeryGIBill.
At least one on campus courseIfyou’retakingatleastonecourseoncampusandyourrateofpursuitisgreaterthan½timeyouqualifyforthe
monthlyhousingallowanceunderthePost-9/11GIBill.
Where will you be living when pursuing training?The monthly housing allowanceYourmonthlyhousingallowanceisbasedontheE-5withdependentrate:BasicAllowanceforHousingforthezip
code where your school is located.
What rate will you study?
Full-timeIfyoustudyfull-timeandtakeatleastonein-residencecourse,youqualifyforthemonthlyhousingallowance
underthePost-9/11GIBill.
Exception: Active duty members are not eligible for the monthly housing allowance.
Greater than half-timeIfyoustudyatgreaterthanthehalf-timerate,youqualifyforthemonthlyhousingallowanceunderthePost-9/11
GIBill.Half-timeorlessYouwillnotqualifyforthemonthlyhousingallowanceunderthePost-9/11GIBillunless
you are pursuing training greater than the half-time rate.
Collect Your Paperwork and InformationDates and service status for each period of military service. Dates and service status for each period of military service is used to determine your percentage of entitlement.
ThePost-9/11GIBillbenefitlevelisbasedonyouraggregatequalifyingactivedutyservice,whichistotalservice,
including separate periods.
All necessary documents.Thedocumentsneededare:DD214CertificateofReleaseorDischargefromActiveDutyformostrecentperiodof
active duty.
Transcripts for all periods of education after high school.
OPTIONAL: The routing or transit number and account number of a bank account to allow direct deposit of benefits.
If you are entitled to direct payment of benefits, such as the monthly living allowance, a stipend for books and
supplies, and/or the one-time rural benefit payment, the funds can be deposited directly to your bank account,
giving you the fastest access to your payments. The routing or transit number and the number of the account will
berequiredduringtheapplicationprocess.
Certificate of Eligibility Certificate of Eligibility is mailed to your home of record. Congratulations on successfully completing the application process! You can enroll in classes at the school you
have chosen at any time.
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CCAMPISThe CCAMPIS Program (Child Care Access Means Parents in School) at Mount Wachusett CommunityCollegeisafederallyfundedprogramthatprovideschildcaresubsidiestoqualifiedstudents who are enrolled part-time or full-time at any one of the three MWCC campuses (Garner, Leominster,andDevens.)Toqualify,studentsmustbereceivingfinancialaid.TheCCAMPISsubsidyis determined by the student’s EFC (Expected Family Contribution) and can be in the amount of 60%,40%,or20%oftheirchildcarecosts.
Participatingstudentsmustenrolltheirchild/reninoneof75pre-approvedchildcareproviders,all of which fall within a five mile radius of on e of the three campuses. Child care choices include private home settings as well as child care centers, including the Garrison Center at MWCC’s Gardner campus.
While involved in the program, students must check in with the CAMPIS coordinator on a regular basis. In addition, students must volunteer at their child’s center once each semester and provide documentation of their experience. Also, students must attend one workshop each semester. A variety of workshops will be offered focusing on parenting issues.
Other services provided to students participating in the CCAMPIS program include the following:•Academicadvisingandregularmonitoringofthestudent’sacademicprogress•CareerCounselingandemploymentinformation•Referralstocommunitysupportservices
For more information or to make an appointment contact:Deirdre Moran [email protected]
Advisors should refer students to CCAMPIS if:•Thestudenthaschildren.Ifastudentisaparentthentheyshouldattheveryleastknowof
CCAMPIS and what they offer.
•Thestudentidentifiesconcernsregardingreliablechildcare.Somestudentsmayhavechildcarelined up but have concerns over reliability. Encourage them to explore all options, including CCAMPIS.
•Astudenthaschildrenandexpressesconcernovercostofchildcare.Childcareisexpensive!CCAMPIS is a great option for those concerned over how to pay for good child care.
•Student’sabilitytoregularlyattendclasseshasbeencompromisedduetochildcareissues.
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Community Resources
Battered Women’s Resources (BWR) 24-hour local hotline:978-537-8601
Safelink State Hotline:877-785-2020
Gardner Office:978-537-2306www.bwri.ywcacentralmass.org
Find MA Early Childcare Programshttp://www.mass.gov/under “serach” type: Find Early Education & Care Programs
First Concern Pregnancy Resource Center2 High St., Clinton, MA1-888-657-1773•[email protected]
GLBT studentsThe GLBT National Hotline is a great resource
for individuals with questions about health and
relationships
1-888-843-4564http://www.glnh.org
Hope (House of Peace and Education, Inc.)978-630-4752http://hopegardner.org/index.php
Montachusett Opportunity CouncilFuel Assistance, WIC, Meals on Wheels, Education and Health assistance
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MOC Child Care & Head Start Services133 Pritchard St., Fitchburg, MA978-343-0185
National Suicide Prevention Hotline1-800-273-8255
Northeast Veteran Training and Rehabilitation Center3 Victory Lane, Gardner, Ma978-632-1271www.veteranhomestead.org
Rape Crisis Center of Central Massachusetts (Fitchburg & Worcester)24HourTollFreeHOTLINE:800-870-5905
Spanish American CenterLeominster, MA978-534-5146http://www.spanishamericancenter.org/
United Way of Central Massachusettshttp://www.unitedwaycm.org or Dial 2-1-1 in MA. 2-1-1 helps you find free information on many services; food, shelter, rent assistance, utility bill assistance, childcare, counseling, senior services, disaster relief.
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Advising Nuts and BoltsMWCC Career LaddersWhat is a Career Ladder and how does it benefit students?
A career ladder is an educational strategy that positions the student to earn a credential and then build upon that credential through further study. This strategy allows students to first earn a certificate degree in an area of study and then pursue an Associate’s Degree in the same or related area.
Thiseducationalapproachensuresstudentscompletetherequirementsforonecredentialbeforemovingontopursuetherequirementsofthenext.Associate’sDegreecurriculumsincludethecertificate curriculum and thus while the student earns the certificate they are working toward an Associate’s Degree.
By completing one credential before moving on to pursue the next the student protects themselves should they be pulled away from college by outside responsibilities-work or family for example. If they must leave college, a career ladder approach may at least put a student in a position to do so with an earned credential that will be useful to them.
Belowarealistofpossiblecareerladdersandtheirsequence:
Area of Study Program SequenceAccounting CAA-BACAAllied Health EMT/PLB-AHC-GSAHAuto Tech ATC-ATDBiotechnology BTC-BTDBusiness Administration BUC/OAC/SBC-BAC/BA/BACAComplementary Health Care CHC-CHYComputer Graphic Design-Web CGWC-CGWComputer Graphic Design-Print CGDC-CGDEnergy Management EGC-EGDHuman Services HSC-HSComputer Information Systems ITC-CISCriminal Justice CJLC-CJLMedical Office/Assisting MCC/MOC-MASParalegal PLS-PLDNursing PN-NU/NUE
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Math Flow Chart
Mathematics course flow chart (effective fall 2010)
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MAT-090
MAT-092
MAT-096
MAT-140
MAT-141
MAT-128
MAT-163
MAT-211
MAT-126MAT-143
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Course Options for Developmental Students
Most of the courses listed may be taken concurrently with 099/100 level courses. You should also consider Cycle courses for developmental students.
No PrereqsART 101 Introduction to PaintingART103IntroductiontoSculptureART105IntroductiontoDrawingART 113 Introduction to StudioCGD107DesigningWebGraphicsCIS102ComputerService&Repair(needunderstandingofDOSandcomputers)(only1credit)FYE101FirstYear SeminarMAT *** Appropriate Math CourseMUS103MusicSkills&TheoryIMUS104MusicSkills&TheoryII(uponcompletionofMUS103)MUS 111 Voice (only 2 credits)MUS120MusicalTheatreDanceStylesMUS210MusicAppreciationPHO115IntroductiontoDigitalPhotographyPSY101PsychologyofSelf(onlytheonedesignatedfor“developmental”students)
RDG 100 prerequisite only (may NOT be taken concurrently with RDG 100ACC101PrinciplesofAccounting(alsorequiresMAT092)CIS101KeyboardingCIS103WordProcessingApplicationsCIS109ProgramminginBasic(alsorequiresMAT092)CIS118InternetTechnologies(alsorequiresMAT092)CIS120MicrocomputerApplications(alsorequiresMAT092)CIS140MicrocomputerNetworkingApplications(alsorequiresMAT092)CIS143PCMaintenance(alsorequiresMAT092)MAS101MedicalSecretarial(co/prereqofCIS101)MAS102MedicalTerminologyNUR099FoundationsofNursingSuccess(alsorequiresMAT096)PER126/130Fitness&Wellness(alsorequiresMAT092)
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Contact Information:Linda BolducDepartment [email protected]
Business Administration/ Transfer + Career “Cheat Sheet”
Initial course recommendations for part-time students:All course sequencing may be affected by any necessary developmental coursework
Semester 1ACC101ENG101CIS127
Semester 2ACC102ENG102MAT126
Semester 3MGT210ACC227MKT142
Additional program notes for intake advisors:Also could consider BUS211 during second or third semester.
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Contact Information:Lara DowlandDepartment ChairExt.572 (Devens campus)[email protected]
Biotechnology/Biomanufacturing “Cheat Sheet”
Initial course recommendations for part-time students:All course sequencing may be affected by any necessary developmental coursework
Semester 1 BTC101BIO109
Semester 2 BTC102CHE203
Semester 3 BTC110BTC190
Additional program notes for intake advisors:BTC110 is a fall only class. BTC120 and BTC200 are spring only classes. The department does not typically offer BTC classes in the summer.
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Contact Information:Carol ReedDepartment [email protected]
Computer Information Systems “Cheat Sheet”
Initial course recommendations for part-time students:All course sequencing may be affected by any necessary developmental coursework
Semester 1 *See below
Semester 2 *See below
Semester 3 *See below
Additional program notes for intake advisors:*For each semester, the advisor should follow the sequence based on the current college catalog. Students should be encouraged to leave 1-3 hours of time outside of the classroom for homework.
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Contact Information:Reed HillmanDepartment ChairExt. [email protected]
Criminal Justice “Cheat Sheet”
Initial course recommendations for part-time students:All course sequencing may be affected by any necessary developmental coursework
Semester 1
CJU 131-Intro to Criminal JusticeSOC103-IntrotoSociology
Semester 2ENG101-EnglishCompICJU 232-Intro to Crimonolgy
Semester 3ENG102-EnglishCompIIPSY105-IntrotoPsych
Additional program notes for intake advisors:Additional program notes for intake advisors:
It is critical that CJ students take “Introduction to Criminal Justice” and “Introduction to Sociology” during their first semester (for most students, fall semester)
It is critical that CJ students take “Introduction to Criminology” in the second semester (that is, spring semester, freshman year, and not during the same semester they are taking Seminar in Criminal Justice, which should almost invariably be taken spring of the student’s last year)
It is critical that corrections students should take Counseling and Rehabilitation of the Offender in the fall of their second year
It is desired that students not take “Introduction to Sociology” and “Introduction to Psychology” at the same time
It is desired that students not take “Criminal Procedure” and “Criminal Law” at the same time
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Contact Information:Tom MontagnoDepartment [email protected]
Natural Resources Degree “Cheat Sheet”
Initial course recommendations for part-time students:All course sequencing may be affected by any necessary developmental coursework
Semester 1 Ecology(Bio116)Forestry(Bio102)
Semester 2 Horticulture(Bio120)GreenhouseManagement(Bio140)
Semester 3 PlantScience(Bio130)EnvironmentalScience(Che120)
Additional program notes for intake advisors:The above is recommended for part time students. Typically, Forestry, Ecology, and Plant Science is only offered in the fall. Soil Science and Greenhouse Management are typically only offered in the Spring. Horticulture has been offered both Fall and Spring. There are other program courses whichvaryyeartoyear.ItisalsoveryimportantthatanystudentdeclaringNRDasamajor,seeTomMontagno early in their beginning semester so that he may begin advising them on their individual education plan.
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Intake Process
Step 1: New Student Welcome Session
-Requiredofalldegree-seeking students (includes new, ft/pt and transfer)
-Run weekly on each campus and online
-Programs overview-Support Services-Outline steps to intake-Testing prep-Financial Aid Info (possible FAFSA prep)
-Make testing and advising appointments
-Tours
Step 5: Orientation DayProgram Breakouts
-Meet Faculty and Advisors-BBQ and entertainment-Family/Support, Satellite, and Evening Orientations run prior to orientation day
-Supplemented with Virtual Orientation
Step 6: First Year Experience
-Challenge & Support Model-Intrusive and tailored advising
-Early warnings and intervention
-Learning Communities-Supplemental Instruction-Linkages between curricular and co-curricular
-21st Century Skills in Gatekeeper courses-FYE101-FYE Passport-Student Involvement Initiative
Step 4: Summer Outreach
-Ongoing messaging targeted by cohort and timed based on students’ needs
-ID dates (linked with FYE passport)-Facebook“Entering2011MWCC students” group
Step 7: Ongoing Retention Efforts
-Disabilities/Personal Counseling
-Academic/Career/Tranfer Advising
-Academic Support and Library Instruction
-Job Placement/Internships/Service Learning
Step 3: Advising
-DegreeWorks Educational Plan
-Test result analysis & Course selection
-The Link-Risk assessments and referrals
-Reminders on next steps-ID dates assigned-Waive health insurance
Step 2: TestingAccuplacer
-Include video of student explaining test
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PLACEMENT SCORES: POSTED APRIL 2011
EnglishWritePlacerEssay0-2=ENG099WritingReadinessWritePlacerEssay3-4=ENG100FundamentalsofWritingWritePlacerEssay5=ENG101EnglishCompositionI
Sentence SkillsSentenceSkills0-42=ENG099WritingReadinessSentenceSkills43-67=ENG100FundamentalsofWritingSentenceSkills68+orabove=ENG101EnglishCompositionI
Reading0-33=RDG090ReadingandWritingReadiness34-52=RDG099FundamentalsofReadingI53-68=RDG100FundamentalsofReadingII69+=ENG101EnglishCompositionI
Must meet all 3 requirements to place in ENG101 English Composition IWritePlacerEssay5+>SentenceSkills68+or+=ENG101Reading69+or>
Arithmetic0-35 =MAT090FoundationsofArithmetic36-80=MAT092FoundationsofAlgebraI81+=MAT096FoundationsofAlgebraII
Algebra55-82=MAT096FoundationsofAlgebraII83+=MAT126/128/140/143TopicsinMathematics/IntermediateAlgebra/Elementsof Mathematics I/Statistics
College Level Math65-95=MAT163Pre-Calculus96-120=MAT211CalculusI
MAT141 Elements of Mathematics No placement scores. Students must complete MAT140MAT212 Calculus II No placement scores. Students must complete MAT211.
Math scores effective for Fall semester 2010
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ven
a ho
listi
c scorerangingfrom1to8thatrepresentshowclearlyand
effe
ctiv
ely
you
expr
esse
d yo
ur p
osit
ion.
The
follo
win
g si
x ch
arac
teri
stic
s of
wri
ting
will
be
cons
ider
ed:
• P
urp
ose
and
Foc
us –Theextenttowhichyou
pres
ent
info
rmat
ion
in a
uni
fied
and
cohe
rent
m
anne
r, c
lear
ly a
ddre
ssin
g th
e is
sue.
•O
rgan
izat
ion
an
d S
tru
ctu
re–Theextenttowhich
you
orde
r an
d co
nnec
t id
eas.
•D
evel
opm
ent
and
Su
pp
ort –Theextenttowhich
you
deve
lop
and
supp
ort
idea
s.•
Sen
ten
ce V
arie
ty a
nd
Sty
le –
The
ext
ent
to w
hich
yo
u cr
aft
sent
ence
s an
d pa
ragr
aphs
dem
onst
rati
ng
cont
rol o
f voc
abul
ary,
voi
ce a
nd s
truc
ture
.•
Mec
han
ical
Con
ven
tion
s –
The
ext
ent
to w
hich
you
ex
pres
s id
eas
usin
g St
anda
rd W
ritt
en E
nglis
h.•
Cri
tica
l T
hin
kin
g –
The
ext
ent
to w
hich
you
co
mm
unic
ate
a po
int
of v
iew
and
dem
onst
rate
re
ason
ed r
elat
ions
hips
am
ong
idea
s.
ENG099(notcollegelevel)0-2
ENG100(notcollegelevel)3-4
ENG101;5-8
EN
G10
1 P
lace
men
tM
ust
mee
t al
l 3
requ
irem
ents
WritePlacerEssay;
5orhigher
SentenceSkills;
68orhigher
Reading;
69orhigher
Rea
din
g C
omp
reh
ensi
on T
est
Thi
s te
st m
easu
res
how
wel
l you
und
erst
and
wha
t yo
u re
ad.
Thereare20questions.
•Identifyingmainideas
•Applications
•Directstatements/secondaryideas•Sentencerelationships
•Inferences
RDG090(notcollegelevel)0-33
RDG099(notcollegelevel)34-52
RDG100(notcollegelevel)53-68
Goal:69orhigherENG101
Sen
ten
ce S
kill
s Te
stT
his
test
mea
sure
s ho
w w
ell y
ou u
nder
stan
d se
nten
ce
structure–howsentencesareputtogetherandwhatmakesa
sent
ence
com
plet
e an
d cl
ear.
Thereare20questions.
•Recognizecompletesentences
•Coordination/subordination
•Clearsentencelogic
ENG100(notcollegelevel)lessthan68
Goal:68orhigherENG101
For
mat
h pl
acem
ent
all s
tude
nts
take
the
Ele
men
tary
Alg
ebra
te
st a
nd t
hen,
acc
ordi
ng t
o th
eir
scor
es, w
ill b
ranc
h to
eit
her
Ari
thm
etic
or
Col
lege
Lev
el M
ath.
Ele
men
tary
Alg
ebra
Tes
t T
his
test
mea
sure
s a
stud
ent’s
abi
lity
to p
erfo
rm b
asic
al
gebr
aic
oper
atio
ns a
nd t
o so
lve
prob
lem
s th
at in
volv
e
elem
enta
ry a
lgeb
raic
con
cept
s.
Thereare12questions
•Integersandrationals
•Inequalities
•Algebraicexpressions
•Wordproblems
•Equations
MATH096(notcollegelevel);score55-82
MATH126/128/140/143;score83-120
Ari
thm
etic
Tes
tT
his
test
mea
sure
s st
uden
t’s a
bilit
y to
per
form
bas
ic
arit
hmet
ic o
pera
tion
s an
d to
sol
ve p
robl
ems
that
invo
lve
fund
amen
tal a
rith
met
ic c
once
pts.
If t
he s
core
in E
lem
enta
ry
Algebraisbelow54,thetestwillbranchtothistest.
Thereare17questions.
•Wholenumbersandfractions
•Decimalsandpercents
•Application
•Somewordproblem
s
MATH090(notcollegelevel)lessthan35
MATH092(notcollegelevel)36-80
MATH096(notcollegelevel)81-120
Col
lege
Lev
el M
ath
emat
ics
Test
Thi
s te
st m
easu
res
stud
ent’s
abi
lity
to s
olve
pro
blem
s th
at
invo
lve
colle
ge-l
evel
mat
hem
atic
s co
ncep
ts. I
f the
sco
re in
ElementaryAlgebrais83orabovethetestwillbranchto
this
tes
t.
Thereare20questions.
•AlgebraicOperations
•Solutionsofequationsandinequalities
•Coordinategeometry
•Functions
•Trigonometry
•Applications
MATH163;score65-95
MATH211;score96-211
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
CPT Retest Policy•CPTscoresexpireafterthreeyears.Studentsmust retest to ensure they are correctly placed in
courses.
•ALWAYS discuss the possible benefits/drawbacks of retesting with students to determine whether it is the best option.
•CompletetheCPTRetestApprovalFormwiththestudent,thestudentmustpresenttheformtotheTesting Center.
•Encouragestudentstopreparefortesting/retestingbypracticingtheirskillsatthesewebsites:www.testprepreview.com/accuplacer_practice.htmwww.mymathtest.comwww.math.com
•AthridretestmustbeapprovedbyDr.MelissaFama(ext.244)
•Thereisa$10RetestFee.Studentspayeachtimetheytest,regardlessofhowmanyteststheyretake.
•Eachsemesterweofferafree2weekMathrefreshercourse.ThisisspecificallyforstudentswhowanttoretestsotheycanplaceoutofMAT092orMAT096.Questionsabouttherefreshercourseshould be directed to Dr. Bates. The Enrollment Center will register the student.
•Studentsmustwaitaminimumoftwoweeksbeforeattemptingaretest,togivetimeforfurtherpreparation.
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
Bol
ts
Gardner Campus..........978-630-9244
Leominster Campus......978-840-3221
Devens Campus...........978-630-9569
Testing Services
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
CLEP & DANTESCLEP (College-Level Examination Program)
•Seriesofexaminationsthatcanhelpstudentsearntheircollegecreditsquickly.
•35subjectexaminationsadministeredviathecomputer;testsare90-minuteslongandareadministered on campus by Testing Services; monthly, by appointment.
•NoprerequisitesarerequiredtoattemptaCLEPexam.
•Resultsarenotvaliduntilthecollegereceivesbymail,anofficialreportfromCLEP.
•TobeawardedcreditforCLEPatanycollege,youmustmeetthespecificminimumscoressetbythat institution.
•Studentsseetheirresultsimmediatelyaftercompletionoftheexam,withtheexceptionofEnglishComposition with Essay for which the student receives the results in four weeks.
•Finalresultsarenotvaliduntilthestudentreceives,bymail,anofficialreportfromCLEP.
•TheminimumscoressetbyMWCCareavailablethroughTestingServices
•FinancialaidandotherformsoftuitionwaiversarenotavailableforCLEP’S.Cost:$25nonrefundableregistrationfeetoMWCCand$72($80asof7/1/10testfeetoCLEP.)
DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support)
•Standardizedteststhatprovideopportunitiesforstudentstoearncollegecreditquickly.
•Subjectareasinclude:business,physicalscience,humanities,socialscienceandappliedtechnology.(See page 22)
•Examinationsare90minuteslongandadministeredonlineinTestingServices.
•Registrationismonthlybyappointment.
•StudentsmayapplythecredittotheirprogramatMWCCprovidedacomparablecourseexistsandthe minimum score is met.
Cost: $32 nonrefundable registration fee payable to MWCC and $80 test fee to Prometrics (no personal checks or Discover credit card accepted).
For a complete list of DANTES/CLEP tests: www.mwcc.edu/services/testingAd
visi
ng N
uts
& B
olts
Testing Services, Ext.244
Contact Information:
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Challenge Exams•Studentsmayearncreditbyobtaininga“C”(73)orhigheronachallengeexaminaparticularsubjectarea.
•TheChallengeExamisusuallyonlyconsideredwhenaCLEP/DANTESexamisnotavailableforaparticular course.
•TheChallengeExamisequivalentinscopeandcontenttothefinalexaminationoftheselectedsubject.
•TheChallengeExamcoststhesameasitwouldtotakeanyothercreditcourse-theonlythingthestudent saves is time.
•FinancialAidandotherformsofTuitionWaiversarenotavailable.
•CreditearnedthroughChallengeexamswillbetreatedasincomingtransfercreditsandtheywillnot affect a student’s QPA.
•ChallengeExamcreditsDONOTtypicallytransferouttoothercolleges.
•StudentsenrolledintheCriminalJusticeProgramarelimitedto6creditstotalinCLEP,DANTES,or Challenge Exams.
Advanced Placement Examinations (AP Exams)•StudentswhopassAdvancedPlacementexaminationsandearnascoreof3orhighermayreceive
credit for the appropriate course or courses offered by the college. Official transcripts from the AP programarerequired.
•APcreditsareconsidered“transfer”credits.
Life Experience Credits•Amaximumofsix(6)creditsmaybeearnedinsomeprogramsforcollege-levellearningacquired
through work or informal educational experiences.
•NoLifeExperiencecreditmaybeappliedtotheCriminalJusticeProgram.
•Tobeeligible,studentsmusthaveearnedatleast15creditsinresidenceatMWCCwithaminimumQPAof2.50.
•Membersofthefaculty,inconsultationwiththeappropriateDivisionDean,establishthecriteriafor evaluation.
•Theevaluationmayinclude,butwillnotbelimitedto,thefollowing:relevantworkexperience,letters of recommendation, a detailed resume, and a three-to five-page paper.
•LifeExperiencecreditsDONOTtypicallytransfertoothercolleges.
•LifeExperiencecoststhesameasanyothercreditcourse-theonlythingthestudentsavesistime.
•FinancialAidandotherformsofTuitionWaiversarenotavailable.
Advi
sing
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Contact: Appropriate Division Dean
Contact: Appropriate Division Dean
Contact: GlennRoberts,Ext.237
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Program Changes•ConfirmwithEVERYstudentthattheirintendedmajoriscorrectlylistedinBanner.
• How does an Advisor check a student’s program of study?From the SFAREGS screen, click on “Options” column on top left and then click “Detailed Student Information” OR Log Directly into SGASTDN.
• If necessary, complete a Change of Program Form (available in the Enrollment Center or online at: http://www.mwcc.edu/PDFs/ProgramChangeRequest.pdf (see the forms section)
•SubmitcompletedChangeofProgramFormtotheEnrollmentCenter.
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sing
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s &
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ts
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Course Substitutions•CoursesubstitutionmustbeapprovedbytheappropriateDivisionDean.
•CourseSubstitutionFormsmaybeobtainedfromtheRecordsOfficeandmustbesignedbyboththe advisor and student. You can also enter approved substitutions in SPACMNT.
•Sendto:DivisionDean(forapproval)orRecordsOffice(ifapprovalhasalreadybeenobtained).
•StudentsshouldbeinformedthatwhilesubstitutionscanoftenshortentheirpathtoadegreeatMWCC, substitutions might not transfer well.
EXAMPLEHuman Services Degree
Required Course SubstitutionScience Elective Intro to Nutrition
(BIO103orLabScience) NUT101
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
Bol
ts
Dr. Vincent Bates
Art Auto Tech GS-Allied Health
Early Childhood Education
BiotechnologyComplementary
Health Care
ESL
BCT & Photography
CJ
GSBusiness
Dental Hygiene
LAS- all concentrations
CLSHuman Services
LAX(Ex-Science)
CGDMedical Assisting
CIS Nursing
Energy MgtPhysical Therapy
Assistant
Fire Science Practical Nursing
Paralegal
PSY, SOC
BIO, CHE, PHYSciences
Manufacturing Tech
(Plastics/NYPPRO)
Natural Resources
MAT, ENG, PHL, HIS, POL, FYE, Developmental
courses
Janice Barney Eileen Costello
Dean Organizational Chart
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Dual Enrollment Program•TheDualEnrollmentProgramoffersjuniorsandseniorsfromparticipatinghighschools,andthose
who are homeschooled, the chance to enroll in college classes prior to their high school graduation.
•Becausedualenrollmentstudentshavetheirowncriteriaforacceptance,JohnWalshdeterminesacceptance on a case by case basis after placement testing has been completed.
•Theapplicationusedbydualenrollmentstudentsliststhecoursesastudentneedstocompleteinorder to graduate from high school.
•Becauseoftheuniquecircumstancesofthedualenrollmentstudents,theyareONLYadvisedbyNancy Kennedy or Greg Clement.
•Ifyouareunsurewhetherornotastudentisdualenrollment,youcangototheSGASTDNscreen.ThemajorislistedasNPandtheAdmissionTypeisdualenrollment.
Tech Prep Articulations•TechPrepisanagreementbetweenareahighschoolsandMWCC.
- Five Consortium Schools- Monty Tech & Leominster CTE (all students Tech Prep)- Fitchburg, Lunenburg, and Murdock (limited numbers of Tech Prep students)
•TechPrepStudentscansometimesbegrantedcollegecreditforhighschoolcourses.
•AllMontyTech&LeominsterCTEstudentswillbe“triggered”tolistTechPrepontheRecommended Resources Report. In this case, you should contact Veronica Guay WITH the student. Veronica will reach out to FHS, LHS, and MHS students directly.
•IfyoucannotreachVeronicapleasesendheranemailwiththestudent’sname.
Contact Information: Veronica GuayDirector of Dual Enrollment [email protected](978)630-9533
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
Bol
ts
Contact Information:Nancy Kennedy Glen RobertsAdvising Center Enrollment Center978-630-9178 978-630-9237
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
FERPA•ThereleaseofinformationcontainedinMWCCstudentrecords,especiallygrades,transcripts,and
financial aid information, is strictly controlled and regulated by federal law, the Family Educational RightsandPrivacyAct(FERPA).SeeFERPAbrochureathttp://www.mwcc.edu/PDFs/FERPA%20brochure.pdf. (see forms section)
•Studentsmaychoosetohavetheirstudentrecordsprovidedtoparentsorotherthirdpartiesonaone-time or one-year basis by completing the student record information waiver form (available from the Enrollment Center or online at http://www.mwcc.edu/PDFs/StudentRecordInfoWaiver.pdf
•Ifastudent’srecordismarked“Confidential”youcannot release ANY information to a 3rd party. You cannot even tell a 3rd party if the person is a student at MWCC.
•Thefollowing“directory”informationcanbereleasedwithoutconsentifthereisnotaconfidentialmarker on their account:
•Student’sfirst,middleinitialandlastname•Thecityandstateofthestudent’sbillingaddress•Thestudent’sdeclaredprogram(s)ofstudy•Thestudent’sdatesofattendanceandenrollmentstatus(full-timeorpart-time)forall
period(s) of enrollment
•Academicdegreesandawardsreceived•Collegesponsorede-mailaddresses.
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
Bol
ts
Contact Information:Ann McDonaldExecutive Vice President978-630-9164
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Advising FAQsI am working with a student who completed (at MWCC or through transfer) a developmental math course that no longer exists (i.e. MAT 100/120/121/124). What math should they take next?
IfastudentpreviouslysuccessfullycompletedMAT090,theygointoMAT092,MAT100theygointoMAT092,MAT120theygointoMAT096,andMAT121/124theygointoeitherMAT126orMAT128(if121/124don’tfulfilltheirdegreerequirements.Keepinmindthatinallof these instances students must have earned a C or better in the developmental level course to advance into next level course.
***AdvisorscancontactDr.Bates(x350)forspecificquestionsregardingmathrequirements.
Can students use credits regardless of the age of the credits?Thecatalogstatesthat“coursestakenmorethantenyearsprioraresubjecttoapprovalbytheappropriate Division Dean”. However, students can often use credits regardless of how old theyare.Soforexample,ifastudentisreturningtothecollegeafter40yearsandcompletedENG101andPSY105hereoratanotheraccreditedcollegein1970,theycanusuallyapplythose credits towards a degree at MWCC. When in doubt, contact the division dean.
Healthprogramsrequirecompletionoflabscienceswithinthepast5years.Studentscannolonger petition for exceptions to this policy.
In certain cases where the courses are more technical in nature, it is sometimes not permitted and/or advisable for a student to use older credits. For example, if a student completed ACC 101in1970,hasNOTworkedintheaccountingfield,andreturnstotheBACdegreetoday,itwouldnotbeadvisableforthatstudenttotakeACC102.Manystudentswillrecognizethisand choose to retake the course on their own. When in doubt about specific cases, consult the Division Dean who oversees the program.
Which year’s degree should we use when advising the student?Thecollegecatalogrefersto“ChangeinDegreeRequirements”.Basically,ifastudentcompletedcoursesinaprogramwithinthepast10yearsbutleftandisreturning,wewillhonorthepriordegreerequirements.Ifthestudentwasheremorethan10yearsago,theyshould follow the current curriculum. There is no need to contact Glenn or Karen to confirm this.
Contact the appropriate Division Dean if unsure. Whenever possible, try to fit the student’s courses into the current program. Also, if a student is planning to transfer, using the current curriculummightmakethemostsense(i.e.iftheoldmathrequirementwasMAT120andthey want to transfer, it makes sense to complete the higher math here as they will need it anyway at the four-year school).
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
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ts
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Is this student required to take FYE 101? RDG099andENG099arepre-requisitesforFYE101.Ifastudenttestsintoeitherofthoseclasses,theymustFIRSTcompletethe099courseBEFOREenrollinginFYE101.
FYE101isaco-requisiteorpre-requisiteforRDG100andENG100.Thismeansthatifstudentsneedtotakethese100levelcourses,theymusteithertakeFYE101FIRSTorattheSAMETIME.IfyoufailtoplaceastudentintoFYE101priortoorconcurrentwithRDG100/ENG100,youwillreceiveapre-requisiteerror.
Currently,theFYE101requirementDOESNOTapplytostudentswhotestintodevelopmentalmath.
AsofFall2011,GeneralStudiesstudentsarerequiredtotakeFYE101intheirfirstsemester.
PleasenotethatFYE101isbeingofferedthroughavarietyofgrantsorprograms,suchasVisions, Veterans Success Center, or some of our Dual Enrollment Programs. If a student has takenFYE101throughoneofthepre-collegeprogramsandpassed,theydonotneedtoretakeit.
Theserequirementscurrentlyapplytomatriculating(degree-seeking)studentsandbothpart-timeandfull-timestudents.AnywaiverofFYE101willberareandneedstobeapprovedbyDr. Melissa Fama.
Can I override this prerequisite error in Banner?95%ofthetime….NO!!!AdvisorsshouldNEVERoverrideprerequisiteerrorsforstudentswhohavenotcompletedtheprerequisitesthroughpriorcourseworkorplacementtesting.Theseprerequisitesareinplacetoputstudentsinthemostappropriatelevelcourse.
There are a few times when it is appropriate to override the error.•Cyclecourses(butdoublechecktomakesurethatthestudenthas,orwillmeet,theappropriateprerequisite)
•Transferstudents-ifthestudentprovidesyouwithanofficialorunofficialtranscript,youcan override the error. Make sure to remind the student that we need official transcripts prior to the start of classes. Also, make sure to document this for the student’s file. Non-matriculated students do not need to supply transcripts, but instead check a box on the quickadmitform.
•Occasionally,Bannerwillpresentanerrorincorrectly.Again,makesuretodoublecheckand when appropriate, override the error. If you encounter any unexpected errors, please notify Deb Boucher as soon as possible.
•Ifyouthinkanoverrideisappropriateinanothersituation,pleaseobtainapprovalfromDeb Boucher, Glenn Roberts, the Division Dean, or Melissa Fama PRIOR TO overriding the error.
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
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ts
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
This student tested into developmental courses but insists on taking college level courses. What should I do?
Per college policy, students must take the CPT for course placement unless they have prior transfer credit. These tests provide us with valuable information to place the student in courses in which they have the greatest chance of success. Under no circumstances should advisors disregard the placement test scores and place a student into higher level courses.
Ifstudentsoradvisorshavequestionsorconcernsaboutthispolicy,youmaycontactMelissaFama, Glenn Roberts, or Deb Boucher.
Do I need to complete a degree audit for this student? How do I do that?For new students, please provide them with a copy of their current program. These are available online or can be copied from the college catalog.
For continuing students, please complete a degree audit for the student when meeting with them. You can do this by hand or through WebConnect. Directions for completing degree audits on WebConnect are available on the Advisor BlackBoard site and in the advisor handbook.
Degree audits allow us to insure that students are only taking courses students need for their major.Pleasepaycloseattentionwhenregisteringstudentstomakesureyoudonotplacestudentsinclassesthatdonotapplytotheirmajor.
This student tested into RDG 100 and ENG 101. What classes should they take?
Thiscanbeaconfusingsituation.RDG100isaprerequisiteforENG101,sothestudentmustFIRSTcompleteRDG100BEFOREtakingENG101.However,thestudentDOESNOTneedtotakeENG100iftheytestedintoENG101.Inthisexample,afull-timestudentwouldtakeRDG100and3otherdevelopmental/noprereqrequiredclassesduringafullsemesterinGardner(ofwhichFYE101wouldbeone).OR,thestudentcouldtakeRDG100andanotherdevelopmental/noprereqcourseduringCycle1andthenmoveintoENG101andanothercollege level course during Cycle 2.
Whom should I advise to take a WEB course?You should make sure to have a detailed conversation with the student about their learning style, motivation level, and computer skills. WEB courses are tempting for students with familyorworkresponsibilities,buttheyarenotappropriateforeverystudent.Itisyourjobasan advisor to give the student a realistic picture of what they can expect from a WEB course. See the Advisor Handbook for details on what type of student should take an online course. Remember, WEB courses can be very challenging. Don’t set a student up to fail by advising them to take a course for which they are not prepared.
What is Intersession? When do I register a student for Intersession? Maymester?
Intersession courses take place over two weeks during January. These are very time-intensive courses that are not ideal for every student. Students can register for Intersession courses starting in November. Students can register for Maymester starting in April.
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
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ts
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
What is the TEAS test?The TEAS test is a basic skills test. Students must pass the TEAS test in order to gain acceptance to MWCC’s Nursing programs (RN, PN, & Bridge). Students can obtain a complete preparation package online at www.atitesting.com/onlinestore. Students with detailed questionsshouldbereferredtoAdmissionsortheTestingCenter.
This student tested into multiple levels of Math. What classes should they take?
If students test into more than one level of math, we should start by having a conversation with themabouttheirmathskills.Forexample,ifastudentreceivesa40onArithmeticanda68on College Level Math, which math should they take? Based on our current testing policy, the studentisELIGIBLEtotakeMAT163.However,itisagoodideatotalktothestudentabouttheir math history to make sure this is an appropriate placement.
How do I register students for courses that include labs?Labs and lectures have separate CRN #s, so you must register the student for BOTH the lecture and the lab in WebConnect.
Labsciences,PER130,andcertainBCTcourseshavelabcomponents.Othercoursesmayoccasionallyhavealabrequirementaswell.CheckthecommentssectionontheCourseListing to make sure you enroll students appropriately.
If you ever encounter situations where labs and lectures aren’t linking, please contact Stephanie WisemanintheRecordsOfficeatext.107.
My next appointment is a CGD student. Can I advise this person?Elaine Murray is the ONLY advisor that is permitted to register CGD students for day courses in Gardner. Seat counts on these courses will be set to zero and no other advisor should register students for these sections. We will make every attempt to funnel these students to Elaine, but should you end up with a CGD student, please contact Elaine ASAP to see if she can see the student instead. If she can, send the student to her. If she is not available, please provide some general advising and an introduction to the college to the student. Then have themcontactDawn(ext.568)tosetupanappointmentwithElaine.Ifreturningfora2ndappointment is a hardship for the student, they can have a phone advising appointment with Elaine.
If you are meeting with a CGD student who tested into developmental courses, you should still meet with the student (as they will not need any of the day CGD courses anyway) and remind them that next semester, they need to meet with Elaine.
This student is asking me about Life Experience credit. What should I tell them?
The Advising Binder has details on LE credit. In general, students should be referred to theappropriateDivisionDeanforquestionsaboutLE.LEcreditcannotbeusedforourCJprograms, does not typically transfer to other colleges, and it costs the same as any other credit course.
Advi
sing
Nut
s &
Bol
ts
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
This student is applying for Section 30. How do I advise them?Section30studentsarenowadvisedbyaspeciallydesignatedadvisor,MichelleContey.StudentscansetupappointmentswithherbycallingtheLeominstercampus(978-840-3221ext160)orbycontactingtheAdvisingandCounselingCenter(x.568).
This student wants to get into the Nursing program? What courses should I advise them to take?
While potential Nursing students are most typically classified as GSAH or AHC (Allied Health) students, you should NEVER use the GSAH or AHC curriculum to advise a student whose primary goal is acceptance into a selective program. Instead, advise them to take all of the non-nursing courses listed in the NU curriculum (see the College Catalog). Advisors should also refer students to an info session. Dates/times/locations of info sessions are available in the Enrollment Center/Admissions or on www.mwcc.edu.
More details on advising potential Health Science students are available in the Advising Binder.
This student is unsure about a possible major. How should I advise them?Advisors can discuss possible career options with students. Several excellent websites exist to help advisors and students make career decisions. These are posted on Bb under External Links. You can also google Mass CIS and access the first link. If students need more intensive career advising, please refer them to the Advising & Counseling Center.
StudentswhoareunsureofamajorandareinterestedintransfershouldenrollintheLASprogram.StudentswhoareunsureofamajorandDEFINITELYdonotwanttotransfershouldenroll in the GS program. LAS is best if a student is unsure of transfer plans.
This student wants to take a CLEP exam and is interested in transfer. Will the CLEP credit transfer?
Maybe. Visit the CLEP website for more details on which colleges accept CLEP credit www.collegeboard.com/clep. Ultimately, we cannot guarantee that another college will accept CLEP credit, so it is the student’s responsibility to contact schools and investigate their options. Most schools take CLEP.
This student wants to investigate a course substitution. How should I advise them?
All course substitutions must be approved by the appropriate division dean. As an advisor, you can contact the dean on the student’s behalf or refer the student to the dean. Bear in mind that substitutions might work well for the student at MWCC, but in terms of transfer, they are not always ideal. Again, we cannot guarantee if another school will approve a substitution. Students should contact the transfer school to receive advice on this topic.
This student wants to transfer a course they take/have taken at MWCC to another college. Who should they speak to?
Studentsshouldcontacttheothercollegetoinquireaboutacceptanceoftransfercredit.Wecan often speak generally about how courses will transfer (Intro to Psych typically transfers very easily, Comp I, etc.) but we can never guarantee that another college will take a course in transfer. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the transfer school and gain approval for transfercredits.LimariRivera(ext.197)canassistasneeded.
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This student wants to take a course at another college and transfer it back to MWCC. Who should they speak to?
Glenn Roberts, Deb Boucher, & Aaron Spencer can advise the student about how the course will transfer into MWCC.
This student wants to enroll at MWCC for a semester and then transfer over to a four- year school. How do I help them pick classes?
Advisorscanlogontothefour-yearschool’swebsite.Completecourserequirementsareoftenlisted online. We can then make our best guess as to the appropriate courses for the student to take,butagain,finalsayontransferisuptothefour-yearschool.LimariRivera(ext.197)canassist as needed.
Do we automatically accept CIS 117 in place of CIS 127? No,notanymore!!!StudentswhopreviouslycompletedCIS117mustnowenrollCIS127.
If a new student comes to the Enrollment Center/Main Office (any campus) with a registration form and wants to register for a class or classes, is it okay to lift the web registration hold and register them?
ALL new and readmitted matriculating students need to meet with an advisor, regardless of the number of courses they sign up for. Non-matriculating students do NOT need to meet with an advisor, but may wish to do so.
What should I do if a student I am trying to register has a hold?If it is a web hold, advisors should remove or ask front-line staff to remove the hold. For any other hold (i.e. library, student accounts, international, immunization) you should NOT remove the hold and refer students to that office. Only that office should remove the hold. Try calling the office to see if it can be handled so that the student can register.
What grade does a student need to receive in developmental courses to move on to the next level course?
Per college policy, students need a C or better in developmental courses in order to move into thenextlevelcourse.Forexample,ifastudentreceivesaC-inMAT128theycannotadvanceintoMAT163.Studentscanretesttoadvanceintothenextlevel.Retestscost$10andneedacompleted retest form signed by an advisor.
Does financial aid cover students taking courses for GSAH that might not be needed for GS?
MWCC has many General Studies Concentrations, such as General Studies Allied Health or General Studies Dental Hygiene. Some are not “real” degrees in the eyes of the Records office or Financial Aid. For example, if a student completes the GS-CLS degree, their actual diploma will be in General Studies, not CLS.
However,GSAHisuniqueinthatastudent’sdegreeWILLsayGeneralStudies-AlliedHealthand for financial aid purposes, they follow the GSAH, not the GS, curriculum.
Is it okay to override a prerequisite if the instructor gives approval?No. All overrides (even those with instructor approval) must be approved by the appropriate division dean or campus manager (John Walsh/Julie Crowley).
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A student tested very high in reading and sentence skills, but received a 4 on his essay. He does not want to retest, what should I do?
This is a situation where you should use your advising skills to explain very clearly to this student what his options are. Make sure he knows that based on his scores, it is highly likely he can get his essay score up if he retests. Also, explain that he will spend time and money on coursework that is probably below his skill level. Ultimately, we cannot force a student toretest,butitisourjobtomakesurestudentsunderstandthecostsandbenefitsoftheirchoices.
Should I always advise a student to complete their degree before transferring?Not necessarily. There are great benefits to the student and to the institution if students stay and complete their degree BEFORE transferring. However, in certain rare circumstances, itmaynotbeinthestudent’sbestinterest.Forexample,ifastudentwantstomajorinengineering, due to the types of courses they will need to take to earn their bachelor’s degree (courses we do not offer at MWCC), it is sometimes best that the student transfer after only one or two semesters.
Wheneverpossible,trytofindoutwhatastudentwantstomajorinandWHEREtheywanttotransfer to in the long run, and then visit that school’s website to determine which courses they willneedtotake.Whenindoubt,consultwiththetransfercounselor,LimariRiveraatx197.
Do our PHY courses transfer into Engineering programs at 4-year institutions?Typically no. Those schools are looking for a calculus-based physics. Our physics courses are not calculus-based.
Can students retake portions of the TEAS test that they fail, or do they need to retake the entire test?
Students who wish to retake the TEAS test must retake the ENTIRE test. They cannot retake portions of it.
Can a student use Creative Writing (ENG 239) as a Literature Elective?No! Creative Writing cannot be used as a Literature Elective. It can be used as a Humanities Elective, or a General Elective.
Does this student need to take PER 126/130?That depends on your program of study. Some programs have opted to change from the PER requirementtoamoreflexibleHealthElective.Pleasecloselyreviewthenewrequirementsineach of the programs.
What do I need to know about the new BCT concentrations?In an effort to better address the needs of BCT students, two new BCT concentrations have been developed. Please review the college catalog with students and contact Joel Anderson (ext.128)ifyouhaveanyspecificquestionsaboutthecorrectprogramofstudyforBCTstudents.
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Student Engagement
Student Engagement/Orientation/Student LifeOrientation programs are designed to give students an overview of college life, from academics to social activities. The day features introductions to specific programs of study, a motivational speaker, and meetings with other students, faculty and staff. Students will obtain their student ID and have opportunities to purchase textbooks as well as familiarize themselves with the campus and college community..
Benefits of attending Orientation•Meet faculty and advisors
•Learn important college dates
•Learn about student responsibilities and faculty expectations
•Learn the differences between high school and college learning
•Learn about key campus resources and co-curricular activities
•Learn the “basics” of college life
•Obtain your student ID and student passport
•Meet fellow classmates and make new friends
MWCC ID DatesDates can be found on the student portal: Iconnect.mwcc.edu
Student Passport ProgramThe Passport Program is designed to introduce students to a vast array of services, programs and opportunitiesatMWCC.Theprogramrequiresstudentstogathersignaturesfromcollegepersonnelworkinginvariousareasandfunctionsofthecollege.Studentswhogatherallrequiredsignatureswill be entered to win a prize. The goal is to introduce students to all of the opportunities available to them at MWCC through student life as well as the numerous college services here to help them on campus while connecting a face to those opportunities.
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Student Clubs and OrganizationsThe Mount offers many opportunities for students to participate in organizations and clubs.
Curriculum Clubs
Anatomy and Physiology and Human Biology Club The purpose of this club shall be to form a group of students with a common interest in the human body, its form and its function. The club will apply knowledge obtained in Anatomy and Physiology and Human Biology courses to deepen their understanding of how the body is made how it functions, to provide discovery of these sciences with information sharing, and to provide service to the student body and Mount Wachusett Community College.Art Club The purpose of the Art Club is to stimulate interest in the visual arts within the school and community. Activities of the club in past years have included trips to various art museums in New England and New York.
Auto Club The purpose of this club shall be to form a group of students with a common interest in the repair andmaintenanceofthestudents’,faculty,andstaffvehicles.Theclubwillapplytechniquesobtainedin the Mount Wachusett Community College Automotive Program and the automotive industry.
Computer Graphic Design Club This group was formed in an attempt to increase awareness in communication technology of the future and to stimulate interest in graphic design within the College and the community.
Dental Hygienist Club This group was formed to serve as the official association of the dental hygiene program students through which administration may communicate with the hygiene students as a body and also that the students may have a voice to the administration through such association, to promote the dental hygiene program at MWCC, and to bring about awareness of the program and participate in the college health program activities.
Early Childhood Education Club The propose of this organization shall be to gather educators and future educators for increased understanding and open discussion of issues and trends that affect the early childhood eduction community. Furthermore, the organization will foster a collegial atmosphere among organization members and continue to enhane outreach to the children and families of the Garrison Center for Early Childhood Education.
ESL Club (English as Second Language) The purpose of this organization will be to offer ESL students a place where they can connect with each other to practice their conversational skills in order to continue improving their English, and to participate in extracurricular activities.
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Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Green Society The propose of this organization is to increase awareness to members through further participation of education outside the classroom, to stimulate interest in the greenhouse and the Natural Resource program within the college and to the community, and to promote and develop ideas for the interest and welfare of the greenhouse and Natural Resource curriculum at the College. Membership is open to all MWCC students, faculty and alumni.
Human Service Club The purpose of this club shall be to form a group of students to search for and assess the needs of the community and to utilize the group’s potential as helping members of that society by extending the helping process to others. All members of MWCC and its faculty are welcome to participate in all aspects of the Human Service Club and become part of a helping resource in the College community.
Legal Studies Group The purpose of the Legal Studies Group is to provide an avenue to advance the legal education of students; to provide a forum for legal ideas and discussion; and to provide an opportunity to observe legal procedures.
Marketing Club The purpose of the Mount Wachusett Community College Collegiate Chapter of the American Marketing Association is to foster scientific study and research in the field of marketing; to develop sound thinking in marketing theory and more exact knowledge and definition of marketing principles;toimprovethemethodsandtechniquesofmarketingresearch;todevelopbetterpublicunderstandingandappreciationofmarketingproblems;tostudyanddiscusslegislationandjudicialdecisions regarding marketing; to improve marketing personnel; to record progress in marketing through the publication of outstanding papers; to encourage and uphold sound, honest practices, and to keep marketing operations on a high ethical plane; and to promote friendly relations between students, faculty, and business people.
Math and Our Community Club Math is a thing absolutely necessary in innumerable fields of study, professions, and every-day situations. Unfortunately, amongst many students, such a universal necessity has come to be seen as irrelevant,evenuseless.MathandOurCommunitywillbringtogetherbothstudentswhoenjoymathand those who are skeptical of its application. It will, with the aid of several guest speakers, introduce tostudentsreal-world,current,andpracticalusesformathematics—whetheritbealgebraic,statistic,calculus, or trigonometry-based. It will be a group of students who will help one another, who will learn together, and who will engage in mathematics not as a monotonous, academic ritual, but as a genuinelyenjoyablepractice,whereinthemorerealisticwholeofasubjectisdiscovered.Overtime,Math and Our Community hopes to change the general perception students have of mathematics, andgiveinsighttoasubjectthatiscommonlymisregarded.Ultimately,thiswillimprovethestudents’ understanding of mathematical concepts, and allow him/her to pursue any mathematical agendum without the discouragement and mental-blockade of a negative disposition.
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Medical Assisting and Medical Office Club The purpose of MAS & MOC shall be to create professional networks for its members within the medical field for employment or clinical internship purposes; offer its members opportunity for volunteer and community service activity; develop professional confidence and leadership skill for its members; and to provide its members a support system for academic study.
Student Nurses Association (SNA) ThepurposeofSNAwillbetorepresentthemajorityofthenursingstudentbodyofMountWachusett Community College. SNA will explore professional growth and will promote mutual respect in collaboration between the different levels of nursing. SNA will serve as a channel for the exchange of ideas to promote holistic health and provide for both patient and student education.
Service OrganizationsCATS (Campus Activities Team for Students) CATS develops, organizes, and implements programs which serve the cultural, educational, recreational, and social interests of the student body and the MWCC college community. Members participate in hands on planning and production for events such as the Fall Welcome Back Fest, Spring Fling, and the annual New York City Trip. Several members are selected to represent the club at the National Association of Student Activities conference.
iPublications The purpose of this organization shall be to showcase the literary talents of Mount Wachusett Community College students and alumni. This goal will be achieved through the publication of i magazine.AllstudentsofMWCCareeligibletojointheorganization’sstaff.
Mount Observer This student newspaper, published monthly, is a public forum for all students at MWCC to discuss what is happening on campus. Students are invited to contribute articles, letters to the editor, photographs, cartoons and drawings. This is a student-run newspaper where students have a chance toexpresstheirviews,developprofessionalportfolio’sthroughpublication,andpracticejournalisticskills.
Student Government Association (SGA) The Student Government Association is an elected group of students who represent students’ interests to the College’s administration. The SGA assists in planning campus programming and in allocatingfundingtothestudentclubsandorganizationsoncampus.Therequirementsforeligibilityto run for a SGA position include being in good academic standing (minimum 2 QPA), and being enrolledinaminimumof6credits.ElectionsforSGApositionsareheldinSeptemberandApril.For a full description of the SGA, please refer to the Student Government Association By-Laws by clicking on this link.
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Interest & Social Clubs
ALANA Club The purpose of this club shall be to form a group of MWCC students who would support one anothergiventheiruniquesocial,emotionalandeducationalneeds,aswellasvaryingintereststhatexist. The group will facilitate the sharing of knowledge and promote positive changes on campus.
Campus Crusade for Christ Club The purpose of this organization is to offer a place where Christian students can connect with other Christiansandgrowintheirfaith.Thisorganizationwillalsoequipstudentstocommunicatetheirfaith to others. The organization is open to all MWCC students.
Dance Crew The purpose of this club/organization is to ensure a safe atmosphere of which the student body can participate in a creative environment for the performing arts, specifically the discipline of Dance.
International Club The International Club is a group whose goal is to learn about the many cultures represented at Mount Wachusett Community College. Members of the group are encouraged to share perspectives on their cultural experiences through informal discussion and presentations. Occasionally, guest speakers attend the weekly meetings, and during the semester members of the group organize events on campus that provide opportunities to inform thecampus at large about ethnic and cultural diversity. The Club members also look forward to planning educational trips in the near future to culturally-rich locations such as Montreal, Canada and/or New York City. All students who are interestedarewelcometojoinusatourmeetings.
MARC Club (Mature Adults Returning to College) The MARC Club purpose is to meet the needs of returning students within a social context. Maturestudentshaveauniqueperspectiveandvaryinginterestswithinthetraditionalacademicenvironment. They also attempt to effect learning about group support and the importance of social interaction within the scope of a college education. MARC plans many trips and social events.
PRIDE (People Rising In Defense of Everyone) PRIDE was formed to act as a social and support network for MWCC students, as well as to promoteawareness and acceptance of varied sexual orientations prevalent in today’s society. The groupstrivestoachievetheseobjectivesthroughinteractionandeducation.AllMWCCstudentsareeligibletojointhegroup.
Theatre Club The purpose of this club is to bring students together and bring out creativity and imagination. Also to entertain the student body with our creativity.
Veterans Group The purpose of this club shall be to form a group of students with a common interest in the general welfare of Mount Wachusett Community College with a special emphasis on students that are veterans and veterans in the surrounding communities.
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Honor Societies
Alpha Beta Gamma The Chi Gamma chapter of Alpha Beta Gamma was established at MWCC to recognize and encouragescholarshipamongcollegestudentsinbusinesscurricula.Requirementsformembershipinclude: 1) student must be enrolled in a business curriculum at MWCC; 2) student must have completed15credithourswithatleast12hoursofhis/herworkbeingincoursesleadingtoadegreerecognizedbyMWCC;3)studentmusthaveestablishedacademicexcellenceofa3.0GPAinbusinesscoursesaswellasa3.0cumulativeGPA.
Phi Theta Kappa Degreeprogramstudentswhohavecompletedaminimumof24creditsinresidencyandmaintainanoverallcumulativegradepointaverageof3.5orhigherwillbeinvitedtojointhePhiDeltaChapterof Phi Theta Kappa at MWCC. In October and March of each academic year, eligible students are mailedaninvitationtojointhehonorsocietyandareinvitedtoattendanorientationtolearnmoreaboutthebenefitsofjoining.Theonetimecostofthelifetimemembershipis$50.
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Membership in any of the clubs and organizations listed on this pageis open to the entire student body of Mount Wachusett Community College, unless otherwise noted. New clubs and organizations are formed each year in response to student needs and interest. If you are interested in joining one of these groups, or in organizing a new student club or organization, stop by the student life office, room 151.
If you have a disability and may require accommodations in order to participate fully in program activities, please contact the director of the student life to discuss your specific needs.
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TechnologyThe Link
What is it?The link is an advising tool used to assign students a risk factor score and connect them to appropriate campus resources.
Where do I find it?Currently access to The Link must be obtained through Director of Student Success, Karen Costa.
What does it look like?TheLinkcontains3majortabsofstudentinformation:•AcademicHistory•Scorecard•SupportHistory
How does it work?The Link pulls information directly from the Banner system and puts it into a more advisor-friendly format while calculating student risk factor based on a data driven points system.
How do I use it?Advisors should use the link both in preparation for an advising session as well as during the session itself using the following as a guide:•TheLinkprovidesaPhotoIDofallstudentswhohaveobtainedastudentIDwiththecollege
so checking the photo before your meeting can allow you to put a face to the name and make a quickerconnectiontoyouradvisee.
•TheLinkprovidesaframeworkforimportantadvisingconversationsregardingbarrierstolong and short term student success. Identifying risk factors in students and addressing them proactively increases student success.
•TheLinkprovidesadvisorsacompleteandcomprehensiveviewofastudent’sacademichistory.Look for larger patterns in academic performance (i.e. withdrawal patterns, academic warning patterns, little to no academic support history, etc.).
•UseTheLinktoinformreferralstohelpfulcampusandcommunityresourcesbyprintingrecommended resources from the scorecard tab.
•TheLinkalsocontainsbasicstudentinformationsuchGPA,Mayor,lastemaillog-in,etc.Te
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WebConnectWhat is it?WebConnect is a multi-purpose tool for faculty, staff, and students that allows users to enter grades, view class schedules, view class lists and student information such as transcripts and perform a Degree Evaluation (Audit) for a student’s current program, use the What-If links to evaluate any program, and edit personal information such as emergency contact information.
Where do I find it?The best way to log into WebConnect is through the iConnect portal. Once logged into the portal clicking on the WebConnect icon on the homepage will automatically take you to the home screen of WebConnect. There are other links for WebConnect located throughout the Mount Wachusett website but they all direct the user to the iConnect portal log in screen.
What does it look like?The screen shots below provide an idea of the various screens within WebConnect.
How do I use it?WebConnect can be used for a variety of tasks and how you use it depends largely on your needs at thatparticulartime.However,belowisalistofjustsomeofthewaysyoucanuseWebConnectwhileadvising. •Directaccesstotheonlinecollegecatalog•Viewandprintstudentcourseschedules•Seecourseofferingsincludingday/timeandcampus•Viewunofficialstudenttranscripts•Rundegreeaudits•ViewPlacementTestScores•Viewanycurrentholds•RegisterStudents
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BlackboardWhat is it?Blackboard is online learning software used by professors to supplement classroom learning. It provides an online forum for course discussion, a place for professors to post additional course readings and web content, and course information such as syllabus and grades. Not all courses use blackboard, it depends on the professor. However, all hybrid and online course are conducted through the blackboard system.
Where do I find it?There are different ways to log into blackboard. There is a link from the ‘current students’ page of the MWCC website that takes students to the Backboard log-in page. However, the easiest way to access blackboard is through the iConnect portal. After logging into the portal, students can click on the blackboard icon in the upper-left corner of the screen and be taken to their blackboard home screen automatically.
What does it look like?The screen shots on the following pages provide a better idea of what students can expect in terms of navigating the screens in blackboard and conveniently accessing the information available to them.
How do I use it?All students should be aware of blackboard and how to effectively access and use it. Failure of advisors to properly teach students to use blackboard can result in poor academic performance and long-term academic difficulties. It is important that advisors introduce Blackboard as a tool for both students and professors, and though not used in all classes, an integral component of a successful college education.
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iConnect Account ActivationHow to activate your student account:
1. Go to the MWCC iConnect portal homepage:https://iconnect.mwcc.edu/web/mycampus/home
2. Click on the ‘Activate Your Account’ icon at the bottom of the page.
3. Fill out all necessary information on the next screen. Do not forget to check the box at the bottom of the page before clicking submit.
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Social MediaSocial media tools available to students to assist them with making campus connections with peers and campus resources:
General Guidelines:•PleasemakesurestudentsareawareofthecodeofconductandinformthemthattheirinteractionsonanyMWCCsocialmediawebsitearesubjecttothesamecodeofconductasanyon campus interactions
•ThisinformationisavailableatthefollowingURL:http://www.mwcc.edu/catalog/discipline.html
Facebook: We have a main MWCC Facebook page, as well as pages for specific groups such as AmeriCorps Volunteers, the Fitness & Wellness Center, the bookstore, etc.•Studentsmayjoinpagesandgroupsto“meet”otherstudentswithsimilarinterestsandreceive
online updates about campus events, academic deadlines, and other relevant information•TheycanfindusonFacebookbyusingthesearchfeature•Theycanfindourmainpagebyusingthislink:www.facebook.com/MountWachusett
1. All students should be encouraged to visit the MWCC facebook page and “like” the page to receive information about the college via facebook.
2. New students should also visit the “MWCC-New Student Tips” page and ask to be a member of this group. Once approved students will receive important reminders about upcoming dates, deadlines, and events.
Twitter: We have a Twitter account where we post education-related news, links to online resources, and some campus events posts.•StudentscanjoinusonTwitterby
using this link: www.Twitter.com/MountWachusett
•Weencouragestudentstousethe“hashtag”#MWCCintheircollege-relatedpoststohelpothersfind and connect with them through this social media venue
Foursquare:MWCChasapresenceonFoursquareandstudentscancheck-iniftheyareusingthis social media venue.•Weoccasionallyposttidbitsinthetipssection,butnotonanyregularbasis
Contact Information:Sarah McMaster Assistant Director of New Media Marketing & [email protected]
Office of Enrollment Services (978) 632-6600 x. 284
TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORM This form must be printed and mailed to the Enrollment Services Office with your signature and the $5 transcript fee. Student MWCC 9 digit ID Number: _______________________(Example 00154511) Name (printed) ________________________________________________________ Maiden Name ______________________________________________ (if changed) Home Address: ___________________________________________________
Number & Street
___________________________________________________ City, State Zip
Please provide the following information: 1. I am currently enrolled at MWCC: _____Yes _____No 2. If “no” above - Date of last attendance/graduation: __________________________ Please send my official transcript to: College/Company Name: ________________________________________________ Attention to: Name/Office ________________________________________________ College/Company Address: _______________________________________________
Number & Street
________________________________________________ City, State Zip
Student Signature: ___________________________ Date_________________
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For Office Use Only: Date Received: _________________ Date Sent: ________________ Fee paid: _________________
Updated 8/26/2009
STUDENT RECORD INFORMATION WAIVER
Student Name: _________________________________________ ID#: ___________________________ Last, First, Middle
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
I authorize the release of the following student records that are protected under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
(FERPA), 20 U.S.C. 1232g, 1974, and all related amendments, for the time period indicated, to the individual(s) listed below:
Item(s) to be released: _____ 1. Copy of my grade report and/or academic transcript
_____ 2. Copy of my class schedule
_____ 3. Copy of my student bill/invoice and payment plan information
_____ 4. Copy of my financial aid award information
_____ 5. Other (please specify) ________________________________________
Release information to:
Name: _____________________________________________ Relationship to student: ________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Street City State Zip
Phone Numbers: Day _______________________________ Evening __________________________________
Name: _____________________________________________ Relationship to student: _________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Street City State Zip
Phone Numbers: Day ________________________________ Evening __________________________________
=========================================================================================
______ I authorize the release of the above information for only the _____________ semester.
______ I authorize the release of the above information for every term of enrollment at MWCC for a one year period
effective the date this authorization is signed.
Student Signature: __________________________________________________ Date: _______________________
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FOR OFFICE USE ONLY: All releases of records authorized by this waiver are tracked in student record on SPACMNT.
Expiration Date: ____________________
White copy - Student file Yellow copy - Student
Request for Program Change/Multiple Program(s)
PLEASE PRINT
Student ID #: _____________________
Last Name: ________________________________ First Name: __________________________ M. _______
Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________City State Zip Phone #
I am petitioning for the following reason:
r PROGRAM CHANGE r MULTIPLE PROGRAM(S) DECLARATION
My current Program(s) is/are: ____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Request for New or Multiple Program(s): ___________________________________________________________________
r Day r Evening
Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: _______________________________
I am currently enrolled in the Joint Admissions Program ______ yes ______ no
OFFICE USE ONLY
_____________________________________________________Records Office r approved r denied date _________
______________________________________________________ Director of Admissions r approved r denied date _________ (restricted programs only)
EFFECTIVE: ______________________ ___________________Semester Year
Current Program/Advisor: __________________________________________________________
New Program/Advisor: ______________________________________________________________
The following programs are considered selective programs and applicants must be approved by the Director ofAdmissionsbefore a student will be accepted into the requested program:
*Restricted ProgramsNursing degree Practical Nursing certificate *other programs may be added
Physical Therapy Assistant degree Massage Therapy certificate at the discretion of the college
Complementary Health Care degree
Office of Records (978) 630-9270
PETITION TO GRADUATE (Return to the Student Accounts Office with $50 fee which includes cap & gown)
Have you petitioned to graduate in this same major in a prior year? _____ No ____Yes If yes, Year______
Have you paid a graduation fee for the program listed below before? _____ Yes ____ No
There is a $25.00 fee to replace a diploma that is 3 or more years old
This application is necessary so that the College can review your academic history, verify that all curriculum
requirements have been met, and to certify your eligibility for graduation. Please list ALL degree and certificate programs you wish to be reviewed. Only those indicated below will be reviewed.
Expected Graduation Date: ________May ________ August** _______ December***
(See reverse for diploma order processing information)
Name – Print EXACTLY as you wish your name to appear on the Diploma:
(The name used on the college records will be used unless official documents are presented stating otherwise.)
______________________________ _____________________ ___________________
First Middle Last Student ID Number: ___________________________
e-mail address: ________________________________________________
Curriculum(s) in which you intend to graduate:
Degree | Certificate Catalog Year
(check appropriate column) (if known)
____________________________________________ _______ | _______ _________
____________________________________________ _______ | _______ _________
Do you have transfer credit from another college? _____Yes _____No
If, “Yes”, list college(s): _____________________ __________________
Student Signature: __________________________________ Date:_____________
**August graduates will be allowed to participate in the May graduation exercises. Students determined ineligible for May
graduation will be offered the August graduation if the needed courses can be completed. If you are petitioning for August
graduation, please indicate the course(s) you will be completing in the summer:
____________________ ____________________ ____________________
*** December graduates will be invited to participate in the graduation exercises at the end of that academic year.
Commencement Program:
Students filing a petition after April 15th will not have their names listed in the Commencement Program. Students who have marked their files confidential will not have their name appear on the graduation program nor submitted to local newspapers. Contact the records office for information on removal of a confidentially hold. Diploma Order Processing:
Diplomas are ordered from an outside company. The processing time is usually 6-8 weeks. If a Petition to Graduate is submitted and approved late in the graduation cycle, the diploma will not be received at the time of graduation. Diplomas received by the college after graduation will be mailed to students as soon as they are received. May Graduation: Priority Filing dates Prior to March 1st August Graduation:
Priority Filing dates Prior to March 1st December Graduation:
Priority Filing dates Prior to October 1
PARENT INFORMATION REQUEST FORM
Student Name: _________________________________________ ID#: ___________________________ Last, First, Middle
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
Item(s) to be released: _____ 1. Copy of student’s grade report and/or academic transcript
_____ 2. Copy of student’s class schedule
_____ 3. Copy of student’s bill/invoice and payment plan information
_____ 4. Copy of student’s financial aid award information
_____ 5. Other (please specify) ________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian information:
Name: _____________________________________________________ Circle one: Mother Father Guardian
Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Street City State Zip
Phone Numbers: Day _______________________________ Evening __________________________________
=========================================================================================
The undersigned affirms and represents:
1. The undersigned is a parent or guardian of the above-named student.
2. The above-named student is a dependent student of the undersigned as such term is defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954. The student has been claimed by the undersigned as a dependent on the federal
income tax return for the year in which this request is dated.
3. The undersigned will furnish the College upon its request such information as the College may reasonably require to confirm that the student is a dependent of the undersigned.
4. The right to receive/review the education records of the student will terminate when the student is no longer a
dependent student of the undersigned.
5. The undersigned will indemnify the College from any loss which the College may incur to the student or any other person as a result of furnishing the information requested herein.
6. The undersigned agrees to keep the disclosed information confidential according to applicable legislation and
regulations.
NOTE: Dependent student will be notified of this request before the College will respond to this request.
Release of the above information is effective only for a time period the student is a confirmed to be a dependent.
I hereby certify the foregoing to be true, knowing that Mount Wachusett Community College will rely upon the statements made by me herein in furnishing the information which I have requested.
Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________________ Date: _______________________
*Copy of parents’ most recent federal tax return must accompany this completed form.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR OFFICE USE ONLY: All releases of records authorized by this request are tracked in student record on SPACMNT.
Expiration Date: ____________________ updated 5/12/2008
Office of Records(978) 632-6600 x. 106
Change of Address/Name Form
Please complete the appropriate sections of this form to request achange of your student information. Verification is required for aname change, or a change that will affect residency status.
Student ID/SSN Number: ___________________
A. Name Change
Prior Name: ________________________________
New Name: _________________________________
B. Address Change
New/Current Address _________________________________Street
_________________________________City State Zip
C. New Phone Number
(_______) _________________________
Student Signature: __________________________ Date:________
Printed Grade Report Request
The college will not be mailing semester grade reports unless specifically requested.Grades and transcripts are available on WebConnect. See the handout for procedures toreview and print semester grades or unofficial transcript.
For students who wish to receive a paper grade report the following information isneeded. The college will process these requests in the week following the availability ofgrades on WebConnect.
Phone requests from the student are acceptable with grades ONLY being sent to theaddress of record..
Student ID Number: _______________________________
Name:___________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________No. Street
___________________________________________City St Zip
Signature: ______________________ Date: ___________________
The Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act
(FERPA)
The release of infor-mation contained
in MWCC studentrecords, especiallygrades, transcripts, andfinancial aid informa-tion, is strictly con-trolled and regulatedby federal law, theFamily EducationalRights and Privacy Act(FERPA).
requires the requesting party to attach docu-mentation that verifies the student wasclaimed as a dependent on the most recentlyfiled IRS tax return. Once this form and doc-umentation is received, the student will benotified of the request prior to the release ofthe requested information 10 days hence.Student information is subject to the guide-lines of FERPA even if the student is belowthe age of 18.
Students may choose to have their studentrecords provided to parents or other third par-ties on a one-time or one-year basis by com-pleting the student record information waiverform (available in the records office or deanof students office).
Directory Requests:
Requests for the entire student directory,requests from any military sources under theSolomon Amendment, or requests for a "class"of students, such as all students in any onemajor, should be directed to the records office.
Questions about the release of any studentrecords should be directed to Dr. RichardPastor, associate dean of student services andenrollment management (978) 630-9117 orAnn McDonald, dean of student and enroll-ment management. (978) 630-9164
444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440-1000www.mwcc.mass.edu
The Family Educational Rights andPrivacy Act (FERPA):
FERPA requires the college to protect the pri-vacy of student record information with regardto access to a student’s college records, therelease of such records, and the opportunity tochallenge records should they be inaccurate,misleading, or inappropriate. The CollegeCatalog and Student Handbook detail the typesof records available for inspection and the pro-cedure to access these records.
No information, other than the data deter-mined to be "directory information" can beprovided to a custodial parent, non-custodialparent, or other third party without the per-mission of the student unless very specific cri-teria have been met.
FERPA requires the college to establish a poli-cy with regard to the data items that can bereleased to third parties upon request, and toestablish the procedures for the release of suchinformation. Students have the option ofmaking their "file" and "data" confidential.Students choosing to have their data markedas confidential are identified in the studentinformation system (Banner) and their infor-mation is excluded from the college’s directoryinformation.
Releases of information other than directoryinformation must be duly recorded in theindividual student record noting whom therelease was made to, the content of the release,and the purpose of the release.
Directory Information:
The college annually updates and identifiesthe data that will be designated as "directoryinformation." This information can bereleased to the public without the student’sconsent following specific request procedures.Directory information will not be released ifthe student has requested in writing to keeptheir information confidential (see above).
Students may request that their records becoded as confidential at any time by complet-ing the request at the MWCC records office.
The MWCC directory information*includes:
• Student’s first, middle initial, and last name
• The city and state of the student’s billing address
• The student’s declared program(s) of study
• The student’s dates of attendance and enrollment status (full-time or part-time) for all period(s) of enrollment
• Academic degrees and awards received• College sponsored e-mail addresses
* As of October 2003
Any other information such as schedule,attendance, and grades are considered to bepersonally identifiable information and can-not be released to a third party, includingparents, without the student’s written con-sent.
The procedure to request MWCC directoryinformation is as indicated below. Directoryinformation requests are not recorded in indi-vidual student records.
• Requests for confirmation of academic degrees, academic awards/honors, and dates of attendance by employers andcolleges, and the confirmation of enrollment status for insurance purposes may be taken by telephone
• The requests for additional information must be made in writing (a fax is acceptable) on theletterhead of the company, agency, or school requesting the information
• If the request is being made by an individual the request needs to indicate the address and phone number of the requester and the reasonfor the request
Parent Access to Records:
Student records may be released to a parent(either custodial or non-custodial) of the stu-dent without the student’s prior approval onlywhen the MWCC parent information requestform (available in the records office or dean ofstudents office) has been completed. This form
USING YOUR ACCOUNT
Requesting an Official Transcript Using WebConnect To request an official transcript to be sent to you, another school, employer, or anyone else, please follow the instructions below. To complete the ordering process you MUST be able to pay for the $5 transcript fee using a credit/debit card. If you do not wish to pay by credit card, you will need to request your transcript in writing. Unofficial copies of your transcripts are available on WebConnect at no-
charge.
Creating Your Account:
Students enrolled since 2001 should have a WebConnect account already established. If you attended prior to that date you will need to call the Enrollment Center at 978-630-9284 so that we can establish your account prior to you ordering your transcript, or you can order using the pdf link.
1. Access the MWCC home page at www.mwcc.edu. Click on “Web Services” at the upper right
hand side of the page. Follow the WebConnect link to get to the secure area. 2. Click on the WebConnect link. Enter your ID and PIN at the opening page of the WebConnect system and follow the instructions carefully. 3. To access the secure student record data you will use your student ID number (or your social security number), and your 6-digit PIN (The original PIN is your 6-digit birth date, i.e. May 30, 1970 would be 053070). The first time you access WebConnect you will be asked to change your PIN to any 6-digit alphanumeric code, and create a secret question and answer for use in case you forget your PIN. (If you cannot get access please call the Enrollment Center at 978-630-9284 to have your PIN reset.)
Requesting an Official Transcript: 4. You are now at the Main Menu for WebConnect. Click on the Student and Financial Aid link. Click on the Student Records link.
5. Click on the Academic Transcript link to get to the Academic Transcript Options page. To review an unofficial transcript click the submit button. To request an Official Transcript click the Request Printed Transcript link at the bottom of the
page.
If you do not have a credit/debit card, you can get the directions for sending in your request by printing the Transcript Request Form (PDF). 6. At the Transcript Request Address page you can request a specific college to where you want the transcript sent by following the Look Up College Code link, or have it sent directly to you. Use the One
Of Your Addresses line to select the address we have for you. If you want the transcript sent to a college not listed or someplace else, you can complete the Issue to box. Click Continue.
7. A the Select Transcript Type page you MUST change the Transcript Type to Official Web
Transcript using the drop down box. Then you can complete the address to where you wish the transcript sent. Click Continue. 8. At the Transcript Request Options page, you can select the number of transcripts you wish, and MUST select the Standard Mailing option for the drop down box in Delivery Method. Continue. 9. At the Payment Options page you MUST select Bill Student’s Account from the drop down box. Continue. 10. Complete the credit card payment procedures following the instructions. 11. Review the Transcript Request Summary data, and then click Submit Request. 12. Web ordered transcripts are printed twice a week, usually Tuesday and Friday. You can verify that your request was processed by looking at the Transcript Request Status from the Academic Transcript Options Page (step 5). Where can I call for help?
Contact [email protected] or (978) 630-9284. You can access WebConnect from any location where you have Internet access. Open access computers are located in the lower level of the MWCC library.
View and print your class schedule Degree Evaluation Review your financial aid information
View and print a copy of your grades and transcript Register and add/drop courses Establish your MWCC email account
View the current college catalog Review and pay your bill on-line Order an official transcript
WebConnect Services:
USING YOUR ACCOUNT
Creating/Activating Your Account:Required items: Student ID: Your Student Id can be found on your MWCC Student ID card, your tuition bill or by calling MWCC helpdesk at (978) 630-9378.
1. To get your unique MWCC student username and password, access iConnect. Then click on the “Activate your Account” link.
Mount Wachusett Community College has chosen to make the college’s student information system available to students through the implementation of the WebConnect system. Student email accounts have also been provided for all students. Access is available as soon as students are registered for enrollment in credit courses.
Access the MWCC library web services
2. You will be required to choose a secret question and provide an answer during the activation process. Please be sure to choose something you will remember. The question and answer will be used to confirm your identity when communicating with MWCC by telephone.
3. At the end of the account activation process your username and password will be displayed. This will be your login and password for Blackboard, WebConnect, Student email, MWCC Computers, and the MWCC Wireless Network. If you need to write down your username and password, please be sure to keep them in a secure location.
4. If for any reason your account activation is unsuccessful please contact the Help Desk at (978) 630-9378 for assistance. MWCC may not have your current information on file.
5. If at any point after activating your account you do not remember your username and/or password please go to iConnect. Then click on the “Account Access Issues” link.
iConnect is a portal to all resources in
one location. It offers a personalized
environment through single sign on,
easy navigation and simplified access
to core systems.
Registering Using WebConnect:
Printing/Viewing Your Schedule:You can print and/or view your schedule by following the links below:
1. Login to iConnect and click on the WebConnect icon.2. Select the Student and Financial Aid link from the menu bar3. On Registration menu click - “Week at a Glance”
Printing/Viewing Grades:You can print and view your semester grade report or an unofficial copy of your full transcript by following the links below:
1. Login to iConnect and click on the WebConnect icon.2. On Student and Financial Aid menu click
• To review your final grades for the past semester, click on the Final Grades link. From the drop down box, select the term you wish to review. Click the Display Grades box.• To review your entire Academic Transcript, click the Academic Transcript link
To request an official transcript click, the Transcript Request Form link at the bottom of the page.
Where can I email or call for help?Email [email protected] or call (978) 630-9378 for assistance with Web Connect access. Contact your academic advisor or the Enrollment Center at [email protected] or (978) 630-9238 for assistance with registration. You can access WebConnect from any location with Internet access.
1. Login to iConnect and click on the WebConnect icon.2. Click on the “Student and Financial Aid” link, the options will include Registration (to register/get class schedule), Student Records (grades/transcript), and Financial Aid.3. From the “Student and Financial Aid” page, click on the “Registration” link to get to the registration menu.4. Select the term from the drop down box. Click submit.5. Click on the “Add or Drop Classes” link. Enter the CRN numbers of the courses you have selected. If you click on the “Add to Worksheet” button, the course will be
transmitted to your registration form, BUT NOT ADDED to your course schedule officially. Once you have entered all of the CRNs, click on the “Submit Changes” button to complete your registration.
If you would like to plan your schedule on-line, click on “Look-up Classes” from the Registration menu. In the first section, you will need to choose a subject. You may then search by any other variables (e.g. course number, campus, instructor, days, etc . . . ) When you have entered all of your variables, click on the “Class Search” button to obtain your search results. To register for any of the courses in your search, click on the box in the left hand column next to the course or courses you have selected. Click on the “Register” button to add a course or courses to your schedule.
Your confirmed course enrollment will appear after you have clicked on the “Register” button. If there are errors with your schedule, they will appear below your schedule with a red “Registration Errors” button. The course(s) appearing in the error section are NOT part of your schedule. A link at the bottom of the page gives an Error Message Explanation describing each of the possible error.
To add additional courses to your schedule, you may continue to add classes in the lower section of the page by submitting CRN numbers or to complete another search, click on the “Class Search” button.
6. Once you have selected all of your courses in the term for which you are registering, go to the bottom of the page and click on the “Registration Fee Assessment” link. A summary of the charges for this semester will appear.
Aspire Strategy | Funded by Title III
Mount Wachusett Community College | Advising Matters.
Note
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This section provides advisors a place to keep important emails, notes, or other pieces of information important to effective advising.