2014-15 Catalog (Archived Catalog)
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Click on any of the following links for information: General InformationThis section of the catalog is designed to familiarize the student with College regulations and policies, academic terminology, the College grading system, assessment of student learning outcomes, special courses and programs, and other pertinent student information concerning learning opportunities at SVCC. Access to FacultyThe College prides itself on providing a caring, friendly atmosphere conducive to the learning process. A student experiencing academic difficulties is encouraged to contact his or her instructor to determine what additional assistance, if any, can be provided. College faculty maintain convenient office hours to provide interactive opportunities for students to discuss class work. Official faculty hours are linked from the College faculty/staff directory at www.svcc.edu/employees/faculty/index.html. Information about contacting faculty can be attained by calling or visiting the Information Center. Student ClassificationsClass StandingA first-year student (freshman) is one who has earned fewer than 30 semester hours including any semester hours accepted in transfer from other colleges or universities. A second-year student (sophomore) is one who has earned 30 or more semester hours including any semester hours accepted in transfer. Full-TimeA full-time student is defined as one who is registered for 12 or more semester hours during a regular semester, or 6 or more semester hours during the summer session. This definition applies only for academic purposes. Financial assistance has a different definition of what constitutes a full-time student. Student LoadThe anticipated course load for a full-time student during the fall and spring semester is 16 semester hours. The full-time load during the summer semester is 6 semester hours. Course loads greater than 16 hours are recommended only for students who have a high school average of "B" or minimum College grade point average of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale). Students in most academic courses are expected to spend at least two hours of preparation for each hour of class. Students who are working are cautioned to plan a course load that is in proportion to their workload. A suggested schedule for working students is as follows:
Students desiring to take 19 or more credit hours during a regular semester or more than 10 credit hours during the summer semester must have prior approval from the Coordinator of Counseling or Academic Vice President. AttendanceRegular and prompt attendance is expected in all Sauk courses. Attendance requirements will be established by the individual instructor and included in each course syllabus. The student is responsible for adhering to each instructor's attendance requirements as set forth in the course syllabus. The instructor may withdraw a student involuntarily from a course when excessive absences have occurred. The instructor will determine the validity of absences and whether the student will be allowed to make up class work and/or examinations. Only students actively enrolled are allowed to attend classes unless instructor permission is granted. Academic RecordsA permanent cumulative record is kept on each student. This record shows for each term all credits attempted and earned, all grades earned, and term and cumulative grade point averages (GPA). Only transfer and occupational courses will be included in the GPA. Grade reports at the end of each term indicating course work for the current semester, grades earned, and term and cumulative GPA may be viewed at www.svcc.edu/soar. Upon request, an official grade report will be mailed to students. Placement TestingSauk Valley Community College is committed to placing students in courses that correspond with their ability level in order to provide each student with the greatest chance of success in those classes and future course work. The key to accomplishing this goal is a placement testing structure that determines academic skills which students bring to SVCC and to match those skills with appropriate courses offered by the College. To establish appropriate levels, placement tests in language arts (English), and mathematics are required of all students wishing to register for any English composition course, mathematics course, or any other college course requiring a specific English or mathematics co-requisite or prerequisite. All entering degree or certificate-seeking students must be tested prior to registration and all non-degree seeking students are tested as required for the courses in which they plan to enroll. Comprehensive placement is not required for enrollment in community service (noncredit), continuing education classes, or physical education activity courses. Students that currently hold an associate's or a bachelor's degree may be exempt from the placement policy, but may still be subject to placement testing for admissions to specific courses or programs of study. Any student exempt from the course placement policy for the reasons listed above may need to secure permission from the counseling office prior to enrollment.
Placement test results will be used by counselors and academic advisors to match students with courses that are consistent with their skill level. Students are required to meet the individual course and/or program co-requisites or prerequisites in language arts (English) and mathematics prior to course enrollment. Students should expect to repeat developmental courses as necessary until they have achieved college-level skills. Students may retest if eligible. The highest score achieved by the student is used for course placement. Test scores are good for three years. Students with documented disabilities will be accommodated on an individual basis as each disability dictates and should make an appointment with the Coordinator of Disability Services prior to testing and/or enrollment. Baccalaureate Transfer Programs (A.A., A.S., A.E.S., and A.F.A.)Students interested in baccalaureate transfer programs should pursue, while in high school, a college preparatory curriculum to include:
Students who have not completed the above curriculum will satisfy these requirements by fulfilling the transfer degree requirements as outlined below:
Science courses, social science courses, and MAT 115 or higher that are taken to meet program admission requirements will also count toward associate degree general education requirements. First Year ExperienceSauk Valley Community College is committed to providing students with effective support systems to facilitate their success and empower their learning. A student's first year is perhaps the most critical time to ensure that such systems, programs, and connections are in place. The First-Year Experience program at SVCC also connects students to valuable resources, tools, and the critical individuals on campus that provide valuable everyday support. The program sets up students for success in their first year and beyond. It involves all campus departments working together cooperatively to promote this essential experience for the students and form lasting bonds with our staff. Students can expect a high level of engagement from all SVCC personnel. The First-Year Experience at Sauk Valley Community College consists of two components, the initial Orientation session and the First-Year Experience course (FYE 101), that is completed in the student's first semester. Completing each is required of incoming degree-seeking students. Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated at least 16 SVCC semester hours or transferred 16 or more semester hours prior to enrolling as a degree-seeking student at SVCC are not required to take this course. Students already awarded an Associate's degree or above are also exempt from FYE. Upon registering for the initial semester, a new student will receive a letter with an assigned date for the Orientation. That date can only be changed with permission of the Dean of Instruction, 815/835-6344.
Determination of Residency and Tuition InformationIn-District StudentsAn in-district student is one whose legal residence is within the boundaries of the SVCC District. All students are required to certify on the application that the address given is correct. A student is considered a resident of District 506 if one of the following criteria is met for at least 30 days prior to beginning of the term.
Students that move into the district for reasons other than attending Sauk Valley Community College shall be exempt from the 30-day requirement if they demonstrate a verifiable interest in establishing permanent residency. Verification will consist of employment documentation, home purchase document, and/or other legal documents. Special cases regarding legal residency of students shall be considered individually. Out-of-District StudentsAn out-of-district student is any person whose legal residence is outside the boundaries of SVCC District 506, but in the State of Illinois, (with the exception of internet courses). Out-of-district residents who wish to attend Sauk and pay tuition and fees at the in-district rate must file a "Notification of Intent to Attend a Recognized Illinois Public Community College" application. These forms can be obtained from the student's community college district and should be filed in the Business Office prior to the semester when the out-of-district student wishes to begin attending Sauk.
Out-of-district charges are subject to changes based on fiscal year audits ending each June 30. The charges for each fiscal year change each fall semester. Out-of-State StudentsAnyone who is a resident of another state at the time of application will be considered an out-of-state applicant. Out-of-state students will be charged the current rate of tuition for out-of-state students (with the exception of internet courses). Tuition and FeesTuition and fees established by the Board of Trustees are subject to change. Up-to-date tuition and fees are available online at www.svcc.edu
Any request for a refund of tuition must be made by the following schedule: Fall and Spring Semesters:
Community Service Public Workshops
Classes that meet 10 weeks or more will follow the College-approved schedule for refunds.
Final ExamsInstructors give final examinations at scheduled times. Final exam schedules for the current semester are located online at the exam schedule link at www.svcc.edu/schedule/finalexams.html. Schedules will be available by the third week of classes. See individual instructors for questions. Grading SystemGrades are recorded at the end of each semester with a system of letters indicating the quality of academic work as follows:
The student's GPA is determined in the following manner: Example: Student X is taking five classes and received the corresponding grades:
Your grade point average (GPA) is calculated by dividing the total amount of grade points earned by the total amount of GPA credit hours. Your grade point average may range from 0.0 to a 4.0.
Note: Developmental grades are not calculated in the GPA. For students wishing to appeal grades, please refer to the Academic Appeals Policy.
Incomplete GradeIf a student is unable to complete a course and the student-initiated withdrawal date has passed, the instructor may assign a grade of "I" under the condition that it is practical for the student to complete the requirements of the course in the following major term. Re-registering in the course is not required in order to change an incomplete to a grade. A grade of "I" must be changed to a letter grade by completing the requirements of the course no later than the end of the following major term, or the "I" grade will be changed to an "F" on the student's permanent record. A grade of "W" is not acceptable once the incomplete option is taken. It is the student's responsibility to initiate the contract with the instructor for the completion of the course. When the "I" grade is requested, the student and the instructor will submit an appropriate written plan noting projects and a time line for completion of the course to the Academic Vice President for consideration. Then, when the course requirements are completed, the instructor will submit a grade change to the Admissions and Records Office. Incomplete grade contracts must be submitted to the Academic Vice President prior to the week of finals. Re-registering is not a requirement. Pass GradeA "P" (passing grade) is a grade that demonstrates that the student has met the class requirements and/or allows the student to proceed to the next level of the course sequence. These credits will not be used in the calculation of GPA. Withdrawal GradeA "W" (withdrawal grade) is a grade that signifies that a student was not pursuing completion of the course work during the enrolled semester. These credits will not be computed in the GPA. Audit GradeA "X" (audit grade) is a grade assigned when a student registers for a course to gain knowledge but does not wish to earn credit for the course. These credits will not be computed in the GPA. Proficiency GradeA "Z" (proficiency grade) is awarded when a student passes a proficiency exam. These credits will not be computed in the GPA. Grading OptionsLetter grades - (A, B, C, D, F) Will be awarded based on student performance as defined in the instructor's syllabus. Pass/Fail - (P/F) - The pass/fail option can only be used for courses other than those within the major field. This option must be designated by mid-term. Pass/Withdrawal - (P/W) - The pass/withdrawal option can be used only for fitness center courses. (PED 150-153). This option must be designated by mid-term.
Administrative TransferSauk Valley Community College will recognize an "administrative transfer" from one course level to another course level, or from one section of a course to another section of that course, until the last date in the term to withdraw from a course as long as the "sending" instructor, "receiving" instructor, and the student all agree to the transfer in writing. AuditA student who wishes to gain knowledge but does not wish to earn credit for the course, may, at the time of registration or during the registration change period register to audit the course. Registration is required and the tuition for auditing is the same as for enrollment for credit. Transfer from audit to credit or credit to audit status is not permitted after the registration change period. A grade of "X" will be recorded on the transcript and the credits will not be computed in the GPA. Fresh StartAt times, it may be in the student's best interest to change from one program of study to another or re-enter the College after a period of absence. In such cases, grades earned in the previous program of study which are not required as part of the new program will not be used to determine the student's Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) or in the computation of degree or certificate requirements in the newly selected program. The student must follow a prescribed course of study as set forth in the College catalog. Once this policy has been enforced it cannot be rescinded. Students wishing to choose this option should contact the Dean of Student Services for further details at 815/835-6326. Repeat PolicyA student may repeat a course or courses previously taken at the College or courses transferred in from other accredited institutions of higher learning. All grades earned at Sauk shall be recorded on the official transcript; however, only the last grade and credit shall be used to determine the student's grade point average. A student should be aware that other colleges may interpret repeated courses according to their own policy. The College offers courses systematically, regularly, and as often as possible; however, the College will not necessarily offer a course requested for the purpose of repeating. WithdrawalFailure of a student to attend class does not constitute student-initiated withdrawal. A Drop Form is available in the Office of Admissions and Records. Withdrawal from class becomes valid only after the proper procedure has been followed. Drop Forms are available in the Office of Admissions and Records or students may withdraw via SOAR website www.svcc.edu/soar during the 100% refund period (see college calendar for specific date). The student will receive a final grade of "W" when withdrawing from a class after the registration change period. This is a non-punitive grade and does not affect the student's GPA. Students receiving financial assistance should contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance prior to withdrawing from any class, since withdrawing from a class or multiple classes may affect future financial aid eligibility.
Student InitiatedDuring the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, a student may drop a course by filing a drop form in the Office of Admissions and Records. From the third through the tenth week of the class, a student may withdraw from a course by filing an instructor signed drop form in the Office of Admission and Records. The signature indicates that the instructor is aware of the withdrawal and has had an opportunity to discuss reasons for the withdrawal and possible alternatives. The instructor must indicate the official last date of attendance on the program change form. A grade of "W" will be recorded on the student's transcript. Faculty removal of a student from class for non-attendance does not constitute a formal withdrawal from the class. It is the discretion of the faculty to either record a failing grade (F) or a Never Attended (NA). This does not relieve the student from their obligation to make payment for this class. Deadlines for withdrawal will be pro-rated for classes that meet less than 16 weeks, including summer sessions. See the current class schedule for exact dates for withdrawal. Students receiving financial assistance should consult the Office of Student Financial Assistance before withdrawing from classes. FYE 101 students must have the signatures of their instructor and the Dean of Instructional Services prior to submitting a valid program change form. Dual-enrollment students should contact their high school counselor prior to withdrawing. Students who stop attending without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in the course. Instructor InitiatedPrior to the final examination, an instructor may withdraw a student if the instructor believes a student cannot successfully complete the course. The Office of Admissions and Records will notify the student of this withdrawal. The student will receive a final grade of "W" as outlined above. Students should consult individual instructors about his/her policy on withdrawing the student from the course. Any time a "W" grade is assigned, the official last date of attendance must be recorded. Students may appeal this withdrawal by using established department and College appeal procedures. Students enrolled in classes requiring course/programs internal or external mandatory levels of compliance may be withdrawn if they are found during the course of the course/program to be out of compliance. The student appeal process will be used to adjudicate when necessary. An example would be a course/program that requires the passing of a background check and if one were to commit and be found guilty of an act that would no longer allow them to pass that background check, they could be dropped from the course/program. Students enrolled in health career courses may be withdrawn immediately from these courses if their clinical performance contributes to either the physical or emotional jeopardy of clients. Students who stop attending without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in the course. Withdrawing from First Year Experience Class (FYE)Prior to withdrawing from the FYE class, the student must make an appointment with the Dean of Instructional Services. The Dean of Instructional Services will counsel students in their options for the FYE class and sign a letter of commitment for their completion of the FYE class. Withdrawal from the CollegeFull-time students who decide to withdraw from the College must notify the Dean of Student Services or their designee, complete the withdrawal process, and clear all obligations with the College. Grades for students who withdraw from the College after the second week of classes will be recorded as "W". Students withdrawing from the College may, with official permission, do so during the designated withdrawal period. Students who stop attending classes without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in all courses.
Deans'/President's ListAs an expression of commitment to academic achievement, the College recognizes superior scholarship in several ways. Students taking courses numbered 100 or above and maintaining a semester average of 3.5 to 3.749 for the semester will be placed on the Deans' List. The Deans' list will recognize and distinguish between full-time students (12 or more GPA credit hours) and part-time students (6-11 GPA credit hours) achieving this honor. Students maintaining a semester average of 3.75 or higher in courses numbered 100 or above will be honored through placement on the President's List. The President's List will recognize and distinguish between full-time students (12 or more GPA credit hours) and part-time students (6-11 GPA credit hours). Students attending during the summer semester with 6 GPA credit hours will also be recognized for the Dean's/President's List. Graduation with HonorsStudents who maintain high academic achievement throughout their period of study at the College may be graduated with honors or high honors. Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.5-3.749 will be graduated with honors, while students with a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher will be graduated with high honors. Students who graduate with honors will be designated as "Honors Graduates" on their SVCC transcripts. Honors ProgramEducational opportunities are available to successful students through the SVCC Honors Program. Honors students receive an enriched general education-the basis for all future academic experiences. The Sauk honors experience includes specially designed academic work that extends beyond normal course activities, individual interaction with faculty members in the pursuit of special interests, and the opportunity to work with advanced scientific instruments. Honors students may receive financial awards from the College Foundation and recognition for academic work at honors gatherings. They also have the opportunity to transfer to an honors program at a four-year college or university. Once admitted to the program, students may take one or more courses on an honors basis. That means going beyond the normal course requirements by doing a research project, writing a paper, or engaging in other academic work designed specifically for each student. While executing honors projects, students will improve their abilities to speak, write, listen, and conduct research. Each semester, students who satisfy one or more of the following criteria are invited to apply for membership to Sauk's Honors Program:.
For more information, visit the Honors Program web page at www.svcc.edu/students/student-activities/honors/index.html. Phi Theta KappaPhi Theta Kappa (PTK) is an invitation only, international honor society for two-year college students. Twice each year (fall and spring semesters) eligible students will receive a letter from the College President inviting them to join and participate in the honor society. To be eligible for membership in Phi Theta Kappa, students must have earned at least a 3.50 cumulative GPA, completed 12 semester hours of course work, and be currently enrolled in three semester hours of course work. If the students accept membership into Phi Theta Kappa, they are required to pay a one-time membership fee. Phi Theta Kappa members have the opportunity to participate in community and college service projects, to develop leadership skills by holding officer positions within the organization, and to attend Phi Theta Kappa conventions and meetings across the country. Additional benefits include:
For further information, contact the Phi Theta Kappa advisor or go to the official Phi Theta Kappa web page at www.ptk.org.
Academic Alert, Supervision, Suspension, and DismissalAll students are expected to maintain progress toward achievement of their academic goals. Students that do not comply with SVCC standards of progress are subject to academic alert, supervision, suspension, or dismissal. For these purposes a student's cumulative GPA includes all courses taken at SVCC and any course work transferred from other colleges and excludes all developmental courses and adult basic education courses. Academic alert, supervision, suspension, and dismissal are recorded on a student's academic record. Alert:A student who does not maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA or higher after completing 12 GPA credit hours* will be placed in academic alert status and will be notified by the College. Supervision:A student on alert who does not maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA or higher after completing 24 GPA credit hours* will be placed in academic supervision status. Students in this category will not be allowed to register for more than 14 credits while under supervision. All students under supervision must see a counselor or academic advisor prior to registration. The academic load each term must be approved by a college counselor or academic advisor. Additionally, students under supervision must enroll in CSS 100 - Student Success Skills as part of their course load. A student wishing to register for more than 14 credits while under supervision must make an appeal to the Dean of Student Services. Students under supervision who achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA each term will remain under supervision until their cumulative GPA is at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Suspension:A student under supervision who does not achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in each semester or who has not completed the CSS 100 - Student Success Skills course will be suspended from the College. Students who are suspended from the College will not be allowed to attend any classes until after the next regular major semester (i.e., spring or fall). Students that have been suspended for not meeting the academic grade point average requirement may appeal their suspension to the Dean of Student Services. Students who choose to appeal their suspension must submit documentation to support the extenuating circumstances which resulted in failure to meet the grade point average requirement under the Academic Standards of Progress. The Dean of Student Services will review the request for appeal, confer with the Academic Vice President, and may allow the student to enroll in one course if circumstances warrant. Re-admittance after Suspension:Students that are suspended from the College may return after remaining out for one major semester (fall or spring). Prior to returning to the College, the student must schedule a conference with the Dean of Student Services. The student will agree on guidelines under which she/he will be allowed to return. Upon return, the student will be placed on supervision status. Students readmitted after suspension that achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA each term will still be subject to academic supervision until their cumulative GPA is at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Academic Dismissal:This represents a separation of students from Sauk Valley Community College for at least two major semesters (fall and spring). Academic dismissal occurs if a student returning from suspension fails to maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA each term after returning. Students are eligible to apply for readmission to the College after the dismissal period. Admission will be on a petition basis to the Academic Appeals Board. In order for readmission to be approved, the petition must present evidence of some change in the students' circumstances. *GPA Credit Hours include all SVCC and transfer grades except W, P, X, Z, I, and grades in developmental courses.
The following procedures shall govern appeals by affected persons of post-admission student academic issues. This procedure shall not apply to decisions of agencies other than Sauk Valley Community College such as National Junior College Athletic Association, clinical facilities, employers of students, and other businesses allowing job site training of students; the College has no authority over those decisions. Step One: Informal Resolution
Step Two: Appeals Board
Hearing(s)
Academic Appeals Board
Recommendation(s)
Disposition
Step Three: President
*The Dean of Student Services shall act as the facilitator/resource person for the elected Board Chair in order to ensure consistency and fairness in the process. Step Four: Final Appeal-Board of Trustees
Independent Study/TutorialTutorial courses are offered when a student is unable to register for a needed regularly offered course due to one of the following reasons: medical, course was canceled because of insufficient enrollment, or a student is in his/her last semester and has been unable to register for a course required for graduation. Independent study courses are specially designed to allow a student to pursue a particular topic or subject, under the guidance of a qualified instructor. The student requesting an independent study course will discuss the project with the instructor who will then prepare an independent study outline. The student will work on his/her own to achieve mastery of the material in the course. Periodic conferences are scheduled with the instructor to ensure that satisfactory progress is made. It is the student's responsibility to discuss the transferability of the course with a receiving institution. A student wishing to take courses in a tutorial or independent study format may enroll by securing an Application for Tutorial/Independent Study Form and submitting it to the instructor and dean for recommendation. All tutorial/independent study applications are approved by the Academic Vice President. A student may begin an independent study or tutorial program only after receipt of approval from the Academic Vice President, who determines the action taken. The instructor will specify the testing, attendance, and other requirements of the class. The regular grading system applies to all independent study or tutorial students. Grades earned through independent study or tutorials have the same effect as those earned through regular classroom instruction. Internet CoursesSauk offers courses via the Internet with communication between instructor and student, or student-to-student, taking place electronically. These classes are equivalent to traditionally-delivered classes and offer an alternative to students that prefer to take classes at non-traditional locations and times. All require the use of a computer and Internet access. Sauk Valley Community College is a member of Illinois Community College Online (ILCCO) www.ilcco.net, a consortium created to share Internet courses across the State. This allows Sauk students a wider array of online course offerings. Please see a counselor or academic advisor for more details 815/835-6354. Hybrid CoursesSauk offers some of its courses in a delivery mode currently termed as hybrid. Hybrid courses meet on campus in a traditional face-to-face classroom setting for a portion of the class time and online (asynchronously) as an Internet Course for another portion of the time. As with Internet Courses, these courses require access to a computer and the Internet. Dual CreditDual Credit is a program that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors, ages 16 and above, to take Sauk courses to earn credit simultaneously toward both a high school diploma and a college degree. The student can fulfill high school graduation requirements while at the same time earn college credits toward a specialized certification, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree. Dual Credit courses are offered at SVCC, Whiteside Area Career Center, online, and at area high schools. Contact either a high school counselor or the Recruitment Office at 815/835-6421, for more information. To check the transferability of specific courses, contact the Counseling Office at 815/835-6354.
College Credits Earned at Other InstitutionsSauk Valley Community College will accept credits earned at other regionally accredited institutions of higher learning if the institutions' grading symbols are "A," "B," or "C" in credit given by American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). College level transfer grades are computed in the students' cumulative GPA. Credit successfully completed will be accepted:
Students requesting transfer of "D" or "P" grades must see a counselor or academic advisor for consideration. If approved, "P" grades are not computed in the cumulative GPA. Program completion limits the number of credits earned with a grade of "P". Some programs do not accept transfer credit. Refer to individual program requirements for more information. Credit for Prior ExperienceStudents enrolled at SVCC may earn credits based on prior experience in the following ways:
Credit for prior experiences does not count toward the residency requirement for a certificate or degree at SVCC except for credits by proficiency examination. A maximum of 30 credits gained through prior experience can be used toward a degree at SVCC; up to 50 percent of the credits earned through prior experience may be applied toward a certificate at SVCC. Students should be aware that acceptance of credit for prior experience varies among transfer institutions.
To request credit recognition for a state or national exam passage, contact the dean or Academic Vice President responsible for the program discipline in which the student is enrolled and credit is requested.
ArticulationTransfer to Other InstitutionsCredit in college-level courses earned at SVCC may be transferred to other institutions of higher education. Counselors and academic advisors will assist students in planning appropriate transfer programs. It remains the responsibility of the student to select his/her transfer institution and to follow the requirements for transfer to that institution. Such requirements are prescribed in the catalog of each college or university. Transfer agreements to other institutions are located on the Sauk transfer institution website at www.svcc.edu/students/counseling/transfer.html. MyCreditsTransferMyCreditsTransfer (formerly u.select Illinois) is a web-based transfer information system that provides fast and accurate course and transfer information. MyCreditsTransfer allows you to view programs and degree requirements offered at an institution, see how courses transfer from one institution to another, learn how courses transfer and apply, the degree requirements that have been met, and the courses needed to complete the requirements. The web site may be accessed at www.itransfer.org/uselect. Illinois Articulation InitiativeSauk Valley Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide agreement that allows transfer of the completed Illinois General Education Core Curriculum between participating institutions. This agreement is in effect for students entering an associate or baccalaureate degree-granting institution as a first-time freshman in summer 1998 and thereafter. Application of credit completed prior to the summer of 1998 is each institution's decision. SVCC will use credits completed prior to 1998 towards the GECC. However, some institutions may choose not to include courses taken prior to the summer of 1998 within the general education core curriculum. Acceptance of evaluated transfer credit outside of IAI may be applicable to meet Illinois GECC and transfer degree requirements at SVCC. Some receiving institutions may choose to re-evaluate these courses. The General Education Core Curriculum is outlined at the IAI web site at www.itransfer.org.
Catalog for Graduation
Students may be required to follow degree requirements outlined in later catalogs when certificates, degree programs, or courses have been extensively modified from previous catalogs. Graduation requirementsThe College reserves the right to administratively award degrees/certificates upon completion of any program. Degree ProgramsTo be eligible for the associate in arts, associate in science, associate in liberal studies, associate in engineering science, associate in fine arts, or associate in applied science degree at SVCC, a student must fulfill the following requirements:
To be eligible for a second associate degree a student must complete, in addition to the above requirements:
Certificate ProgramsTo be eligible for a certificate, a student must fulfill the following requirements:
Graduation ProceduresIntent to GraduateDegree and certificate-seeking students must apply for graduation at the beginning of the semester in which they will fulfill their graduation requirements. It is recommended that the student apply for graduation the semester prior to graduation to verify that all requirements are met or are in progress. Proper notification of intent to graduate must be on file in the Office of Admissions and Records no later than the mid-term of the fall, spring or summer semester in which students intend to complete their award. The College reserves the right to administratively award degrees/certificates upon completion of any program. CommencementA College-wide commencement is held once each year in May. Students completing degree and certificate graduation requirements at the end of the fall or spring terms and those students who will complete their requirements at the end of the summer term following commencement, are invited and encouraged to participate in the spring commencement ceremony. All participants in the May commencement ceremony should have an "Intent to Graduate" form on file in the Office of Admissions and Records by the mid-term of the spring semester prior to commencement. A non-refundable fee is required by a designated date of the year of graduation to participate in the commencement ceremony. This fee entitles the student to participate in the commencement ceremony, including cap and gown, graduation tassel, and diploma cover. FY 2013 Retention, Completion and Transfer Rates
+Source: SVCC FY 2013 data, *Source: 2013 IPEDS For more data about how SVCC is performing, see Sauk's Strategic Planning Dashboard at: https://www.svcc.edu/departments/irp/reporting/dashboard/index.html. Or examine the latest IPEDS data set here at: https://www.svcc.edu./departments/irp/erporting/iped-comparison-with-peers-2013.pdf.
Sauk Valley Community College provides technology resources to meet the College's purpose, to support our educational and community values, and to support our programs and initiatives. Sauk Valley Community College's Information Services organization's goal is to provide high quality services to the campus community. To ensure that our high standards are met, we have certain expectations regarding the use of technology resources at the College. Access to Sauk Valley Community College technology resources--computing facilities, telecommunications and network services, servers, equipment, software, applications, information resources, printing and scanning services, and user and technical support provided by Information Services staff--is a privilege, not a right. This privilege is extended to all users-- faculty, staff, students, trustees, alumni/ie, affiliated individuals and organizations, partner non-profits and PK-12 schools. Accepting access to this technology carries an associated expectation of responsible and acceptable use. The "Acceptable Use Policy" describes activities that Sauk Valley Community College considers violations of use of technology resources. The examples listed are not exhaustive and may change from time to time as technology and applications change. The examples are provided solely for guidance to users. If you are unsure whether any use or action is permitted, please contact Information Services at x298 for assistance. While there are cases in which use of technology resources is deemed not responsible or not acceptable, there are also cases in which technology resources are used in the conduct of behaviors which violate College policies, codes of conduct, or local, state, or federal law, in those cases, either the Student Code of Conduct or the legal system shall be imposed. Though the use of technology resources is the focus of this document, members of the Sauk Valley Community College community and others using Sauk Valley Community College's technology resources are advised that use may also be governed by other College policies including but not limited to those in the student handbook, College catalog, faculty handbook, other policies governing academic, student life, or personnel matters at the College or agreements between the College and affiliated organizations. Sauk Valley Community College's technology and information resources are not to be used for commercial purposes or non-College related activities without written authorization from the officer(s) of the College that have been so designated (contact Information Services for further information). To ensure proper network performance, and security as well as appropriate use, College staff may monitor and record user activity. Sauk Valley Community College reserves the right to enforce applicable penalties and/or immediately terminate access to College systems and network services to any user in cases where technology resources have been used in a manner that is disruptive or is otherwise believed to be in violation of "acceptable use" or other College policies or law. As a recognized agent under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, the College will act in accord with the provisions of this act in the event of notification of alleged copyright infringement by any user. Instances of inappropriate use of technology resources will be referred to the appropriate official for disciplinary action by the College and will be subject to this policy as well as to other applicable College policies and guidelines. In addition, individuals may be subject to civil suit, and/or local, state, and federal prosecution depending on their actions. Among sanctions that can be imposed for violation of this or other applicable College policies, the College reserves the right to restrict an individual's access to technology resources. The College reserves the right to deny employment to any individual found in violation of this policy. The College retains control, custody and supervision of all Computer Technology. The College reserves the right to monitor the use of Computer Technology activity by any user. No user shall have expectations of privacy in their use of Computer Technology, including e-mail messages and stored files, except proprietary research by faculty members who need to protect work, product, etc. User and Staff Responsibilities : As a user or staff member of Sauk Valley Community College's technology resources, you have a shared responsibility with the College technologies staff to maintain the integrity of our systems, services, and information so that high quality services can be provided to everyone. Your responsibilities include:
Examples of Violations of "Acceptable Use" Authorized Access/Accounts
Services
Software, Data & Information
Email/Internet Messaging/Voice Mail/Voice Services
Web Pages & Servers
College Listservs
Fitness Center and Weight RoomThe College recognizes the relationship of wellness and fitness to academic career, social success, and personal happiness. Total fitness results from our Super Circuit training, which combines resistance and aerobic exercise in a scientifically based sequence. Additionally, the free weight room offers opportunities to enhance the physical well being of each person. Degreed staff supervises the Fitness Center and Weight Room to promote a pleasant, safe and injury-free exercise session. Two enrollment options are offered:
Campus SecurityIn compliance with the Campus Security Act of 1990, Sauk Valley Community College's campus security report is available on the College's Web Site at www.svcc.edu.
Sauk Valley Community College affirmative action policy and plan is available in the Learning Resource Center, the Counseling Office, and with the affirmative action officer. Any student who has questions or needs advice about matters concerning affirmative action should contact the affirmative action officer, 815/835-6291.
EnglishSauk Valley Community College is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an effective policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity in all employee and student relations. Except to the extent and subject to the exemptions permitted by law, no qualified employee or student shall be excluded from employment or educational opportunity, be denied benefits, or be subjected to discrimination on the basis of differences in race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation (as that term is defined in the Illinois Rights Act), marital status, handicap, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service classified as Re-3 or the equivalent thereof. Any student who has questions or needs advice concerning matters about discrimination should contact the Equal Opportunity Officer, 815/835-6291. Vocational opportunities will be offered by Sauk Valley Community College without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, marital status, disability, military status, or unfavorable discharge from military service. When special requests are made from persons with disabilities during the hiring process, every effort will be made to accommodate such requests. Notification of Title IX and Section 504 CoordinatorsIt is the policy of Sauk Valley Community College to maintain a working and learning environment for all students and employees that is free from sexual discrimination and sexual harassment. Any student or employee who feels that he/she has been subjected to sexual discrimination or sexual harassment should contact: Sexual Harassment/Title IX Compliance Officers Sexual Harassment/Title IX Compliance Office for Student-to-Student Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and its accompanying regulations prohibit discrimination towards any individuals on the basis of his/her disability. Accordingly, all employees of Sauk Valley Community College are expected to adhere to the applicable college policies, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. Any student or employee who feels he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of a disability should contact: Section 504 Compliance Officer EspañolSauk Valley Community College es un empleador que promueve igualdad de oportunidad, comprometido a una política efectiva de no discriminación y de igualdad de oportunidad en todas las relaciones de empleado y estudiante. Ningún empleado ni estudiante calificado será excluido de la oportunidad de empleo ni de la oportunidad educativa, ni se le negarán beneficios, o estará expuesto a discriminación por su raza, color, religión, origen nacional, ascendencia, edad, sexo, orientación sexual (como el término se define en la Declaración de los Derechos Humanos de Illinois), por estado civil, discapacidad, posición militar o por descarga desfavorable del servicio militar clasificado como Re-3 o el equivalente del mismo, excepto a la extensión y sujeto a las exenciones permitidas por la ley. Cualquier estudiante con preguntas o que necesite asesoramiento sobre cuestiones relacionadas con la discriminación debe comunicarse con el Oficial de la Igualdad de Oportunidad, 815/835-6291. Notificación de los Coordinadores de Título IX y Sección 504. La norma de Sauk Valley Community College es de mantener un ambiente de trabajo y de aprendizaje libre de toda clase de acoso sexual, discriminación sexual, y otras formas de hostigamiento. Toda persona que sienta que fue victima de discriminación sexual o de acoso sexual, u otra clase de hostigamiento, deberá notificarlo a las siguientes personas: Oficiales de Acoso Sexual en conformidad con el Titulo IX Oficial de Hostigamiento Sexual en Conformidad con el Titulo IX para casos de estudiante-a-estudiante: La sección 504 del Acta de Rehabilitación de 1973 y sus regulaciones adjuntas, prohíben la discriminación a individuos en base a su discapacidad. Por lo tanto, se espera que todos los empleados de Sauk Valley Community College cumplan con las normas del colegio, el cual prohíbe la discriminación a individuos en base a discapacidades. Todo aquel estudiante o empleado que sienta que ha sido discriminado en base a su discapacidad deberá notificarlo a Kathryn Snow, Coordinadora ADA del Colegio, en la oficina 3L18, 815/835-6291 |