A to Z Directory

We hope that this list along with the Quick Links provided on this page will allow you to find the help you need. Links to pertinent areas of our web site have also been included along with contact information for the relevant sections. Please call if you need assistance.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Academic Assessment and Testing Services

The Academic Assessment and Testing Services at the Dowagiac campus and the Niles Area Campus offer, in addition to the admissions assessment, many tests that can result in attainment of college credit for passing the test. These include institutional tests in technology or business as well as nationally standardized tests such as CLEP and DANTES. For more information, contact the Academic Assessment and Testing Services Director at (269) 782-1347 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1347. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Academic Calendar

Please refer to the Academic Calendar on our website for information on course related dates, holidays and deadlines.

Academic Forgiveness Policy

Southwestern Michigan College’s Academic Forgiveness Policy enables students with poor academic records to resume their college education beginning with a “clean slate.” This forgiveness policy should be applied in only those special cases where a student faces a desperate academic situation and is unable to improve a poor prior record through normal college procedures such as course repeats. You may apply for academic forgiveness if all of the following conditions are met:

Your previous overall SMC Grade Point Average (GPA) was less than 2.0.
You have completed 12 credit hours with a GPA of 2.0 or better since re-entering SMC.
A period of at least five years has passed since the grades to be dropped were earned.

You must file a petition for academic forgiveness with the Dean of Students and Academic Support. You will be charged a non-refundable fee of $25.00 at the time your application for forgiveness is made. You may select that point on the academic record before which all grades of C-, D+, D, D- or F are to be dropped from credit. Course grades to be dropped must have been earned at least five years (sixty months) prior as measured from the ending date of the most recent term to be dropped. All C-, D+, D, D- and F grades from that last term and all C-, D+, D, D- and F grades earned in prior terms will be deleted from post-forgiveness credit and GPA calculations. Courses passed with a C or better will be retained for credit only and will not be included in post-forgiveness GPA calculations. A second declaration of academic forgiveness will not be permitted. Once granted, academic forgiveness is irreversible.

The original transcript will remain intact, but it will clearly identify prior-and-past forgiveness coursework indicating that academic forgiveness was granted. For more information about the Academic Forgiveness Policy.

Academic Honors

Students who achieve extraordinary success in their studies during a given term will be recognized according to the following categories. To be eligible for Academic Honors, you must be enrolled as a full-time student (12 or more credit hours.) To achieve the “President’s List” of honor, you must attain a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0. “Dean’s List” honorees must earn a minimum GPA of 3.5. If invited, you may also join the Sigma Psi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society for students in colleges that offer the Associate degree. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a certificate or degree program and earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students who graduate with honors are given special recognition during the annual commencement ceremony if they participate.

Academic Outcomes Assessment

Southwestern Michigan College is committed to continually assessing the effectiveness of teaching and learning in our courses and in our programs. As a student, you will likely be frequently involved in these assessments. In order to determine if students are effectively mastering the objectives of a course, assessments such as portfolio reviews, juried performances and objective referenced examinations will be administered. Occupational programs will be assessed in numerous ways as well. Graduate follow-up surveys, capstone projects, and portfolio reviews are a few of these methods. The results of both course and program assessments are used by faculty and administrators to continually make course and program improvements.

Academic Standing Policies

In order to maintain in good academic standing, students must achieve the following grade point averages based on the number of credit hours they have completed:

Level	Range	Must Maintain
1	From 12 to 23 hours	1.50 GPA
2	From 24 to 35 hours	1.70 GPA
3	From 36 to 47 hours	1.80 GPA
4	From 48 to 61 hours	1.90 GPA
5	From 62 hours	2.00 GPA

The academic probation and dismissal policy pertains to a student’s performance beginning in their first term and continuing through each term of attendance.

Probation

A student who falls below the standards for Academic Good Standing on any level will be placed on academic probation. Academic probation does not prevent a student from further enrollment. Rather, the probationary status indicates the college’s concern about academic progress. If you are placed on probation, you are encouraged to discuss with your advisor a plan for accessing the many SMC resources that support academic success.

Dismissal

Once you have been placed on probation for at least two terms, and your academic record does not improve, you may be placed on Academic Dismissal. Academic Dismissal means that you will be denied enrollment for the following term. You will be welcome back to the college after you have not attended for a term; however, we urge you to take the opportunity to work through any issues that impact your success at SMC and upon re-enrolling at the college, avail yourself of all the many academic supports in place to help you be a successful student again. The Dean of Students and Academic Support may authorize continued probation for any student who has been dismissed. If you have been placed on continued probation, you should make every effort to improve your academic standing in subsequent terms. Your academic advisor can assist in developing an educationally feasible program of study, and help you find the resources to improve your grades.

Academies

An academy is a special program offered through Southwestern Michigan College for qualified high school juniors and seniors. Students usually spend one-half of their day at their high school and one-half of their day at SMC taking college courses. Occupational Academies give qualified students the opportunity to earn college and high school credit along with acquiring technical skills leading to a high-paying career. Transfer Option opportunities, through dualenrollment, allow interested students to gain a head start on a four-year degree as they earn college credit that may be transferred to many colleges or universities. Through the dual enrollment transfer options, qualified high school students may pursue the entire array of college coursework available at Southwestern Michigan College. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Acceptable Use Policy

Use of college computing resources is critical to both the instructional division and all college administration. For this reason, acceptable use of computers, programs and the network has been defined by SMC Board Policy (see also Student Conduct) and is explicitly communicated through an Acceptable Use Policy maintained by Computing Services of SMC. For more information on the Acceptable Use Policy, contact Computing Services at (269) 782-1230 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1230 or you may view the document in any of our computer labs. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Accreditation

Southwestern Michigan College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The Commission is located at 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504 and can be reached at 800 621-7440.

Ace Tests

ACE Tests College credit for specific courses is available through an Achieved Credit by Examination (ACE) testing procedure administered by the Testing Centers for a $50.00 fee on both SMC campuses. Contact the Testing Center at (269) 687-4816 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 1462 if you would like more information about these tests. [2008-2009 Catalog]

Adding or Dropping Classes

During the registration period, students are free to drop and add courses as they see fit. Once the registration period has ended, students may no longer add courses unless those courses do not begin until mid-semester. Students wishing to reduce their course load after the registration period ends must complete a paper withdrawal form available in the Academic Support office on the Dowagiac campus or the main office at the Niles Area Campus. No approval is necessary to withdraw from classes; however, students are urged to discuss their withdrawal with their advisor or Financial Aid to discuss the impact the withdrawal will have on the academic or financial record.

Advanced Placement and CLEP

Please refer to Academic Assessment and Testing Services section of this document.

Advising

Each student has an assigned advisor who is informed about the student’s particular program and serves as a source of information and guidance.During posted advising periods, you should see your advisor to obtain signed “Permits to Register” for upcoming classes. If you have developed a well-planned course of study, you may self-advise and register, with the approval of your advisor. Self-advising contracts are available in the Academic Support office. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Annual Security Report

At Southwestern Michigan College, we are committed to an awareness and prevention of criminal activities of all nature. We provide services to individuals in the prevention, reporting, and follow-up of crimes. Counselors are on staff to provide referrals and limited counseling services to students whose lives are affected by crime, drugs, or alcohol abuse.

The Annual Security Report is prepared by the Dean of Students & Academic Support in cooperation with the Office of Institutional Research to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act.

The full text of the report is posted on the College website. A hard copy of the report may be requested by contacting the Dean of Students and Academic Support at 269 782-1306.

Apprentice Training

Associate Degrees

Southwestern Michigan College confers the Associate in Arts degree, the Associate in Science degree and the Associate in Applied Science degree.

Associate in Applied Science Degree

This degree is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce with specific occupational or technical skills. The requirements for each major in the Associate in Applied Science degree as well as Course Descriptions are provided on our Web site.

Associate in Arts Degree

This degree is primarily designed as the equivalent of the first half of a Baccalaureate degree in non-science areas. The Associate in Arts degree has much flexibility and may be tailored to both the subject and the specific four-year college or university which you plan to attend. Students desiring to transfer should consult with their specialty advisor in Academic Support as early as possible in their academic program. Specific information on the Associate in Arts Degree is available online through the SMC Web site.

Associate in Science Degree

This degree is primarily designed as the equivalent of the first half of a Baccalaureate degree in science areas. The Associate in Science degree has much flexibility and may be tailored to both the subject and the specific four-year college or university which you plan to attend. Transfer requirements may differ with colleges. If you are planning to transfer, consult with your specialty advisor. Specific details on the Associate in Applied Science Degree are available through our Web Site.

ATMs

An ATM is available in the College Services Building on the main floor next to the Information Centers.

Attendance

Attendance is expected in all courses, and attendance will be taken in all classes. Instructors will announce their attendance requirements during the first class session. In the event that a student must be absent from class due to religious observation, it is the responsibility of the student to contact the instructor to arrange for an opportunity to make up any examination or study requirements which the student may have missed because of such absence. If illness, accident or similar circumstances result in a prolonged absence, it is the responsibility of the student to notify the instructor and make up work. Current or future awards of financial aid may be affected if a student does not attend classes for which s/he is registered.

Auditing of Classes

A student who wishes to attend a class regularly but does not require a grade or credit may decide to audit the course. Students may enroll on an audit basis at the time of online registration, or may change to an audit basis by the deadline specified in the Schedule of Classes by using a form available from the office of Records and Registration. A student who selects an audit basis may not change to a credit basis. For more information about auditing classes, contact the Registrar’s Office at (269) 782-1305.

Basic Skills Assessment

To promote academic success, students must complete basic skills assessment prior to initial registration for classes and before registering for any course that has a developmental course as a prerequisite or co-requisite. Students whose scores fall into specified ranges in the areas of mathematics, writing, and reading will be admitted on a provisional basis and must pass developmental courses in these areas before being granted full admission. Provisionally admitted students may take only one course at a time and will be advised by Special Populations staff. In addition, all students who speak English as a second language are required to take skills assessment tests in reading, writing, grammar, listening, and speaking, prior to registration for classes. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Birdfeeder

Birdfeeder Cafeteria - A full service cafeteria is available every weekday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the College Services Building, during the fall and winter terms. A listing of daily specials is available online.

Bookstore

The SMC Bookstore operates year round and is located on the first floor of the College Services Building at the Dowagiac campus. The SMC Bookstore offers textbooks, course packs, other class materials, SMC apparel and gift items as well as school supplies for students, staff, faculty, and the community. Normal Bookstore hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and until 7p.m. Tuesday evenings during the semester. Extended hours are provided during the first week of classes for fall and winter terms. For more information, contact the Bookstore at (269) 782-1441.

Business and Industry Training

The business and industry training department provides customized and modularized training for area companies and pre-employment occupational skills training for area residents. These training programs allow both employees and job seekers to earn college credit that may apply toward a certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree. Training programs are delivered on site at the company or at the MTEC^SM @ SMC facility on the Niles Area Campus.

For more information concerning how SMC might provide customized training or business consulting for your organization, contact the M-TECSM@SMC at (269) 687-5650 or (269) 782- 1000, ext. 5650. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Cancellation of Classes

The college reserves the right to cancel any class at the beginning of a term or session if the class does not have a sufficient number of students to warrant its continuation. The division in which the class is offered will attempt to notify students enrolled in the class if such action is taken.

Career Pathway

A Career Pathway provides you with a guide in which to explore career options and/or pursue the correct academic path to maximize your interests and skills. In Michigan, Career Pathways are started in the ninth grade. Based on your interests and skills, you elect one of six major pathways, business, engineering and industrial, arts and communications, health, human services and natural resources. The pathway identifies the academic and occupational education you must have to succeed in your chosen field. Your actual training while in high school may be different, such as nurse’s aide or auto repair, but core fundamentals, such as English and math, are consistent. You can continue your identified Career Pathway by looking on each curriculum page. Whether you are in a transfer or occupational program or looking to change pathways, discuss your options with your program advisor. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Career Planning

Advisors are available to offer vocational and academic advising for all students.The primary goal of these services is to provide you with an opportunity to become self-directed and recognize your own abilities, form realistic goals and seek assistance when needed. These goals are achieved through individual advising, orientation, informal discussions and through the use of educational or vocational information provided in the Teaching and Learning Center in Niles and the Career Advising Center located in the Fred L.Mathews Library. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Career Services – Student Employment

Three part-time on-campus student employment programs are in operation at SMC. The Federal Work-Study Program is supported through governmental funds and provides part-time campus jobs to eligible students. The Michigan Work-Study Program is supported by the state of Michigan for eligible Michigan residents. In addition, a limited number of regular campus jobs are available for students. When seeking campus employment, students should complete an application for student employment at the Information Center, Room 1100, in the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus. Available jobs both on and off campus are posted on SMC Wired with instructions on how to apply.

Certificate

The certificate program is normally 28 to 34 credits and can usually be completed in one year. The certificate prepares you to enter the workforce with a specific occupational skill. These certificates are designed so you can continue on to the A.A.S. degree without loss of earned credit. The requirements for each certificate under Degrees/Certificates linked above. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Change Machines

Available near the vending machines in the Upper Commons of the College Services Building and in the Commons of the Niles Area Campus.

Class Load

A student is considered full-time if s/he takes 12 or more credits in a term. A student is considered part-time if s/he takes fewer than 12 credits in a term. A student receiving financial aid should check with the Financial Aid Office about load requirements. A student who has earned fewer than 26 credits is considered a freshman. To be a sophomore, s/he must have earned 26 or more credits. A student may not take more than 20 credits in a term without an academic dean’s signature.

Clubs

Students should contact the Student Activities Coordinator for details on the approval process for other clubs they may wish to organize around social or special interests. Information on student clubs can be found at the URL linked above or call (269) 783-2122 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 2122.

College Catalog

The college catalog is available online and in printed form, but the most current version is always the Online Catalog which is located on the college’s Web site. The SMC college catalog is published for informational purposes and is not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the student and the college. The college reserves the right to change any part of the catalog at any time, including graduation requirements, tuition and other charges, curriculum, course structure and content and other matters within its control.

Commencement

Commencement is held at the end of each winter semester for students earning an Associate degree or a certificate. Students completing graduation requirements at the end of the fall or winter semesters may elect to participate in the annual winter semester commencement exercises. Students who plan to graduate at the conclusion of the spring semester may participate in the preceding winter semester commencement. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Competency Tests

Competency tests are administered in the SMC Testing Centers in order to allow students to demonstrate competency in several areas such as Basic Keyboarding Skills and Basic Formatting Skills. Keyboarding (OADM 137) and formatting skills (OADM 138) are required in several of the Business programs and students must demonstrate competency either through testing or by successfully completion of these courses. [2008-2009 Catalog]

Contact Hours

Contact hours for a course are the actual number of hours that the course meets each week during the semester. Contact hours are not always the same as credit hours. For instance, a chemistry class may count for 5 credits but actually meet 8 hours per week (contact hours) because of laboratory time. Tuition costs are based on contact hours. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Copiers

Copiers are available near the vending machines in the Upper Commons of the College Services Building and in the Commons of the Niles Area Campus.

Core Curriculum

SMC’s core curriculum are those basic components of the general education curriculum identified as needed to equip the student with fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to perform successfully in personal, education, occupation and social endeavors following graduation. Two semesters of writing, mathematics competency, computer literacy, communications competency, and wellness or safety awareness are incorporated into every Associate degree from Southwestern Michigan College. A minimum grade of C in these courses is required for graduation.

Core Values of SMC

The core values of Southwestern Michigan College describe the beliefs that direct the College in all that it does.
“Excellence with a Personal Touch” is a working principle guiding our actions.
High quality is inherent in all that Southwestern Michigan College does.
We have a commitment to improve the quality of life for our stakeholders.
We have a commitment to be responsible managers of the College's human resources, financial resources, and physical resources.
We believe in “Knowledge for All.”
We have a commitment to being a learner-centered college.
We will prepare students in every way possible to be successful in life.

Credit by Examination

Please refer to Academic Assessment and Testing Services section of this document.

Curriculum Guides (Also known as Program or Major)

Curriculum guides for all programs of study are available through the Program Advising Center on the College’s Web site. Individual copies are available from the appropriate specialty advisor in Academic Support. Curriculum guides list the courses needed to meet general education requirements, specific requirements for the occupational specialty, related courses, and often the recommended electives for a particular program of study.

Curriculum

You are asked to declare a curriculum (major) upon admission to the college. Should you later decide to change curricula, simply meet with your academic advisor and complete a Change of Curriculum form. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Developmental Studies

Southwestern Michigan College’s Developmental Studies Department provides students with the foundation of basic academic skills that significantly increases opportunities for success in college. Developmental courses are offered in reading and study skills, writing, arithmetic, algebra, and courses in successful college orientation and personal development. Students who enroll in developmental courses may receive supplemental instruction, tutoring support and advising. Although each developmental course carries college credit, these credits may not transfer to other institutions and, in general, do not fulfill any college subject matter requirements. They are, however, prerequisites to regular college courses and programs and, with the exception of courses below the 100 level, do count toward the total number of credits needed for graduation and are counted in the grade point average. For more information, contact the Chair of Developmental Studies at (269) 782-1329 or visit the Developmental Studies Web site.

Disability Services (Special Populations)

SMC recognizes that some circumstances can make college more challenging for students. If you have a physical, learning, or other type of disability, you may benefit from accommodations such as tutoring, testing accommodation, adaptive equipment, assistive technology, advocacy and problem resolution, and referrals to community services. For more information, contact the Special Populations Coordinator at (269) 687-4801 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 4801.

Distance Education Facilities

Through a grant funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the college has established a state-of-the-art distance education classroom on the Dowagiac campus in the College Services Building. This facility, along with the distance education capability of the MTEC^SM at the Niles Area Campus, allows the college to offer advanced coursework from four-year colleges and universities, as well as programming from the Michigan Virtual University and Michigan Community College Virtual Learning Collaborative. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Educational Talent Search

Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a federally funded, Title IV national TRIO program which seeks to significantly increase the number of students graduating from Cass County secondary schools in pursuit of post-secondary academic or vocational training programs. Talent Search serves area youths between the ages of 12 to 27 (grades six through adult education) whose potential for success at the post-secondary level and beyond, is constrained by educational and socioeconomic disadvantage.The program provides an array of services to assist eligible clients in developing those skills and competencies required to pursue well-constructed career goals. For more information, contact the Director of Educational Talent Search, at (269) 782-1367 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1367. [2006-2008 Catalog]

E-Mail

All students registered in courses automatically receive an SMC Wired account, which provides access to email, calendars and course information. Students may access their email through SMCWired from home, at any of the kiosks or computer labs conveniently located at both the Dowagiac campus and Niles Area Campus.Graduates of Southwestern Michigan College will retain their SMC Wired accounts for life. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Emergencies

The college does not have a campus security office; however, all buildings have emergency phones in public areas with information posted nearby on how to call for help. If a student has been injured on campus, they are asked to complete an Incident Report available at the Information Center in the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus or at the Main Office of the Niles Area Campus.

English Proficiency Exam

All students must demonstrate that they have sufficient writing skills to succeed in ENGL 103 before registering for this college-level composition course. Most students will take a writing assessment test prior to enrolling for ENGL 103. SAT scores, MEAP scores, ACT scores and other assessments may provide alternative information for placement. Students who do not perform satisfactorily will be required to enroll in one or more developmental writing courses. This placement is mandatory. At the completion of the developmental English course ENGL 101, an exit exam or proficiency exam, will be administered by the ENGL 101 instructor and will be evaluated by Communications Department faculty. The purpose of this externally-graded Proficiency Exam is to provide a standardized measurement of student readiness for a college-level writing course. The exam measures a variety of basic writing skills necessary for success in ENGL 103. Passing the Proficiency Exam does not guarantee that a student will pass ENGL 103. For more information concerning the proficiency exam, contact the Chairperson of the Communications Department, at (269) 782-1289 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1289. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Enrichment Courses

SMC offers a full schedule of short and enrichment course offerings throughout the year. Classes focus on skill-building, professional development, personal enrichment and travel, with courses in computers, literature, physical education, art, history and business. Short-course classes carry college credit that may apply toward a college degree. See your advisor for more information. Regular tuition, registration fees, technology fees and special fees apply.

Equal Opportunity Policy

Southwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for students, faculty and staff. The college complies with all federal laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination and with all requirements and regulations of the U.S. Department of Education. It is the policy of the college that no person, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status or disability shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in admission, employment or in any program or activity to which it is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. Inquiries regarding this policy and/or the application of Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 or the ADA may be referred to the Senior Vice President for Planning and Advancement, Room 2104 of the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus or by calling (269) 782-1262 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1262.

EXCEL (Trio Program)

Participating in the EXCEL program gives you the personal attention and extra support to help you EXCEL in college! As an EXCEL Achiever, you would have the opportunity to participate in advising, career and personal counseling as needed. You can also take advantage of our cultural enrichment activities such as traveling to four-year colleges and universities to prepare for transfer, visiting art or musical events, museums, investigating natural settings, or partaking of local entertainment.

EXCEL students also receive intensive tutoring services as needed, including peer and professional tutoring. Our laptop loan program provides you the use of a laptop for up to one week to complete your college assignments. EXCEL has a scholarship program for winter and spring semesters for students demonstrating success. For first-year students, our peer mentors assist you with answers to your questions and help you with all those questions about how to navigate through your educational years.

Membership in EXCEL is accomplished by applying to the program, located in the Academic Support Office. If you plan to transfer to a four-year university and are either a first generation student (neither of your parents earned a bachelor degree) or financially disadvantaged or handicapped, you may qualify. If you’re interested, come see us! For more information, contact the Director of EXCEL at (269) 782-1312.

The EXCEL program (Student Support Services) is a federally funded, Title IV National TRiO Program funded by the US Department of Education.

FACTS Plan

(See Monthly Payment Plan)

FERPA

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) (The Buckley Amendment) Southwestern Michigan College must comply with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). Employees must comply with FERPA to be allowed access to student educational records. FERPA grants four specific rights to the adult student:

The right to inspect and review the student’s educational record
The right to request the amendment of the student’s educational record
The right to consent to disclosure of the student’s educational record
The right to file a complaint concerning alleged failures by Southwestern Michigan College to comply with the requirements of FERPA to the United States Department of Education in Washington

FERPA applies to the education records of persons who are or have been in attendance at postsecondary institutions. FERPA does not apply to records of applicants for admission who are denied acceptance or, if accepted, do not attend an institution.

A student educational record includes all data; any form (paper, film, electronic, etc.) owned by the college and used to conduct business by school officials. The records are directly related to a student (personally identifiable) and maintained by an education agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution.

Some information (directory information) is considered public. This information can be released without the student’s written permission. However, the student has the option to consider this information confidential.

The following is SMC’s designated Directory Information:

Student’s name
Student’s hometown
Major field of study or curriculum
Participation in officially recognized activities
Dates of attendance
Degrees and awards received

The following are not included in an Educational Record:

Sole possession records (that is, private notes that a College employee makes about a student)
Law enforcement unit records
Employment records
Medical records
Post-attendance records

The following individuals or entities may have access to Student Education Information:

The student and any outside party who has the student’s written permission
School officials who have “legitimate educational interest”
Parents of a dependent student as defined by the internal revenue code
A person in response to a lawfully issued subpoena or court order (the college must first make a reasonable attempt to notify the student)
Such other entities as permitted by federal regulations.

Financial Aid Dismissal

Financial aid recipients who do not make satisfactory academic progress are first placed on Financial Aid Probation. Those who do not make satisfactory academic progress during any term while on Financial Aid Probation will be placed on Financial Aid Dismissal. Financial Aid Dismissal makes the student ineligible for federal, state or institutional aid. Students may appeal their dismissal by following the procedures listed under Financial Aid Reinstatement.

Financial Aid Limit on Hours Attempted

Students may receive federal or state financial aid at SMC up to a limit of 150 percent of the published credits required in certificate or degree programs. The 150 percent limit on attempted credits includes all courses with passing and non-passing grades. Transfer credits are included in the 150 percent limit, whereas achieved credits by American Council on Education (ACE) examinations are not. An example of this regulation would be that 62 credits are required for the Associate in Arts degree, thus the 150 percent limit for candidates of this degree would be 93 credits. Students enrolled in Associate in Applied Science degree programs should look at the required credits in the current catalog and multiply that number by 1.5 to determine the 150 percent level. All credits attempted are considered whether financial aid was received or not. You may appeal the termination of federal and state aid based on the 150 percent limit by submitting an Appeal Application with the Director of Financial Aid as outlined in the section entitled Financial Aid Reinstatement.

Financial Aid Probation

Financial aid recipients who fall below the standard of 75 percent completion of credits in a term or do not meet the grade point average required by the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress policy will be placed on Financial Aid Probation. Financial Aid Probation is a warning that students must meet the standards of satisfactory academic progress; however, it does not prevent students from receiving financial aid.

Financial Aid Reinstatement

If you have been placed on financial aid dismissal, you may regain eligibility by following one of the procedures:

Successfully completing 12 credits at SMC without financial aid, while meeting the standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress or
Submitting an appeal application to the Director of Financial Aid and having the appeal approved. A committee of Business Office, Financial Aid and Academic Support representatives will review your appeal and notify you in writing of the decision to approve or deny it. Your appeal must explain why you did not meet the standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (what extraordinary circumstances, if any, were experienced) and how you expect to maintain acceptable progress toward a degree/certificate in the future. Appropriate third party documentation, such as medical statements, may be required to receive Financial Aid Reinstatement.

Financial Aid / Satisfactory Academic Progress

Southwestern Michigan College is required to establish and consistently apply Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress to all students who receive funds from Title IV programs of financial assistance. Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress are applied to all students receiving federal, state or institutional aid. Satisfactory Academic Progress is defined as successfully completing course requirements for 75 percent of the number of credits for which you enroll each term.

Additionally, you must earn a cumulative GPA at or above these levels:

Level	Range	Must Maintain
1	From 0.5 to 23 hours	1.50 GPA
2	From 24 to 35 hours	1.70 GPA
3	From 36 to 47 hours	1.80 GPA
4	From 48 to 61 hours	1.90 GPA
5	From 62 hours	2.00 GPA

Fine and Performing Arts Opportunities

Southwestern Michigan College’s Fine and Performing Arts Department offers theatre, band, dance and choir students an opportunity to explore life on stage. Auditions and tryout notices are posted around both campuses.

Fred l. Mathews Library

The Fred L. Mathews Library, located on the Dowagiac campus is an excellent academic and personal resource for students. You may use the library to find resources for your research papers, browse newspapers, magazines and journals, read and study in a quiet area, or relax with coffee and a good book. In addition, the Fred L. Mathews Library’s online catalog, databases and ebooks are all available through SMC Wired. Help is available online too; just click on the “Ask A Librarian” link on the Library’s Wired page. If you are taking classes primarily on the Niles Area Campus, visit the NAC Library Annex where you can order library materials which will be sent to you at the Niles campus. For more information about the Fred L. Mathews Library, contact the Director of Library Service as (269) 782-1204.

Freshman Block

These courses in the Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degree programs offer you the single best introduction to a collegiate environment.Within strictly limited classroom sizes, this set of classes is designed for people from a variety of ages and backgrounds who are interested in classes which emphasize an integrated set of courses where one-on-one student-to-faculty and student-to-student contact is maximized across the classes. Selecting the freshman block places you with other students to whom the attainment of an Associate degree is a priority. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Freshman

A student who has earned fewer than 26 semester hours of credit is considered a freshman. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Full-Time Student

You are classified as a full-time student if you enroll in 12 credits or more in any semester. The average class load for full-time students is 15 to 18 credit hours in fall or winter; you may enroll for a maximum of 20 credit hours without special permission. If you wish to register for more than 20 hours, you must request permission from your academic dean. Approval may be granted on the basis of previous outstanding academic ability and superior academic performance. During the spring semester, the maximum number of credit hours you may enroll in without special permission is 18. If you wish to register for more than the number of hours stipulated above, you must apply to your academic dean. Approval may be given on the basis of previous outstanding academic ability and superior academic performance. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Grade Changes

If you believe that an error has been made in the assignment of a grade, you must initiate contact with the faculty member within ninety days of the end of the semester for which the grade was assigned. If you are unable to contact the faculty member, contact the department chairperson or the office of the dean of the division in which the course is offered. If you fail to act within the ninety day time period, you will no longer be eligible for further consideration of the matter. For more information, contact the Registrar’s office at (269) 782-1305.

Grade Reports

Grade reports are issued at the end of each regular semester and are mailed to your permanent home address. Grade reports are included in your permanent transcript at the conclusion of each academic semester. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Grades

After each term ends and faculty has submitted final grades, these grades are available for students to view. All students are mailed a statement of their final grades to their mailing address on file, but students may also access their grades online through SMC Wired. For each grade you receive, a certain number of grade-points is earned; the better the grade, the more grade-points earned. The grading system and the method of computing a Grade-Point Average (GPA) are explained below.

Earned grades ranging from A through D are considered “passing” for successfully completing a course; however, grades below C may not meet prerequisites for subsequent courses and may not transfer to other colleges.

Other grades include: W-Withdrawal, I-Incomplete, X-Audit, and CP-Continuing Progress (in Developmental courses only), none of which are considered passing grades.

All students will be awarded a final letter grade for coursework taken as follows:

Grade Points per Semester Hour
A (Excellent)	4.00
A-	3.67
B+	3.33
B (Good)	3.00
B-	2.67
C+	2.33
C (Fair)	2.00
C-	1.67
D+	1.33
D (Poor)	1.00
D-	0.67
F (Failure)	0.00
W (Withdrawal)	0.00
I (Incomplete)	0.00
X Audit (No credit awarded)	0.00
CP (Continuous Progress)	0.00

An incomplete grade (I) indicates that course requirements have not been completed. Temporary grade granted only in designated courses.

FG Academic Forgiveness 0.00
Credit may or may not be awarded depending on forgiveness grade. An example of grade point average calculation follows:

Classes Semester	Elected Hours	Grade	Points
ENGL 103	3	A	12
POSC 201	3	B	9
MATH 141	4	C	8
CHEM 101	5	C	10

Divide the total grade-points (39) by the semester hours attempted (15): 39 ÷ by 15 = 2.60 GPA

The cumulative Grade-Point Average is the total number of grade-points earned divided by the total semester hours attempted. It includes the number of semester hours for the grade of F (Failing) although no points are allowed for this grade and may be expressed as: Grade Points ÷ Number of Semester Hours = GPA

NOTE: The grading system and standards for acceptable academic performance for nursing courses are published in the School of Nursing Student Handbook and are mandatory for all nursing students. Grades for classes dropped during the schedule adjustment period are not recorded. From the end of the Late Registration Period to the end of the seventh week of classes, a grade of W may be entered for courses dropped. Normally, from the beginning of the eighth week of classes through the end of the semester withdrawals are not authorized and a grade of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+,D, D-, F, X or I will be recorded. However, should you feel that circumstances merit special consideration in regard to your record, you may submit a written petition to any of the following college officials: the instructor of the class or classes for which a drop is desired, the appropriate academic dean or advisors in Academic Support or at the Niles Area Campus. A grade of “W” will be recorded for authorized withdrawals. The W grade is not averaged in the computation of the student’s cumulative grade point average. The time periods above are reduced proportionately for special sessions and shorter length courses. The grade of I (Incomplete) is given under extenuating circumstances at the discretion of the course instructor and will be removed by the instructor awarding the grade upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements. Before an “I” grade can be given, an incomplete grade contract must be completed by the instructor and signed by the student. The incomplete grade must be removed prior to 45 days after the end of the college session in which it was granted (unless other arrangements are indicated in the incomplete grade contract) or the grade will automatically be recorded on the student’s permanent record as the grade the student had earned to the point the incomplete grade contract was established.

Graduation Applications

Graduation requirements for each degree and certificate program are detailed in the college catalog. Requirements include general education requirements, specific requirements for the program or discipline, and varying elective credits. All associate degrees require a minimum of 62 credits and certificates require a minimum of 30 credits. Cumulative GPA must be a 2.0 or higher.

When students have completed all of the courses required for their program of study, they must apply for graduation. Graduation applications are completed with the support of advisors and counselors in the Academic Support Office. Students are invited to participate in commencement exercises held each spring. Associate degrees, Certificates of achievement and Honors diplomas are conferred in the ceremonies. Note: it is the student’s responsibility to apply for graduation. The college will not confer any degree or certification without this application. To schedule an appointment for a graduation audit, call Academic Support at (269) 782-1303.

High School Students

(Also see Academies) High school students may earn “early college” or dual enrollment credit by enrolling in college classes held on either the Dowagiac campus or Niles Area Campus. In addition, local high schools may also be host sites for college classes. High school students are required to have written permission from their high school counselor or principal. Students under 16 years of age are required to obtain permission from their parents or legal guardian and the appropriate SMC academic dean. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Home School Students

Opportunities exist for home school students to earn college credits that also count for high school graduation. Home schooled students may participate in the transfer courses for dual enrollment credit, Occupational Academies or select from individual course offerings. For more information, contact the Information Center at (269) 782-1000 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1304. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Honor Society

(See Phi Theta Kappa) [2006-2008 Catalog]

Housing

The College does not currently provide residential housing, but dorms are planned for the Fall 2009 term.

Inclement Weather

If the college is closed or classes are cancelled or delayed due to severe weather, students will be notified through an automatic notification system that calls the primary number on file for each student, staff, and faculty member at the college. In addition to this system, students are encouraged to check local area radio, television, and associated websites, including SMC’s website for further closing information.

Incomplete Grades

The grade of I (Incomplete) is given under extenuating circumstances at the discretion of the course instructor and will be removed by the instructor awarding the grade upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements. Before an I grade can be given, an incomplete grade contract should be completed by the instructor and signed by the student. The incomplete grade must be removed prior to 45 days after the end of the college session in which it was granted (unless other arrangements are indicated in the incomplete grade contract) or the grade will automatically be recorded on the student’s permanent record as the grade the student had earned to the point the incomplete grade contract was established. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Indebtedness Policy

Students are expected to honor any debts to the college. Failure to pay will bar a student from use of college services, the library, and issuance of transcripts. Students who owe tuition or have other debts due the college will not be allowed to register until the debts have been paid. The college reserves the right to withhold transcripts until debts are paid in full. Collection processes will be initiated for failure to pay.

International Student Admission

Southwestern Michigan College welcomes all qualified international students. An application for admission is required, including certified official transcripts of all previous academic work and a diploma indicating program completion. International students must demonstrate their English language proficiency by submitting the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). If scores so indicate, some remedial English Second Language (ESL) classes will be required which will add to the time needed to complete a program. International students will also be required to purchase health insurance and must provide written certification indicating financial means and support for their programs at SMC. For more information, contact the International Student Advisor at (269) 782-1348. Visit the International Students Admissions area of our Web site for additional information.

International Student Assistance

International students receive a variety of services at SMC. Each student is individually advised on course selection based on the student’s major. Student visa status is maintained by the international student advisor. For those in need, ESL support is available. For students wishing to earn some income, there are limited on-campus employment opportunities available too. SMC maintains a mandatory insurance program for international students during their studies here. For more information, contact the International Student Advisor at (269) 782-1348.

International Student Transfers

International students who wish to transfer college credits from foreign colleges and universities to Southwestern Michigan College must have their foreign transcripts and credentials evaluated by an independent international credential evaluation service. Credential evaluation means converting foreign academic credentials into their U.S. educational equivalents. The service companies listed below produce individualized, written reports describing each certificate, diploma or degree you have earned, including details of individual courses and credits, and specify the U.S. equivalents. Southwestern Michigan College does not perform its own credit evaluations of foreign transcripts. (Some exceptions apply for institutions affiliated with Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Students with transcripts from such schools should first consult with an international student advisor.)

The following services are recommended. These services charge a fee for the credit evaluations. It is important to request a “course by course” evaluation rather than a “document by document” evaluation. This enables SMC to transfer individual course credits.

WES – World Education Service, Inc. Evaluators	ECE – Educational Credential
PO Box 745 Old Chelsea Station New York, NY 10113-0745 Tel: 212-966-6311 1-800-937-3895 Fax: 212-739-6100 www.wes.org	PO Box 514070 Milwaukee, WI 53202-3470 Tel: 414-289-3400 Fax: 414-289-3411 www.ece.org
AACRAO - Office of International Education Services (OIES)
Tel: 202-293-9161, ext. 6600 Email: oies@aacrao.org www.aacrao.org

Credential evaluations should be forwarded directly from the credential evaluation service to SMC:

Southwestern Michigan College
Attention: Transcripts
58900 Cherry Grove Road
Dowagiac, MI 49047

Internet Kiosks

Internet kiosks are located in every building on campus and at the Niles Area Campus.

Intramural Sports Program

The intramural-recreational sports program at Southwestern Michigan College is designed to provide all students with the opportunity to participate in organized sports and structured recreational activities. It is the purpose of the intramural program at SMC to provide a sound, attractive program of activities, which will appeal to the leisure-time pursuits of participants. SMC offers a wide variety of individual, dual and team events. Intramural activities are offered during the fall and winter semesters. Activities include golf twosome, archery, football place-kicking, racquetball singles and doubles, horseshoe pitching, touch football, turkey trot, basketball free throw, basketball shootout, volleyball, basketball, tennis singles and doubles, Frisbee golf, homerun derby, track and intramural sports night. The divisions in the intramural program are women’s, men’s, co-recreation and staff. All students are encouraged to participate. For information concerning the SMC intramural sports program, contact the Student Activities Coordinator at (269) 783-2122 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 2122.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found is located at the Information Center in the College Services Building of the Dowagiac campus and at the Main Office of the Niles Area Campus. Unclaimed items will be donated to charity at the end of each term.

MACRAO Agreement

Under a Michigan Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers (MACRAO) Agreement signed by SMC and many four-year institutions in Michigan, if you complete specified courses included in our Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree, you will be well on your way to a four-year degree. Essentially, the agreement ensures that a student who completes these courses will have satisfied most of the basic (ie:general education or core) two-year requirements of the four-year institution. You are required to complete at least three credits at Southwestern Michigan College to obtain a MACRAO designation from SMC. [2006-2008 Catalog]

MEAP

The Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) is a series of High School Tests (HST) in mathematics, reading, science, writing and social studies. This is normally taken only by Michigan high school students. Results from MEAP tests may be used to determine a student’s need to complete SMC’s basic skills assessments. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Military Credits

Southwestern Michigan College awards credit for learning from selected military training and experiences. See the Veterans Services in this document and the Veterans area of the SMC Web site for additional information. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Mission Statement

The mission of Southwestern Michigan College is to be the college of first choice for students who have a choice, the college that provides the programs and services to meet the needs of students with limited choices, and the college that serves our community.

Monthly Payment Plan

The FACTS Plan is a payment plan that enables students to make monthly payments for the cost of tuition and fees. The FACTS Plan allows you to budget the cost of tuition and fees by the term or annually. Because FACTS is not a loan program, there is no credit search and no interest or finance charge assessed by FACTS on the unpaid balance. FACTS charges a $25.00 per term or $45.00 per academic year non-refundable enrollment fee to participate in its program. The FACTS Plan can be found at http://www.swmich.edu/FACTS_Plan. Additional questions may be directed to the Business Office at (269) 782-1298.

MTEC^sm @ SMC

The Southwestern Michigan College MTEC^sm facility is a designated Michigan Technical Education Center. This 16,000 square-foot facility on the Niles Area Campus is the premiere training facility in southwestern Michigan providing customized and modularized training in high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand occupations as identified by area manufacturers.

The centerpiece of the MTEC is a 6,400 square-foot simulated factory that is configured into work cells using current stateof-the-art technology and equipment. With this simulated factory environment, on-thejob training (OJT) opportunities can be incorporated into all of the training initiatives offered at the MTEC. In addition, the M-TEC has two-way, interactive, distance-learning capabilities that allow area businesses and their employees access to the Michigan Virtual University and the Michigan Community College Virtual Learning Collaborative. The MTEC also contains high technology training rooms and a conference room.

Training provided through the MTEC is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and is delivered in a non-semester format. For more information concerning how SMC might provide customized training, services or business consulting for your organization, contact the MTEC at (269) 687-5651 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 5651. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Museum

The Museum at Southwestern Michigan College is located on the Dowagiac campus. It was established for the primary purpose of preserving the history of the college district through collection, preservation and display. The current facility was dedicated in May 1993. Three of the galleries are devoted to local history and the fourth gallery houses short-term exhibitions on topics of local interest. The building is entirely compliant with the ADA regulations. Many of the Museum’s displays are hands-on and are appropriate for a wide variety of age groups. School tours, classroom visits and other groups are welcome.

New Student Advising and Orientation to College

All new degree or certificate seeking students admitted to the college are required to meet with a specialty advisor in Academic Support prior to registration for classes. During this session, students will review any test scores and required courses, develop an Educational Development Plan which will map out their college curriculum, determine a schedule of classes for the upcoming term, have an opportunity to ask questions, and share concerns. In addition, recent high school graduates are invited to attend an orientation event prior to the fall term. In this session, they will receive important information about college, its policies and procedures, and the measures they can take to be successful. For information about advising and orientation, call the Information Center at (269) 782-1000.

Newspaper

(See The Southwester) [2006-2008 Catalog]

Niles Area Campus

Southwestern Michigan College has a Niles Area Campus (NAC), which is located in Niles at 2229 U.S. 12 East just off the M-60 bypass. A wide variety of day, evening, weekend, academic, occupational and continuing education classes are offered at the Niles Area Campus. Services offered at the NAC include academic advising, assessment testing, financial aid information, special population services, career testing and job placement information. For more information, please contact the Niles Area Campus office at (269) 687-1600. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Orientation

“What is college like? What resources are available to assist me? What do I need to do to graduate and transfer?” Those and many other questions will be answered during half day sessions prior to the beginning of the Fall semester and a one-on-one orientation and advising appointment with your specialty advisor in the Academic Support office prior to your first semester. In this meeting, you will get your specific questions answered and the information you will need to manage your educational plan. Advising is available throughout your academic career at SMC, but the more responsibility you take for meeting your own goals, the more likely you will achieve those goals. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Parking

All parking is free on both campuses of Southwestern Michigan College. All students, employees and visitors must abide by the current ordinance enacting parking, traffic and pedestrian regulations on the campuses of Southwestern Michigan College. Copies of the ordinance are on file in the office of the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The College is not responsible for damage or loss to cars parked in the lots.

Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society for two-year colleges. It is the sister organization to Phi Beta Kappa, the four-year college honor society. The goals of Phi Theta Kappa are to promote leadership, scholarship, fellowship and service to the college and community. Those students earning a cumulative GPA of 3.5 (in non-developmental courses) with at least 12 credit hours of coursework leading to an Associate Degree or certificate program are eligible for membership. For more information, contact the Phi Theta Kappa advisor in the Academic Support office at (269) 782-1311 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1311. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Placement Testing

New degree or certificate seeking students admitted to the college are required to complete placement testing before registering for classes. Computerized Placement Tests are available in reading, writing, and math (See Developmental Studies section for information on courses that the test may place students into) in one of the Academic Assessment and Testing Services Office Centers on either the Niles Area Campus in Room 141 or on the Dowagiac campus, Room 2005, in the College Services Building. In addition, all students who speak English as a second language are required to take skills assessment tests in reading, writing, grammar, listening, and speaking, prior to registration for classes. Students are allowed (upon request) one opportunity to retake the tests. However, they must present identification when re-testing. American College Testing (ACT) or other standardized test scores may substitute for placement testing. Re-entering students with placement test scores less than five years old on file are exempt from placement testing. Placement test results are used for course placement, referral to support services, and in some cases, for program requirements. Test results are not used for determining admission to SMC. Testing is free and offered on a walk-in basis in the Academic Assessment and Testing Services Office on both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses.

Students wishing to re-take any parts of the placement test may make an appointment for the retest, pay a retest fee, and retest one time in reading or math. Placement will be made based on your highest score. Assessment scores are valid for five years for English and Reading. Math scores are valid for two years. This includes ACT, SAT, MEAP, and SMC’s basic skills assessment test. If you took the English as a Second Language tests, advisors may ask you to retest within this five-year period in order to assess your current skill level. You will not be allowed to retest once you have enrolled in a class for which the test is a prerequisite.

Students may request disability accommodations for testing by contacting the Special Populations Office on either the Dowagiac campus (269) 782-1321 or the Niles Area Campus at (269) 687-4801 prior to testing. For general testing questions, contact the Director of Academic Assessment and Testing Services at (269) 782-1347. For additional information, visit the Academic Assessment and Testing Services area of our Web site./

Posting Signs and Notices

All signs and notices must be stamped in the Academic Support office in the College Services Building at the Dowagiac campus or in the Main Office of the Niles Area Campus before they can be posted on tack strips in any building. Signs and notices posted inappropriately or without the proper authorization stamp will be removed promptly.

Provisional Admittance Policy

Southwestern Michigan College is an open admissions institution. However, in its commitment to student success, the college requires that students demonstrate readiness for college-level classes either through transfer courses, designated standardized tests, or basic skills assessment tests administered by the college. Students who fall below a specific score* on the college’s basic skills assessment tests in reading, writing, and mathematics will be admitted as provisional students only. Provisionally admitted students will be advised by the Special Populations office, whose advisors can determine the needs of the students based on their academic backgrounds and academic goals. In addition, these students will take one course at a time, sign an academic contract, and complete developmental courses in reading, writing, and arithmetic prior to full admission and permission to take other classes. The Special Populations staff will coordinate services for these students through the Teaching and Learning Center, the tutoring staff, and the Developmental Studies Department. *Scores on the college’s basic skills assessment tests in reading, writing, and mathematics will be set by the Developmental Studies Department in consultation with the Director of Academic Assessment and Testing Services, Dean of Students and Academic Support, appropriate faculty, and the Dean of Academic Studies.

Public Telephones

Public telephones are available in most buildings on campus.

Publications

The distribution of any publications on campus other than the official college newspaper (The Southwester) must be approved by the Dean of Students and Academic Support. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Records and Registration

The Records and Registration Office maintains all student academic records including the processing of diplomas and graduation. Other services include name and address changes, course audit requests, transfer credit evaluations as well as the processing of official and unofficial transcripts. For assistance, please contact the Records and Registration Office at (269) 782-1351 or stop by Room 1106 in the College Service Building on the Dowagiac campus.

Refunds

Southwestern Michigan College is committed to student success. The college believes that success is more likely when students make informed judgments about the work they are undertaking as a student. For this reason, SMC believes that students should be allowed to attend classes during the drop/add period and drop the classes they decide not to take without penalty.

Tuition is charged to provide instructional services and, as such, refunds must be limited once those services have begun. Registration fees are used to establish the initial schedule, process student registration papers and complete the withdrawal process. Technology fees, used to partially defray the costs of providing academic and administrative computing services and resources. Both are refundable following the tuition refund policy. Special fees are listed in the college schedule each semester where they are explained and notations indicate under what circumstances they are or are not refundable.

A complete listing of required supplies and equipment with costs by course is available in the college Bookstore.

Refunds are based upon a calendar day calculation with calendar day defined as the days of the week including Saturday, Sunday and holidays. For refund purposes, the start date of an individual course is the first scheduled class meeting.

Because refunds are based upon student withdrawal, it is vital to understand that a student is considered enrolled in a class UNTIL written notice is submitted to the Registrar’s office. That date shall be known as the official date of withdrawal. Non-attendance is NOT considered as official notice of withdrawal and does not constitute the basis for a refund.

General Refund Policies effective July 1, 2006.

If the college cancels a class, the student will automatically receive a 100% refund of all tuition and fees.
If the student officially withdraws from classes within the drop/add/late registration period, 100% of the tuition and fees will be refunded.
If the refund period falls on a weekend or holiday, the refund period will be extended to the end of the following business day.
If the student officially withdraws after the drop/add/late registration period ends, no fees will be refunded.
Refunds assessed during the drop/add/late registration period will be issued by check or by crediting the appropriate credit card account. Applicants should allow four to six weeks for refund processing and/or mailing.
Refunds apply to the current semester and are not retroactive to previous enrollment periods.
After the refund deadline, students who feel circumstances beyond their control warrant additional refund consideration may request a waiver of the tuition refund policy. To request a waiver, submit a letter of explanation to the Registrar. Attach any information that substantiates the circumstances (i.e. if the withdrawal is for medical reasons, medical documentation may be required, etc.).

Federal Title IV Refund Policies

A Title IV Refund Policy is used for all students who receive Title IV funds applied to his or her account who drop to zero credit hours on or before the 60 percent period of enrollment for which the student has been charged. A schedule of this refund policy and examples are available in the Financial Aid Office.
During the first 60 percent of the period, a student “earns” Title IV funds in direct proportion to the length of time he or she remains enrolled.That is, the percentage of time during the period that the student remained enrolled is the percentage of disbursable aid for that period that the student earned. A student who makes a 100 percent withdrawal prior to completing 60 percent of the period may be required to return that unearned portion of Title IV funds that have been disbursed. This may result in a balance due to the College.
Refunds to Federal Title IV financial aid recipients are required to be credited in the following precise order:
1. Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans
2. Subsidized Federal Stafford loans
3. Unsubsidized Direct Stafford loans (other than PLUS loans)
4. Subsidized Direct Stafford loans
5. Perkins loans
6. Federal PLUS loans
7. State, Private or Institutional Programs per guidelines
8. The student’s payments
Students who receive cash disbursements of excess financial aid funds may be required to repay a portion of these funds to the programs listed above. The Financial Aid Office will notify these students if this is the case. Failure to repay these aid funds will jeopardize future financial aid eligibility and/or future college enrollment.
The college may hold an administrative fee of the lesser of 5 percent of the refund or $100.00.

[2006-2008 Catalog]

Registration Fee

This is a refundable fee based on the total contact hours that is used to establish your initial schedule and to process your registration.

Registration and Technology Fees

Rather than charging students separate fees to cover things like parking, special events, services, graduation, etc., SMC charges refundable registration and technology fees which are attached to each contact hour. In addition to the above, these fees give students to services such as those found in the Fred L. Mathews Library, the Teaching and Learning Centers, Academic Assessment and Testing Services, the SMC Museum and art gallery, computer kiosks and labs, and many other valuable resources. Technology fees in particular allow the College to continuously upgrade equipment and computer resources to ensure that students have access to the most up to date technology available.

Registration

New students are assisted with online registration by advisors and counselors at the time courses are selected. Current students register online through their SMC Wired account using their student identification number and password. Registration must be completed before the first class meeting. The steps for registering online may be found in every Schedule of Classes and online in Wired. Payment is expected upon completing the online registration procedure. Payment may be made credit card online, through the FACTS payment plan, or with cash, check, or credit card at the Business Office, open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Check the class schedule for extended hours during peak registration periods.

Modifying Registration/Adding and Dropping Classes

Once students have registered for classes, they may enter their schedule online and adjust their schedule by choosing additional classes or dropping classes they have already registered for up until the beginning of the term. The Class Schedule provides important deadline dates for dropping and adding classes.

Withdrawing from Classes After the term has begun and the last date to drop classes has passed, students must complete a Course Withdrawal Form in either the Academic Support Office in the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus or at the Main Office at the Niles Area Campus. Note: Students who simply stop attending class without an official drop transaction may receive a failing grade which cannot be removed from their transcript.

Repeating Courses

Eligible students may repeat any course at the college, regardless of the previous grade(s) received in the course, provided the course is still an offered part of the curriculum. The highest grade earned for a repeated course is used in calculating your grade point average and in compiling graduation credits. (Students enrolled in the Nursing Program are subject to the policies as stated in the School of Nursing Student Handbook.) A repeated course is not removed from the student’s record. All grades earned are shown on the transcript. The following conditions apply to course repeats:

Students are not allowed to enroll in a particular class more than three times. Should extenuating circumstance merit an override of this policy, the students must appeal, in writing, to the college deans who will review the request and any extenuating circumstances (To initiate an appeal, contact the Dean of Students and Academic Support). Those students successful in their appeal may be required to submit to a structured process which will return the student to class and which may include a strict advising and counselling regimen designed to promote student success in the classroom.

Scholarships and Endowments

Numerous endowments and scholarships totaling many thousands of dollars are provided by area residents, faculty and staff and other sources. Special recognition and appreciation are extended to the contributors in acknowledging these Endowment and Foundation scholarships. Follow the link above for a complete listing of these scholarships. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Self-Advising

In some cases, students who have fully developed their own educational plan with their advisor and are willing to take responsibility for their class choices may self-advise. Self-advising students do not have to obtain an advisor’s signature to register for classes. Students who are not eligible to self-advise include dual enrolled (high school) students, international students, nursing and pre-nursing students, and students who receive academic support through EXCEL and Special Populations programs. If your circumstances fall outside these categories, and you would like to self-advise, see your specialty advisor in the Academic Support office or in the administrative offices at the Niles Area Campus to sign the Self-Enrollment Contract. You may, however, continue to seek the advice of an advisor if needed, even after you have signed this contract. To find out who your specialty advisor is, please contact the Information Center at (269) 782-1000 or (269) 687-1600. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Sexual Harassment Policy

The full text of the College’s Sexual Harassment Policy may be found in the Board of Trustees Manual located in the Fred L. Mathews library. To protect the student, the policy prohibits any discrimination because of sex, and sexual harassment means any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact or communication of a sexual nature by an employee of the College. Sexual harassment may also include consensual sex between any employee of the College and a student if the employee is in a position to affect decisions regarding the student’s obtaining public services or education, grades, or the emotional well-being of the student. In an attempt to eliminate to the extent possible the conditions whereby sexual harassment could occur, it is the policy of the College that no dating, sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature will be tolerated between a College employee and a student.

Concerns may be directed to the Senior Vice President for Planning and Advancement. When a complaint of sexual harassment is reported, the Senior Vice President shall immediately report the complaint to the College President. If the allegation is not resolved within 60 days, the President shall issue a written report and mail to each member of the Board of Trustees.

Short and Enrichment Courses

Skilled Trades Journeyman

Southwestern Michigan College offers a degree completion program (see page 87) for skilled trades journeymen who are recognized by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT). For your journeyman status, you receive up to 32 credits, which may be applied to the Associate in Applied Science degree. The curriculum varies depending on the nature of each apprenticeship program. Therefore, if you choose to pursue this program, please consult the Coordinator of Work-Based Learning at (269) 687-5644 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 5644. [2006-2008 Catalog]

SMC Foundation

The SMC Foundation provides scholarships for students in fine arts, performing arts and mass communications. Fundraising activities and bequests to Southwestern Michigan College continuously add to the foundation endowment. In addition, capital campaigns for Museum exhibits, technology and special scholarships have been sponsored through Foundation activities such as art auctions, theme auctions, theatre trips and speaker receptions. For more information, contact the Executive Director of the SMC Foundation at (269) 782-1262 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1262. [2006-2008 Catalog]

SMC Guarantee

At SMC, you will receive the highest quality education. We guarantee it.

Transfer Programming

Southwestern Michigan College will refund the tuition to an SMC graduate who has earned an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree for any course passed with a minimum grade of C, if that earned course credit does not transfer to a designated accredited four-year college or university within two years of graduation from SMC. The designated institution must be listed as an AG institution (credit generally accepted for courses which are appropriate to the reporting institution’s Baccalaureate programs) in the current edition of the American Association of collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Education Institutions. Moreover, the course(s) must have been listed as transferable on the SMC official transfer guide sheets dated 1986 or thereafter in use by the SMC Academic Support office.

Technical Programming Guarantee

Any graduate with an Associate in Applied Science degree in technical studies judged by his/her employer as lacking in technical job skills normally expected of a job-entry level employee will be provided further skill training of up to 16 semester credit hours by SMC without charge subject to the following:

The degree – The graduate must have an Associate in Applied Science degree beginning June 1986 or thereafter, in a college-recognized specialty area (e.g., computer information systems, machine tool technology, word processing) as evidenced by the area of concentration designation on the student transcript.
The employment – The employment must be full-time and the job must be certified by the SMC Placement Services Office as directly related to the graduate’s program of study.
Initial date of employment of graduate must be within one year of commencement date. Guarantee does not apply to graduates initially hired 30 days prior to commencement date.
The employer must certify in writing that the employee is lacking in the job-entry level skills identified in writing at the time of initial employment and must specify the area(s) of skills deficiency within 90 days of the graduate’s initial employment.

Retraining Guarantee

Skill retraining will be limited to 16 credit hours and to enrollment in courses regularly offered by SMC.

The skill retraining must be completed in one academic year.

The employer, the graduate, and a college counselor with the advice of appropriate teaching faculty will develop an educational plan which specifies the courses constituting the 16 credit hours of further retraining. The graduate must meet all prerequisites, co-requisites and other admission requirements for “retraining courses.”

Failure, withdrawal or audit of a “retraining course(s)” is creditable to the 16 credit hour limit. The graduate or the employer will bear the cost of books, supplies, uniforms, transportation, insurance and other related costs. The college will waive tuition and fees.

Please contact Academic Support for additional information at (269) 782-1303 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1303.

SMC Wired

SMC Wired is an on-line campus community that serves as a gateway for students to access information and interact with faculty, administration or staff, and other students. Through SMC Wired, students have e-mail access, can create a personal calendar, use group tools, and view course home pages for each of their classes. SMC reserves the right to send official communication to students by email with the full expectation that students will review their SMC Wired email account in a timely fashion. Students may not have their SMC Wired email forwarded to another email account. SMC Wired is available to all students, faculty and staff. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Smoking

Southwestern Michigan College is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is not permitted in any building, including private offices. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Sophomore

A student who has earned 26 or more semester hours of credit is considered a sophomore. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Southwester

The recognized newspaper of Southwestern Michigan College is The Southwester, published by a staff of mass communications students under the supervision of a faculty advisor. The Southwester serves as a medium for training as well as a source of information about Southwestern Michigan College. For more information about The Southwester at (269) 782-1224 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1224. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Speciality Certificates

Specialty certificates are designed to prepare a student to enter the workforce with a specific occupational skill learned in less than one year. Most of the specialty certificates are 10 credits or less and can be completed in a short time span. The requirements for each specialty certificate are shown in the curriculum guides elsewhere in this catalog. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Student Activity Center (SAC)

The Student Activity Center is a vibrant, physical recreation and activity center that serves currently enrolled students, faculty and staff as well as the community. The College is committed to conducting exercise and recreation activities that play a positive role in living a full and healthy life.

Program and facility offerings include core curriculum satisfying wellness classes, strength training and cardiovascular training facility, gymnasium, handball/racquetball courts and activity programs. The Student Activity Center located in the Charles O. Zollar Building is intended to be a student facility that is open to community membership. Facility Usage: Use of the Student Activity Center facility is open to paying members only. All members have use of the entire facility and programming (when otherwise unscheduled) including the weight training and cardiovascular training equipment, gymnasium, handball/racquetball courts, public locker rooms and member programs.

Student Activity Center Fee Schedule:
Current SMC Student	$75 per semester
College Employee	$200 per year
Community Member	$300 per year
One-Day Pass	$10 per day

Student Conduct

Certain regulations are necessary if the college is to accomplish its objectives. These regulations do not duplicate the regulations of society as a whole, but are designed to address themselves to the campus. Community, federal and state law applies on as well as offcampus. College policy regarding appropriate conduct by all persons on the SMC campus may be found in The Board of Trustees Policy Manual under the heading Campus Organizations and Student Behavior, Student Code of Conduct and Adjudication System and Academic Concerns. Copies of The Board of Trustees Policy Manual are on reserve in the Fred L. Mathews Library. All college students, employees and visitors must abide by the current ordinance enacting parking, traffic and pedestrian regulations on the campus of Southwestern Michigan College. Copies of the ordinance are on file in the office of the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Student Identification Cards

Beginning with registration for the fall semester 2006, students will be assigned a personal identification number which will be used on all student records. You will be provided with this identification number on a card which you must keep with you at all times. You will need this card and your ID number when registering, changing your schedule, requesting transcripts and accessing campus services. A replacement fee will be charged for all lost cards.

Student Information

Each student is responsible for providing the college with changes in records information, including change of name, address, telephone number and curriculum. The Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, a federal law, allows that certain information may be released by the college under the title of “Directory Information.” This includes your name, hometown, curriculum, major field, participation in officially recognized activities, your dates of attendance and degrees and awards you received. If you wish not to have this information released, please inform the Registrar’s office on the Dowagiac campus, in writing so that we may meet your request. See the Student Privacy Rights Web page on our web site for additional information. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Student Part-Time Employment

Three part-time on-campus student employment programs are in operation at SMC. The Federal Work-Study Program is supported through governmental funds and provides part-time campus jobs to eligible students. The Michigan Work-Study Program is supported by the state of Michigan for eligible Michigan residents. In addition, a limited number of regular campus jobs are available for students. When seeking campus employment, students should register at the Information Center in the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Student Social Security Number Privacy Policy

Southwestern Michigan College is committed to complying with both state and federal regulations concerning the collection and use of a student’s social security number. This policy applies to information that is collected by any means whether electronically, via telephone, or on paper. In compliance with these regulations Southwestern Michigan College will not utilize a student’s social security number as the primary student identification number. A copy of this Student Social Security Number Privacy Policy in its entirety is available upon request from the Records and Registration Office.

Teaching and Learning Centers

The TLC’s offer a variety of free resources to all SMC students. Students may access their Wired account, type a paper, receive writing assistance, find their instructor’s office hours, do internet research, meet with a student group, meet with a tutor, have their learning style assessed, attend a workshop, or just study. There are three TLC’s, one on the Niles Area Campus, Room 140, and two on the Dowagiac campus—in the College Services Building, Room 1105, and in the Fred L. Mathews Library. The hours vary slightly each semester, but schedules are posted outside of each TLC and on Wired. For more information about the TLC, visit any of the sites, or contact the Director of the Teaching and Learning Center at (269) 782-1463.

Testing Centers

The testing centers at the Dowagiac and Niles campuses offer, in addition to the placement test, many tests that can result in the attainment of college credit for passing the test. These include institutional tests in technology or business as well as nationally standardized tests such as CLEP and DANTES. For more information, contact the Academic Assessment and Testing Services Director at (269) 782-1347 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1347.

Transcripts

To have a transcript of grades forwarded to another educational institution or agency or to obtain a personal copy, make a written request to the Registrar’s office. Include your name, address, student ID number, telephone and the name and address of the institution where you would like the transcript sent. Include also your dates of SMC attendance and any other name you may have used while in attendance, along with your signature. A form is available in the Academic Support office for this purpose. Faxed requests are also accepted. There is no fee assessed for either an official or unofficial transcript request. A transcript is issued to the student only after the student has fulfilled all financial obligations to the college.No transcript is official unless it carries the college seal. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Transfer Issues

Transferring to SMC from Another College

If you wish to transfer credit for college coursework completed elsewhere, request an official transcript from each college attended. Your transcript will be evaluated by the appropriate academic dean, and credit for comparable college coursework that has been completed elsewhere with a minimum grade of C will be considered as transfer credits.

Financial aid applicants are required to submit transcripts of all college and university coursework previously attempted. For more information about transferring coursework to SMC, contact Records and Registration at (269) 782-1351.

Transferring from SMC to Another College

Students wishing to transfer to other colleges from SMC are advised to consult SMC's online Transfer Advising Center which has links to other colleges, transfer guides, and other important information. Additional assistance is available from your specialty advisor. Students can print a copy of their own unofficial transcript using Self Service in Wired. To have an official transcript of your grades sent to another educational institution or agency, a written request must be either sent to the Registrar’s office or you may use the online form available at Registrar's Web Site. Include your name, address, student ID number, telephone and the name and address of the institution where you would like the transcript sent. Include also your dates of SMC attendance and any other name you may have used while in attendance, along with your signature. A form is available in the Registrar’s office for this purpose. Faxed requests are also accepted. There is no fee assessed for either an official or unofficial transcript request. A transcript is issued to the student only after the student has fulfilled all financial obligations to the college. No transcript is official unless it carries the college seal. For more information about having your official transcripts sent to another college, contact Records and Registration at (269) 782-1351.

If you are not planning to complete an Associate degree at SMC before you transfer to a Michigan college, be sure to complete all the courses required under the MACRAO Transfer Agreement to ease your transition to your selected four-year institution. The courses required under MACRAO are shown below:

MACRAO Transfer Agreement

6 credit hours in English Composition
8 credit hours in Science & Math
8 credit hours in Social Science
8 credit hours in Humanities.

For more information about the MACRAO Agreement and which schools participate, consult: http://www.macrao.org/MACRAOAgreement/MACRAOAgreement2005.pdf

Transfer Program

A “transfer program” is any program of study in which the student will continue with a fouryear college or university after leaving Southwestern Michigan College. Students who intend to transfer should consult with an academic advisor early in their program of study to ensure that the best choices are made regarding coursework. Students are also advised to consult with an advisor at the transfer institution as soon as one has been selected. [2006-2008 Catalog]

In-District Resident

A student who holds or in the case of a dependent student, whose parents or legal guardians hold, real taxable property in the Southwestern Michigan College District (all of Cass County plus Keeler and Hamilton Townships in Van Buren County).
A student who has resided in the before mentioned governmental units before the first day of the semester in which he/she initially registers for classes.
A student who receives Veterans Education Benefits.
A student who enrolls in a program in which the college is a member of a consortium or for which the college serves as a fiscal agent may be charged resident rates.

In-State Resident

A student holding or a dependent student whose parents or legal guardians hold, real taxable property within the state of Michigan but outside the in-district areas defined as In-District.

Out-of-State Resident:

Students who are permanent U.S. residents and do not qualify as in-district or as in-state students.

International

A foreign national in non-immigrant alien status.

Senior Citizens

A person who is 65 years of age or older.

Tuition Refund Policy

Refund deadlines are strictly observed. No tuition refunds are given after the end of the refund period.

The refund schedule is printed in the Class Schedule for each term. General Refund Policies effective July 1, 2006.

If the college cancels a class, the student will automatically receive a 100% refund of all tuition and fees.
If the student officially withdraws from classes within the drop/add/late registration period, 100% of the tuition and fees will be refunded.
If the refund period falls on a weekend or holiday, the refund period will be extended to the end of the following business day.
If the student officially withdraws after the drop/add/late registration period ends, no fees will be refunded.
Refunds assessed during the drop/add/late registration period will be issued by check or by crediting the appropriate credit card account. Applicants should allow four to six weeks for refund processing and/or mailing.
Refunds apply to the current term and are not retroactive to previous enrollment periods.
After the refund deadline, students who feel circumstances beyond their control warrant additional refund consideration may request a waiver of the tuition refund policy. To request a waiver, submit a letter of explanation to the Registrar. Attach any information that substantiates the circumstances (i.e. if the withdrawal is for medical reasons, medical documentation may be required, etc.) For further information, contact the Registrar’s Office at (269) 782-1305.

Federal Title IV Refund Policies

A Title IV Refund Policy is used for all students who receive Title IV funds applied to his or her account who drop to zero credit hours on or before the 60 percent period of enrollment for which the student has been charged. A schedule of this refund policy and examples are available in the Financial Aid Office.
During the first 60 percent of the period, a student “earns” Title IV funds in direct proportion to the length of time s/he remains enrolled. That is, the percentage of time during the period that the student remained enrolled is the percentage of disbursable aid for that period that the student earned. A student who makes a 100 percent withdrawal prior to completing 60 percent of the period may be required to return that unearned portion of Title IV funds that have been disbursed. This may result in a balance due to the College.
Refunds to Federal Title IV financial aid recipients are required to be credited in the following precise order:
- Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans
- Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans
- Unsubsidized Direct Stafford Loans (other than PLUS loans)
- Perkins Loans
- Federal PLUS Loans
- State, Private or Institutional Programs per guidelines
- The student’s payments
- Students who receive cash disbursements of excess financial aid funds may be required to repay a portion of these funds to the programs listed above. The Financial Aid Office will notify these students if this is the case. Failure to repay these aid funds will jeopardize future financial aid eligibility and/or future college enrollment.
- The college may hold an administrative fee of the lesser 5 percent of the refund or $100.00.
- For further informational about Federal Title IV refund policies, contact the Financial Aid Office at (269) 782-1313.

Rights of Verification and Change of Status

The college reserves the right to require documentation acceptable to the college in all cases of residency determination and verification including, but not limited to, the following criteria: proof of current address, voter’s registration card, valid driver’s license.

After the beginning of a term, your status cannot be changed for that term. You are eligible for review of residency status for subsequent terms upon formal application with the Registrar’s office. Review and reclassification will be based upon your establishment of residency and supporting documentation. For more information, contact the Registrar’s office at (269) 782-1305.

Discretion to audit and adjust individual cases within the spirit and intent of these regulations are vested with the Board of Trustees or their designee. Consult each Schedule of Classes for the current tuition and fee rates.

Tutoring

FREE tutoring is available each semester to each SMC student. Tutors are trained and certified through the College Reading and Learning Association to provide quality learning assistance. Tutors will not do your work, take the place of attending class, or replace your instructor. However, tutors can provide the tools for you to use to build your academic success and support your learning experience. You just need to stop by one of the TLC’s, or access Wired to find the tutoring schedule.

For more information about tutoring services, contact the Director of the Teaching and Learning Center at (269) 782-1463 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1463. There is no charge for tutoring support at SMC, which is available for individuals and groups, both on a drop-in basis and by appointment. Inquire in person about any of our tutoring services and the schedules and locations of drop-in tutoring at the Teaching and Learning Center in the College Services Building on the Dowagiac campus. By phone, contact the Coordinator of Tutoring at (269) 782-1463 or (269) 687-1600, Extension 1463 or the Special Populations Advisor at (269) 782-1321 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1321.

Undecided Curriculum

Many students begin their college career without a clear professional goal. This is normal and even expected. You may need more information and exposures to various careers before you feel comfortable making a career decision. We understand this and we believe that it is part of our responsibility to provide you with the information and experiences you need to make career decisions. This assistance occurs both in and out of the classroom. Career interest and aptitude testing, work experiences and internships as well as career exploration in the classroom are available to help you make this important decision. In the meantime, we will help you select courses that are common requirements for most programs, so that valuable time and tuition are not lost.

The good news about being undecided is that for most college majors, the first two years of college are made up largely of general education courses. This means that by selecting a solid core of general education courses at Southwestern Michigan College and by earning an Associate in Arts or an Associate in Science degree, you can transfer into a four-year college or university with a junior level standing, having met your freshman and sophomore level general education requirements. This is especially true for state colleges and universities that participate in the Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Offices (MACRAO) agreement. This includes most state schools in Michigan. Your advisor can give you details about this agreement.

On the following page you will find a sample curriculum for undecided students pursuing an Associate in Arts degree. If you know that you have an interest in science, but are unsure which area, your advisor will help you plan a curriculum leading to an Associate in Science degree.

In all cases, it is essential for you to plan carefully, satisfactorily complete coursework and follow the academic advising provided by advisors both at SMC and at the transfer institution. When investigating transfer options, you are encouraged to use the extensive information located in the Teaching and Learning Centers and in the Academic Support Office. In addition, specific course equivalency information and curriculum guides for many programs are available from Academic Support advisors. For an appointment with an advisor, call (269) 782-1303 or (269) 687-1600 for the undecided student.

Associate in Arts Degree Transfer Curriculum

Below is a sample curriculum that works well if you are undecided about your career goal but want to make sure you earn a transferable Associate in Arts degree. This curriculum is very flexible and can be tailored by you and your academic advisor. There is also room in your freshman and sophomore curriculum to explore some elective subjects that may help you to focus your career decision.

Prerequisites

You will need to demonstrate proficiencies in reading, English and mathematics based on SMC assessment tests, ACT, SAT, or MEAP, scores or by taking the recommended classes or transferring previous college credits earned to SMC. Some of the courses in this curriculum have specific prerequisites. These are described in the course descriptions.

Course Sequence

The listing that follows is a suggested sequence of courses for full-time students. This sample includes an even distribution of courses in the major discipline areas. However, the only courses in this sample curriculum that must be taken in sequence are the English composition courses.

Semester I		Semester II
ENGL 103 Freshman English II	3	ENGL 104 Freshman English III	3
PSYC 101 General Psychology	3	SPEE 104 Introduction to Human Communication	3
OR		OR
Social Science Elective ISYS 110 Introduction to Computer Information Systems	3	SPEE 102 Fundamentals of Public Speaking	3
Elective Mathematics (MATH 101 or above)	4	PHED 103 Life Fitness	2
		Elective Freshman Humanities Elective	3
Semester III		Semester IV
POSC 201 American Government	3	SOCI 201 Principles of Sociology	3
OR		OR
Social Science Elective HUMA Sophomore Level Humanities Elective	3	Elective Humanities Elective	3
Elective Lab Science Elective	4	Elective Math or Science Elective	4
		Elective Courses Elective Credits	18
		Total Credits Required	62

Veterans Services

Southwestern Michigan College has a designated Veterans Advisor who will assist veterans in application for educational benefits. SMC has been designated as an institutional member of Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC), a group of over 400 colleges and universities providing voluntary post-secondary education to members of the military throughout the world. For further information contact the Veterans representative at (269) 782-1348 or (269) 687-1600, ext. 1348. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Withdrawal from Classes

Before officially withdrawing from a class after the registration period ends, you are urged to discuss your situation with your instructor and/or advisor to make sure that you are making the best possible academic choice. Either your instructor’s or your advisor’s signature is required in order for you to withdraw from a class. Once you have decided that withdrawing from a class is your only option, you must obtain a Course Withdrawal form from the Academic Support office or the Information Center on the Dowagiac campus, or the Administrative office at the Niles Area Campus. A form is needed for each class you wish to drop, and it is your responsibility to keep a copy of the form in your records as proof you have officially withdrawn from the class. See the current schedule of classes for the last date to withdraw for each semester.

Nursing students must obtain the signature of either their nursing class instructor or the Chair of the School of Nursing and Human Services in order to withdraw from a class. [2006-2008 Catalog]

Work-Based Learning - Apprenticeships and Internships

Southwestern Michigan College provides related instruction for a variety of apprenticeable trades, including Auto Mechanic, CADD, Die Cast, Electronics Technician, Millwright, Machine Repairer, Machine Building, Toolmaker, and Welder. The Coordinator of Work-Based Learning at SMC works directly with the apprentice and the sponsoring company to develop a schedule of related trade instruction, based on the needs of the employer. For more information about apprenticeships, contact the Office of Work-Based Learning at (269) 687- 5644 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 5644. An Internship is an opportunity for a student to gain practical, real-world experience in an occupation while under supervision at a business placement site. The Internship Program provides a valuable training/learning experience for the student as well as career orientation, preparation for entry-level employment, and modernization of specific job skills. Our Internship Program is a bridge to student success in the workplace, as well as an effective partnership between business and education. For more information, contact the Coordinator of Work-Based Learning at (269) 687-5644 or (269) 782-1000, ext. 5644.

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