welcome to bear country! 2012-2013 - University of Central Arkansas

WELCOME TO BEAR COUNTRY! 

2012-2013 

Orientation & 

Registration Handbook 

HELPING STUDENTS ACHIEVE

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

BUILDINGS AND ABBREVIATIONS III 

CAMPUS MAP 1 

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR UCA PROGRAMS AND SERVICES 2 

TRANSFERRING CREDIT 3 

ACADEMIC ADVISING CENTER SYLLABUS 4 

ACADEMIC YEAR ADVISING CALENDAR 6 

HOW TO MAKE AN ADVISING APPOINTMENT 7 

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 8 

ACADEMIC INFORMATION 10 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY/THE FACTS ON GETTING A DEGREE 12 

UCA PROGRAMS OF STUDY 13 

DECLARING YOUR MAJOR/ MINOR 14 

IDENTIFY YOUR LEARNING STYLE 15 

ACADEMIC CHECK 21 

MASTER SCHEDULE 22 

GENERAL EDUCATION CHECKSHEET 23 

UCA STUDENTS ENROLLING IN TRANSITIONAL COURSES 24 

GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM 25 

GUARANTEED EIGHT-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM 26 

PROGRAM COMPLETION PLAN CONTRACT 27 

GRADUATION STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING 28 

NOTIFICATION OF ARKANSAS COURSE TRANSFER SYSTEM 29 

ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN MYUCA 30 

TIPS FOR SUCCESS 34 

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE 38 

BEEN THERE SHOULDA DONE THAT 40 

CLASSROOM DO’S & DON’TS 41 

STUDY TIPS 4 SERIOUS STUDENTS/TOP 10 TEST TAKING TIPS 42 

CONTROL STRESS BEFORE IT CONTROLS YOU/ LIFE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 43 

HOW COLLEGE STUDENTS HANDLE TIME MANAGEMENT 44 

POINTERS FROM PROFESSORS/GENERAL POINTERS FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES 45 

25 SAVING-MONEY TIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS 46 

MAKE SAVING FUN! 47 

CHOICES OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS 48

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 49 

UCA TERMINOLOGY 52 

HOMEWORK 54 

WELCOME WEEK SCHEDULE 55 

REGISTRATION CANCELLATION 59 

UCA ALMA MATER/UCA FIGHT SONG BACK COVER 

WELCOME TO BEAR COUNTRY! 

BURD—A.E. Burdick Hall 

CBH—Baridon Hall 

BHCC—Brewer-Hegeman Conf. Ctr. 

COB—College of Business 

DENH—Denny Hall 

EST—Estes Stadium 

FC—Farris Center 

HPER—Health/Physical Ed. Bldg 

DHSC—Doyne Health Sciences Ctr. 

HAR—Harrin Hall 

HUGH—Hughes Hall 

IRB—Irby Hall 

LAN—Laney Hall 

LIB—Torreyson Library 

LSC—Lewis Science Center 

MAC—McAlister Hall 

MASH—Mashburn Hall 

BUILDING ABBREVIATIONS 

MCC—McCastlain Hal 

MEAD—Meadors Hall 

MCS—Math, Computer Sci.& Tech. 

MH—Main Hall 

NEWH—New Hall 

NMIN—Minton Hall 

PRIN—Prince Center 

PHYT—Physical Therapy Center 

SFAC—Snow Fine Arts Center 

SHDY—Short/Denny Hall 

SHRT—Short Hall 

SLHC—Speech/Language & Hearing Center 

SRH—Stanley Russ Hall 

SSA—Schichtl Studio Arts Building 

STAT—State Hall 

TORW—Torreyson West 

WTH—Win Thompson Hall

2 

Academic Success Center 

Basement of Main Hall 

852-7167 

– Tutoring in various subjects 

--Reading & Writing Labs 

BearCard Center 

Bernard Hall 207 

(501) 450-5818 

– UCA Picture ID 

– BearBucks 

– Building Access 

Campus Recreation 

HPER Building 

(501) 450-5712 

– University Intramural Sports 

– Recreation Activities 

– Farris Field Softball Complex 

– Farris Swimming Pool 

Career Services/Coop. Education 


(501) 450-3134 

– Career Exploration 

– Resume Writing 

– Job Listings (PT & Permanent) 

– On-Campus Work Study Job List 

– Coop Jobs for Academic Credit 

Counseling Center 

Student Health Center 327 

(501) 450-3138 

– Personal & Group Counseling 

– Outreach Programming 

– Self-Help Center 

Dean of Students 


(501) 450-3416 

– Student Conduct 

– Student Handbook 

– Emergency Student Loans 

– Alcohol & Drug Education 

Disability Support Services 


(501) 450-3613 

– Provides Resources for Students 

with Disabilities 

– Coordinates Services with Faculty 

– Support Group 

Financial Aid 

McCastlain Hall 001 

(501) 450-3140 

– Federal Financial Aid Programs 

– Student Employment 

– Academic Scholarship Information 

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR UCA PROGRAMS AND SERVICES 

Housing & Residence Life 


(501) 450-3132 

– Housing Assignments 

– Residence Life Programming 

HPER Fitness Center 

(501) 450-3463 

– State-of-the-art Equipment 

– Fitness Programs Classes 

– Fitness Evaluations 

KUCA Radio (91.3 FM) 

Student Center Basement 

(501) 450-3326 

– Public Non-commercial Station 

– Contemporary Adult Music 

– News, Weather, Athletic Events 

– Educational & Public Affairs Prog 

Math Lab 

Math Dept (Two Labs) 

(501) 450-3147 

– Tutoring 

Multicultural Student Services 


(501) 450-3135 – 

Mentorship Program 

– Transition Weekend 

– Education & Cultural Programs 

Student Organizations 

Student Center 207 

(501) 450-3137 

– Info. on 90+ Organizations 

Registrar 

McCastlain Hall 

(501) 450-5200 

– Class Registration/Drop & Add 

– Grade Information 

– Academic Transcript 

– Student Withdrawals 

--Verification of Enrollment 

--VA Information & Benefits 

Student Accounts/Cashiering 

McCastlain Hall 144 

(501) 450-5015 

– Billing Information/Fee Payment 

– Check Cashing 

Student Activities Board & 

Programming 


(501) 450-3235 

– Campus Concerts & Events- 

Lecture,Comedy, Film Programs 

– Final Fest 

Student Center Administration 


(501) 450-3235 

– Special Room Set-ups 

– Solicitation Permits 

– SCTV 

Student Health Clinic 

Student Health Center, 1st floor 

(501) 450-3136 

– Treatment for Minor Illness & Injury 

– Women’s Health Center 

– Pregnancy, Hepatitis-B, TB Skin & 

Cholesterol Tests 

– Selected Drug Prescriptions 

– Selected Drug Immunizations 

– Routine Lab and X-ray 

Student Life 


(501) 450-3137 

– Panhellenic Sorority Information 

– IFC Fraternity Information 

– NPHC Fraternity & Sorority Info 

– Student Organizations (RSOs) 

– Bear Den 

Torreyson Library 

http://www.uca.edu/library/ 

-Night Owl Study Room 

-Research Assistance 

-Computers and Printers available 

UCA Writing Center 

Thompson Hall 109 

(501) 450-5123 

– Helps Students Become Better 

Communicators 

– Offer Assistance with Writing 

University Police 

(between Hughes & State Hall) 

(501) 450-3111 

--UCAAlert 

– Campus Security & Crime Prevention 

– Criminal Investigations 

—Parking & Traffic

TRANSFERRING CREDIT 

TRANSFER/CONCURRENT/AP/IB/CLEP CREDIT 

If you have attended another college or university, or taken exams that award college credit, it is YOUR 

RESPONSIBILITY to notify UCA of that credit. 

Transfer Credit: Transfer credit refers to coursework completed at a university or college other than 

UCA. In order to transfer this credit, you must have an official transcript sent to the address below. It is 

your responsibility to get the transcript to UCA and to alert your advisor of the possible incoming credit. 

YOU MUST DISCLOSE THIS CREDIT. 

Concurrent Credit: Concurrent credit is college credit earned while in high school. A college or university 

was partnered with your high school to offer the credit. To get concurrent credit transferred to UCA 

you must have an official transcript from the college/university awarding the credit. High school transcripts 

CANNOT be used to award college credit. It is your responsibility to alert your advisor that you 

have earned concurrent credit. YOU MUST DISCLOSE THIS CREDIT. 

Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Credit: AP and IB credit is earned by 

passing the national exams taken at the end of the school year. Students are only allowed to take the 

exams if they have been in the AP/IB class for the term. You must achieve a specific score on the 

exam (defined in the UCA Undergraduate Bulletin) to receive college credit. To get this credit awarded, 

you must have an official score report sent to the address below. You DO NOT earn AP/IB college 

credit just by taking the class—college credit is only earned by achieving a specific score on the exam. 

It is your responsibility to alert your advisor that you are awaiting/have AP/IB scores and to ensure that 

the proper documentation is sent to UCA. 

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Credit: CLEP tests can be taken at UCA, or other testing 

sites. They are placement exams that can award college credit with achievement of specific scores. 

The exams must be taken before registering for a course in the same subject. The deadline for taking 

the Writing CLEP test at UCA is six weeks before the start of the semester. In order to earn college 

credit from a CLEP test, you must have an official score report sent to UCA at the address below. 

Again, it is YOUR responsibility to alert your advisor if you have, or anticipate having, any of 

these types of college credit. It is also YOUR responsibility to provide UCA with the appropriate 

documentation of the credit. 

Have final official transcripts sent to: 

UCA Undergraduate Admissions 


University of Central Arkansas 

201 Donaghey Avenue 

Conway, AR 72035 

Have official AP/IB/CLEP score reports sent to: 

Academic Advising Center 

Harrin Hall 100 


201 Donaghey Avenue 

Conway, AR 72035 

Fax: 501.450.3208 

After you have confirmed that UCA has received your documentation, it will be your responsibility 

to e-mail the Advising Center at AdvisingCenter@uca.edu if schedule revisions are required 

using your official UCA e-mail account. The deadline to submit schedule changes via e-mail will 

be the week before classes start. After that date you must come to the Advising Center with 

your documentation in order to change your schedule. Please call 501.450.5149 with questions. 

NOTE: CLASS SCHEDULES WILL ONLY BE CHANGED WHEN YOU PROVIDE OFFICIAL DOCU- 

MENTATION OF COMPLETED COURSEWORK (OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS AND/OR SCORE RE- 

PORTS). 

3

4 

ACADEMIC ADVISING SYLLABUS 

ACADEMIC ADVISING SYLLABUS 

Academic Advising Center, Harrin Hall 100 

Phone: 501-450-5149 / Fax: 501-450-3208 

Hours (excluding holidays): 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, M - F (by appointment) 

facebook.com/ucaadvising twitter.com/ucaadvising 

Mission Statement 

The Academic Advising Center is a team of 

professionals dedicated primarily to assisting 

first year students in defining and achieving 

their academic goals. In addition, we provide 

centralized academic advising services for the 

UCA community. 

Academic advising is a collaborative educational 

process designed to facilitate students’ 

understanding of the meaning and purpose of 

higher education and foster their intellectual 

and personal development toward academic 

success and lifetime learning (adapted from 

NACADA, 2004) 

Student Learning Objectives 

We hope that your time with us helps you develop your sense of self and purpose both academically and 

personally. A feeling of self-reliance and the ability to navigate the college experience will translate well 

to someday navigating the professional environment in your chosen field, whatever it may turn out to be. 

Also vital to our mission are the following measurable skills all college students should have acquired by 

the end of their freshman year, which you will learn through academic advising: 

How to interpret a course number (for 

example: WRTG 1310, BIOL 1400, 

MATH 1591). 

How to employ technology for registration, 

finding degree information, contacting 

your advisor, and finding campus 

resources. 

What UCA’s grade forgiveness policy 

can mean to you. 

How to drop a course and understand 

the meaning of the resulting grade (W, 

WP, WF). 

How to use and where to find needed 

assistance for personal and academic 

matters outside the Academic Advising 

Center. 

What components each type of bachelor’s 

degree entails. 

Advisor and Student Responsibilities 

Successful academic advising means a successful collaboration between the advisor and the student. 

Accomplishing the objectives above requires active participation from both sides. 

Your advisor will: 

Help you explore areas of study that correspond 

to your professional goals and 

map an appropriate path. 

Listen to your questions and concerns 

and refer you appropriately for any help 

he or she is not equipped to provide 

(counseling, medical, etc.) 

Provide up-to-date information. 

teach you how to use online advising 

resources, including the tools necessary 

for registration. 

Communicate with you regularly via your 

UCA-issued e-mail account and advising 

appointments. 

Help you feel confident in making your 

own academic decisions by arming you 

with knowledge. 

Create an environment in which you feel 

safe exploring your goals and ideas. 

Respect your right to privacy regarding 

both academic and personal matters.

ACADEMIC ADVISING SYLLABUS 5 

You, the student, will: 

Explore majors and careers, taking into 

account your interests, abilities, and 

values to choose the best fit for you. 

Prepare in advance for advising appointments, 

coming up with a list of any 

pertinent questions, classes of interest, 

goals, etc. 

Read and understand the policies detailed 

in the Student Handbook. 

Use campus resources as needed. 

Academic Advising No-Show Policy 

In an effort to provide equal time to all students, the Academic Advising Center enforces a no-show policy. 

This policy is not designed as a punishment; rather, it will serve as a reminder to be respectful of fellow 

students’ time, as advising and registration appointments are in high demand and can be particularly 

difficult to come by during the busiest parts of the semester. A no-show deprives another student of the 

opportunity to meet with his or her advisor. 

Additionally, because advisors must spend time preparing for each appointment, it allows that preparatory 

time to be used to its best purpose: providing accurate information and timely assistance to each of 

their students. A no-show takes away from advisors’ time to respond to student concerns via telephone 

and e-mail. 

A no-show, or missed appointment, is noted in the system if: 

A student arrives more than ten minutes late for an appointment. 

A student fails to cancel an appointment in advance, either via AdvisorTrac or an e-mail to the 

assigned academic advisor. 

A student improperly cancels an appointment or notifies the advisor after the fact. 

After two no-shows, a student will be unable to schedule another advising appointment in AdvisorTrac. 

The next opportunity to meet with the advisor regarding registration for the following semester will be during 

designated no-show times, which advisors will schedule after the advance registration period. During 

these times, students will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Communication Policies 

Your UCA-issued e-mail account will be your official means of communication with university officials. If 

you do not check it regularly, you will miss out on vital information necessary to maintaining your role in 

the advisor/student relationship. 

During academic advising appointments, cell phone use will be considered distracting and inappropriate. 

You will be asked to turn it off or to wrap up any voice or text conversations in the lobby. Your full attention 

is required during your advising appointment. 

*Adapted from the College of Charleston Advising Syllabus. 

Use online advising resources to plan 

your path, track your goals, and plan 

each semester. 

Check your UCA-issued e-mail regularly 

to ensure you receive up-to-date 

information in a timely fashion. 

Accept personal responsibility for your 

decisions and actions. 

Be aware of the rights provided under 

the Family Education Rights and Privacy 

Act (FERPA). 

My first advising appointment will be on_____________________________ 

A confirmation email will be sent to your MyUCA cub e-mail account. 

Please check your cub account for further information.

6 

ACADEMIC YEAR ADVISING CALENDAR 

Time Of Year Event What to Do 

Summer Summer Registration/ 

SOAR 

August/January Week before classes 

begin 

Bring AP scores, placement scores, other college 

credit. 

Print your schedule and make sure you know 

where your classes are; buy your books. 

First Week of Classes Go to every class and get a syllabus; meet with 

your advisor if you need to make any schedule 

changes. 

September/February Weeks 2-5 Make an appointment to meet with your advisor to 

discuss any questions you have about classes or 

UCA with your advisor. 

Weeks 6-8 Fall: Take the Discover Test in Career Services to 

see what major might fit you and research the major 

on the UCA website. 

Spring: Make an appointment to discuss possible 

majors with your advisor. 

Early October Majors Fair Attend the Majors Fair to explore the many major 

options at UCA and talk to department representatives 

from across campus. 

Mid October/Mid 

March 

End of October/ 

End of March 

Middle of November/ 

Middle of April 

Midterm Grades Meet individually with your professors to discuss 

your progress in the courses. Meet with you advisor 

to discuss your grades and any options you 

may have. 

Advance Registration 

Appointment 

Last day to drop a class 

with a W 

Advance Registration 

Begins 

ACADEMIC SYLLABUS 

Meet with your advisor to discuss course options 

and potential major requirements. Remember, this 

meeting is mandatory! Things to consider before 

registering for classes: 

-How many hours will I take? 

-What courses will allow me a good balance in 

workload? 

-What time do I want to take classes? 

-Do I have any holds? 

-Review the registration process in the Bear 

Book. 

Meet with your advisor to determine if you need to 

drop a course. 

After meeting with your advisor to discuss course 

options for the spring, register for classes online 

through myUCA on your day to register. 

December/May Final Grades come out Check your grades through myUCA and make any 

necessary changes in your schedule for the upcoming 

semester due to the grades.

HOW TO MAKE AN ADVISING APPOINTMENT 

HOW TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR 

The University of Central Arkansas places a very high priority on student advising and considers it an 

integral part of your academic success. The Advising Center, with professional academic advisors and 

faculty, is here to assist you during your stay at UCA. Refer to your myUCA Self-Service to find out who 

your advisor is. All undeclared students are advised in the Advising Center along with all incoming freshmen 

with majors except for majors in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. 

Students who have a major in the Health and Behavioral Sciences and upperclassmen 

will need to contact their major department to meet with an advisor. 

The AAC uses an innovative online appointment system called AdvisorTrac where students 

can access their advisor’s calendar through any internet connection 24 hours a 

day. The Academic Advising Center Advisors will see students as walk-ins from Welcome 

Week until the change of course period ends which is listed in the academic calendar 

section of this book . After this period, appointments will be available. It is recommended 

that you make an appointment within the first 3 weeks of class to 

meet with your advisor. To make an appointment you will need to have access to a 

computer with internet access. 

1. Log into myUCA. 

2. Click on the “My UCA” tab. 

3. Go to the Advising Center Channel (in the 

center of the page) . 

4. Click on the AdvisorTrac Logo. 

This brings you to the AdvisorTrac Homepage 

Your user id and password for this system is your 

Network ID and PIN just as like you logged into 

myUCA. 

5. Type your user id. 

6. Type your password. 

7. Click the “Login” button. 

This brings you to your home page. All messages 

sent to you by the AdvisorTrac system will be 

posted on this page until you log out. Your appointment 

day and time will also be posted here as well. 

8. Click on the “Search Availability” button in the 

upper left corner. 

Follow the steps above to log into AdvisorTrac 

Student Main Screen 

To cancel your appointment click on the black 

“X” next to the appointment 

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT 

TO CANCEL AN APPOINTMENT 

This brings you to the Advisor Availability Search 

page. AdvisorTrac automatically searches for 

seven days following your sign in date. Extend the 

search by changing the date if you need to. Make 

the date in the same format as listed. 

9. Choose “ADVISING” as the center 

10. Select your advisor from the Consultant 

drop down menu 

11. If no advisor is listed contact your major 

department to make an appointment 

12. Click “SEARCH”. Note Key code above 

Available Time Slots. 

This will bring up your advisor’s availability. Appointments 

are made every 30 minutes. 

13. Click on time best for you. 

14. Select a Reason for the Visit 

15. Click Save to reserve your appointment time 

16. Your appointment will now be listed on your 

Main Menu 

17. Click “Log Off” to leave the program. 

Click “Confirm Cancellation” 

Click on “Log Off” to end the session or click on 

“Search Availability” to reschedule with your 

advisor. 

If you need any assistance, please come to the front desk in Harrin 100. Hours are Monday- 

Friday 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. by appointment. 

7

8 

SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 

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30 

AUGUST 2012 


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5 6 7 8 9 10 11 

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 

26 27 28 29 30 31 

SEPTEMBER 2012 

OCTOBER 2012 


1 2 3 4 5 6 

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 

28 29 30 31 

NOVEMBER 2012 


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1 2 3 

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 

25 26 27 28 29 30 

DECEMBER 2012 


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9 10 11 12 13 14 15 

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 

30 31 

1 

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 


The Academic Calendar is subject to change and is posted on UCA’s webpage 

at: http://www.uca.edu/registrar/academiccalendar.php 

FALL SEMESTER 2012 

August 19-22, Sun-Wed Welcome Week Activities for new freshman and 

transfer students 

August 19, Sunday “Countdown to Classes” Mandatory advising 

session at 3:30 p.m. in Ida Waldran 

August 20, Monday Opening Convocation 

August 23, Thursday Instruction begins - day and evening classes 

August 24, Friday Change-of-course period ends for Aug 23-Oct 

12 classes: Last date to register, add classes or 

change from credit to audit or audit to credit 

August 29, Wednesday Change-of-course period ends for Aug 23-Dec 

14 classes: Last date to register, add classes or 


Final date to drop Aug. 23 - Dec. 14 classes with a 100% 

refund 

September 3, Monday Labor Day Holiday 

September 13, Tuesday Final date to drop Aug. 23 - Dec. 14 classes and receive 

a 75% refund. 0% refund after this date 

September 21, Friday Final date to make degree application for Dec. 

Graduation and be included in the commencement 

program 

September 28, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 23 - 

Oct 12 course with a W grade unless already 

dropped for non-attendance 

October 4, Thursday MAJORS FAIR SC BALLROOM 12:30-3:00 

October 5, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 23 - 

Oct 12 course with a WP or WF grade unless 

already dropped for non-attendance 

October 16, Tuesday Final date to add Oct 15 - Dec 14 course 

October 25-26, Thur/Fri Fall Break 

October 29– November 19 Advance Registration for Spring 2013 

November 2, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 25- 

Dec 17 course or the university with a W grade 

unless already dropped for non-attendance 

November 16, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Oct 15 - 

Dec 14 course with a W grade unless already 


November 21-25 Thanksgiving Holiday 

November 30, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Oct 15 - 

Dec 14 course with a WP or WF grade unless 

already dropped for non-attendance & Final date 

to officially with 

draw from a Aug 

23 - Dec 14 

course or the uni 

versity with a WP 

or a WF grade 

unless already 

dropped for nonattendance


December 7, Friday Study Day 

Dec. 10-14,Mon – Fri Final Exams-day and night classes 

December 5, Saturday Winter Commencement 

December 17, Monday NOON Final grades report date 

SPRING SEMESTER 2013 

January 10, Thursday Instruction begins - day and evening classes 

January 11, Friday Change of course period ends for Jan 10-Mar 

1 Classes: Last date to register, add classes 

or change from credit to audit or audit to credit 

January 14, Saturday Instruction begins - Saturday classes 

January 16, Wednesday Change-of-course period ends for Jan 12-May 5 

classes: Last date to register, add classes or 


Final date to drop Jan. 10 - May 3 classes and receive 

a 100% refund 

January 21, Monday Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday 

January 31, Thursday Final date to drop Jan. 10 - May 3 classes and receive 

a 75% refund. No refund after this date 

February 15, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 10 - 

Mar 1 course with a W grade unless already 


March 1, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 10 - 

Mar 1 course with a WP or WF grade unless 


March 5, Tuesday Final date to register, add or change from credit 

to audit or audit to credit for a Mar 4 - May 3 

course 

March 6, Wednesday Mid-term grade report date 

March 16-24, Sat-Sun Spring Break 

March 29, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 10 - 

May 3 course or the university with a W grade 

unless already dropped for non-attendance 

April 1-22 Advance Registration for Summer and Fall 2013 

April 12, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Mar 4 - 

May 3 course with a W grade unless already 


April 19, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Mar 4 - 

May 3 course with a WP or WF grade unless 


Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 10- 

May 3 course or the university with a WP or WF 

grade unless already dropped for non-attendance 

April 26, Friday Study Day 

April 27, Saturday Final Exams - 

Saturday classes 

April 29-May 3, M-F Final Exams-day 

and night classes 

May 4, Saturday Spring 

Commencement 

May 7, Tues. NOON- Final grades 

9 

JANUARY 2013 


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27 28 29 30 31 

FEBRUARY 2013 



1 2 

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 

31 

MARCH 2013 

APRIL 2013 


1 2 3 4 5 6 

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 

28 29 30 

MAY 2013 


1 2 3 4 

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 

26 27 28 29 30 31 

1 2 

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 

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24 25 26 27 28

10 

Things you need to know: 

ACADEMIC INFORMATION 


All academic requirements, policies, procedures, etc. are listed in the Undergraduate Bulletin. The Undergraduate 

Bulletin is available online at www.uca.edu/ubulletin/ Become familiar with the contents of 

the Undergraduate Bulletin. 

The Student Handbook is an all-inclusive guide for student rights and responsibilities. It contains the 

academic calendar and information about academic policies, general rules and regulations, university 

records, student appeals processes, etc. You will be held accountable for the information in the handbook. 

You must become familiar with this information. The Student Handbook is published each year and 

is available at the beginning of the fall term at the Student Information Counter in the Student Center. It 

is also available on line at http://www.uca.edu/student/dean/student_handbook.php. 

If you need to alter your class schedule after classes begin, you can do so by adding and/or dropping 

classes. Deadlines apply to both processes. The deadline for adding classes is very brief. If you decide 

to add a class, you must act quickly. See the Academic Calendar for add/drop deadlines. You can find 

the Academic Calendar at http://www.uca.edu/registrar/academiccalendar.php. To add or to drop a 

class, see your academic advisor. 

You will be given a class syllabus in each of your classes. The syllabus will outline all of the requirements 

for that course: attendance policy, special requirements, test dates, due dates for homework, major 

papers, etc. Be sure that you receive your syllabus for each class. 

Go to class! Instructors have the right to drop you from class for non-attendance. If you are dropped for 

non-attendance, the instructor has the right to give you a “Withdraw Failing” (WF) grade. WF’s are 

treated like F’s and are computed in your grade point as an F. 

If you are in grade trouble or are having problems in a class or classes, see your academic advisor as 

soon as possible. 

The University of Central Arkansas has created an e-mail account for all students . University 

officials will not recognize any other e-mail address. This account must be used for official UCA 

correspondence. Once classes start, your academic e-mail account will be activated. Check your account 

frequently for vital information from the university. 

UNIVERSITY RECORDS 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect 

to their educational records. For the complete Act please refer to the website: http://www.uca.edu/legal/ 

Record Inspection-Students have the right to inspect and review their education records. 

Challenge to Educational Record-In the event it is believed education records contain inaccurate or 

misleading information, or are otherwise in violation of a student’s privacy, a request for amendment may 

be made. Refer to the UCA Student Handbook & Daily Planner for complete information. The handbook 

can be located on the web at http://www.uca.edu/student/dean/student_handbook.php. 

RECORD DISCLOSURE 

In general, the University does not disclose personally identifiable information contained in a student’s 

education record unless the student provides written permission for disclosure.


DIRECTORY INFORMATION 

The University may disclose, without consent, “directory’ information as defined in the student handbook. 

However, please note that doing so will prevent inclusion of a student on award lists such as 

the Dean's and Presidential Scholar's Lists, unless a student contacts the Office of Undergraduate 

Studies prior to the end of each semester to request inclusion for the following semester. 

Students who do not wish the University to disclose “directory” information about them should notify 

the Office of the Registrar in writing. Students may request the non-release of “directory” information 

at anytime. 

REGISTRATION CANCELLATION 

In the event that you are unable to attend UCA after you have been enrolled in classes, the Registration 

Cancellation Form is required for you to notify the University that you will not be attending. The 

form can be found on the last page of this book. Please note that this form has a deadline date by 

which the University must receive notice of your registration cancellation. 

STUDENT INFORMATION 

The university does not mail grades. Rather, grade information is made available to students from a 

secure site that can be accessed using the Internet. The Student Identification Number and PIN are 

required to access grade information. 

The university certifies a student’s status at the institution—full or part-time enrollment, academic 

standing, advance registration for a future term, etc. The Office of the Registrar front counter in 

McCastlain Hall is the contact point for this service and has forms students can complete to provide 

the written request that is normally required. Certification of a student’s status is a free service. The 

normal time to process a certification of student status request is four (4) working days. 

STUDENT RIGHT TO KNOW INFORMATION 

The federal government requires that certain information be provided to incoming current University 

students, prospective students, parents, and current and prospective employees for the University. 

This information which comes under the Student Right to Know Act can be found in the student handbook 

online at http://www.uca.edu/student/dean/student_handbook.php. Students can receive a paper 

copy of any information, or visit the Dean of Students Office located in the Student Health Center. 

Such information includes: 

� Family Education Rights & Privacy Act 

(FERPA) 

� Available Financial Assistance & Direct 

Loan Deferments for Performed Services 

� General Institutional Information 

� Graduation Rate Information 

� Campus Security Report 

� Athletic Program Participation Rates & 

Financial Support Data 

11

12 ACADEMIC INTEGRITY/THE FACTS ON GETTING A DEGREE 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY & ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT 

The mission of the University of Central Arkansas commits all members of the university community to 

acquiring, sharing, evaluating, and communicating knowledge. Such a commitment includes an expectation 

of academic integrity, an organizational and individual commitment to honesty and responsibility in 

teaching and learning. By their affiliation with the University of Central Arkansas, all members of the university 

community are committed to shared responsibility for maintaining the highest standards of academic 

integrity. Although this policy focuses on the academic integrity in course-related work, its basis 

and context is the commitment made by the entire university community. 

Violation of the expectation of academic integrity is academic misconduct. Examples of misconduct commonly 

identified by universities include but are not limited to: cheating, plagiarism, fabrication among 

other forms. More information including disciplinary procedures can be located in the Student Handbook 

and Daily Planner at http://www.uca.edu/student/dean/student_handbook.php. 

THE FACTS ON GETTING A DEGREE 

The first degree you will receive from UCA will be either an 

Associate or a Baccalaureate (your Bachelor’s degree). The 

University offers two Associate and six Baccalaureate degrees, 

all of which have their own specific requirements along 

with the general education requirements. It is your responsibility 

to know the requirements for your degree, and we 

urge you to follow the Program Completion Plan (PCP) for 

your program. To assist you in keeping up with what classes 

you need to take, check-sheets for each program are available 

at http://www.uca.edu/pcps/. 

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS 

Most people think of college as four or more years concentrating on one specific area called your major. 

In reality you spend only about one in every three classes in your major department. These courses are 

very specific and you should consult your major department office, academic advisor, or the web site for 

further information on what exactly needs to be taken and in what order. There may also be prerequisites 

for courses that are required for your major. These are listed in the degree requirements for your major. 

You can always check with your major department office or your advisor for any updated information. 

Regardless of major, all students must complete the General Education Program. More information 

about general education is included in this book. 

Some majors also require a minor. A minor is a second area of specialization requiring fewer courses 

than a major. Minors usually require a minimum of six courses and there may be further requirements as 

to which courses must be taken. It is best to acquire that information from the minor department’s office 

or your advisor. 

Special Degree requirements: All majors may have special degree requirements which are defined in 

the Undergraduate Bulletin. 

Your final requirement is elective courses. The number of elective courses required will vary by degree 

plan. Again, become familiar with your degree requirements. There are some restrictions on courses and 

the best way to know those restrictions is to refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin is to know where to find 

them. A good rule to live by is, if in doubt, check with your academic advisor. 

Need more information? Check with your advisor, department web site, or the UCA Undergraduate Bulletin 

on the web at http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/.

UCA PROGRAMS OF STUDY 13 

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS 

Accounting - minor, BBA, MAcc 

Business - AAS 

Business Administration - minor, BBA, MBA 

Economics - minor, BS 

Economics, Int’l Trade Emphasis - BA, BBA 

Finance - BBA 

Management Information Systems (three tracks)- 

minor, BBA 

--Telecommucations & Computer Networking 

--Application Development 

—Business Analysis 

Innovation and Entrepreneurship-BBA 

Insurance and Risk Management - BBA 

Insurance and Risk Management, 

--Personal and Financial Planning Track - BBA 

Management - minor, BBA 

—Supply Chain Management 

Marketing - minor, BBA 

—Supply Chain Management 

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION 

Advanced Studies in Teaching and Learning - 

MSE 

Early Childhood Education (P-4) - BSE 

College Student Personnel Services & Admin- MS 

Educational Leadership - EdS 

Early Childhood Education - MSE 

Leadership Studies—PhD 

Master of Arts in Teaching - MAT 

School Leadership, Management, and Administration 

- MS 

Library Media and Information Technology - MS 

Middle Level Education (4-8) - BSE 

--Language Arts/Social Studies 

--Math/Science 

Reading - MSE 

Special Education - MSE 

--Collaborative Instructional Specialist, Ages 0-8 

--Collaborative Instr. Specialist, Grades 4-12 

Training Systems—MS 

COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS & COMMUNICATION 

Art - minor, BA, BFA 

--Art: Art Education 

--Art: Art History 

--Art: Studio Art-Painting 

--Art: Studio Art-Printmaking 

--Art: Studio Art-Photography 

--Art: Studio Art-Sculpture 

--Art: Studio Art-Ceramics 

--Art: Studio Art-Graphic Design 

Art History - minor 

UCA PROGRAMS OF STUDY 

Creative Writing, minor, BA 

Digital Filmmaking - BA, BS, MFA 

Linguistics - BA, minor 

Mass Communication - minor, BA, BS 

--Mass Communication: Broadcast Journalism 

--Mass Communication: Online Journalism 

--Mass Communication: Print Journalism 

Music - minor (non-teaching), BA, BM, MM 

--Music Education-Instrumental 

--Music Education-Keyboard 

--Music Education-Vocal 

--Music-Composition 

--Music-Instrumental 

--Music-Keyboard 

--Music-Vocal 

Public Relations - BA, BS 

Speech Communication - minor, BA, BS 

Theatre - minor, BA, BS 

Writing - minor, BA 

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND BEHAVIORAL 

SCIENCES 

Addiction Studies - certificate, BS, minor 

--Treatment 

--Prevention 

Athletic Training - BS 

Communication Sciences and Disorders – BS, 

MS, PhD 

Community Counseling - MS 

Counseling Psychology - MS 

Family and Consumer Sciences - minor, BS, MS 

Family and Consumer Sciences Education - BSE 

Gerontology - minor 

Health Education - minor, BS, MS 

Health Sciences - BS 

--Gerontology 

--Health Services Administration 

--Physical Therapy emphasis 

—Occupational Therapy emphasis 

Health Systems - MS 

Interior Design - BA, BS 

Kinesiology - minor, BS, MS 

Kinesiology & Physical Education - BSE 

Medical Technology - BS 

Military Science - minor 

Nuclear Medicine Technology - BS 

Nutrition/Dietetics - BS, MS 

Nursing - BSN, MSN 

Occupational Therapy - MS 

Physical Therapy - MS, DPT, PhD 

Psychology - minor, BA, BS 

Radiography - BS

14 

School Counseling - MS 

School Psychology - MS, PhD 

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS 

Anthropology - minor 

English - minor, BA, MA 

French - minor 

Geographic Information Science - minor 

Geography - minor, BA, BS 

German - minor 

History - minor, BA, BS, MA 

International Studies - minor, BA (three tracks) 

--Regional Studies 

--International Policies & Diplomacy 

--International Political Economy & Development 

Mandarin Chinese - minor 

Modern Languages-French 

--Traditional 

--Licensure 

--Business 

Modern Languages-Spanish 

--Traditional 

--Licensure 

--Business 

Philosophy - minor, BA, BS 

Political Science - minor, BA, BS 

Presidential Studies - minor 

Public Administration - BS 

Religious Studies - BA 

Social Studies, History Emphasis - BSE 

Sociology - minor, BA, BS 

--Criminology 

--Medical 

Spanish - minor, MA 

COLLEGE OF NATURAL SCIENCES AND 

MATHEMATICS 

Biology - minor, BS, MS 

Chemistry - minor, BS 

--ACS Certified 

--Bio-chemistry 

Computer Science - minor, BS, MS 

Mathematics - minor, BA, BS, BSE, MA,MS 

--Applied Mathematics, BS 

Physics - minor, BS 

--Applied 

--Biological 

--Chemical 

--Mathematical 

Mathematics Education—minor 

Physical Science - minor 

Secondary Science Education - BSE 

--Physical Science/Earth Science 

--Life Science/Earth Science 

UCA PROGRAMS OF STUDY/ DECLARING MAJORS 

Statistics - minor 

INTERDISCIPLINARY PROGRAMS 

African/African-American Studies - BA, minor 

Asian Studies - minor 

Environmental Science - BS 

--Biology 

--Chemistry 

--Planning and Administration 

Gender Studies - minor 

General Science - BS 

Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies– BA 

Latin American Studies - minor 

Religious Studies - minor, BA 

Southern and Arkansas Studies – minor 

PRE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING 

Pre-Cardio Respiratory Care 

Pre-Dentistry 

Pre-Dental Hygiene 

Pre-Engineering 

Pre-Law 

Pre-Medicine 

--Biology 

--Chemistry 

Pre-Pharmacy 

Pre-Veterinary Medicine 

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE 

General Studies - AA 

HONORS AT UCA 

Honors Interdisciplinary Studies – minor 

DECLARING YOUR MAJOR and/or MINOR 

If you do not have a major or if you wish to 

declare or change a major or minor, you will 

need to complete an electronic major change 

form on the Academic Advising Center’s 

channel under the “My UCA” tab in your 

myUCA account. 

To find out who your academic advisor is log 

into myUCA using your network ID and password. 

Click on the Self-Service tab and then 

click on: Student and Financial Aid, Student 

Records, then View Student Information.


IDENTIFY YOUR LEARNING STYLE 

When you know your learning style you can… 

—Maximize your strengths 

—Compensate for your weaknesses 

—Increase your learning effectiveness 

Do you know what your learning style is? 

—Visual: Learn through seeing 

—Auditory: Learn through listening 

—Read/Write: Learn through reading and transcribing 

—Kinesthetic: Learn through moving, doing, and 

touching 

If you are still now quite sure what your leaning style is, take a few minutes to complete this 

questionnaire: 

HOW DO I LEARN BEST? 

Choose the answer which best explains your preference and circle the letter(s) next to it. Please circle 

more than one if a single answer does not match your perception. Leave blank any question that does 

not apply. 

1. You are helping someone who wants to go to your airport, town center, or railway station. You would: 

a. go with her. 

b. tell her the directions. 

c. write down the directions. 

d. draw, or give her a map. 

2. You are not sure whether a word should be spelled ‘dependent’ or ‘dependant’. You would: 

a. see the words in your mind and choose by the way they look. 

b. think about how each word sounds and choose one. 

c. find it in the dictionary. 

d. write both words on paper and choose one. 

3. You are planning a holiday vacation for a group of people. You want some feedback from them about 

the plan. You would: 

a. describe some of the highlights. 

b. use a map or website to show them the places. 

c. give them a copy of the printed itinerary. 

d. phone, text, or email them. 

4. You are going to cook something as a special treat for your family. You would: 

a. cook something without the need for instructions. 

b. ask friends for suggestions. 

c. look through a cookbook at pictures for ideas. 

d. use a recipe from a good cook book. 

5. A group of tourists want to learn about the parks or wildlife reserves in your area. You would: 

a. talk about, or arrange a talk for them about parks or wildlife reserves. 

b. show them internet pictures, photographs, or picture books. 

c. take them to a park or wildlife reserve and walk with them. 

d. give them a book or pamphlets about the parks or wildlife reserves.

16 IDENTIFY YOUR LEARNING STYLE 

6. You are about to purchased a digital camera or mobile phone. Other than price, what would most influence 

your decision? 

a. trying or testing it. 

b. reading the details about its features. 

c. it is a modern design and looks good. 

d. the salesperson telling me about its features. 

7. Remember a time when you learned how to do something new. Try to avoid choosing a physical skill, 

e.g. riding a bike. You learned best by: 

a. watching a demonstration. 

b. listening to someone explain it and ask questions. 

c. diagrams and charts - visual clues. 

d. written instructions - e.g. a manual or textbook. 

8. You have a problem with your knee. You would prefer that the doctor: 

a. gave you a web address or something to read about it. 

b. used a plastic model of a knee to show what was wrong. 

c. described what was wrong. 

d. showed you a diagram of what was wrong. 

9. You want to learn a new program, skill, or game on a computer. You would: 

a. read the written instructions that came with the program. 

b. talk with people who know about the program. 

c. use the controls or keyboard. 

d. follow the diagrams in the book that came with it. 

10. I like websites that have: 

a. things I can click on, shift or try. 

b. interesting design and visual features. 

c. interesting written descriptions, lists, and explanations. 

d. audio channels where I can hear music, radio programs, or interviews. 

11. Other than price, what would most influence your decision to buy a new non-fiction book? 

a. the way it looks is appealing. 

b. quickly reading parts of it. 

c. a friend talks about it and recommends it. 

d. it has real-life stories, experiences, and examples. 

12. You are using a book, CD, or website to learn how to take photos with your new digital camera. You 

would like to have: 

a. a chance to ask questions and talk about the camera and its features. 

b. clear written instructions with bullet points about what to do. 

c. diagrams showing the camera and what each part does. 

d. many examples of good and poor photos and how to improve them. 

13. Do you prefer a teach or presenter who uses: 

a. demonstrations, models, or practical sessions. 

b. question and answer, talk, group discussion, or guest speakers. 

c. handouts, books, or readings. 

d. diagrams, charts, or graphs.


14. You have finished a competition or test and would like some feedback. You would like to have feedback: 

a. using examples from what you have done. 

b. using a written description of your results. 

c. from somebody who talks it through with you. 

d. using graphs showing what you had achieved. 

15. You are going to choose food at a restaurant or cafe. You would: 

a. choose something that you have had there before. 

b. listen to the waiter or ask friends to recommend choices. 

c. choose from the descriptions on the menu. 

d. look at what others are eating or look at pictures of each dish. 

16. You have to make an important speech at a conference or special occasion. You would: 

a. make diagrams or get graphs to help explain things. 

b. write a few key words and practice saying your speech over and over. 

c. write out your speech and learn from reading it over several times. 

d. gather many examples and stories to make the talk real and practical. 

THE VARK QUESTIONNAIRE SCORING CHART 

Use the following scoring chart to find the VARK category to which each of your answers corresponds. 

Circle the letters that correspond to your answers. For example if you answered b and c for question 3, 

circle V and R in the question 3 row. 

Question a category b category c category d category 

3 K V R A 

Scoring Chart 

Question a category b category c category d category 

1 K A R V 

2 V A R K 

3 K V R A 

4 K A V R 

5 A V K R 

6 K R V A 

7 K A V R 

8 R K A V 

9 R A K V 

10 K V R A

18 

11 V R A K 

12 A R V K 

13 K A R V 

14 K R A V 

15 K A R V 

16 V A R K 

CALCULATING YOUR SCORES 


Count the number of each of the VARK letters you have circled to get your score for each VARK category. 

Total number of Vs circled = _____ 

Total number of As circled = _____ 

Total number of Rs circled = _____ 

Total number of Ks circled = _____ 

© Copyright version 7.0 (2006) held by Neil D. Fleming, Christchurch, New Zealand and Charles C. 

Bonwell, Green Mountain Falls, Colorado 80819 U.S.A. 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR 

LEARNING STYLE 

Use these learning style-specific tendencies and 

strategies to tailor your study habits and maximize your 

individual learning style. 

Auditory Learnings 

Tendencies: 

- Become distracted by sounds or noises 

- Prefer verbal directions 

- Learn best by hearing 

- Can accurately remember details from lectures and 

conversations 

Strategies: 

- Attend all class lectures 

- Recite aloud as you study 

- Study in groups or with friends 

- Recall information during exams by hearing yourself 

recite in your head


Kinesthetic or Tactile Learners 

Tendencies: 

- Learn best by doing 

- Ignore directions and figure it out as they go alonge 

- Jump right in and try activities 

- Able to disassemble and reassemble things 

Strategies: 

- Move around when you study - put cards on the floor and recite them as you walk around the room 

- Study in small frequent chunks of time 

- When taking tests try to feel how your stored information by remembering what you physically did as 

you studied. 

- Study with another kinesthetic person 

Visual Learners 

Tendencies: 

- Can easily recall printed information 

- Easily understand information presented in charts, pictures, or diagrams 

- Are distracted by untidiness or movement 

- Good with visual symbols 

Strategies: 

- Always write down what you need to remember 

- Make recall cues as visual as possible with capital letters, colors and illustrations 

- Keep the study environment free of clutter 

- Recall information by visualizing text pages, notes, or study cards 

Read/Write Learners 

Tendencies: 

- Create lists to remember and stay organized 

- Take detailed notes to rewrite later 

- Excel with essays 

- Prefer articulate teachers 

Strategies: 

- Write out the words again and again 

- Read your notes (silently) again and again 

- Rewrite the ideas and principles into other words 

- Turn reactions, actions, diagrams, charts and flows into words 

Even if you have a dominant or preferred learning style, you will 

likely have tendencies of each. It is wise to learn how to maximize 

your skills with all learning styles. 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEARNING STYLE 

You have identified your learning style and discovered that you are 

either a 

—Visual Learner 

—Auditory Learner 

—read/Write Learner 

—Kinesthetic Learner

20 

Now take a moment and brainstorm some techniques you could use to maximize the strengths of your 

leaning style. 

As a Visual Learner: 

1. I prefer to keep my study environment free of (blank). 

2. When I need to remember something I must (blank) it down on a calendar or planner. 

3. I tend to think in (blank) and learn best from (blank) displays. 

4. During a lecture or classroom discussion I often prefer to take (blank) notes to absorb the information. 

5. I prefer to sit in the (blank) few rows of the classroom. 

6. What might be some strategies that you could use to maximize the strength of your learning style? 

(blanks) 

As an Auditory Learner: 

1. I am probably easily (blank) by sounds or noises. 

2. I prefer receiving directions (blank). 

3. I learn best by (blank). 

4. I can (blank) remember details from lectures and conversations. 


(blanks) 

As a Read/Write Learner: 

1. I prefer exams in (blank) format. 

2. I learn best from professors who provide me with (blank) notes of their lecture that are very detailed. 

3. When I study I like to (blank) the ideas and principle into other words. I also like to (blank) my notes 

again and again. 

4. I tend to study (blank). 


(blanks) 

As a Kinesthetic/Tactile Learner: 

1. I learn best by being (blank) involved in the learning process. 

2. I prefer to (blank) directions and (blank) things out as I go. 

3. When taking notes I tend to include (blank) in my summaries so I can better understand principles and 

abstract concepts. 

4. Lectures that employ (blank) examples are the kind that stimulate my learning process. 


(blanks) 

You have identified your learning style. 

You have learned study strategies tailored specifically for your learning style. 

NOW WHAT? 


If you are still finding it hard to start studying, the next page has some tips to help you get started.

ACADEMIC CHECK 21 

Change environment 

Have all equipment nearby 

Establish rewards for yourself 

Create a checklist of tasks to be done 

Keep a “worry pad” 

ACADEMIC CHECK 

Change Environments. 

- Find the environment that is best for YOU. Consider whether you like to be away from people or not, 

whether you like noise or not, and whether you like bright or dim light. 

- If you are distracted for some reason, find a new place to study that will have fewer distractions. 

- As soon as you are distracted, change environments. Do not waste time trying to shut out distractions 

or waiting for the distractions to go away. 

Have all equipment nearby while studying. 

- Before studying, collect the materials you will need (pens, pencils, paper, notebooks, books, paper 

clips, note cards, etc.) 

- This will save time so you won’t have to find equipment during your study time and then have difficulty 

getting started again. 

Establish rewards for yourself. 

- You may have difficulty getting started studying because it looks like you may never finish or because 

you keep thinking of other things you would rather do. 

- To help, you need to set rewards for yourself. For example, you may reward yourself after you finish 

reading a chapter. Or you may divide your study time into shorter periods (e.g., 30 minutes) then reward 

yourself at the end of these periods. 

- You can use rewards such as food, TV, video games, computer, talking to a friend on the phone, or using 

email. If you are using a reward in the middle of your study time, be sure to set a time limit to devote 

to the reward (e.g., 10 minutes of talking on the telephone). 

Create a checklist of all the tasks you need to do before studying. 

- You may have difficulty getting started studying because you think you have too many tasks to do or 

you have no idea what you have to do, so it seems like your studying will be endless. 

- Make a list of what you have to study and prioritize these tasks starting with the most important tasks to 

be done. 

- After completing each task, check it off to see how much you have accomplished. The list will also let 

you know what you need to finish. 

Keep a “worry pad” while studying. 

- If distractions are keeping you from concentrating, you create a “worry pad,” which is a piece of paper 

where you write all the ideas that keep popping into your head. 

- After you write an idea down, try to put it out of your mind until you are finished studying. Each time a 

worry interrupts your studying, write it on the paper. 

*Adapted from Texas Tech University, “Academic Physical.” 2010.

22 MASTER SCHEDULE 

MASTER SCHEDULE 

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 

7:00a - 7:50a 7:00a - 7:50a 7:00a - 7:50a 

8:00a - 8:50a 8:00a - 8:50a 8:00a - 8:50a 

8:00a - 9:15a 8:00a - 9:15a 

9:00a - 9:50a 9:00a - 9:50a 9:00a - 9:50a 

9:25a - 10:40a 9:25a - 10:40a 

10:00a - 10:50a 10:00a - 10:50a 10:00a - 10:50a 

11:00a - 11:50a 11:00a - 11:50a 11:00a - 11:50a 

10:50a - 12:05p 10:50a - 12:05p 

12:00p - 12:50p 12:00p - 12:50p 12:00p - 12:50p 

12:15p - 1:30p 12:15p - 1:30p 

1:00p - 1:50p X-PERIOD 1:00p - 1:50p X-PERIOD 1:00p - 1:50p 

1:40p - 2:30p 1:40p - 2:30p 

2:00p - 2:50p 2:00p - 2:50p 2:00p - 2:50p 

3:00p - 3:50p 2:40p - 3:55p 3:00p - 3:50p 2:40p - 3:55p 3:00p - 3:50p 

4:00p - 4:50p 4:00p - 4:50p 4:00p - 4:50p 

4:05p - 5:20p 4:05p - 5:20p 

4:30p 4:30p 4:30p 4:30p 4:30p 

6:00p 6:00p 6:00p 6:00p 6:00p 

7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 

Printable form located in the Advising Center’s Channel in myUCA under the link Resources for Students.

GENERAL EDUCATION CHECK SHEET 23 

To graduate from UCA, students must complete a minimum of 124 

semester hours, including the general education program, major 

and possibly minor requirements, any special degree requirements, 

and 40 upper division (3000-4000) hours. 

All students must take the following courses: 

Writing 

(to be taken on initial enrollment unless requirement already met) 

___ WRTG 1310 (Introduction to College Writing) 

___ WRTG 1320 (Academic Writing & Research)* 

OR 

___ HONC 1310 (Honors Core I)** 

___ HONC 1320 (Honors Core II)** 

Health Studies 

___ HED/KPED 1320 (Concepts Lifetime Health & Fitness) 

Oral Communication 

___ SPCH 1300 (Basic Oral Communication) 

American History and Government—Choose 1 

___ HIST 2301 (American Nation I) 

___ HIST 2302 (American Nation II) 

___ PSCI 1330 (US Government & Politics) 

Behavioral and Social Sciences—Choose 2 

(Must be from DIFFERENT disciplines) 

___ ANTH 1302 (Anthropology) 

___ ECON 1310 (Modern Political Economy) 

___ ECON 2310 (Global Environment of Business) 

___ GEOG 1305 (Principles of Geography) 

___ GEOG 1300 (Geography of World Regions) 

___ LING 1310 (Language, Culture, and Society) 

___ PSCI 1300 (Intro to Political Science) 

___ PSCI 1330 (US Government & Politics) 

___ PSCI 2300 (International Relations) 

___ PSYC 1300 (General Psychology) 

___ SOC 1300 (Principles of Sociology) 

___ HONC 1320 (Honors Core II)** 

___ HONC 2310 (Honors Core III)** 

Fine Arts—Choose 1 

___ ART 2300 (Art Appreciation) 

___ FILM 2300 (Film Appreciation) (Search Digital Film) 

___ MUS 2300 (Music Appreciation) 

___ THEA 2300 (Theatre Appreciation) 

___ HONC 2320 (Honors Core IV)** 

Humanities—Choose 1 

___ ENGL 1350 (Introduction to Literature) 

___ ENGL 1355 (Film and Literature) 

___ ENGL 2370 (Introduction to Fiction) 

___ ENGL 2380 (Introduction to Poetry) 

___ ENGL 2390 (Introduction to Drama) 

___ FREN 2320 OR GERM 2320 OR SPAN 2320 

(Conversation-Composition II)* 

___ FYFS 1301 (First Year Seminar: Studies in Humanities) 

___ PHIL 1301 (Philosophy for Living) 

___ PHIL 2305 (Critical Thinking) 

___ PHIL 2325 (Contemporary Moral Problems) 

___ PHIL 2360 (Gender, Race, and Class) 

___ RELG 1330 (Exploring Religion) 

___ WLAN 2315 (Cultural Studies) 

___ WLAN 2325 (Issues of Cultural Identity in Francophone 

Africa and the Caribbean) 

___ HONC 1310 (Honors Core I)** 


Mathematics—Choose 1 

___ MATH 1360 (Mathematics in Society) 

___ MATH 1390 (College Algebra) 

OR, if required by the student’s program of study 

___ MATH 1392 (Plane Trigonometry)* 

___ MATH 1395 (Business Calculus)* 

___ MATH 1491 (Calculus for the Life Sciences)* 

___ MATH 1580 (Algebra and Trigonometry)* 

___ MATH 1591 (Calculus I)* 

Natural Sciences—1 Biological, 1 Physical Required 

Biological Science—Choose 1 

___ BIOL 1400 (Biology for General Education) 


___ BIOL 1440 (Principles of Biology I)* 

Physical Science—Choose 1 

___ CHEM 1400 (Chemistry in Society) 

___ PHYS 1400 (Physical Science for General Education) 

___ PHYS 1401 (Descriptive Astronomy) 


___ CHEM 1450 (College Chemistry I)* 

___ CHEM 1402 (General Chemistry for Health Sciences)* 

___ PHYS 1405 (Applied Physics)* 

___ PHYS 1410 (College Physics I)* 

___ PHYS 1441 (University Physics I)* 

World Cultural Traditions—3 courses required (no more than 2 

courses with the same course prefix) 

___ AFAM 1330 (African & African-American Studies) 

___ ENGL 2305 (World Literature I) 

___ ENGL 2306 (World Literature II) 

___ FYFS 1310 (First Year Seminar: Studies in World Cultural 

Traditions) 

___ HIST 1310 (World History I) 

___ HIST 1320 (World History II) 

___ PHIL 1330 (World Philosophies) 

___ RELG 1320 - (World Religions) 

___ LING 2350 (World Languages) 


NOTE: 

� If the ACT subject score is below 19 in reading, writing, or algebra, 

remediation is required. 

� Some majors require specific general education courses. 

� Courses may be used only once to satisfy the general education 

requirements. 

� A minimum grade of C is required in some general education 

courses. 

� For additional information, consult your academic advisor or 

the undergraduate bulletin. 

*This course has prerequisites: Check the Undergraduate 

Bulletin for details. 

**HONC courses may be taken only with consent of the Honors 

College. 

Revised: 2/2012

24 

UCA STUDENTS ENROLLING IN TRANSITIONAL COURSES 

Who must take Transitional Courses? 

Any student entering UCA with ACT math, reading or writing test scores below 19, or COMPASS 

scores below the passing level, is required by the State of Arkansas to enroll in and pass a transitional 

course in the appropriate area(s). Full-time students must enroll in required courses each semester 

until requirements are completed. Students who transfer in credit for college-level writing or math 

courses completed at other institutions are exempt from this requirement. 

What is the “Three Attempts Rule”? 

UCA policy allows students three opportunities (“attempts”) to complete remediation requirements in 

any one area, including writing, reading and math. An attempt is any time you earn a grade (including 

a “D” or “F”), or are withdrawn with a “W”, “WP” or “WF”. Please be aware that you only have three 

attempts in total to complete your math requirement (in other words, to pass all required transitional 

math classes). Finally, you may not withdraw yourself from these courses, but you will be dropped 

with a “WF” for non-attendance. 

What happens after three failed attempts? 

After three failed attempts in any one area, you will not be readmitted to the university until you complete 

the appropriate transitional course(s) with a grade of “C” or higher at another accredited institution 

of higher education and provide UCA with a transcript prior to registration. 

4/2012 

TRANSITIONAL COURSES

GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM 25 

The General Education program is the foundation 

of your university degree. It prepares you for 

courses in your major, gives you broad knowledge 

and important skills, and provides you with the flexibility 

and openness to different perspectives that 

employers are increasingly demanding in their employees. 

To graduate from UCA, students must complete a 

minimum of 124 semester hours including 

major and possibly minor requirements, any 

special degree requirements, 40 upper-division 

hours (courses numbered 3000 and 4000), and 47 

hours of general education. 

The purpose of the general education program is: 

To enable students to have or to know 

where to locate the information they need to 

make informed decisions and hold 

responsible opinions about their lives and 

the relationship of their lives to the world 

in which they live; 

To help students develop intellectual skills, 

practical skills, and emotional and aesthetic 

sensitivities—that is, to prepare them to 

think, to feel, and to act competently in a 

complex, diverse, and constantly changing 

world; and 

To help students understand the values inherent 

in their culture and to be aware of 

other cultural traditions, values, and 

beliefs. 

The list of general education courses contains 10 

specific categories. After each category, you will 

see the number of course hours required to complete 

that category. 

How do you know how many hours you earn for 

each course? Look closely at how the courses are 

listed. Every listing has a departmental name, a 

course number, and a course title. In the category 

for American History & Government, the name of 

the department is HIST (HISTORY) or PSCI 

(POLITICAL SCIENCE). The number after the department 

is the course number: 2301, 2302 or 

1330. Every course number has 4 numerals. The 

1st numeral tells you the level of the course, the 

2nd the number of credit hours for the course, and 

the last 2 show that course differs from others in the 

GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM 

department. HIST 2301, for example, is a 2 nd year, 

or sophomore-level course. It offers 3 hours of 

credit, and the 01 distinguishes it from another 

course like it, which ends in 02. HISTORY 2301 is 

the 1st half of American History, and HISTORY 

2302 in the second half. PSCI 1330 is a 1st year 

course, offering 3 hours credit, and the 30 on the 

end simply distinguishes it from other political science 

courses. 

You can take ANY of the courses listed in the General 

Education Program. You do not have to be a 

sophomore to take the courses numbered 2000. In 

fact, for your 1st semester at UCA, we encourage 

you to select 

courses you 

know you will 

enjoy. Just be 

aware that you 

MUST take 

General Education 

courses 

to graduate. 

Every student 

must take 2 

semesters of 

writing. Students 

in the 

Honors College 

may satisfy 

this requirement 

with 

Honors Core I 

and II. If you 

have taken 

Comp I, 

Freshman 

English, or something like that at another college or 

university as concurrent credit, or have AP or CLEP 

credit you probably have satisfied UCA’s writing 

requirement. Be sure to tell your academic advisor 

if you have college credit for any course. 

Please note also that remediation is required in 

reading, writing, and algebra if your ACT subject 

score is below 19. Remedial courses are not 

listed in the general education program and do not 

count toward graduation hours. 

Note also that some majors require specific general 

education courses. For additional information, 

consult your academic advisor.

26 

The University of Central Arkansas is pleased to announce its Guaranteed Eight-Semester Degree 

Completion Program. 

UCA now offers entering first-time students assistance in completing many of our undergraduate degrees 

in eight semesters. A list of the undergraduate degree programs that offer “Eight-Semester Program 

Completion Plans” can be found on our website at: http://www.uca.edu/pcps/. 

. 

How do I enroll? 

During your summer registration appointment, your advisor will ask if you want to participate in one of 

these degree plans. Your participation simply means that UCA will ensure class availability, as outlined 

in the plan, as long as you continue to meet the conditions for participation. 

What are the Conditions for Participation? 

To participate in this program, you must: 

GUARANTEED EIGHT-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM 

GUARANTEED EIGHT-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM 

Enter the University of Central Arkansas as a first-year student 

in the fall semester and choose a major that offers an 

Eight-Semester Program Completion Plan. 

Complete and sign the Guaranteed Eight-Semester Degree 

Completion Program contract with your advisor prior to the 

first day of classes. 

Follow the schedule of classes on your Eight-Semester Degree 

Program Completion Plan throughout your eight semesters. 

Maintain satisfactory academic progress in all courses and 

programs. 

Satisfy all prerequisites for the courses listed in your Eight- 

Semester Degree Program Completion Plan prior to enrollment in courses for which they are required. 

(Note: This may include prerequisites for the foreign language requirement that is part of 

many BA programs.) 

Have your course schedule approved by your official advisor each semester and enroll during your 

designated registration period. 

Accept any available section of a required course that can be accommodated in your class schedule. 

Remain in your declared major, and successfully complete all courses and degree requirements as 

scheduled.

PROGRAM COMPLETION CONTRACT 27 

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS 

GUARANTEED 8-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM 

Pursuant to Act 1014 of 2005, qualified first-time freshmen may elect to participate in a guaranteed 

8-semester degree completion program for most bachelor’s degree programs. The list of majors 

that are included in the 8-semester degree completion program is published on the institutional 

website and in the Undergraduate Bulletin. A student must accept or waive participation in the 

guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program. 

When choosing to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program, a student 

accepts responsibility for monitoring his/her progress toward a degree and for making choices that 

will lead to graduation in four years. 

Please check one of the following options: 

ACCEPTANCE: As a first-time freshman, I have declared a major in ________________ 

_______________________ at the University of Central Arkansas and wish to participate 

in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program. 

I acknowledge that: (1) I must follow exactly the 8-semester degree plan for my major; (2) I 

must make satisfactory academic progress and maintain a grade point average of 2.00 or 

greater; (3) I must complete, generally, 30–36 semester credit hours of appropriate course 

work each academic year as outlined in my degree plan; (4) I must have my class schedule 

approved by my official advisor and register for classes each semester during my 

designated registration period; (5) I must accept any available course section that can be 

accommodated in my class schedule; and (6) if I change my major, the guaranteed 8semester 

degree plan is voided. 

Other events based on my actions that may void the guarantee include failure to complete 

all degree and program requirements (including a minor, if required), dropping or failing a 

course, withdrawing from the university, failing to pay fees, and disciplinary actions. 

WAIVER: As a first-time freshman, I choose not to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester 

degree completion program for the following reason(s): 

I have not declared a major and am therefore not eligible to participate in the guaranteed 

8-semester degree completion program. 

I understand that my declared major is not included in the guaranteed 8-semester 

degree completion program. 

I am not eligible to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program 

because I must enroll in one or more developmental courses (pre-college level) or 

prerequisite courses required in my selected major. 

I am not eligible to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program 

because I am not a full-time student. 

Other (specify): 

STUDENT NAME (PLEASE PRINT) STUDENT ID NUMBER 

STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE 

WITNESSED BY ADVISOR (SIGNATURE) DATE

28 

GRADUATION STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING 

GRADUATION 

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING 

I have reviewed the below listed standards that are required for the awarding of a degree, as printed in 

the Undergraduate Bulletin and stipulated by University academic advisor (s). I signify my understanding 

of all aspects of these requirements by affixing my signature and initials to this form. 

1. Completion of all aspects of the degree program, including general education courses, with no 

incomplete (X) grades. ___________Initial 

2. Completion of at least 124 semester hours of unduplicated credit (excluding UNIV credit), of 

which at least 60 semester hours must be credit from four-year baccalaureate degree granting 

institutions and at least 30 semester hours must be credit from the University of Central Arkansas. 

At least 15 semester hours of Major credit must be from UCA. AT least 9 semester hours 

of Minor credit must be from UCA. Of the last 30 semester credit hours required for the degree, 

at least 24 semester hours must be UCA Credit. ___________Initial 

3. Completion of at least 40 semester hours of upper division credit (3000 and 4000 level), including 

at least 12 semester hours of upper division work in the major field and 3 hours of upper division 

work in the minor field (if applicable). ___________Initial 

4. Completion of special degree requirements stipulated for the individual baccalaureate degree 

(BA, BBA, BS, etc.) ___________Initial 

5. Completion of a minimum 2.0 grade point grade point average in the Major. _________Initial 

6. Completion of a minimum 2.0 grade point average in the Minor (if applicable), or completion of a 

minimum 2.0 grade point average in the BBA Foundation/Core (if applicable). _________Initial 

7. Completion of a minimum 2.0 grade point average cumulatively (all courses). __________Initial 

8. I understand that my diploma and academic record transcript may not be released if I have an 

outstanding or unpaid financial obligation to the University. _________Initial 

9. I understand that my diploma will be mailed to the address 

provided on my application for graduation according to the following 

schedule. _________Initial 

A. by March 1 for December graduates 

B. by July 1 for May graduates 

C. by Oct 1 for August graduates 

Note: For purposes of grade point calculation, only course work attempted 

in the field (Major, Minor, BBA Foundation Core, and cumulatively), 

will be included in determining the grade point average. 

___________Initial 

03282011

NOTIFICATION OF ARKANSAS COURSE TRANSFER SYSTEM 

NOTIFICATION OF ARKANSAS COURSE TRANSFER SYSTEM 

(Act 472 of 2007) 

As part of the academic advising process, Arkansas law (Act 472 of 2007) requires that we notify 

you of the following matters: 

1. A very important part of beginning your college career is academic advising. Your advisor, the 

advising center, and the university desire to provide as much information to you as possible concerning 

courses and other matters related to your academic endeavors. 

2. The Arkansas Department of Higher Education, in conjunction with the public colleges and 

universities in the state, has developed the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS). This is a postsecondary 

education resource service that provides comparable course information to facilitate student 

transfer within Arkansas public colleges and universities. The ACTS database contains faculty-generated 

comparable course information for a number of courses offered at public institutions in Arkansas. Comparable 

courses within ACTS are guaranteed to transfer for full credit to any Arkansas public institution. 

ACTS provides information regarding guaranteed transfer of courses between Arkansas public 

institutions. ACTS is beneficial for students, parents, and academic advisors because it provides accurate, 

up-to-date comparable course information for educational planning and informed decision-making. 

To use ACTS visit the Arkansas Department of Higher Education website at: 

http://www.adhe.edu or call the academic advising center at UCA for more information on how to use 

ACTS. 

Please sign below to indicate that you have received this notice about the Arkansas Course 

Transfer System. 

Date: __________________ 

Student ID: _____________________ 

Signature: _______________________ 

Print Name: ______________________ 


By: _____________________________ 

Title: ___________________________ 

29

30 ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN MYUCA 

myUCA POP QUIZ 

Find the answers to the following questions using your myUCA account. 

1. Log into your myUCA account. Click on: the “Self-Service” tab—Student & Financial Aid—”Student 

Records”— View Student Information. 

1) Who is your Primary Advisor? _______________________________ 

2) What is your Major & Department? _______________________________ 

3) What is your Class?_______________________________ 

2. List 3 other items you can view under “Student Records” menu. 

1)____________________ 2)____________________ 3)_____________________ 

3. You can check your e-mail through the ___________________ icon. 

4. What channel on the “my UCA” tab allows you to check tuition & fees and make a payment? 

_______________________________ 

5. The Academic Advising Center Channel is located under which tab? _______________ 

6. List 3 resources you can access through the Academic Advising Center Channel on the MY UCA” 

tab. 

1)____________________ 2)___________________ 3)____________________ 

7. In the Self-Service tab, what 3 steps do you need to take in order to view your schedule? 

1)____________________ 2)___________________ 3)____________________ 

Be sure to log out of your myUCA account before you leave! 

ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN MYUCA 

https://my.uca.edu/cp/home/displaylogin 

Enter your Network ID and PIN-Password (if lost/unknown, take a photo 

ID to the Help Desk, Burdick 106) 

Finding the General Education and Major/Minor Check Sheets: 

Click on “My UCA” tab and go to the Academic Advising Center Channel 

in center of page 

Click on “Resources for Students” link and print: 

· Master Class Schedule 

· General Education Requirements 

· Program Completion Plans for your chosen degree (or go directly 

to the Academic Department for a degree checklist)

ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN MYUCA 

Finding your Advisor in myUCA: 

***You must meet with your advisor before you can register for classes*** 

Click on the “Self-Service” Tab 

Click on the Student & Financial Aid 

Click on “Student Records” 

Click on View Student Information (middle of page) 

Looking at your Academic Information in myUCA: 


Click on Student & Financial Aid 

Click on “Student Records” 

Click to “View Holds”, “Midterm Grades”, “Final Grades”, “Academic Transcript” – list of all the 

classes that you have taken at UCA, transfer classes, AP and CLEP credit. (Use the general education 

program check sheet and Program Completion Plan to determine what general education and major 

courses you need.) 

View the “Class Schedule” to plan your next semester classes 

To register for classes: 

***You must meet with your advisor and clear all holds before you can register for classes*** 

***Incoming freshmen will not have access to change their schedule for the first term at UCA. Schedule 

changes must be made through their academic advisor.**** 

You can find the Advance Registration Schedule on the myUCA log-on page by clicking on “Registration 

Information and Schedule of Classes” 


Click on Student & Financial Aid 

Click on “Registration Link” 

Click on Look up Classes 

Select Term and submit 

Select subject - can limit search by: 

· Specific Class or all classes in a subject · Specific Instructor 

· Specific Time · Specific Day (s) 

Click on “Class Search” – after you find the class that you want to take, the box on the left will indicate 

that the class is available, check the box, and scroll to the bottom of the screen: 

Click “Add to worksheet” or “Register” 

To View your Completed Schedule after registration: 

Click on View/Print Schedule, to see your completed schedule. 

Access your online course content in myUCA 

Click on the “My Courses” tab 

Click on a link to a course 

This will take you to Blackboard, if your instructor uses it, or Course Studio 

**You will have a link for each course for which you are enrolled but not all instructors use this service. 

Add a Channel to myUCA 

Click the “My Tab” tab 

Click “Content Layout” by the myUCA logo in the top left corner. 

Click the “My Tab” tab then click one of the “New Channel” buttons 

Select “Student” from the Category drop-down box then click “Go” 

Select “Distance Education” then click the “Add Channel” 

Click the “Back to My Tab” by the myUCA logo in the top left corner. 

***This channel will provide helpful information about online learning tools. 

***There are many other channels that you can add to your myUCA. 

Logout of myUCA (top right of screen) 

31

32 ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN MYUCA 

Online Access to Student Accounts & Financial Aid Information 

Logging in to myUCA 

1. Start at the UCA website (www.uca.edu) 

—Click on the myUCA link 

—Enter your: 

—User name (email info without “@cub.uca.edu”) 

—Password (pin #) 

*If access is denied, contact UCA IT at 450-3107 

2. Once you are in myUCA, click on the Self-Service tab 

3. Click on Student & Financial Aid 

Online Access to Student Account Information 

1. Click on Student Account, then Account Summary by Term to view charges 

2. Click on Review Account and Pay Balance to pay your account online 

Online Access to Financial Aid Information 

1. Click on the Financial Aid tab above the menu 

2. Click on Financial Aid Status 

1. Click Financial Aid Tab 

2. Click Eligibility 

3. Click Student Requirements 

4. Click Select Appropriate Aid Year 

How to View Financial Aid Requirements 

*You can locate needed forms on the financial aid web page under forms 

How to View & Accept Financial Aid 

1. Click Financial Aid Tab 

2. Click Award 

3. Click Award for Aid Year 

4. Click Select Appropriate Aid Year 

5. Click Accept or Decline Award (partial awards can be accepted)

MYUCA SCREENSHOT 33 

UCA email account 

My Courses tab 

My UCA tab 

Self Service tab 

Your UCA-issued e-mail 

acount will be your 

official means of 

communication with 

university officials. If 

you do not check it 

regularly, you will miss 

out on vital information 

necessary to being an 

informed student at 

UCA. 

Some courses post general course 

materials here such as a syllabus 

or PowerPoint files 


Personal Information 

Schedule appointment 

Resources for Students 

Change major or minor 

Update phone number 

Crisis notification information 

Some courses use the BlackBoard 

online classroom. You’ll find 

links to your BlackBoard 

classes here. 

Student & Financial Aid 

MyHousing 

View housing assignment 

Roommate information 

Registration, class schedule, 

grades, unofficial transcript 

* For a copy of your schedule with 

instructor name and classroom 

locations, go to the Self- 

Service tab 

Links to Financial Aid 

and Student Accounts 

Account summary, payments, 

and tax information

34 

TIPS FOR SUCCESS 


WEEK ONE 

1. Check out the location of your classrooms to be sure you can make it to classes on time. 

2. Arrive early to each of your classes. 

3. Sit near the front in all of your classes, even if you have friends sitting elsewhere in the room. 

4. Learn all of your instructors’ names and BE SURE to address them as “Doctor” if they have 

earned that degree. Check out their office location and be sure you know their office hours 

and have their telephone numbers and e-mail addresses in case you need to contact them. 

Don’t be afraid to greet them and get to know them. 

5. Take writing materials to class even on the first day. 

6. DO NOT write in any books that you purchase prior to the first day of class. You may find that 

you don’t need some books or supplementary materials. If you have kept your receipt and 

have not written in the books, you may be able to return them. 

7. Check in with your advisor toward the end of the first full week of classes to let him/her know 

how things are going. 

8. Be sure you read and reread the course syllabus and any other informational material handed 

out in each of your classes. Keep the syllabus. It is imperative that you understand your instructors’ 

policies on attendance, handing in work, grading, etc. For example, some instructors 

have an attendance policy in which you may be penalized (even dropped from the class 

with a grade of WF) for missing classes. ANY questions you have about class policies should 

be asked at the beginning of the semester. Failure to read or understand these policies will 

not excuse you from your obligations, and may hurt your GPA. 

WEEK TWO 

1. If, after the first two or three classes in a particular course, you believe that you might have 

difficulty earning a “C” or higher, see your advisor and get him/her to direct you to the tutoring 

center DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. If the course seems difficult at first, do not assume it will 

get easier—it will not. Address any academic problems when they arise, and they will be 

manageable. Don’t hesitate to ask your instructors for help: that is why they have office 

hours. 

2. ASK QUESTIONS! ASK QUESTIONS! ASK QUESTIONS! Your advisor is here to help you 

succeed; but he/she can’t read minds! 

3. Make sure that you know the deadlines for adding and dropping classes. A missed deadline 

can be harmful to your GPA. 

THINGS THAT WILL HELP YOU ENJOY YOUR FIRST SEMESTER 

1. Check your UCA e-mail regularly. 

2. Carry your student ID with you. 

3. Know your PIN (but safeguard it from others). Along with your ID number, you can use your 

PIN to access your academic records and get other information through your myUCA account. 

If you forget your PIN, go to the IT Help Desk in Burdick 106. You must present a photo ID 

before the number will be given to you. 

4. Become proficient at doing research through the Internet databases and using computer software 

packages by attending workshops in the University Center for Academic Success located 

in the Basement of Main Hall. 

5. Make an effort to know your instructors. Visit their web pages, if they have one. 

6. GO TO CLASS!! 

7. Be motivated. Set academic and personal goals for yourself. 

8. Be self-disciplined. Determine your priorities; then, make a realistic study schedule and stick 

with it. Don’t overload on classes. 

9. Participate on campus. Join a club; attend athletic events, plays, concerts, recitals, etc. 

10. Consult regularly with your academic advisor.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS 35 

11. Make use of available tutoring and computer labs. 

12. Write or call your family at least once a month. 

13. If you are ill, go to Student Health Services in the Student Health Center, phone: 450.3136. 

14. If you are feeling overwhelmed or depressed, tell your advisor or visit the UCA Counseling Center 

in the Student Health Center, phone: 450.3138. 

15. If finances are a problem, see Financial Aid in McCastlain Hall room 001, phone: 450.3140. 

16. Take advantage of the HPER fitness center, Phone: 450.3405 and the Farris Center pool, 

Phone: 450.3148 to stay in shape and stay healthy. 

17. You should know that many instructors expect students to follow the”2-to-1 rule”—for every hour 

spent in class, students are expected to spend two hours of study/reading/homework/preparation 

time outside of class. Be realistic. Schedule enough time for study and for social activities. 

18. Get enough rest. 

19. Maintain a positive attitude. 

20. GO TO CLASS! 


1. READ and UNDERSTAND information contained in the Undergraduate Bulletin . 

(http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/) 

2. GO TO CLASS!!! Individual instructors may assign a grade of WF for non-attendance to any stu- 

dent. Students are responsible for completing any missed work. If possible, talk to your instruct 

tor before missing class. Definitely consult with your instructor when you return to class. 

3. GRADE FORGIVENESS – a student may repeat in residence (at UCA) a maximum of four 

courses in which a D, F, or WF grade is earned. Both grades will remain on the permanent 

record, but only the second grade will be used to calculate the grade point average. This option 

may be used only once for each specific course. A student must accept, for purposes of grade 

forgiveness, the first four courses repeated. No course may be repeated for the purpose of grade 

forgiveness after a course for which it is a prerequisite has been passed. 

4. PROBATION – a student will be placed on academic probation whenever the semester grade 

point average is less the 2.0. A student will be removed from academic probation whenever the 

semester grade point average equals or exceeds 2.0 AND the cumulative grade point average 

equals or exceeds 2.0. 

A student on academic probation who does not achieve a 2.0 semester grade point average AND 

does not meet the minimum cumulative average listed below will be academically suspended. 

The calculations of hours attempted will include grades A, B,C,D, F, and WF. 

Semester Hours Attempted Minimum Cumulative GPA 

1-30 1.70 

31-59 1.85 

60 or more 2.00 

A first suspension will be for one academic semester and the summer session. A second suspension 

will be for one calendar year. A third suspension will be academic dismissal, for an indefinite 

period of time. Credit earned at another institution while on academic suspension will 

not count toward a degree at UCA. 

5. DROP/ADD CLASSES – you will need a drop/add form signed by your advisor. 

Deadlines apply. 

WITHDRAWALS - You may withdraw without penalty from a class which meets for a full se- 

mester with a grade of “W” up to a certain date within the semester. You will still be able to 

withdraw from a class, but will the drop classification will be determined from the grade

36 TIPS FOR SUCCESS 

you have in the class—Withdrawal Passing (“WP”) or a Withdrawal Failing (“WF”) and may 

affect your overall GPA. Check the academic calendar for important deadlines. To 

withdraw from a class, see your academic advisor. 

To withdraw from the university, go to the Office of the Registrar in room 112 McCastlain 

Hall. You must complete paper work and collect signatures from various university offices. 

DO NOT assume that you are officially withdrawn because you have stopped attending 

classes or have informed your instructors that you are withdrawing. You MUST complete the 

official withdrawal process, or you may jeopardize your standing at the university. 

CALCULATING YOUR GRADE POINT AVERAGE (G.P.A.) 

UCA uses a four-point scale to determine grade point average (GPA). A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0. To 

obtain the grade point average, follow these steps: 1) Multiply the number of points for the grade, times 

that number of credits for the course. For example, a B in a three-hour course is worth nine points. 2) 

Add total grade points earned. 3) Divide by the total hours attempted to obtain the GPA. 

COURSE RADE POINTS TOTAL 

WRITING 1310 A (3X4) 12 

HISTORY 2301 B (3X3) 9 

MATH 1390 C (3X2) 6 

HEALTH ED 1320 C (2X2) 4 

KPED 1121 B (1X3) 3 

34TOTA 

L 12 34 

Semester G.P.A.: 34 Grade Points divided by 12 Credit Hours = 2.833 

TRANSFER COURSES 

1. There is no limit on the number of credit hours that may be transferred to the university; 

however, a maximum of 60 hours transferred from a 2-year institution may be applicable toward 

a baccalaureate degree. A minimum of 60 hours earned at a 4-year institution is required 

for a baccalaureate degree. 

2. Normally only credits with A, B, and C grades transfer. The university will, however, accept 

for transfer a maximum of 6 hours of credit with D grades, subject to the following conditions: 

1. The transfer of credits with D grades is available only to first-time entering transfer 

students at the time of admission to the University within the first semester of 

enrollment. 

2. The student must petition to receive credit for six (6) hours of D grades of the stu- 

dent’s choosing. 

3. The student will select the appropriate six (6) hours of D grades to transfer in to the 

University after consultation with his/her appointed academic advisor. 

4. Prerequisite rules shall apply to transfer of credits with D grades the same as they do 

to UCA credits. 

3. Take a copy of your evaluated transcript (s) with you when you meet with your advisor. If 

you do not have a copy, you should be able to get one from the Office of Admissions. 

4. If you do not agree with your transfer course evaluation, consult the Director of General Education 

for general education courses or with the appropriate department chair for all other 

courses. 

5. If you are transferring foreign language credits and intend to enroll in additional courses in 

that language, you may need to take a language placement examination. Contact the World 

Languages office in room 207 of Irby Hall for information. 

6. Your transfer courses should be recorded as part of your UCA file between mid-term and the 

end of your first semester. Check online via your myUCA account . Click on the Self- 

Service tab, Student & Financial Aid, Student Records, Academic Transcript.


7. Please note that course credits transfer but not the grade point average. Your UCA grade 

point average will be determined by the grades you make at UCA. Transfer credit is designated 

by the level at which it is earned (lower division - L or upper division - U). 

FINDING A MAJOR 

UCA’s web site offers a number of resources for exploring majors: 

1. Discover Program through Career Services in Bernard Hall 314. Call 450.3134 to make an appointment. 

2. Program Completion Plans are located on the UCA web site at http://www.uca.edu/pcps/. You 

can check this site for model (suggested) four-year plans of study for many of the majors offered 

at UCA. This is a good source of information if you are trying to determine a major. 

3. Check the web site for the college and/or department offering the major in which you are interested. 

If you are interested in business, education, or health sciences, these sites will give you 

more updated information than you will find in the four-year plans. 

4. If you want information about specific careers, the job market, etc, contact UCA Career Services, 

which is located in Bernard Hall 314, telephone: 450.3134 or check out any of the following web 

sites (enter websites EXACTLY as shown): 

A. America’s Career Infonet http://www.acinet.org/ 

This site contains occupational information that will increase your overall understanding of 

the job market, including supply/demand and salaries. 

B. Career Planit http://www.jobweb.com/ 

Advice and resources designed to help college students find a satisfying major 

C. Career Zone http://www.nycareerzone.org/ 

Important information on hundreds of careers 

D. ONET http://online.onetcenter.org/ 

Occupational information on over 950 jobs 

E. Prentice Hall Student Success Site http://www.prenhall.com/success/MajorExp/ 

index.html 

Explore majors and other career planning material 

F. The Princeton Review Career Site http://www.review.com/career/index.cfm 

G. Myjobsearch.com http:/www.myjobsearch.com 

WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MAJOR IN: 

Gathering information about majors and careers is an important part of the academic decision-making 

process. The following websites allow you to take stock of your interests, abilities, and values and learn 

more about majors that might suit you best. You can also learn about career opportunities that are possible 

for different majors and gain tips on preparing your for your future career. 

A. UCA Career Services: http://www.uca.edu/career/ 

B. http://www.typefocus.com 

Take the Free Personality Assessment to get a profile of your personality. After you find your 

four-letter personality code, go to http://www.typelogic.com to learn more about your 

personality type. 

C. http://career.asu.edu/S/ChooseMajor/MajorInfo/MajorInfo.htm 

Outstanding site for learning about career possibilities for a range of majors and the strategies 

needed to get there. Scroll down the page and click on “Information” next to the major of 

interest. 

D. http://www.myplan.com/majors/what-to-do-with-a-major.php 

E. http://www.uncwil.edu/stuaff/career/Majors/businessystems.htm 

F. http;//whatcanidowiththismajor.com/major/majors/ 

37

38 

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE 

As you will soon learn, college is very different from high school. In general, as a college student you 

are considered an adult and as an adult you are responsible for your own choices —whether good or 

bad. The following are comparisons you may have had in high school and what you can expect on the 

college level. 

High school is mandatory & free! 

(Unless you choose other options). 

PERSONAL FREEDOM IN HIGH SCHOOL VS PERSONAL FREEDOM IN COLLEGE 

College is voluntary & expensive. 

Your time is usually structured by others. You manage your own time. 

You need permission to participate in extracurricular 

activities. 

You must decide whether to participate in extracurricular activities. 

(Choose wisely in the first semester and then add 

later.) 

You need money for special purchases or events. You need money to meet basic necessities. 

You can count on parents and teachers to remind you of your 

responsibilities and to guide you in setting priorities. 

Guiding Principle: You will usually be told what your responsibilities 

are and corrected if your behavior is out of line. 

You will be faced with a large number of moral and ethical 

decisions you have not had to face previously. You must balance 

your responsibilities and set priorities. 

Guiding Principle: You’re old enough to take responsibility for 

what you do and don’t do, as well as for the consequences of 

your decisions. 

HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES VS COLLEGE CLASSES 

Each day you proceed from one class directly to another. You often have hours between classes: class times vary 

throughout the day and evening. 

You spend 6 hours each day – 30 hours a week in class. You spend 12 to 16 hours each week in class. 

Most of your classes are arranged for you. You arrange your own schedule in consultation with your 

academic advisor. Schedules tend to look lighter than they 

really are. 

The school year is 36 weeks long; some classes extend over 

both semesters and some do not. 

The academic year is divided into two separate 17-week 

semesters, plus a week after each semester for exams. 

TESTS IN HIGH SCHOOL VS TESTS IN COLLEGE 

Testing is frequent and covers small amounts of material. Testing is usually infrequent and may be cumulative, covering 

large amounts of material. You, not the professor, need to 

organize the material to prepare for the test. A particular 

course may have only 2 or 3 tests in a semester. 

Makeup tests are often available. Makeup tests are seldom an option; if they are, you need to 

request them. 

Teachers frequently rearrange test dates to avoid conflict with 

school events. 

Teachers frequently conduct review sessions, pointing out the 

most important concepts. 

Mastery is usually seen as the ability to reproduce what you 

were taught in the form in which it was presented to you, or to 

solve the kinds of problems you were shown how to solve. 

Professors in different courses usually schedule tests without 

regard to the demands of other courses or outside activities. 

Professors rarely offer review sessions, and when they do, 

they expect you to be an active participant, one who comes 

prepared with questions. 

Mastery is often seen as the ability to apply what you’ve 

learned to new situations or to solve new kinds of problems.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE 39 

GRADES IN HIGH SCHOOL VS GRADES IN COLLEGE 

Grades are given for most assigned work. Grades may not be provided for all assigned work. 

Consistently good homework grades may help raise your 

overall grade when test grades are low. 

Extra credit projects are often available to help you raise 

your grade. 

Grades on tests and major papers usually provide most of the 

course grade. 

Extra credit projects cannot, generally speaking, be used to 

raise a grade in a college course. 

Teachers carefully monitor class attendance. Professors may not formally take roll, but they are still likely to 

know whether or not you attend. 

Classes generally have no more than 35 students. Some classes may number 60 – 90 students. 

You are provided with textbooks at little or no expense. You need to budget substantial funds for textbooks, which will 

usually cost more than $300 each semester. 

You are not responsible for knowing what it takes to 

graduate. 

Graduation requirements are complex and differ for different 

majors and sometimes different years. You are expected to 

know that those apply to you. 

HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS VS COLLEGE PROFESSORS 

Teachers check your completed homework. Professors may not always check completed homework, but 

they will assume you can perform the same tasks on tests. 

Teachers remind you of your incomplete work. Professors may not remind you of incomplete work. 

Teachers approach you if they believe you need assistance. Professors are usually open and helpful, but most expect you 

to initiate contact if you need assistance. 

Teachers are often available for conversation before, during, Professors expect and want you to attend their scheduled 

or after class. 

office hours. 

Teachers have been trained in teaching methods to assist in 

imparting knowledge to students. 

Teachers provide you with information you missed when 

you were absent. 

Teachers present material to help you understand the material 

in the textbook. 

Teachers often write information on the board to be copied 

in your notes. 

Teachers impart knowledge and facts, sometimes drawing 

direct connections and leading you through the thinking 

process. 

Teachers often take time to remind you of assignments and 

due dates. 

You may study outside of class as little as 0 – 2 hours a 

week, and this may be mostly last minute test preparation. 

You often need to read or hear presentations only once to 

learn all you need to learn about them. 

You are expected to read short assignments that are then 

discussed and often re-taught, in class. 

Guiding Principle: You will usually be told in class what you 

needed to learn from assigned readings. 

Professors have been trained as experts in their particular 

areas of research. 

Professors expect you to get from classmates any notes from 

classes you missed. 

Professors may not follow the textbook. Instead, to amplify 

the text, they may give illustrations, provide background information, 

or discuss research about the topic you are studying. 

Or, they may expect you to relate the classes to the textbook 

readings. 

Professors may lecture nonstop, expecting you to identify the 

important points in your notes. When professors write on the 

board, it may be to amplify the lecture, not to summarize it. 

Good notes are a must. 

Professors expect you to think about and synthesize seemingly 

unrelated topics. 

Professors expect you to read, save, and consult the course 

syllabus (outline); the syllabus spells out exactly what is expected 

of you, when it is due, and how you will be graded. 

STUDYING IN HIGH SCHOOL VS STUDYING COLLEGE 

You need to study at least 2 – 3 hours outside of class for 

each hour in class. 

You need to review class notes and text material regularly. 

You are assigned substantial amounts of reading and writing 

which may not be directly addressed in class. 

Guiding Principle: It’s up to you to read and understand the 

assigned material; lectures and assignments proceed from 

the assumption that you’ve already done so.

40 BEEN THERE...SHOULDA DONE THAT 

BEEN THERE...SHOULDA DONE THAT! 

TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF COLLEGE 

From the experts themselves…other college students! 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“Don’t go home the first month. It only makes it harder when you come back. Besides, that’s 

when everyone is anxious to make friends and there’s a lot going on.” --- Junior, Business Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“I was really pretty shy, so rooming with a friend gave me the confidence to meet 

more people and try more things.” ---Sophomore, Biology Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“College is a good time to become the person you want to be. People accept you for who you 

are now, not who you were in the third grade.” ---Senior, Economics Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“There’s a lot of cool stuff on campus, but you have to look for it. I was so caught up in making 

friends and writing papers, that college was no bigger than my 

dorm. It took me a while but I finally got involved in a campus 

group, and through that, a research project. I should have done it 

sooner.” --- Senior, Education Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“People are the best part. Having friends makes college easier.” 

--- Sophomore, Theatre Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“EVEN IF YOU’RE EINSTEIN, THE FIRST SEMESTER IS A BIG 

ADJUSTMENT. DON’T GET SO HUNG UP ON GETTING OUT 

IN FOUR YEARS THAT YOU BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN 

CHEW. YOU CAN ALWAYS PICK UP EXTRA CREDITS SOME- 

WHERE ALONG THE LINE.” ---JUNIOR, SPEECH COMMUNI- 

CATION MAJOR 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“The first few weeks are great! You’re meeting people, partying, 

no tests, no papers…Then, wham!! You’ve got everything due in the same week. If you weren’t 

hitting the books right along, you’ll spend the rest of the term digging yourself out!” --- Senior, 

Political Science Major 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

“My brother, who’s not in college, works 40 – 50 hours a week at his job. When I’m sick of studying 

I try to ask myself if I’ve put in that many hours. It’s definitely a reality check. You need to 

think of school as your job.” --- Sophomore, Psychology Major

CLASSROOM DO’S & DON’TS 

DO’S & DON’TS 

DO PARTICIPATE: When your instructor asks a question she hopes that students will 

respond. All instructors want to create lively class discussions, and they welcome your 

contributions. Some students, especially at the beginning of their college career, hesitate 

to speak in class. But when you share your perspectives and ideas with others, you help 

to create a rich learning environment. When you do participate, remember that you are 

communicating with the whole class, not only with the instructor; the students in the back 

of the room want to hear your comments too. 

DON’T MONOPOLIZE CLASS DISCUSSIONS: Sometimes, in their enthusiasm for the 

course a few students will try to answer every question the instructor asks, comment on 

everything any other student says, and interject questions or remarks throughout every 

class. Although instructors appreciate eager and engaged students, they want all of the 

class members, even those who may be shy and may lack confidence, to feel comfortable 

about speaking out in class. You can help the instructor by monitoring your own 

contribution. 

DO COME TO CLASS PREPARED: Lectures and discussions depend on what you have 

read and written outside of class. You will be a more valuable contributor, and you will 

learn more if you do your homework. 

DON’T USE CLASS TIME TO DISCUSS PERSONAL CONCERNS: If you need an 

extension to complete a paper, for example, or if you want to inform your instructor that 

you will be missing a class, talk to the instructor privately before or after class. On the 

other hand, if you have a question related to the course material, the syllabus, or the 

course requirements—if you need a term defined or a concept clarified, for example-do 

ask. It is likely that if you don’t understand something, others do not also. 

DON’T BE DISTRACTING: In the workplace, you know that staff meetings can be 

disrupted by a co-worker who spills coffee, whispers to a neighbor, or taps a pencil 

incessantly while others are trying to talk. A classroom is no different. Don’t fidget, eat, 

rustle papers, whisper, pass notes, or otherwise distract and make sure your cell phone 

does not go off during class. 

DO ARRIVE ON TIME: You’ll disrupt the class if you consistently come late. If you have 

a problem arriving on time, discuss it with your instructor. If coming late is unavoidable, 

remove your coat and take out your notebook and pen before you enter the classroom, 

take the first available seat, and make sure you catch up. 

41

42 

�Understand that studying is not just reading. 

�Choose a day each week to review ahead for 

at least the next week. 

�Plan your study time. 

�Rewrite your notes the day of that lecture. Review 

your notes daily. Plan a time for a weekly 

note review. 

�Create flash cards. 

�Avoid desperation cramming. Cramming is 

short term. Maintenance studying is long term, 

but requires repetition. 

�Put a heading and a date on your notes for 

each day. 

�Sit near the front and center of the class. You 

will have the most direct communication with 

your professor, and you will less likely be distracted. 

�Try to prepare for each lecture by pre-reading 

the material in your text. You will find that you 

will understand the lecture better if you have 

some basic background. This preparation is 

one that very few students take seriously. 

�Learn to identify main points and not get 

bogged down in details. Professors often give 

cues to what's important by repeating information, 

changing their voices or rate of delivery, 

listing items in order of importance, and, of 

course, by writing on the chalkboard. 

�Use different colors when taking notes. Our 

brains love to associate memories with colors. 

You may want to go through your notes and 

write potential study or test questions in red. 

Use symbols as a memory jogger. Ex. A “T’ 

with a circle 

around it could 

be a test question 

of exam. An 

“!” could indicate 

that the instructor 

emphasized 

a particular 

point. 

�Leave plenty of 

blank space in 

the body of your 

notes. 

STUDY TIPS FOR SERIOUS STUDENTS/TOP 10 TEST TAKING TIPS 

TOP 10 

TEST TAKING 

TIPS 

� Be prepared. Start test preparation the day 

the test is announced: Complete all home 

work and reading assignments on time. 

Take good notes, and rewrite and review 

them immediately after class. Regularly 

review all of your class notes. Participate 

in test review sessions. 

� If you need help, talk with your instructor as 

soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last 

minute. 

� Get a good night’s sleep the night before 

the exam. 

� Arrive early for the exam. 

� Take any needed tools or supplies with you 

to the exam—pencils paper, pens, a calculator, 

blue books, etc. 

� Listen closely to the instructor’s verbal instructions 

and read any printed instructions 

on the exam. If you don’t understand any 

part of the instructions, ask questions. 

� Be sure to write your name on the part to 

be turned in. 

� Be sure you know how much time you have 

to complete the exam. Before you start the 

test, quickly read over the whole test to 

give yourself an idea of how much time to 

allot to each portion of the exam. 

� If you “blank out” or feel panicky, stop and 

try to relax. Take deep breaths and try to 

clear your mind before you turn your attention 

back to the exam. 

� Answer all questions on the exam, even if 

you have to guess at answers.

CONTROL STRESS BEFORE IT CONTROLLS YOU 

CONTROL STRESS BEFORE IT CONTROLS YOU 

A good plan for everyone to take is finding ways to deal with the every day pressure and stress in a 

very proactive manner. We have a few words of wisdom that can help you with this somewhat overwhelming 

task. 

LEARN TO RELAX 

Sounds a bit strange but it is true. By learning to relax, you are able to focus on what is at hand and be 

more productive. 

REGULAR EXERCISE 

This is something that helps to alleviate the physical tension thus relieving stress, and it also keeps you 

healthy and energized. You can go to the HPER Center located on campus where they offer two fitness 

rooms with cardio and weightlifting equipment. They also offer aerobic and other exercise 

classes. 

SLEEP 

Getting the right amount of sleep at the right time you will find yourself much happier and more productive. 

Not sleeping for a couple of nights and then sleeping for 16 hours to make up for it is not the best 

way to avoid stress. 

BALANCE YOUR LIFE 

Find ways to keep all the important aspects in line. Find a balance between the work and play that 

needs to be a part of everyone’s life. 

Don’t neglect the spiritual aspect of your life. Every person is different and what works for your roommate 

or your best friend, may not work or you. We cannot give you all the answers but that’s what your 

time here at UCA is all about – finding the answers. Volunteer to help others – few things can make 

you feel better than helping someone else. 

There are many volunteer opportunities such as the local Boys & Girls Club, Senior Citizens Center 

and Conway Housing Authority. For more information on handling stress, contact the UCA Counseling 

Center at 450-3138. 

Write down your goals and the necessary actions 

to achieve those goals. 

Set priorities for your goals. 

Organize and schedule your activities on the 

basis of your priorities. 

Use calendars – weekly, quarterly and annual 

Set realistic deadlines with intermediate checkpoints. 

Look at and review your goals and actions several 

times a month. 

Put 80% of your effort into the top 20% of your 

responsibilities. 

Plan ahead for contingencies and leave “space” 

in your plans for the unexpected. 

LIFE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 

43 

Say “NO” to unreasonable requests. 

Use clear communication and practice active 

listening to be sure that you understand what 

other people say. 

Be ruthless with time, but always gracious with 

people. 

If in a leadership position, recruit other students, 

delegate, and make assignments. 

Keep track of how you are spending your time. 

Make the most of your peak-energy periods. 

Use time saving techniques. 

Use filing systems. 

Develop routines.

44 HOW DO COLLEGE STUDENTS HANDLE TIME MANAGEMENT? 

HOW DO COLLEGE STUDENTS HANDLE TIME MANAGEMENT? 

Before committing to a time-consuming activity ask yourself “what is the best use of my time?” 

Find out what is your best time to work. For some it is early in the morning while for others it is in the evening. 

Do your most demanding work at your best time. 

Just say no! Do what you have to do first, then what you want to do. 

Don’t spend time feeling guilty about what you haven’t gotten done, just do it! 

Make a list of what you have to get done and assign priorities. Once you get something done reward yourself 

with a leisure activity. 

Save at least part of your day for uninterrupted routine, preferably studying. 

Finish each task you start before starting another. Having four half done research papers at the end of the semester 

impresses no one. 

Take care of things when they are assigned not when they are due. 

Remember you can’t fool time. Something that can be done well in four hours cannot be done four times better 

in one hour. 

PLANNING ROUTINES 

Set up daily agendas/schedule 

Set time for routines 

Maintain weekly/daily calendar 

Make a “to-do” list 

COMPLETING TASKS 

Structure use of time 

Know the time of day when are most/least 

productive 

Be decisive 

Develop concentration skills 

Avoid procrastination 

Follow through 

HANDLING DEMANDS 

Stay with priorities 

Turn down unimportant requests 

Restrict availability 

Make the most of meetings 

Exercise to reduce stress 

SETTING GOALS 

Successful people set and write down their goals. 

These are short (days, weeks, or months), medium 

(months to 5 years), and long term (5 years 

or more) objectives to be achieved in your lifetime 

and aimed at optimal results for everyone. Optimal 

results are defined as the best you can get 

under the circumstances. 

CRITERIA FOR GOALS: 

Realistic: attainable under existing circumstances; 

Specific: quantifiable; 

Comprehensive: fully described conditions to 

be met with dates, times, behavior, skills, and 

cost; 

Understandable: use words and pictures; 

Require optimal effort: challenging, but not 

too hard or easy. 

DEFINING LIMITS 

Take time to think 

Pace yourself 

Set deadlines for self-motivation 

Communicate clearly 

Delegate effectively 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help 

Recognize your major time wasters – TV, Internet, Etc. 

Write down your goals and the necessary actions to 

achieve those goals 

Set priorities for your goals 

Organize and schedule your activities on the basis of 

your priorities 

Use calendars – weekly, quarterly and annual 

Set realistic deadlines with intermediate checkpoints 

Look at and review your goals and actions several times 

a month 

Put 80% of your effort into the top 20% of your responsibilities 

Plan ahead for contingencies and leave “space” in your 

plans for the unexpected 

Say “NO” to unreasonable requests 

Use clear communication and practice active listening to 

be sure that you understand what other people say 

Be ruthless with time, but always gracious with people 

If in a leadership position, recruit other students, delegate, 

and make assignments 

Keep track of how you are spending your time 

Make the most of your peak-energy periods 

Use time saving techniques 

Use filing systems 

Develop routines

POINTERS FROM PROFESSORS/GENERAL POINTERS FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES 45 

POINTERS FROM 

PROFESSORS 

“Show up to class and be proactive! Participate 

and ask questions; it is likely that your 

questions are ones other students are wondering 

about too---but the professor will remember 

you as the student with an inquiring 

mind.” 

“When you complete an out-of-class assignment, 

ask yourself: Is this the best I can do? 

Be honest. If it is not, consider it a draft, and 

do it again. Have high expectations for 

yourself.” 

“Do not ask a professor, “Did I miss anything 

in class?” 

“Before asking a professor for help, read 

the assignments. It’s obvious if you haven’t!” 

“Shut off cell phones before entering class.” 

“Freshmen need to hook up with an 

organization on campus where they can 

meet new friends.” 

“Get an organizer and write everything 

down, from assignments, up and coming 

exams, to special events, and meetings. 

Staying organized is one of the main 

keys for success!” 

“instructors will bend over backwards to 

help kids who are really trying. Make every 

effort to let them know you are.” 

“Forget Burger King…find a summer job or 

volunteer doing something related to a career 

you may be interested in. It’ll help you 

decide whether you are!” 

GENERAL POINTERS 

FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES 

� Be prepared with a notebook and at least 

two pens or writing implements. If you are an 

auditory learner, ask your instructor if you may 

tape record lectures. Even if you record lectures, 

also take notes. 

� Keep a folder for each class in which you 

can collect and organize handouts. 

� Choose a seat where you can hear easily 

and can see the lecturer, the chalkboard, or any 

visual aids such as an overhead projector or 

map. 

� Avoid sitting near distractions 

� Listen for cues from the instructor. Some 

lecturers: 

-Pause before an important point 

-Write an important point on the board 

-Repeat an important point 

-Make a point, give examples, and then 

repeat the point 

-Change volume or inflection before an 

important point 

� Summarize rather than attempt to copy 

every word. 

� Write in outline form rather than in paragraph 

form. 

� Underline main ideas. 

� Fill in points right after the lecture. While the 

class is still fresh in your mind, jot down some 

words or phrases to remind you about the most 

important ideas of the lecture or discussion and 

make a note of material to reread or study. If 

you have a tape recorder, make verbal notes of 

ideas to study or to follow up in your reading. 

� If your instructor tells you that certain material 

will be tested, make sure to identify this material 

by starring, underlining, or highlighting it.

47 

25 Saving-Money Tips for College Students 

Food, Beverage, & Personal Items 

Entertainment 

1. Eat out only on special occasions with friends and family. 

Eat in as often as possible or use meal plan if you have it. (Saves gas too!�) 

2. Avoid purchases at convenience stores. It is always more expensive. But use all your DCB. 

3. When you eat fast food, order off the dollar menu. (Starbuck’s every day … EEK!) 

4. Drink more water (out of the tap) and less soda. Use a refillable bottle to carry it around. � 

5. Don’t use paper and plastic utensils.� 

6. Shop smart! Use coupons and price compare. Use generics and store brands. 

Kroger card = coupons and price savings. 

7. Avoid convenience/microwaving packaging. It is always more expensive.� 

8. Lots of money is wasted on fancy shampoos, deodorant, toothpaste, and cosmetics. 

Buy what’s cheap, and see if it works as well. And be careful not to use more than needed! � 

9. Invite friends over instead of going out. Play a board game or cards. 

You can rotate buying the snacks or each person can bring one thing. 

10. Watch a rented movie instead of going to the movies (Red box = $1). 

11. See what’s happening in town and around campus for free (SAB Sponsored 

events-www.ucasab.com, Parks and Recreation, Chamber of Commerce, Community 

Calendar, UCA Calendar). 

12. Visit the library instead of buying books and magazines.� 

13. Share magazine subscriptions, video rentals, & video games with friends.� 

Your Vehicle 

Utilities & Services 

14. Carpool as often as possible. Grocery shop together!� 

15. Maintain the air pressure in your tires. You lose 1% of gas mileage if all four tires are 1 PSI too low or 

$15 for every 10,000 miles you drive. Most cars are 5–10 PSI too low, which can be up to $200 per 

year or $3.50 per week!ý� 

16. Clean the air filter in your car and save 7% on fuel costs or $100 in gas for every 10,000 miles you 

drive.� 

17. If you use credit cards, find one that gives free gasoline. 

18. Use your cell phone when it is free (nights/weekends). Shop for cheapest plan. If you must text, 

compare per-text charges to unlimited-texting plans. 

19. Don’t pay a service charge at the bank. Many banks offer no service fees to students. In fact, you 

should be earning interest on your balance, even if it is

MAKE SAVING FUN! 

How much 

can you save? 

Can you save 1.70 per day? 

That’s $50 per month. 

That’s $600 per year! 

If you save that money… 

Time 

Make saving fun! 

Make it a game! 

Challenge your friends! 

Who can save the most? 

Add to your saving 

by selling unneeded items! 

Rate of Return (Interest) 

No interest 6% 10% 

20 Years $12,000 $23,102 $37,968 

40 Years $24,000 $99,578 $316, 204 

… and think about how much this could grow when you have a great 

job and you save more than $1.70 per day. You could retire a 

millionaire! 

Want to learn more about personal finances? 

UCA offers two courses on the subject: 

FINA 2330 or FACS 3372 

Information provided by Dr. Stephanie Watson 

46

48 

CHOICES OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS 

CHOICES OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS 

SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS 

1. ...accept PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, seeing 

themselves as the primary cause of their outcomes 

and experiences. 

2. ...discover SELF-MOTIVATION, finding purpose 

in their lives by discovering personally meaningful 

goals and dreams. 

3. ...master SELF-MANAGEMENT, consistently 

planning and taking purposeful actions in pursuit of 

their goals and dreams. 

4. ...employ INTERDEPENDENCE, building mutually 

supportive relationships that help them achieve 

their goals and dreams (while helping others do the 

same). 

5. ...gain SELF-AWARENESS, consciously employing 

behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes that keep 

them on course. 

6. ...adopt LIFE-LONG LEARNING, finding 

valuable lessons and wisdom in nearly every experience 

they have. 

7. ...develop EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, effectively 

managing their emotions in support of their 

goals and dreams. 

8. ...BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES, seeing themselves 

capable, lovable and unconditionally worthy 

human beings. 

STRUGGLING STUDENTS 

1. ...see themselves as Victims, believing that what 

happens to them is determined primarily by external 

forces such as fate, luck, and powerful others. 

2. ...have difficulty sustaining motivation, often feeling 

depressed, frustrated, and/or resentful about a 

lack of direction in their lives. 

3. …seldom identify specific actions needed to accomplish 

a desired outcome. And when they do, 

they tend to procrastinate. 

4. ...are solitary, seldom requesting, even rejecting, 

offers of assistance from those who could help. 

5. ...make important choices unconsciously, being 

directed by self-sabotaging habits and outdated life 

scripts. 

6. ...resist learning new ideas and skills, viewing 

learning as fearful or boring rather than as mental 

play. 

7. ...live at the mercy of strong emotions such as 

anger, depression, anxiety, or a need for instant 

gratification. 

8. ...doubt their competence and personal value, 

feeling inadequate to create their desired outcomes 

and experiences. 

From Skip Downing. On course; Strategies for Creating Success in College and in Life. Houghton Mifflin

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Academic Advisor 

How do I find out who my advisor is? 

� myUCA, Self-Service, Student Information 

� contact Academic Advising Center (Harrin Hall) 

450-5149 

Where can I find answers to my advising questions? 

� contact Academic Advising Center (Harrin Hall) 

450-5149 

� myUCA, Academic Advising Center, Resources 

Academic Assistance/Tutoring 

Where do I go to get academic assistance? 

� See “Tutoring” under A to Z on www.uca.edu 

� Check myUCA, Academic Advising Center, 


� Academic Success Center (Main Hall base - 

ment) http://uca.edu/ucollege/academic- 

successcenter/; the Writing Center (Thompson 

Hall), or academic departments 

� Talk to your faculty! 

Address/Contact Information 

How do I update my address/phone/etc.? 

� On myUCA or complete a change-of-address 

form at Office of Registrar (McCastlain Hall) 

Bills from the University 

Where do I get information about my bill? 

� On myUCA, Self-Service or through Student 

Accounts (McCastlain Hall) 450 – 5015 

*Opening Week: SA is in McCastlain Ball 

room! 

Campus Activities/Involvement 

How do I get involved? Who can tell me what there 

is to do on campus? 

� Office of Student Life (Student Center 207); 

Facebook; Mentors and Housing staff; RSO 

Fair 

Catalog/Course information 

Where can I get a catalog (Undergraduate Bulletin) 

or course and program descriptions? 

� Find the Bulletin on the A to Z on www.uca.edu 

� Or go to: myUCA, Academic Advising Center, 



49 

Classes 

Where can I find my schedule or get answers about 

my schedule? 

� myUCA, Self-Service or from your Academic 

Advisor 

Computers 

How do I get access to myUCA? 

� www.uca.edu 

Where do I get my email address? 

� myUCA, Self-Service, Student Information 

Where do I go if I forget my password or username? 

Where can I find a list of computer labs? 

Who do I talk to about having a computer in my 

room? 

� IT Helpdesk (Burdick Hall 106 or website), 450- 

3107 

Counseling 

Who can I talk to about adjusting to university life? 

Relationship concerns? Stress and anxiety? Depression? 

� Counseling Services, Student Health building, 

450-3138 

Disabilities 

Where do I seek assistance if I have a disability? 

� Office of Disability Support (Student Health 

building), 450-3613 

Where do I get temporary disability parking tags? 

� UCA Police Department 

Diversity 

Where can I find information on cultural events and 

programs? 

� Mullticultural Services Office (Bernard 112) 

Employment 

How do I find a job on or off campus? 

� Career Services (Bernard 311) provides post- 

ings; Dean of Students will advertise for on- 

campus jobs (Student Health 210); contact indi- 

vidual academic departments, library, cafeteria, 

etc.

50 

Enroll or Change Schedule 

How do I enroll or change my schedule? 

� First-semester freshmen – contact advisor; 

others use myUCA, Self-Service 

Financial Aid 

Where do I find answers to my questions about applying 

for financial aid? 

*Opening Week: FA is in the Fireplace 

Room!! 

� myUCA, Self-Service or see uca.edu/ 

financialaid/ 

� Financial Aid office (lower level of McCastlain) 

When do I complete the 2013-2014 FAFSA? 

� Anytime after January 1, 2013 (and as early as 

possible before the Fall semester begins!) 

Food 

Where can I eat on campus? 

� Student Center Food Court, Christian Cafeteria, 

Bear Express (Burdick Hall), Smoothie Bar 

(Farris Jr. Hall), Starbucks (Library), Java City 

(Business College), C-Stores (Student Center, 

Farris Jr. Hall, Bear Village) 

Where can I purchase or change a meal plan? 

� Student Housing (Bernard 201) 

What are the dining hours? 

� See Dining Services channel on myUCA or 

website 

Housing and Residence Life 

How do I change rooms? 

Who do I contact for help with a roommate 

problem? 

What do I do if I have a maintenance issue in my 

campus apartment or Residence Hall? 

� Contact your Resident Assistant (RA) on your 

floor or Residence Coordinator (RC) for your 

building 

I.D. Card/Bearbucks Card 

Where do I get a student I.D. card? 

Where do I go if my card isn’t working or is lost? 

� BearCard Center (Bernard 208), 450-5818, 

bearcard@uca.edu (Call as soon as possible if 

lost!) 

How do I put money (Bearbucks) on my card? 

� Go to the BearCard Center or through the Din- 

ing Services website or channel in myUCA 


International Programs/Study Abroad 

Where do I learn about Study Abroad opportunities? 

� Study Abroad Office (Irby 118) or website 

Internships 

How do I obtain an internship? 

� Career Services/Cooperative Education 

(Bernard 318); some academic programs also 

offer internships – contact your major or minor 

department 

Lost and Found 

Who do I call for lost or found property? 

� Student Center Information Desk; buildings may 

also have a designated office if you inquire 

Major 

How do I change my major? 

� log in to myUCA and visit the Academic Advis 

ing Center channel located under the "My UCA" 

tab. 

� Click on the "Change your Major or Minor" link 

Medical Assistance 

Where can I seek medical attention? 

� Student Health Services (Student Health 

building); appointments must be made online. 

Medical emergencies: dial 911. 

Parking 

Where do I get a parking decal? 

Where do I appeal a parking ticket? 

Where do I find information on where I can park? 

� UCA Police Department (see website for 

information and maps) 

Public Safety-Security 

How do I report an emergency? 

Who do I call for a police escort to my car or residence 

hall? 

What do I do if I lock my keys in my car or my car 

won’t start? 

� Contact UCA Police at 9-1-1 (for emergencies 

only), or at 450-3111 or through the blue 

emergency phone stations on campus for other 

services 

How do I sign up for the UCAAlert System? 

� Login to myUCA and go to Resources tab; fol 

low instructions for updating information for 

UCAAlert

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 51 

Recreation 

Is there a swimming pool on campus? 

Where can I work out on campus? 

� See myUCA or www.uca.edu and “HPER Cen- 

ter” or “Recreation” for information on working 

out or swimming. The campus pool is located in 

the Farris Center. 

Religious Services/Organizations 

What services are held on campus? 

� Contact the Student Life Office (Student Center 

207) or see the list of Registered Student 

Organizations (RSOs) online 

What churches are in Conway? 

� Consult telephone directory or 

www.yellowpages.com/conway-ar/churches 

Scholarships 

Who can answer questions about scholarships? 

� State or Private scholarships: Financial Aid of 

fice (450-3140); UCA Academic Scholarships: 

Enrollment Management (450-3125) 

How do I keep my scholarship? 

Answer: Know how many quality points you need! 

3.25 x____number hours enrolled = 

_________quality points needed to keep your scholarship. 

Example: 3.25 x 15 hours = 48.75 (49) quality points. 

If you take 15 hours, you must earn at least 49 quality 

points to keep your scholarship. More information on 

how to calculate your Quality Points and GPA can be 

found in the “Tips for Success” section of this book. 

Study Areas 

� Library (www.uca.edu/library); 

� also Academic Success Center in Main Hall 

(http://uca.edu/ucollege/ 

academicsuccesscenter 

Testing Services 

How do I test out of a course? 

� Consult the Undergraduate Bulletin (online) 

Who do I contact to take the Compass Exit Exams 

for transitional courses? 

� University Testing Services (Torreyson West 

315; 450-3209) 

Textbooks 

Where do I buy/sell textbooks? 

� University Bookstore, Student Center 

Transcripts 

Where can I get an official transcript? 

� Office of the Registrar (McCastlain Hall; or 

online), 450-5200 

Where can I get an unofficial transcript (academic 

history)? 

� myUCA, Self-Service 

Tutoring 

How do I get a tutor? 

� see “Academic Assistance” above 

Verification of Enrollment 

Where do I obtain verification of enrollment for 

auto/health insurance or other purposes? 

� Office of the Registrar (McCastlain Hall; or 

online), 450-5200 

Veterans/Military Service 

Where do I go with questions about military education 

benefits? 

� Veteran Services Office, Burdick 304, 852-2999

52 UCA TERMINOLOGY 

UCA TERMINOLOGY 

ACADEMIC FREEDOM 

"Right" of faculty to decide what, within reason, will be done in the classroom, such as course content, teaching 

methods, attendance policy, etc. 

ADVANCE REGISTRATION 

Period of time when students may register for class for the upcoming semester in advance of the established day 

for registration. 

ADVISOR 

Faculty or staff member "assigned" to an individual throughout his/her college career as an academic resource person. 

BACCALAUREATE 

A degree awarded by the University to a student who has completed his/her undergraduate studies. 

CATALOG/ BULLETIN 

Published every two years, UCA’s Undergraduate Bulletin contains general information on admissions, enrollment, 

fees, housing, graduate schools, etc., as well as information on schools and the programs and courses offered. 

The catalog in effect when you are admitted determines the requirements for your major and degree program. 

CLASS PERIOD 

Monday/Wednesday/Friday (MWF) Class periods are 50 minutes long starting on the hour. Monday/Wednesday 

(MW) and Tuesday/Thursday (TR) class periods last 1 hour and 15 minutes. All classes are designed to have 10 

minutes between classes to allow students time to walk to their next class. 

CLOSED CLASSES 

A course which has reached its maximum student capacity. 

COLLEGE 

A degree-granting academic unit of the University. 

CREDIT HOURS 

Numerical value assigned to each class; credit hours roughly equate to the number of hours a student is actually in 

the classroom per week. 

DEAN 

The administrative head of an academic school or college. 

DEPARTMENT CHAIR 

The administrative head of an academic department within a school or college. 

DROP & ADD 

Time set aside after classes have begun during which students may add or delete a class or classes from their 

schedule without penalty. Signatures from your advisor are required on a "drop/add" form. The form is located at 

the Registrar’s Office in McCastlain Hall. 

ECHO 

The Echo is the weekly newspaper of UCA, and is distributed without cost every Wednesday. 

ELECTIVE 

Class not specifically required in the student's course of study. 

MAJOR 

Concentrated course work in one area leading in part to a degree with specialization in that particular area. 

MINOR 

A group of courses that represent a subordinate area of study.

UCA TERMINOLOGY 53 

myUCA 

myUCA is the web portal or doorway to UCA information and can be personalized to fit the needs of each individual 

in the UCA community. 

ORIENTATION 

Get acquainted period for new students. Time when students learn more about rules and procedures, facilities, personnel 

services, etc. of the university. 

PREREQUISITE 

Required course that has successfully been completed prior to the enrollment in a more advanced class. 

PRIVACY ACT 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act establishes the privacy of student records and the conditions under 

which students and others may review a student's educational records. 

PROFESSOR 

The highest professional rank a faculty member can achieve. Other faculty ranks include associate professor, assistant 

professor, and instructor. 

PROGRAM COMPLETION PLAN (PCP) 

Semester by semester plan of study for degree requirements. 

REGISTRAR 

Administrator responsible for keeping student records, transcripts, and handling class registration procedures. The 

Registrar’s Office is located in McCastlain Hall. 

RESIDENT ASSISTANT 

A junior or senior level student who lives in a residence hall and advises/counsels the hall’s residents. 

SCHEDULE OF CLASSES (LOOK UP CLASSES) 

Available each semester in your myUCA account, the schedule of classes is a listing of all courses offered in each 

department for the semester. The entry for each course includes course numbers, names, credit, time, place and 

instructor. Each course also provides a hyperlink to the Undergraduate Bulletin for course descriptions and prerequisite 

information. 

SCHOOL COLORS 

The UCA school colors are Purple and Gray. 

SCROLL 

The Scroll is the University yearbook. It is distributed to all students with a valid UCA ID at the end of each spring 

semester 

UCA ID 

Random unduplicated number assigned identify a UCA student and is issued at the beginning of registration. 

UCA ID CARD (BearBucks) Don’t lose it!!! Your student identification number is on the card and you’ll need it to 

attend football games, use the Health Center, check out books at the library, enter certain residence halls and participate 

in many campus activities. Your meal plan and DCB funds are also on your card. 

VICTOR E. BEAR 

The official UCA mascot. 

WITHDRAWL 

Letter "W" recorded when a student voluntarily and officially drops out of a specific class or the University 

within a prescribed period time limit. 

X-PERIOD 

Time period on Tuesdays and Thursdays from1:40 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. for campus programs and student organizations 

to hold meetings.

54 HOMEWORK 

HOMEWORK 

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING COMPLETED BEFORE CLASSES START: 

� Read and understand the following materials: 

1. The Welcome to Bear Country Orientation and Registration Handbook 

(this book). 

2. Student Handbook 

http://www.uca.edu/divisions/student/handbook/ Be sure to pick up your copy during fee 

payment in McCastlain Hall. 

3. Undergraduate Bulletin 

Read the General Policies section and your major section. http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/. 

� Become familiar with myUCA. Know how to: 

1. View /print your schedule (p. 30) Print a new copy the day before classes start in case of 

last-minute schedule changes. 

2. Find your advisor (p. 30) and contact information (p. 30). 

3. View your academic transcript located in the Self-Service tab of myUCA for any posting of 

concurrent or transfer credit (p.30). 

� Check your UCA e-mail at least twice a week to keep up with important university information. 

� Purchase a planner/calendar. Write the important academic dates (p. 8) in the planner before classes 

start. 

� If you have received or are expecting concurrent credit, AP/IB/CLEP credit, or have taken course 

work during the summer, make sure to contact the Academic Advising Center if schedule revisions 

are needed before classes start. Make sure official transcripts are sent to UCA. (p. 3) 

� Buy required textbooks early. Keep your receipt but do not mark in textbooks. If the book isn’t 

needed, you will have a short time frame to return the books for a full refund. Be aware of book return 

deadlines. 

� For your convenience and protection, save all of your receipts for your UCA expenditures (textbooks, 

tuition, deposits, fines, etc.) Make a folder for this purpose if necessary. 

� Bring this handbook with you 

when you come to UCA. Several 

instructors use it as the sole textbook 

for their class. 

� Attend the mandatory session, 

“Countdown to Classes” on 

Sunday, August 19th at 3:30 at 

Ida Waldran Auditorium in 

Main Hall.

WELCOME WEEK SCHEDULE 

WELCOME WEEK

WELCOME WEEK

WELCOME WEEK

WELCOME WEEK

REGISTRATION CANCELLATION 59 

REGISTRATION CANCELLATION 

My plans have changed, and I will not be attending UCA the following term for 

which I am registered: _______________________________________________. 

Please cancel my registration for this term. I understand that I may be required to 

re-apply in order to attend UCA in the future. 

(Print All Information Clearly) 

NAME____________________________________________________________ 

Student Identification Number_______________________________________ 

(See Student ID Card) 

Street Address____________________________________________________ 

City_________________________ State_________ Zip Code______________ 

E-MAIL___________________________________________________________ 

Signature________________________________________ Date____________ 

Return To: Office of the Registrar 

Room 112 McCastlain Hall 


Conway, AR 72035-0001 

FAX: (501) 450-5734 

NOTICE: In order to avoid a financial obligation for the enrollment, this Registration 

Cancellation must be received by the University BEFORE the first day of 

classes at the University for the specified term. The student identification card 

is the property of the University, and should also be returned.

UCA FIGHT SONG 

Go-Go-Fight Bears 

You will lead us on to victory 

Hey, go-go-win team 

Bears will charge the field and never yield 

So, FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! 

We've got the spir-it, and we'll show our colors 

Here tonight-so let's cheer 

The Purple and the Gray Team 

Mighty BEARS will win the FIGHT (Go Bears!) 

THE PRESIDENTS OF UCA 

2011-Present Mr. Tom Courtway 

2009—2011 Dr. Allen Meadors 

2002 – 2008: Lu Hardin 

1988 – 2001: Dr. Winfred L. Thompson 

1975 – 1986: Dr. Jefferson D. Farris 

1953 – 1975: Silas D. Snow 

1941 – 1953: Dr. Nolen M. Irby 

1930 – 1941: Colonel H.L. McAlister 

1917 – 1930: Burr Walter Torreyson 

1908 – 1917: John Joseph Doyne 

UCA ALMA MATER 


From the hills and from the lowlands, 

Comes the song of praise anew; 

Sung by thousands of our children, 

Alma Mater we sing to you. 

Then we'll unfurl our colors the Purple and the Gray 

And in the breezes see them ever proudly sway; 

They lead us upward, they lead us onward, 

They lead us to victory (Go Bears!). 

Then let us gather round with loyal hearts and true, 

Our Alma Mater's call OBEY; 

Our dear old colors will live forever, 

The Royal PURPLE and the GRAY. 


201 Donaghey 

Harrin Hall 100 

Conway, AR 72035-0001 

Phone: 501.450.5149 

Fax: 501.450.3208 

Website: http://www.uca.edu/advising 

FORMER NAMES OF UCA 

1975 – Present: University of Central Arkansas 

1967 – 1975: State College of Arkansas 

1925 – 1967: Arkansas State Teachers College 

1907 – 1925: Arkansas Normal School 

April 2012

welcome to bear country! 2012-2013 - University of Central Arkansas

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