INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS



Academic Skills CenterAcademic Suspension
Academic WarningAllied Health
Associate of Science Degree RequirementsAssociate of Arts in Teaching Degree
Associate of Applied Science DegreeCertificates of Competency
Continuing EducationCooperative Education Program
Core Curriculum PhilosophyCorporate Training
Core Curriculum Required CoursesCourse Cancellation Policy
Degree RequirementsDevelopmental Education
Distance EducationEducational Objectives
Grading SystemGraduation with Honors
Honor RollInstructional Program Information
Instructional TechnologyLearning Resource Center
Limits on the # of Dropped CoursesNon-Credit Status
Overview of Honors ProgramP.A.S.S.
Professional EducationReadmission
Recommended Academic LoadRepeating Courses
Tech-Prep InitiativeThe Virtual College of Texas
TranscriptsWithdrawal



INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION

Northeast Texas Community College’s primary purpose is to meet the variety of educational needs of individuals within its service area. The College provides the freshman and sophomore years of traditional baccalaureate programs; it trains technicians for business and industry; it supplies background courses essential to up-grading one’s job; and it enables people to pursue leisure and avocational interests through planned activities. Courses are offered in the day and evening during the academic year, during winter mini-mester, intersession, and in two summer sessions. Students may enroll for part or full-time study.

CORE CURRICULUM PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of the core curriculum at NTCC is based on the development of students so they are prepared for successful careers, for successful transfer to baccalaureate programs, and for effective functioning as citizens and as members of families, groups, and organizations. Students need effective oral and written communication skills. They need computational and reasoning skills which result from the study of mathematics and computer science. Effective citizenship is based on a variety of skills and knowledge. However, an understanding of our nation’s history and the political process are certainly keys to effective participation in the formation and implementation of public policy at all levels. Critical thinking and decision-making skills are essential for students to perform effectively at all levels within organizations. The expression of ideas and values through visual and performing arts and other humanities is an integral part of student development. Especially in the technological and fast-paced environment of the modern workplace it is important for students to understand and appreciate the various expressions of ideas, values, emotions, joy, and suffering throughout history as manifested in the arts and other cultures. The integration of physical, mental, and emotional wellness is an important aspect of student development. More important than the accumulation of a set body of knowledge is the student’s ability to conduct research and acquire new knowledge through self-learning. Consequently, the research skills acquired through the physical, biological, and social sciences, along with English and communications, are essential for the development of a society of life-long learners.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

The educational objectives of the NTCC core curriculum include the exemplary educational objectives proposed by the Advisory Committee on Core Curriculum and approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in 1998.

These educational objectives are as follows:

1. Communication (composition, speech, modern language)

The objective of a communication component of a core curriculum is to enable the student to communicate effectively in clear and correct prose in a style appropriate to the subject, occasion, and audience.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to understand and demonstrate writing and speaking processes through invention, organization, drafting, revision, editing, and presentation;

  2. to understand the importance of specifying audience and purpose and to select appropriate communication choices;

  3. to understand and appropriately apply modes of expression, i.e., descriptive, expositive, narrative, scientific, and self-expressive, in written, visual, and oral communication;

  4. to participate effectively in groups with emphasis on listening, critical and reflective thinking, and responding;

  5. to understand and apply basic principles of critical thinking, problem solving, and technical proficiency in the development of exposition and argument;

  6. to develop the ability to research and write a documented paper and/or to give an oral presentation.

2. Mathematics

The objective of the mathematics component of the core curriculum is to develop a quantitatively literate college graduate. Every college graduate should be able to apply basic mathematical tools in the solution of real-world problems.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to apply arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, higher order thinking, and statistical methods to modeling and solving real-world situations;

  2. to represent and evaluate basic mathematical information verbally, numerically, graphically, and symbolically;

  3. to expand mathematical reasoning skills and formal logic to develop convincing mathematical arguments;

  4. to use appropriate technology to enhance mathematical thinking and understanding and to solve mathematical problems and judge the reasonableness of the results;

  5. to interpret mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables and schematics, and draw inferences from them;

  6. to recognize the limitations of mathematical and statistical models;

  7. to develop the view that mathematics is an evolving discipline, interrelated with human culture, and understand its connections to other disciplines.

3. Natural Sciences

The objective of the study of a natural sciences component of a core curriculum is to enable the student to understand, construct, and evaluate relationships in the natural sciences, and to enable the student to understand the bases for building and testing theories.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to understand and apply method and appropriate technology to the study of natural sciences;

  2. to recognize scientific and quantitative methods and the differences between these approaches and other methods of inquiry and to communicate findings, analyses, and interpretation both orally and in writing;

  3. to identify and recognize the differences among competing scientific theories;

  4. to demonstrate knowledge of the major issues and problems facing modern science, including issues that touch upon ethics, values, and public policies;

  5. to demonstrate knowledge of the interdependence of science and technology and their influence on, and contribution to, modern culture.

4. Humanities and Visual and Performing Arts

The objective of the humanities and visual and performing arts in a core curriculum is to expand students’ knowledge of the human condition and human cultures, especially in relation to behaviors, ideas, and values expressed in works of human imagination and thought. Through study in disciplines such as literature, philosophy, and the visual and performing arts, students will engage in critical analysis, form aesthetic judgments, and develop an appreciation of the arts and humanities as fundamental to the health and survival of any society. Students should have experiences in both the arts and humanities.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to demonstrate awareness of the scope and variety of works in the arts and humanities;

  2. to understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within an historical and social context;

  3. to respond critically to works in the arts and humanities;

  4. to engage in the creative process or interpretive performance and comprehend the physical and intellectual demands required of the author or visual or performing artist;

  5. to articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities;

  6. to develop an appreciation for the aesthetic principles that guide or govern the humanities and arts;

  7. to demonstrate knowledge of the influence of literature, philosophy, and/ or the arts on intercultural experiences.

5. Social and Behavioral Sciences

The objective of a social and behavioral science component of a core curriculum is to increase students’ knowledge of how social and behavioral scientists discover, describe, and explain the behaviors and interactions among individuals, groups, institutions, events, and ideas. Such knowledge will better equip students to understand themselves and the roles they play in addressing the issues facing humanity.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to employ the appropriate methods, technologies, and data that social and behavioral scientists use to investigate the human condition;

  2. to examine social institutions and processes across a range of historical periods, social structures, and cultures;

  3. to use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories;

  4. to develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues;

  5. to analyze the effects of historical, social, political, economic, cultural, and global forces on the area under study;

  6. to comprehend the origins and evolution of U.S. and Texas political systems, with a focus on the growth of political institutions, the constitutions of the

U.S. and Texas, federalism, civil liberties, civil and human rights;

  1. to understand the evolution and current role of the U.S. in the world;

  2. to differentiate and analyze historical evidence (documentary and statistical) and differing points of view;

  3. to recognize and apply reasonable criteria for the acceptability of historical evidence and social research;

  4. to analyze, critically assess, and develop creative solutions to public policy problems;

  5. to recognize and assume one’s responsibility as a citizen in a democratic society by learning to think for oneself, by engaging in public discourse, and by obtaining information through the news media and other appropriate information sources about politics and public policy; to identify and understand differences and commonalities within diverse cultures.

6. Health and Physical Education Courses

More and more people are exercising less and less. Forty to sixty percent of those who begin an activity program quit within the first six months. Therefore, the objective of the health and physical education department is to provide each student with the opportunity for lifetime wellness. An individualized approach will allow students to pursue their health, fitness and sports performance goals. Initially, each student will be assessed according to their needs and goals. Then a physical fitness program will be implemented, along with feedback and post tests to enhance their health, fitness and performance.

Exemplary Educational Objectives

  1. to demonstrate proper techniques of body conditioning;

  2. to explain the physiological basis of physical training;

  3. to explain the healthful benefits of lifetime fitness training;

  4. to develop strength, endurance and flexibility;

  5. to demonstrate the basics of physical conditioning;

  6. to acquire an appreciation of full body conditioning including cardiovascular involvement;

  7. to design a program for lifetime physical development and maintenance.

CORE CURRICULUM REQUIRED COURSES

(These courses are required of all students earning transfer degrees, both A.A. and A.S.)

  1. Six hours in composition. (ENGL 1301 and ENGL 1302)

  2. Three hours in speech (SPCH 1311 or SPCH 1315 or SPCH 1318 or SPCH 1321).

  3. Three hours in mathematics (MATH 1314, its equivalent, or above).

  4. Three hours in social/behavioral sciences (SOCI 1301 or PSYC 2301 or ECON 2301 or ECON 2302, ANTH 2351 or GEOG 1303).

  5. Eight hours in physical and/or life sciences.

  6. Three hours in humanities (SPAN 2311, SPAN 2312, SPAN 2323, SPAN 2324 or philosophy or literature or humanities or world civilization).

  7. Six hours in political science (GOVT 2305 and GOVT 2306).

  8. Six hours in United States history (HIST 1301 and HIST 1302).

  9. Three hours in visual and performing arts (ARTS 1301 or ARTS 1303 or ARTS 1304 or HUMA 1301or HUMA 1302 or MUSI 1306 or DRAM 2361 or DRAM 2362)

10.Two hours in physical education (PHED 1102, 1103, 1104, 1105, 1106, 1107, 1108, 1110, 1111, 1112, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117, 1118, 1119, 1120, 1121, 1122, 1123, 1124, 1129, 1134, 1135, 1147, 1148, 1164, 1238)

TOTAL: 43 semester credit hours

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS (A.A.) DEGREE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE (A.S.) DEGREE

The Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees include coursework in general academic and pre-professional education and give broad exposure to lower division baccalaureate study. These degrees enable students to enter as juniors at the four-year college/university of their choice.

While the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degree programs will satisfy the transfer requirements of most four-year institutions, it is the student’s responsibility to determine the transfer institution’s specific requirements and plan accordingly with the assistance of an NTCC counselor.

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  1. Core Curriculum.

  2. Computer Literacy (computer science course or one year of computer science coursework in high school or passage of a computer literacy exam or an alternative means of demonstrating computer literacy approved by the computer science faculty).

  3. Technology Literacy (The student will demonstrate proficiency in the direct application of the technology required within the area of study. The program faculty will define the specific technology and proficiency levels.)

  4. Three hours in literature

  5. Sixteen hours of electives primarily in a major field of study. TOTAL: 62 semester credit hours plus computer literacy. Complete a minimum of eighteen total semester hours at Northeast Texas

Community College.

Attain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 for all courses counted for graduation. Discharge all financial obligations to the College prior to graduation. To earn both the Associate of Arts Degree and the Associate of Science Degree,

the minimum requirements for each must be met, and an additional 15 college-level semester hours of transfer courses must be earned at NTCC. All residency requirements must be met.

For all students who fall under the guidelines of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), passage of the THEA or an approved alternative test is required prior to graduation with an Associate of Arts degree. Please consult the Northeast Texas Community College Texas Success Initiative Institutional Plan on page 24 for further information.

(Students may not receive the full six hours of credit for History 1301 and 1302 by testing. Three hours of United States history must be taken in class to meet the state requirements for graduation).

ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  1. Core Curriculum.

  2. Computer Literacy (computer science course or one year of computer science coursework in high school, or passage of a computer literacy exam, or an alternative means of demonstrating computer literacy approved by the computer science faculty).

  3. Technology Literacy (The student will demonstrate proficiency in the direct application of the technology required within the area of study. The program faculty will define the specific technology and proficiency levels.)

  4. Nineteen hours of electives primarily in a major field of study.

TOTAL: 62 semester credit hours plus computer literacy.

Complete a minimum of eighteen total semester hours at Northeast Texas Community College.

Attain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 for all courses counted for graduation.

Discharge all financial obligations to the College prior to graduation.

To earn both the Associate of Science Degree and the Associate of Arts Degree, the minimum requirements for each must be met, and an additional 15 college-level semester hours of transfer courses must be earned at NTCC. All residence requirements must be met.

For all students who fall under the guidelines of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), passage of the THEA or an approved alternative test is required prior to graduation with an Associate of Science degree. Please consult the Northeast Texas Community College Texas Success Initiative Institutional Plan on page 24 for further information.

(Students may not receive the full six hours of credit for History 1301 and 1302 by testing. Three hours of United States history must be taken in class to meet the state requirement for graduation).

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN TEACHING (A.A.T.) DEGREE

The Associate of Arts in Teaching degree is a Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board-approved collegiate degree program consisting of lower-division courses intended for transfer to baccalaureate programs that lead to initial Texas teacher certification. The Associate of Arts in Teaching degree is fully transferable to any Texas public university offering baccalaureate degree programs leading to initial teacher certification.

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN TEACHING DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  1. Core Curriculum

  2. Computer Literacy (computer science course or one year of computer science coursework in high school or passage of a computer literacy exam or an alternative means of demonstrating computer literacy approved by the computer science faculty).

  3. Technology Literacy (The student will demonstrate proficiency in the direct application of the technology required within the area of study. The program faculty will define the specific technology and proficiency levels).

  4. Three hours in literature or psychology

  5. Six hours of education field experience courses including EDUC 1301 and EDUC 2301

  6. All required courses as specified in the degree plan

TOTAL: 66-68 semester credit hours plus computer literacy

Complete a minimum of eighteen total semester hours at Northeast Texas Community College.

Attain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 for all courses counted for graduation.

Discharge all financial obligations to the College prior to graduation.

To earn both the Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree and the Associate of Arts or Associate of Science Degree, the minimum requirements for each must be met, and an additional 15 college-level semester hours of transfer courses must be earned at NTCC. All residency requirements must be met.

For all students who fall under the guidelines of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), passage of the THEA or an approved alternative test is required prior to graduation with an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree. Please consult the Northeast Texas Community College Texas Success Initiative Institutional Plan on page 24 for further information.

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE (A.A.S.) DEGREE

The Associate of Applied Science Degree includes a concentration of coursework in a specific technical or occupational field and support courses in general education.

The Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded for successful completion of prescribed programs of study which prepare students with the knowledge and entry-level skills necessary to enter and compete in the job market. Such courses and programs of study are not intended to transfer to four-year institutions although some colleges and universities will accept all or some of the work.

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Complete a minimum of sixty college-level credit hours including:

  1. Three hours in English and three hours in speech.

  2. Three hours each in mathematics and computer technology.

  3. Three hours in humanities from the following: SPAN 2311or SPAN 2312 or SPAN 2323 or SPAN 2324 or philosophy or literature or humanities or world civilization or ARTS 1301 or ARTS 1303 or ARTS 1304 or HUMA 1301 or HUMA 1302 or MUSI 1306 or DRAM 2361 or DRAM 2362.

  4. Three hours in the social or behavioral sciences from the following: history, government, psychology, sociology, economics, geography, or anthropology.

  5. Technology Literacy (The student will demonstrate proficiency in the direct application of the technology required within the area of study. The program faculty will define the specific technology and proficiency levels.)

  6. All required courses as specified in the degree plan.

Complete a minimum of eighteen total semester hours at Northeast Texas Community College.

The student must attain a minimum of a “C” grade for all courses in the major and a cumulative minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 for all courses counted toward the degree.

Discharge all financial obligations to the College prior to graduation.

For all students who fall under the guidelines of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), passage of the THEA or an approved alternative test is required prior to graduation with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Please consult the Northeast Texas Community College Texas Success Initiative Institutional Plan on page 24 for further information.

The College confers the Associate of Applied Science Degree for the following

areas: Agriculture Agriculture (Tech-Prep) Auto Body Repair Business Management-Accounting Specialization Business Management Business Management-Criminal Justice Specializtion Computer Information Science:

Applications Specialization

Networking Specialization Cosmetology Criminal Justice Criminal Justice (Tech-Prep) Culinary Arts Dental Hygiene Emergency Medical Services Mechanical Power Technology:

Automotive Technician Specialization Automotive Mod Shop Specialization Welding-Mechanical Specialization

Medical Assistant Medical Laboratory Technology Nursing:

Associate Degree Nursing Vocational Nursing Mobility

Office Technology: Executive Support Professional Legal Office Support Specialization Medical Office Support Specialization Executive Support Professional Specialization (Tech-Prep)

Physical Therapist Assistant Radiologic Sciences

Note: The Associate of Applied Science Degrees in all Allied Health Programs have unique admission and graduation requirements. Please see the degree plans for details.

TECH-PREP INITIATIVE

Northeast Texas Community College is a member of the Upper East Texas Tech-Prep Consortium. The consortium is a partnership of educational and training providers, business and industry representatives, and community-based organizations in the nine counties of northeast Texas. The purpose of the consortium is to implement Tech-Prep/Associate Degree programs in the northeast Texas region. NTCC offers competency-based Tech-Prep/Associate Degree programs in Agricultural Technology, Criminal Justice, and Office Technology. Tech-Prep programs involve a minimum of four years of intensive study beginning in the junior year of high school and resulting in an Associate of Applied Science degree from a community college. The development and implementation of Tech-Prep/Associate Degree programs is a major step toward providing quality technical instructional programs and individual support services to insure northeast Texas employers a qualified work force. Tech-Prep is an avenue to educational reform with emphasis on contextual learning that combines knowing with doing, the integration of professional/technical education and academic curriculum with an applied academic emphasis, a cooperative secondary program emphasizing continuity in learning and curriculum, an avenue with multiple exit points leading to an associate degree and more advanced education at the higher education level, a curriculum choice for students based upon learning styles, preparation for a career and continuing education, a clear curriculum structure with substance and focus, and a program for helping students use information. Students who complete the high school portion of a Tech-Prep program may qualify for college credit.

CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY

Certificates of Competency are awarded for successful completion of prescribed programs of study which prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter a specific job market or to up-grade their skills in a particular area. Such courses or programs are not intended for transfer to four-year institutions. The student must attain a minimum of a "C" grade for all courses in the major and a cumulative minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 for all courses counted toward the certificate. Students wishing to complete a certificate of competency must complete a minimum of fifteen semester hours at Northeast Texas Community College.

The College awards Certificates of Competency for the following areas:

Agriculture:

Farm and Ranch Management

Auto Body Repair Tech

Business Management:

Financial Accounting

Industrial Manufacturing

Business Management

Human Resources Management Specialization

Leadership Specilization

Strategic Management Specialization

Criminal Justice Specialization

Computer Information Science:

Advanced Computer Applications

Cosmetology:

Instructor

Operator

Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement - Basic Peace Officer, Enhanced Peace Officer County Corrections - Enhanced Basic Jailer

Culinary Arts: Pastry Culinary

Electrical Occupations

Emergency Medical Services: EMT-12-month Paramedic EMT-Intermediate

Mechanical Power Technology: Automotive Technician Mod Shop Technician High Performance Technician Vehicle Service Welding/Mechanical Technician Basic Welding Welding Fabrication

Nursing: Vocational Nursing

Office Technology: Legal Office Assistant Medical Office Support/ Transcriptionist Office Support Assistant Office Assistant

OVERVIEW OF THE HONORS PROGRAM

Northeast Texas Community College offers alternate ways for students to excel and reach career goals. The Honors Program endeavors to free students from financial obligations, promote student success at the highest levels, and foster lucrative transferability to universities of choice, including admittance into four-year honors programs.

This program features smaller classes, field trips, and more contact time with faculty, in this case, honors professors. It includes two kinds of students. Presidential Scholars receive full-ride institutional scholarships, and other benefits. They must enroll in a six-seven hour interdisciplinary seminar each semester, or have obtained honors credit from two such seminars. In this second case, they must enroll in at least six hours of honors credit each semester to maintain their scholarships. Honors Scholars include all those who are not obtaining Presidential Scholarships, but who are taking at least six hours of honors credit in a given semester.

An ‘h’ will appear on the transcript of any student who successfully complies with the special standards of any course offering honors credit.

MISSION STATEMENT OF HONORS PROGRAM

The Honors Program at Northeast Texas Community College strives to provide free and exemplary education. It exists to develop original ideas and successful projects. Inclusive and supportive, the program resolves to enroll ambitious, rising, students, promote their careers, and enhance the vitality of the college and surrounding community.

ADMISSION

BECOMING A PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR

High school students who have scored a minimum of 25 on the ACT or a minimum of 1140 on the SAT or who have graduated in the top 10 percent of their high school class are eligible to apply. Honors Scholars at NTCC or from other bona fide college honors programs who have completed six hours honors credit may apply as well as returning students with twelve hours of college credit and at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA. Aspiring Presidential Scholars must also submit an application which will include a one-page essay showing how they could work successfully in the program. Applications can be acquired from and sent to the office of the Honors Director, Dr. Andrew Yox.

ENROLLING IN LINKED HONORS COURSES

Any student who has attained the necessary prerequisites of a given course can enroll in any Linked Course announced as “honors.” Linked Courses include honors and non-honors students. Students with a 3.0 GPA after twelve credit hours in college, or high school graduates or students with an equivalency of a B or better average in High School can also receive an honors designation for a Linked Course if they receive a B or better on the Honors portion of the Linked Course. All students desiring honors credit must make this clear to the professor within ten calendar days after the course begins.

HONORS CREDIT BY TAKING DESIGNATED COURSES

In the “Designated Courses,” shown below, students with a 3.0 GPA after twelve credit hours in college, or high school graduates or students with an equivalency of a B or better average in High School may initiate an honors component, and receive honors credit. These components must be approved by the instructor of the course, the Division Director, and the Honors Director within 10 calendar days after the course has started. This honors portion will consist of at least two elements: 1) a project that goes beyond traditional expectations, and illustrates original thought. 2) “with-it-ness” in class, a continuing engagement with course material that is exemplary. To receive honors credit in a Designated Course, students must have an abstract of their project approved by the Honors Director, and must receive a B or better from their instructor in the honors portion of their course. The abstract should state a problem, an awareness of other attempts to solve it, the question or focus posed by the student, and the student’s thesis or findings.

DESIGNATED COURSES

Designated Courses in the honors system are those in a given discipline with course numbers that are equal to or greater than the following: Accounting 2301, Agriculture 2301, Agricultural Management 2380, Anthropology 2351, Art 1301, Auto Body Repair 2255, Biology 1406, Business 1301, Chemistry 1405, Communications 1307, Computer Science 2320, Information Science 2313, Cosmetology 2410, Cosmetology Instructor Training 2514, Criminal Justice 2301, Dental Hygiene 2160, Drama 1330, Economics 2301, Emergency Medical Services 2330, English 1302, History 1301, Humanities 1301, Management 2303, Math 1325, Mechanical Power Technology, 2325, Medical Assistant 2460, Medical Laboratory Technician 2431, Music 1301, Nursing 2360, Office Technology 2312, Philosophy 1301, Physical Therapist Assistant 2301, Physics 1401, Political Science 2305, Psychology 2301, Radiologic Science 2305, Social Work 2361, Sociology 2301, Spanish 1411, Speech 2333, Theatre 1330.

PROGRESSION IN PROGRAM

Presidential Scholars will be expected to engage in five hours of community service each semester, and to maintain course loads as full-time students. To continue as Presidential Scholars, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.25, as well as a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the first-year interdisciplinary seminars, and in subsequent classes taken for honors credit. To graduate from NTCC as a Presidential Scholar, students must have taken a minimum of twelve hours in the special interdisciplinary seminars for Presidential Scholars, at least eighteen hours of overall honors credit, and meet the requirements of an associate degree.

Honors Scholars are welcome each spring to apply for Presidential Scholarships. They must maintain a grade point average of 3.0, and take at least six hours of honors credit each semester to remain in the program. Even without a Presidential Scholarship, they could be eligible for special benefits after a year in the program.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

RECOMMENDED ACADEMIC LOAD

Ordinarily, a student load of 18 semester hours of course work is the maximum allowable. If an employed student carries a full course load, (12 semester hours or more) it is recommended the student should limit the total work time to 20 hours per week. If the student must work more hours, it is recommended the credit hour load in college should be reduced proportionately.

The maximum load limit during mini-mester and intersession is three credit hours. The recommended load limit during a five-week summer session is seven credit hours.

An overload (over 18 hours, fall or spring semesters; over 7 hours, summer session) must be approved by the Executive Vice President for Instruction.

DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION

Developmental education courses are offered in reading, writing, and math. These courses help students be successful in their college-level courses. Courses beginning with a sequence of 0 (0301) are considered to be developmental in nature. Credit for these courses is not used for college-level academic honor, graduation, or transfer.

GRADING SYSTEM

The grading system used at Northeast Texas Community College is as follows:

A (excellent), B (good), C (average), D (passing), F (failure), I (incomplete), W

(withdrawal), NC (non-credit), CR (credit).

A 4 points per semester hour

B 3 points per semester hour

C 2 points per semester hour

D 1 point per semester hour

F 0 points per semester hour The grade point average (GPA) is found by dividing the total number of grade points by the total number of semester hours attempted. Grades of “CR,” “NC,” “W,” or “I” do not affect the grade point average.

Grade changes can be made only by the faculty member who issued the grade. Approval of the Executive Vice President for Instruction is required. Requests for a grade change must be made before the completion of the next fall or spring semester.

INCOMPLETES

The conditional grade of “I” may be given to a student only with the approval of the instructor. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with the instructor for completion of the course when an “I” is given. To remove an “I”, the student must complete the work of the course within 30 days after the beginning of the next fall or spring semester, at which time the earned grade will be received without penalty. If the student does not complete the work satisfactorily within the 30-day period, the “I” will become an “F.”

WITHDRAWAL

A student who officially drops a course after the twelfth class day but within the first twelve weeks of a regular semester or after the fourth class day but within the first four weeks of a summer term will receive a grade of “W” in the course. Students may not withdraw from school or drop classes after this time and receive the grade of “W.” Requests for withdrawal must be made in person or in writing or by FAX. Withdrawals will not be accepted by telephone.

If a student is required to attend a pre-college level course to meet the requirements of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI, formerly TASP) that student may not be allowed to withdraw from or receive the grade of “W” in the course.

Senate Bill No. 1231 limits the number of withdrawals a student may have during his/her academic career. See an advisor for details.

Limits on the Number of Dropped Courses

Section 51.907 of the Texas Education Code, enacted by the Texas Legislature, Spring 2007, applies to students who enroll in a public institution of higher education as a first time freshman in Fall 2007 or later. The College may not permit a student to drop more than six courses, including those taken at another Texas public institution of higher education. All courses dropped after the Official Day of Record are included in the six-course limit unless (1) the student withdraws from all courses or (2) the drop is authorized by an appropriate College official as an approved Drop Exception.

Drop Exceptions can be approved if the student documents that the drop was required for one of the following reasons for that reason the student could not satisfactorily complete the course:

*
The student, a member of the student’s family, or a person of equally important relationship to the student experiences a serious illness or other debilitating condition.
*
The student becomes responsible for the care of a sick, injured, or needy person.
*
There is a death in the student’s family or of a non-family member of equally important relationship.
*
The student or a member of the student’s family, or a person of equally important relationship to the student, is called to active duty service as a member of the Texas National Guard or the armed forces of the United States.
*
There is a change of the student’s work schedule that is beyond the student’s control.
*
The College determines that there is other good cause for the student to drop the course.

Enrollment and drop activities of students affected by this legislation will be monitored. Those who drop six or more courses without an approved Drop Exception will incur registration and drop restrictions during all subsequent semesters, and may incur other enrollment limitations or requirements.

Northeast Texas Community College students liable under this legislation who plan to attend another Texas public college or university should determine that institution’s policies and penalties for dropping courses and for approving Drop Exceptions.

NON-CREDIT STATUS

A person who meets admission requirements may, with the consent of the instructor, enroll in a credit course as a non-credit student. The non-credit fee and admission requirements are the same as for credit enrollment. A listing of “NC” will be posted on the student’s transcript. A student may not change status after the twelfth class day during the fall or spring semesters or the fourth class day in the summer session.

GRADING POLICY FOR DEVELOPMENTAL COURSES

Developmental courses are not computed in the overall grade point average for college-level honors, for graduation, or for transfer to another institution.

GRADES

Following the end of the eighth week of each regular semester, students may request a statement of progress report from each instructor for each course they are enrolled in. Effective the Spring 2003 semester, NTCC no longer mails Grade Reports. Students may access their grades through CampusConnect at www.ntcc.edu. Your student number is your student id or social security number and your PIN number is the last four digits of your social security number. Please change your PIN number after you log into CampusConnect.

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts of a student’s work may be obtained from the Admissions and Records Office (for credit coursework) or the Continuing Education Office (for non-credit coursework) in accordance with federal guidelines. Requests for a transcript by mail should include the name of the student (maiden name if applicable), social security number, dates of attendance, and name and address of the person or institution to which the transcript is to be sent. Transcripts from other institutions submitted to Northeast Texas Community College become the property of the College and are not to be reproduced and/or mailed to other institutions, agencies, or individuals. The policy considers that 1) the transcript(s) have become admissions documents; 2) the transcript(s) may no longer be complete and/or correct; 3) the other institution may now have blocks on the student’s records; and 4) in most cases, an official document will be required, not a copy.

You may fax your request to the Admissions and Records Office and students should allow 24 hours turnaround time. Telephone requests for transcripts will only be processed if the transcript is being sent directly to another college/ university.

HONOR ROLL

Northeast Texas Community College recognizes academic achievement for both part-time and full-time students. To be included on the Academic Honors List a student must have the following grade point averages in courses numbered 1000 or above.

Academic Honors - 12 hours or more ..................................3.5

Special Academic Merit - 9-11 hours ..................................3.75

Special Academic Merit - 7-8 hours .......................................4.0 The Academic Honors List is published after the close of the fall and spring semesters.

GRADUATION

Northeast Texas Community College offers four associate degrees and a number of certificates. Students have the option of meeting graduation requirements of the current catalog or those outlined in the catalog under which they entered Northeast Texas Community College, provided the catalog is dated no more than five years prior to the expected graduation date.

Commencement ceremonies are held in May, August and December. Refer to class schedules for commencement/graduation application deadlines.

To be considered as a candidate for a degree or certificate, the student must have a formal degree plan on file and submit a formal application for graduation on or before the date specified in the College calendar. Students must make formal application for graduation on the form furnished by the Admissions and Records Office. An applicant for graduation must provide official transcripts reflecting all college work applied toward the degree or certificate. Students must discharge all financial obligations to the College prior to graduation.

The following steps should be followed when applying for graduation:

  1. Each student must apply for graduation. A graduation application form can be obtained from the Admission and Records Office.

  2. Each student should have a degree plan on file.

  3. The application for graduation must be returned to the Admissions and Records Office.

  4. All of the above steps need to be completed by the posted deadlines found in the schedule of classes.

GRADUATION WITH HONORS

Those students who have excelled academically by meeting one of the sets of criteria listed below will graduate with the specified honors. The cumulative grade point average referred to in each set of criteria will be based on all work attempted at the post-secondary level. Courses that have been repeated for credit will be counted only one time utilizing the last grade earned.

PRESIDENT’S HONORS-The associate degree graduate must have met all requirements in residence and must have a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on all college level courses.

HIGH HONORS-The associate degree graduate must have completed at least 24 semester hours in residence with at least a 3.8 grade point average and must have at least a 3.8 cumulative grade point average.

HONORS-The associate degree graduate must have completed at least 24 semester hours in residence with at least a 3.5 grade point average and must have at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average.

REPEATING COURSES

Students may repeat a course regardless of whether credit hours were previously earned; however, no more credit hours can be earned than would be received from one successful enrollment. If a student re-enrolls for credit, an asterisk (*) on the transcript will identify the repeated course. In determining graduation qualifications only the grade earned during the most recent enrollment is computed in the cumulative grade point average.

Transfer students are reminded that the institution to which they wish to transfer may average both the original and the subsequent grades for determining transfer eligibility.

COURSE CANCELLATION POLICY

The college reserves the right to cancel classes that do not meet the minimum enrollment criteria or for other reasons. If a class is canceled, the Office of the Executive Vice President for Instruction will inform students and an effort will be made to help students find other courses that meet their needs. Tuition and fees for a canceled class will be refunded by the Business Office if no appropriate substitute can be found. Class information is subject to change without notice.

ACADEMIC WARNING, PROBATION, SUSPENSION AND READMISSION

NTCC requires each student to maintain reasonable academic progress. The policy for governing academic progress is as follows.

Academic Warning

As a service to students, an academic warning is sent when a student’s grade point average (GPA is between 2.0 - 2.25. Academic warning is an early alert system that does not penalize the student. An advisor will contact the student to help him/her to find ways to improve his/her GPA

Academic Probation

The College will place a student on academic probation if he/she attempts 12 or more credit hours and fails to achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.0. The College will place a hold on the records of a student on academic probation and he/she will only be able to register with approval from the Vice President for Student and Outreach Services or his/her representative. A student may continue on academic probation provided a 2.0 or higher semester GPA is achieved in the last term of enrollment, even when the cumulative GPA remains below a 2.0.

Academic Suspension

A student on academic probation will be placed on academic suspension if he/ she fails to achieve at least a 2.0 GPA after two consecutive long-term semesters of enrollment, and his/her cumulative GPA remains below 2.0. An academically suspended student will not be able to enroll in any credit course for the next long semester without completing a contract for improvement, or through a written appeal made to the Vice President for Student and Outreach Services.

Readmission

Students readmitted as the result of an appeal will be placed on academic probation. A student may enroll for summer terms while on academic suspension. If the student enrolls in six or more credit hours and earn a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, the student will be removed from suspension and probation and readmitted with no restrictions. If the student achieves a 2.0 or higher grade point average for summer enrollment of at least six hours, but does not achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher, he/she may enroll in the following long semester on academic probation.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM

Cooperative Education integrates on-campus classroom study with off-campus work experience for students in career-oriented disciplines. Northeast Texas Community College Work Experience Program provides students with supervised practical experience relating to their field of study while they concurrently obtain college course credit.

Students learn and participate in functions performed in their chosen fields so that they might determine if their selected profession or occupation is compatible with their goals. The availability of this program at the community college level affords the student this experience at a much earlier time in their educational process.

LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER

The Learning Resource Center (LRC), conveniently located in the center of campus, provides an attractive atmosphere for study and research. Carrels, tables, and lounge furniture make for an environment conducive either to working on assignments or recreational reading. Tours of the LRC and instruction in the use of the library may be provided to groups on request; individual assistance is always available, including online tutorials for those who cannot readily visit the LRC in person.

Use of the library and its materials is extended to all members of the community. Adult residents of Camp, Morris, and Titus counties, as well as students, faculty, and staff of NTCC, may register for a library card and borrow materials. In addition, the LRC participates in the TexShare Library Card program, a reciprocal lending program that allows users to borrow materials in person at libraries across the state. Each user is responsible for materials borrowed with his or her library card.

Books, periodicals, audiovisual materials, and online databases are selected to support the curriculum and serve the needs of students and faculty. The book collection consists of over 33,000 print volumes, with an almost equal number of electronic books available through the library’s subscription to NetLibrary. Over 300 periodicals and newspapers are received in print and microfiche, and many thousands more are available online through database subscriptions. The LRC maintains a website with links to its online catalog and other Internet resources, as well as information about library and media services. Audiovisual equipment is available for use in individual carrels for those wishing to use audiotapes, videocassettes, and DVDs.

Public computers provide access to the Internet, online databases, and instructional and productivity software. Wireless Internet access is available campus wide for those with their own notebook computers and wireless network devices; prior registration with Computer Services is required. Photocopying of print materials is available at a nominal cost; photocopying of microform materials is possible but limited.

CONTINUING EDUCATION AND CORPORATE TRAINING

Continuing Education and Corporate Training at Northeast Texas Community College is a program that is designed to satisfy the needs and interests of individuals with diverse backgrounds. Non-credit courses, seminars, workshops, and conferences are offered on current topics in a wide variety of areas, such as banking, management and business related courses, computers, food safety, as well as food protection management certification. Students can explore the latest developments in their occupational fields, meet continuing education requirements for job re-certification, and train for new and emerging careers. In addition, human interest and leisure learning programs in the arts, recreation, home, and family, money management, dancing, and personal development courses help people of all ages improve their quality of life. Finally, corporate training classes can be customized for business, industry, and area organizations to meet the ever-changing needs and requirements. These classes can be offered on campus, on-site, at the Skills Development Center in Lone Star, at the Naples/ Omaha Education Center in Naples, or at the Hanson-Sewell Center in Pittsburg, as well as other sites provided by the community. In cooperation with local workforce development boards, the Continuing Education program targets specific demand occupations for intensive training and retraining. Tuition and fees may be defrayed through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) with approval of the local boards for students who qualify. Other grant aid is limited but may be available to qualified students who apply at least six weeks in advance of a workforce-related training program. Students may enroll in a credit course for no credit through Continuing Education on a space available basis with instructor permission. Tuition and fees will be assessed at the same rate as a credit course. For more information, please call 903-434- 8134.

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION AND ALLIED HEALTH

The Professional Education and Allied Health Training Department is responsible for the development, coordination, and management of a variety of noncredit continuing professional education programs and courses for licensure and/or certification for individual students. This area consists of Nurse Aide, Medication Aide, Phlebotomy, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Academy, Rural Health, and other program areas as well as various state and local agencies, community services, and health-care providers that provide quality pre-service training and staff development. For more information, please call 903-4348288.

ACADEMIC SKILLS CENTER

The Academic Skills Center (ASC) serves as the main on-campus site through which several programs are administered to prepare students for satisfactory achievement in academic or vocational college level courses. The ASC, a multi-laboratory setting, provides peer and paraprofessional tutoring in a variety of subjects, and an array of self-instructional materials and equipment for student use. The center also provides small group instruction, and computer and video assisted instruction. A writing tutor is available to help students in the development of their writing skills. In addition to tutoring assistance, students are welcome to use the A+ Learning System to refresh and develop their basic writing skills. Students may also use the computers for word processing, Internet, and checking emails. The center also administers the Test of Adult and Basic Education (TABE) by instructor request to vocational students to assess basic skill levels. A staff of qualified and trained instructors and tutors is available to assist students at all times. For further information regarding these services, contact the ASC at 903-434-8244.

DISTANCE EDUCATION AND INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

The Office of Distance Education and Instructional Technology facilitates courses that students can take over the Internet, or in some cases, through live, interactive television (ITV) on the NTCC campus. Most academic departments on the NTCC campus offer courses online, and the Virtual College of Texas (see below) offers an extensive range of courses in which students can enroll through NTCC. Texas A&M University - Texarkana offers several ITV classes on the NTCC campus through a partnership agreement with the college. The mission of Distance Education and Instructional Technology is to provide enhanced educational opportunities for students through advanced technology. Distance Education classes enable students to access courses that have already filled in the traditional classroom, to pursue educational goals while balancing work and family.

Instructional technology addresses the use of current technologies to enhance learning in the classroom. This includes working with instructors to include multimedia in their traditional, online, or multi-situated courses, and providing innovative solutions, such as teaching students to use certain software applications used and/or assigned by instructors. For more information, please call 903434-8264.

THE VIRTUAL COLLEGE OF TEXAS

Northeast Texas Community College is a consortium member of the Virtual College of Texas. The mission of the Virtual College of Texas is to provide all Texans access via instructional technologies to quality instruction and support wherever they may live, regardless of geographic, distance, or time constraints. The Virtual College of Texas is a consortium of accredited, public Texas community and technical colleges. It includes 53 community college districts and the four colleges of the Texas State Technical College System. Through the Virtual College of Texas, students may access college courses offered at institutions across the state. However, students enroll in Virtual College of Texas classes through their local community college. They receive advisement, testing, and other student services on their local campus as well. Students interested in learning more about the Virtual College of Texas may contact Hope Walker at 903-434-8202 or Rhonda Jeffery at 903-434-8243.

ADULT EDUCATION CENTER

The Center has been in operation for fourteen years and is housed in offices provided by Luminent. Luminent has been a longtime supporter of education and literacy programs in the community. It is located at 209 North Madison, Mount Pleasant, Texas 75455 (903) 572-5154. The Northeast Texas Adult Education Center has close working relationships with the Department of Human Services, Titus Regional Medical Center, Mount Pleasant Public Library, Texas Workforce Commission, Adult Probation Department, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Titus County Juvenile Justice System, Mount Pleasant Even Start, Mount Pleasant ISD, and Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation. Services provided are: 1) General Education Development (GED), preparation, 2) English as a Second Language (ESL), 3) Volunteer tutoring, 4) testing services for the Texas Workforce Center, and 5) Computer instruction.

POSITIVE ALTERNATIVES FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM (PASS)

PASS (Positive Alternatives for SuccesS) is an alternative high school drop-out prevention and recovery program. It is an open-entry, open-exit program housed in the Academic Skills Center. Students work at their own pace to earn credit toward their high school diploma. All curricula is correlated with the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) required for high school promotion and graduation.

Students are guided and assisted through their individualized educational programs by certified instructors and college tutors. Attendance requirements are based on individual circumstances; however, minimum attendance standards are strictly enforced. To enroll in this program, all persons must be referred by a high school counselor or administrator. Tuition is assessed. The PASS program also offers TAKS preparation for high school seniors who have not passed TAKS. Hours are flexible and courses are self-paced. For more information, please call 903-434-8243.

For further information or to request an application form, call this number Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. or Friday between 8 a.m. and noon.

(903) 434-8100

or visit our website at www.ntcc.edu

Northeast Texas Community College is an affirmative action, equal opportunity, ADA institution.