Student Handbook 2010-2011 - Holyoke Community College

Academic PoliciesAcademic Probation and DismissalAcademic probabtion or dismissal is determined by thecumulative grade point average (GPA) and credit. Studentswho have earned less than nine credit hours have no minimumGPA. Those who have completed between nine and30 credit hours must attain a GPA of 1.75 or above. Thosewho have completed more than 30 credit hours must attaina GPA of 2.0.ProbationThe first time a student fails the minimum requiredGPA (grade point average) as listed above, he or shewill be placed on Academic Probation.DismissalAt the end of two semesters of probation, if the cumulativeGPA remains below the minimum standard, thestudent will be dismissed. However, the student will notbe dismissed if, during a probationary semester, he or sheearns a GPA of 2.0 or better.GraduationA minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required to graduatein degree and certificate programs.Attendance and TardinessAll students are required to report to all classes on time.Persistent absence or tardiness may result in grading penaltiesor the student's dismissal from class and a grade of AW(Administrative Withdrawal). Students will be informed inwriting of each instructor's attendance policy at the start ofclasses and are required to adhere to them. It is the prerogativeof the instructor in cases of extended illness or seriousaccident whether or not the student will be allowed to continuein the course.Religious Belief Absences PolicyChapter 151 C, Section 2B, of the MassachusettsGeneral Laws allows students who cannot attend classes,take examinations, study or fulfill work requirementson a particular day due to their religious belief, to beexcused from such obligations. Students must be providedwith opportunities to make up exams, and studyor work requirements, provided that this does not createan unreasonable burden upon the instructor. Studentsmay not be charged for such makeup opportunities, orbe adversely or prejudicially affected for taking advantageof these provisions. Students should notify instructorsin advance so that accommodations can be made ifnecessary.Curriculum ChangeStudents who wish to change their program of study may goto the Office of Academic Affairs (FR 317) or the directorof academic administration, before they begin the followingsemester. Students making such a change may lose creditfor courses that are not required in the new curriculum.Students should check on the requirements for the newdegree, or their graduation may be delayed because of thechange. There are some limited enrollment programs thatshould not be transferred to without counseling. They are:Art, Early Childhood Education, Music, Nursing, RadiologicTechnology, and Veterinary and Animal Science. Other curriculamay also require prior approval by the program coordinator.For assistance in making a program of study decision,contact Career Services or Counseling Services.Degree RequirementsIt is the student’s responsibility to carefully note all requirementsfor his/her chosen degree or certificate program andabide by them.Candidates for the degrees of Associate in Arts (A.A.) orAssociate in Science (A.S.) must:1. Complete the requirements of the degree program.In addition to courses pertaining to the major, eachprogram includes a general education core as follows:a. Associate in Arts 35 credits(except the A.A. in Music)Eng. 101–1026 creditsLaboratory science8 creditsMathematics elective 3 credits(minimum)Social science electives 9 creditsHumanities electives 9 creditsb. Associate in Science 20 creditsEng. 101–1026 creditsLaboratory science8 creditsSocial science electives 6 credits2. Present at least 60 credits, of which at least 30 mustbe earned at HCC. However, students may requesta waiver of this requirement, through the office ofthe vice president of Academic Affairs.3. Achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.4. Satisfy all financial obligations to the college.27