Academic Affairs

The educational programs at Motlow are planned and implemented by the Business and Technology Division, Humanities, Social Science, and Languages Division,   and Mathematics, Science and Education Division.  They are complemented by Library Services and a full array of academic support services.

Each semester, numerous credit courses are offered at night in cooperation with the Business and Technology Division,  Humanities, Social Science, and Language  Division and Mathematics, Science and education Division . These courses, which are described in other sections of this catalog, are available to full-time and part-time students at several locations for the convenience of the student. Individuals interested in pursuing a college degree can earn a degree by attending classes in the evening.

Economic and Community Development (ECD) is the administrative unit of Motlow College that provides a broad range of nontraditional programs and services to meet community and business needs. Customers include individuals, employers, business representatives, professional organizations, and government agencies. Educational opportunities are delivered through three areas–workforce development, economic development, and community development.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Motlow College serves a dynamic, ever-changing workforce by providing professional and managerial development programs for non-credit certification as well as customized credit classes. Frequently, training is conducted on the employers’ premises on a schedule that allows employees to work a part of the day in addition to attending classes. Additionally, various courses and seminars are offered on our four campuses on a continual basis to individuals seeking to upgrade specific skills. Workforce Development is responsive to the demands for specialized training needs.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Economic Development provides support for the 11-county service area to stabilize or increase employment in the communities. Current training/retraining needs are identified by convening with business owners and operators of firms with similar needs. Appropriate courses are offered through ECD to assist employers with increasing productivity and profitability. Training programs are designed to comply with new regulations and maintain current certifications.

Participation in local planning groups and municipal boards that search the business environment for new technologies, emerging work practices, new and pending regulations affecting local businesses, and other area developments is an integral part of the environmental scanning process.

• As a supporter of the Governor’s Job Creation Initiative, a statewide Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development consortium to advance economic development, the ECD unit at Motlow College assists regional manufacturing firms learn, practice, and train employees for new technologies.
   
• Support is given to city, county, Industrial Boards, and Chamber of Commerce officials when they meet with company representatives interested in locating in the area. The ECD unit assists the state’s new “Fast Start” program where new or expanding industries can identify loans and training resources.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Community Services works with communities in the service area to help attract business and improve the quality of life their residents enjoy. Programs range from those focused on creating jobs to others which concentrate on planning for growth and helping communities take control of their own economic destinies.

Community Services promotes the well-being of the communities in political, social, and cultural areas and provides preparation opportunities for those desiring to pursue post-secondary education. Business topics range from computer software applications to financial planning. Personal interest topics range from health, photography, and dance to gardening, music, and sports.

Enrichment programs for youth are offered during the year with a special emphasis in the summer.

Persons who are residents of Tennessee and are disabled are allowed a 50% discount for community service courses. The discount is allowed after the following conditions are met: 1) The number of fee-paying students required by the institution has been enrolled; 2) Space is available; 3) No regular fee-paying student will be denied access to the course due to the enrollment of persons who receive a 50% discount. Documentation of disability must be provided upon request.

THE CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT (CEU)

The Continuing Education Unit (CEU) is awarded upon successful completion of certain courses or activities. The CEU is defined as “ten contact hours of participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction.”

To meet conditions for satisfactory completion, participants must:

1. Be properly registered and pay all fees;
2. Attend a minimum of 75 percent of scheduled classes; and
3. Achieve a “satisfactory” rating from the instructor and receive a certificate.

Motlow College is divided into eight departments and offers a variety of courses and programs for students who want to seek employment at the conclusion of one or two years of study as well as for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution. Each department supports the general education core of the college with English, mathematics, and science courses and readies the under-prepared students through the Developmental Studies program when necessary. A Certificate of Credit may be completed in the areas of microcomputer software applications and early childhood education.

The instructional areas of emphases included within the individual departments are:

Business and Technology Department 

Education Department 

Humanities Department 

Languages Department 

Mathematics Department 

Natural Science 

Nursing Department 

Social Sciences Department

THE CLAYTON-GLASS LIBRARY

The Clayton-Glass Library is located on Ledford Mill Road between the Ingram and Marcum buildings across from the baseball field. The Library supports the institutional mission by providing educational leadership and meeting the research needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community while promoting life-long learning. The library staff brings both experience and knowledge to the support of the college’s instructional programs. Services (circulation, collections, and databases) and staff are available at the campus locations: Moore County campus, the McMinnville Center, the Fayetteville Center, and the Smyrna site; or through the Internet. Students can receive materials from any site/center by requesting resources and services from staff via e-mail (library@mscc.edu) or at the campus location.

The Library’s Internet-accessible catalog, eBook, and periodical and reference databases <http://mscc.edu/library> provide access to Motlow College’s collection of over 55,000 print volumes, 55,000 eBooks, literary criticisms, biographies, 3,000 audio-visual materials, 11,000 newspapers and magazine and journal titles (print, microforms, and e-resources), and course-related website links. Students may access all library databases from the library’s home page either from a Motlow campus location or remotely with any computer connected to the Internet using their Motlow user name and password. Interlibrary loan services are available to all users. Computers with printers are available for student research and other instructional needs. Other equipment for library users includes: copiers, microform equipment, televisions, VCR’s and DVD’s, and audio equipment. Comfortable seating and reading space can be found in each library. Students will find browsing collections of local, state, and national newspapers, current magazines and journals, audio books, and books for leisure reading.

Library Hours Fall and Spring Semesters
 

Hours for summer terms and interim periods are posted at each of the libraries.

DIGITAL MEDIA CENTER

The Digital Media Center (DMC) is located in room MT242 of the Marcum Technology Building. The DMC offers the very latest in digital computer technology in an environment designed to aid faculty, staff, and administrators. Web page creation, 35 mm color slide scanning, CD creation, color laser printing and color flatbed scanning are some of the standard services offered. Appointments can be made for individual training, instruction, or assistance. In addition, the DMC offers LCD projectors, laptop computers, and external speaker systems for powerful multi-media presentations.

The scope of the academic program at Motlow State Community College provides the following alternatives for its students: (1) an associate degree program designed for transfer purposes, or (2) an associate degree program designed for immediate career application, or (3) a concentrated, short-term certificate program. For each program of study completed toward receiving either the Associate of Arts degree, the Associate of Science degree, or the Associate of Applied Science degree, a student will identify a major and will select, when applicable, an area of emphasis/concentration in that major. The following chart is an inventory of programs available and the academic division which oversees each program.

UNIVERSITY PARALLEL MAJOR
 

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE

MAJORS

UNIVERSITY PARALLEL MAJOR (ASSOCIATE OF ARTS/ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE)

At Motlow State Community College, a student planning to transfer to a baccalaureate program may earn an Associate of Arts Degree or an Associate of Science Degree. The University Parallel Major in the associate degree program is the transfer program within which a student selects an area of emphasis. The General Studies area of emphasis provides students an opportunity to complete general education requirements before moving into specialized study. The specific areas of emphasis in the University Parallel Major are:

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY MAJOR

Motlow State Community College offers a business technology major with the following concentrations: accounting, business computer applications, business management, and computer programming. The general technology major provides the professional studies concentration. These two-year programs are for the student who does not intend to transfer to a four-year institution. The Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION MAJOR

Motlow State Community College, as part of the Tennessee Board of Regents’ Vision 2003: Tennessee Head Start’s Academic Excellence Model, offers an Early Childhood Education major. The purpose of this model is to create a Head Start statewide early childhood academic degree and professional/career development model that supports the Head Start Reauthorization Act degree requirements for Head Start teachers/staff. This initiative builds on the established Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance (TECTA) model. The academic coursework and clinic practicum prepare students for CDA (Child Development Associate) assessment and credentialing. The major is not limited to Head Start personnel but is open to all persons wishing to gain professional expertise in childcare from infant to children in the third grade. The Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded.

NURSING MAJOR

Motlow State Community College offers a nursing major in a program leading to the Associate of Applied Science Degree. Upon completion of the program, graduates who are eligible, per criteria of the Tennessee Board of Nursing, may write the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) (formerly titled State Board Test Pool Examination) for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Eligibility is based upon graduation from an approved nursing school, payment of required fees, satisfactory completion of required application forms, and no evidence of reasons (for example, a criminal record) for the Board of Nursing to refuse to allow writing of the exam.

PROFESSIONAL STUDIES MAJOR /REGENTS ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAM

Motlow College, in conjunction with the other Tennessee Board of Regents’ (TBR) colleges and universities, is a participant in the Regents Online Degree Program (RODP). The mission and purpose of the program is to improve access to high-quality, affordable, student-centered learning opportunities through the use of technology. The RODP allows students to earn a college degree entirely online. Courses offered as part of the RODP are offered and conducted by the different colleges and universities within the TBR system, and consequently, maintain the same content and rigor as all other college courses. All RODP courses are taught online (Internet) in an interactive, asynchronous format. This allows students to pursue a college degree without having to attend traditional on-campus classroom instruction.

RODP courses are open to all Motlow College students. Courses completed as part of the RODP will be reflected as collegiate-level credit on the students’ Motlow transcript. Motlow students who wish to pursue an RODP degree, or who simply wish to complete individual RODP courses as part of their Motlow program of study, can do so by following the same admissions and enrollment procedures as required by any other Motlow program or course. Students can simultaneously be enrolled in RODP and regular on-campus courses, and based on approved articulation agreements, can use specifically designated RODP courses to satisfy certain identified Motlow College program requirements. To determine which RODP course(s) will articulate for which Motlow College course(s), students should contact their academic advisor or the Office of Admissions and Records.

The RODP faculty and staff have been specifically trained in teaching and assessing the needs of online students. Student services such as admissions, registration, advising, library services, bookstore, tutorial services, and other related student support services are also offered online, as is 24-hour, 7 day-a-week technical support for accessing course material and handling computer software and/or hardware problems. Associate degrees offered as part of the RODP are as follows:

• Associate of Arts in General Studies (University Parallel)
• Associate of Science in General Studies (University Parallel)
• Associate of Sciences in General Studies (University Parallel) for Teacher Aides and Paraprofessionals
• Associate of Applied Science in Professional Studies, Concentration in Information Technology
• Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
• Associate of Applied Science in Web Development
• Associate of Applied Science in Certified Internet Web Professional Design

For those desiring to continue their education and acquire a four-year degree, the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are specifically designed to transfer into the following RODP baccalaureate programs:

• Bachelor of Professional Studies with concentrations in Information Technology or Organizational Leadership
• Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies [General Studies/Liberal Studies/University Studies]

For more detailed information about the RODP, to include the individual programs of study, specific course requirements, and individuals to contact for assistance, go to the RODP link on the Motlow College website at www.mscc.edu.

ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN TEACHING

The Associate of Science in Teaching degree has been implemented throughout the Tennessee Board of Regents system to facilitate entry of transfer students from community colleges into university teacher education programs. A common curriculum applicable to all community colleges and acceptable to all TBR universities is prescribed. Admission, retention, and graduation requirements are the same as those published in the Graduation Requirements section of this catalog with the additional requirement that students who qualify for the AST must satisfy the following:

1. Attainment of a cumulative 2.75 grade point average,
2. Successful completion of the PRAXIS I, and
3. Achievement of satisfactory rating on an index of suitability for the teaching profession.

CERTIFICATE OF CREDIT PROGRAMS

A certificate of credit program enables the college to provide a short-term program in a concentrated area to develop specific career skills. Certificate of credit programs are available in microcomputer software applications and early childhood education. Certificate of credit programs are designed for the student who does not intend to transfer to a four-year institution.

In response to special needs of persons in its service area, Motlow College develops special credit courses or identifies special groups of courses designed to meet specific educational objectives without a degree or a certificate of credit. Among these individual courses are emergency medical technology and a cluster of courses identified as the apprenticeship program.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN TRAINING

Emergency Medical Technician training can allow a student to become certified in Tennessee as a Basic Emergency Medical Technician. The training is sanctioned by the Tennessee Department of Public Health, Division of Emergency Medical Service. Upon successful completion of the training, the student is eligible to sit for the certification examination administered by the Division of Emergency Medical Service. Courses have the EMT discipline code. The State of Tennessee requires individuals to be at least eighteen years of age and hold a high school diploma or GED in order to enroll. For information about emergency medical technician training, contact the Dean of Basic and Applied Science and Business. Federal Financial Aid is not available for EMT courses.

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

The apprenticeship program is a group of courses designed to satisfy the 40-semester-credit-hours related studies requirement to obtain the journeyman’s card in the machinists’ trade from the U.S. Department of Labor. Completion of 8,000 hours of an on-the-job training component must be negotiated between the student’s employer and the U.S. Department of Labor. Most of the related studies courses are listed with an IAT discipline code. For information about the apprenticeship program, contact the Dean of Basic and Applied Science and Business.

TECTA (Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance)

Motlow State Community College is part of the Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance, a statewide training system based on the belief that early childhood education personnel need to acquire recognized professional knowledge and skills to provide appropriate care and education for young children. TECTA is approved and sponsored by the Tennessee Board of Regents and funded through Tennessee State University (TSU) by the Department of Human Services (DHS) using federal funds. There are consortia of higher education institutions that serve all ninety-five Tennessee counties. Motlow is part of the consortium with Middle Tennessee State University that acts as the lead institution and TECTA center for Motlow. Classes are held at various Motlow locations. For more information, contact the TECTA Coordinator, MTSU, P.O. Box 106, Murfreesboro, TN 37132; phone 615-904-8318.

INSTITUTIONAL CERTIFICATES

In an effort to assist individuals to develop skills required in professions, or for purposes of continuing education, certain collegiate level courses may be taken in order to obtain an Institution Certificate of Credit. Such certificates are intended to aid professional advancement opportunities and may also be counted toward degree requirements. Specific lists of credit course offerings leading to an Institutional Certificate of Credit may be obtained through the appropriate academic division. Such certificate programs include Homeland Security, Criminal Justice, Accounting, Business Information Systems, Management, Entrepreneurship, Advertising and Design, and Computer-Aided Design/Drafting.

MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (Associate of Applied Science)

Motlow State Community College (MSCC) and Volunteer State Community College (VSCC) have entered into an agreement whereby VSCC will offer its two-year Associate of Applied Science degree program in Medical Laboratory Technology to MSCC students. Students involved in this program may be concurrently enrolled at MSCC and VSCC, with all general education courses being completed at MSCC. The VSCC program of study is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS, 8410 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 670, Chicago, IL 60631-3451 www.naacls.org (773-714-8880). The joint MLT program is designed to provide general education core, sciences, and clinical laboratory education courses necessary for career entry preparation. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform laboratory tests used to diagnose and treat disease and maintain health. Program graduates are eligible to take national certification examinations and make application for Tennessee Licensure as Medical Laboratory Technicians. For more detailed information about the program, contact Ms. Marian Stewart at MSCC (mstewartr@mscc.edu) or the MLT program director at VSCC.

ADULT COLLEGE EXPRESS

The Adult College Express (ACE) Program is a fast-track program in general studies designed for the highly motivated, independent student focused on completing his or her degree. Upon completion of coursework students earn the Associate of Science degree in General Studies. Classes are held one night each week for 5 weeks and last for 4 hours each night (except 4 hour courses which meet extra evenings) with some additional group study nights. Students only take one ACE class at a time. The program normally takes 24 months to complete (excluding any required developmental studies courses). For more information about this program, contact the Director of the McMinnville Center or the Director of Education on the Moore County Campus.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM OF STUDY

Each student is responsible for selecting an academic program of study at Motlow. Programs are defined in terms of a degree with a major and a concentration or area of emphasis, as applicable, or a certificate of credit. The Associate of Arts degree and the Associate of Science degree are earned with the University Parallel Major for transfer. The Associate of Science in Teaching degree is also earned for transfer. The Associate of Applied Science degree is earned with a selection of a career major. The curriculum requirements for each of the programs of study which are available are outlined in section entitled “Program of Study—Core Curricula”. The student who plans to follow an area of emphasis in the University Parallel Major should secure a copy of the catalog of the institution to which he/she plans to transfer and use it in planning a program of study at Motlow. The selection early in a student’s academic career of a curriculum designed to meet educational objectives will increase the satisfaction the student will realize from his/her educational experiences. Faculty advisors and counselors are prepared to assist the students in program planning and course selection.

PROGRESSION STANDARD FOR COMPLETING THE ENGLISH REQUIREMENT

A first-time college student who is registering as a full-time student (12 or more semester hours) must register for the appropriate English course (basic, developmental, or collegiate) within the full-time load during the first semester of attendance and remain in an English course each semester until the appropriate English requirement is completed.

PROGRESSION STANDARD FOR COMPLETING THE BASIC/DEVELOPMENTAL MATHEMATICS REQUIREMENT

A first-time college student requiring basic or developmental mathematics who is registering as a full-time student (12 or more semester hours) must register for the appropriate basic or developmental mathematics course within the full-time load during the first semester of attendance and remain in a mathematics course each semester until the appropriate basic or developmental mathematics requirement is completed.

STUDENT LOAD

For administrative purposes, an individual is considered to be a full-time student when enrolled for a minimum of twelve (12) semester hours credit. Sixteen (16) to seventeen (17) semester hours is the normal load of a student per semester. Nineteen (19) semester hours is the maximum load which a student may have without approval of the appropriate department chair. The maximum load for one (1) semester which will be approved is twenty-two (22) semester hours. Factors which are considered for approving enrollment for more than nineteen (19) semester hours include the classification of the student, the cumulative grade point average of the student, and the anticipated date of graduation.

STUDENT LOADS FOR SUMMER SEMESTER: The summer semester is composed of three separate, but overlapping, terms. These terms are the full term (FT) and two half terms (1H, 2H). A student may schedule classes in combination of these terms, but credit hours are limited to no more than eight (8) hours during any half term and sixteen (16) hours during the full semester. Sixteen (16) semester hours is the maximum load which a student may take without approval of the appropriate department chair. Similar guidelines are defined for a selection of courses which mix summer terms. The maximum load for summer semester which will be approved is nineteen (19) semester hours.

STUDENT CLASSIFICATION

For administrative purposes, a student is classified as a freshman until the completion of twenty-eight (28) semester hours; after this time, the student is classified as a sophomore. Those not accepted as degree- seeking students or certificate of credit students are classified as special students for credit.

CATALOG SELECTION

Students are allowed to graduate or receive certificates of credit by the requirements of the catalog under which they entered, the catalog in effect when a change of major form is filed, or any subsequent catalog, provided the catalog containing the program being followed is not more than five years old based on the date of completion of graduation requirements. The 2008-2009 Catalog expires and cannot be used for graduation after August 2014.

INTENT TO GRADUATE

Completing the Intent to Graduate process and participating in the graduation ceremony require that the student meet the following criteria:

1. Complete all developmental and Fall 1989 Admissions requirements prior to the spring semester in which he/she plans to participate in the graduation ceremony.
2. Be able to complete all program requirements described in the catalog of record by end of summer semester following the spring semester in which he/she plans to participate in the graduation ceremony.
3. Complete competency examinations. All students are required to take tests designed to measure general education achievement. In addition, some students majoring in career programs may be required to take competency tests applicable to the chosen major for the purpose of evaluation of academic programs. Unless otherwise provided for in an individual program, no minimum score or level of achievement on these tests is required for graduation.
4. Have a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in all collegiate-level courses attempted at the time the Intent to Graduate form is filed.
5. Complete and submit to the Office of Admissions and Records an Intent to Graduate form on or before the November 1 deadline. (These forms are available in the Office of Admissions and Records and division offices.) Intent to Graduate forms for students who fail to complete all requirements by the end of summer term following spring graduation are VOID. Students MUST submit a new Intent to Graduate form prior to the stated deadline immediately prior to their next anticipated date of graduation.
6. Pay the $25.00 graduation fee to the Business Office each time the Intent to Graduate form is filed. This non-refundable fee is required of all students who file an Intent to Graduate form regardless of participation in the graduation ceremony and is payable each time the Intent to Graduate form is submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records.

The graduation ceremony is held at the end of spring semester each year. Students who have completed all degree requirements and those who will complete degree requirements in the summer term of the current year will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. Those who will not complete degree requirements until fall term must wait until the following spring to take part in the graduation ceremony. Transcripts for students who complete degree requirements will be appropriately posted following the term in which the degree requirements are completed.

INTENT TO RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE OF CREDIT

An Intent to Receive a Certificate of Credit form must be completed by November 1 in the fall semester before the certificate of credit is to be awarded in December, May or August of the current academic year. A student may obtain the form in the Office of Admissions and Records or in any division office. The completed form will indicate the certificate of credit to be received, the effective catalog year, and the projected date for completion of all program requirements. The student should verify the required information with the academic advisor and confirm with the advisor that all certificate of credit requirements will be met by the projected date of graduation. The completed form with the signature of the advisor is to be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records by November 1 of the completion year. If a student does not finish the certificate of credit requirements during the year that the Intent form is filed, he/she should contact the Office of Admissions and Records during the term that requirements will be completed.

To earn the Associate of Arts, the Associate of Science, the Associate of Science in Teaching, or the Associate of Applied Science Degree at Motlow State Community College, students must do the following:

1. Complete curriculum requirements for the specific degree and major (and concentration or area of emphasis, if applicable) selected. No course or courses may be used to meet more than one requirement in a given program. These items apply to all programs completed for a degree:
   
   1. Not fewer than sixty (60) semester hours of college-level credit.
   2. A minimum of twenty-five percent (25%) of coursework must be completed in residence at Motlow State Community College.
   3. A cumulative grade point average of not less than 2.00 (“C” average) for the degree program excluding all hours earned in developmental courses.
   4. All DSP course requirements must be met and all high school deficiencies must be removed.

                         To earn the Associate of Science in Teaching Degree at Motlow State Community College, students must meet each of the requirements listed above with the                          additional requirement that students who qualify for the AST must satisfy the following:

1. Attainment of a cumulative 2.75 grade point average,
2. Successful completion of the PRAXIS I, and
3. Achievement of satisfactory rating on an index of suitability for the teaching profession.

2. An Intent to Graduate form should be filed with the Office of Admissions and Records no later than November 1 by anyone who plans to receive a degree in December, May, or August of the current academic year.
3. A Cap and Gown form must be completed, and the $25.00 graduation fee must be paid.
4. All students who plan to receive a degree are expected to participate in graduation exercises held in May of each year. Students who complete requirements by August should plan to participate in graduation the preceding May. Those who will not complete degree requirements until fall term must wait until the following spring to take part in the graduation ceremony. Exceptions to participation in the graduation ceremony must be requested in writing to the Director of Admissions and Records.
5. REQUIRED STUDENT ASSESSMENT AND PROGRAM EVALUATION: all graduating students are required to take the Measure of Academic Proficiency and Progress (MAPP) test designed to measure general education achievement, and graduates of career programs are required to take competency tests applicable to the chosen major for the purpose of evaluation of the career program, as required by public policy. Unless otherwise provided for in any individual program, no minimum score or level of achievement is required for graduation. Participation in testing is required for all graduating students. In order to comply fully with this provision, the student must authorize the release of his or her scores to Motlow College. Individual student scores will be treated as confidential.

CERTIFICATE OF CREDIT COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS

The student who receives a certificate of credit does not participate in graduation exercises. To receive a certificate of credit at Motlow State Community College, students must do the following:

1. All students must complete curriculum requirements for the specific certificate of credit program selected. A cumulative grade point average of not less than 2.00 (“C” average) is required excluding all hours earned in developmental courses.
2. An Intent to Receive a Certificate of Credit form must be filed with the Office of Admissions and Records no later than November 1 if the program is to be completed by May, August, or December of that year.

AWARDING DEGREES OR CERTIFICATES OF CREDIT

When all graduation or certificate of credit requirements have been met by a student, the transcript will be posted to indicate that the degree has been awarded, and a diploma or certificate of credit will be issued. The date of the award will correspond to the term in which the student completed all requirements. Students in degree programs who participate in graduation exercises and subsequently complete all other requirements will receive diplomas following the term in which all requirements are met.

RECEIVING A SECOND ASSOCIATE DEGREE

A second degree will be awarded only when a student has completed a second associate degree of a different designation – Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Science in Teaching, or Associate of Applied Science. The second degree provision applies only to the designation, not to additional majors, concentrations, or areas of emphases. The student will be governed by the provisions of the catalog in effect at the time work toward the second degree is initiated. The $25 graduation fee must be paid for the second degree. The requirement for participating in the graduation ceremony will be waived if the student chooses.

AWARDS AND HONORS

Students graduating with the following cumulative grade point averages will receive the corresponding honor designation on their diplomas: 

DEAN’S LIST

The Dean’s List each semester includes names of full-time students who have a 3.50–4.00 “college only” GPA for the semester.

HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll each semester includes names of full-time students who have a 3.00–3.49 “college only” GPA for the semester.

HONORS PROGRAM

HONORS SCHOLAR PROGRAM

The Honors Scholar Program provides a path to excellence for academically talented students who want to derive maximum benefit from their educational experience. The Honors curriculum helps students achieve their goals through intensive individual and group study and through interaction with other equally qualified students. Any eligible student may take any honors course without committing to the Honors Scholar Program as a whole.

COMPLETING THE HONORS SCHOLAR PROGRAM

Honors students should satisfy the requirements for any Area of Emphasis, graduate with a minimum 3.3 grade point average, and earn eighteen hours from honors courses with at least six in English honors and three hours in Interdisciplinary Studies honors courses.

HONORS COURSES ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Students seeking admission to honors courses are selected by individual honors course faculty and reviewed by the Honors Committee on the basis of past performance as measured by ACT scores, high school records, diagnostic writing samples, previous college-level coursework, and/or college instructor recommendations. Students may be admitted to a course as follows:

1. Students under 21 years of age must present an ACT composite score of 23 or above with documented eligibility for all collegiate level courses and a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
2. Students who are 21 years of age or older must take the English, reading, and mathematics portions of the COMPASS test and score high enough to be exempt from basic or developmental course requirements.
3. Students who have taken collegiate courses in dual and/or joint enrollment arrangements and maintained a 3.0 collegiate average or students who have Advanced Standing credit in English, Advanced Placement credit, or CLEP credit may enter the Honors Scholar Area of Emphasis but will be required to complete the same number of honors hours as any other honors scholar.
4. Students who fail to meet the requirements listed above may still enroll in honors courses upon the recommendation of a faculty member.

After admission to honors course(s) and successful completion of said course(s) with a 3.0 or better, students are eligible for continued enrollment in specific sequential honors courses.

Additional information about the Honors Scholar Program is available in the Languages Department.

No honors courses are offered in the summer term.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS WAIVER AND SUBSTITUTION

When there is sufficient need to change a program of study outlined in the catalog for a student to be able to graduate, a course requirement waiver and/or substitution may be processed. Course waivers and/or substitutions should be determined in conference with the advisor and require the approval of the student’s advisor, faculty from discipline, and the department chair. A form for this approval is available in the office of the appropriate department chair. The completed Course Waiver and Substitution form with necessary signatures is to be submitted to the office of Admissions and Records by the student.

INCOMPLETE COURSE WORK

The “I” for “incomplete” may be assigned by the course instructor, indicating that the student has not completed all course requirements because of illness or other circumstances beyond his/her control, especially those which may occur toward the close of the term. Failure to make up work or to turn in required work on time does not provide a basis for the “I” unless extenuating circumstances noted above exist. The following guidelines apply to removing an “I” from the academic record:

1. The deadline for students to complete and submit required work to the faculty member will be the time established for mid-term examinations in the semester following the term in which the “I” was received. The mid-term examination schedule is given in the class schedule. Students who receive an “I” in the spring semester will observe the schedule for the following fall semester.
2. An “I” in nursing (NET) courses must be removed by the end of the second week of the semester following the term in which the “I” was received, including summer term.
3. When required work has been submitted to the faculty member no later than one week after the deadline for removing an “I,” the faculty member will file a completed Change of Grade form in the Office of Admissions and Records. The grade change will be updated on the student file prior to semester grade processing.
4. Under extenuating circumstances, a faculty member can request, by memorandum to the Director of Admissions and Records, an extension of the “I” without punitive effects on the student’s cumulative grade point average. The extension will extend to the next semester’s deadline.
5. If a faculty member does not submit a completed Change of Grade form or a request for an extension of an “I,” the “I” will be replaced by an “F” to be computed into the grade point average.
6. Students who receive an “I” for basic or developmental level coursework may not enroll in the next higher level course in the sequence until the “I” is removed from the transcript.

REPEATING A COURSE

A student may repeat a previously taken course in which he or she received a final grade of “C” or lower. Students may be permitted to repeat a course in which a grade of B or higher was earned only with the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs as an exception to the policy. A request for approval to repeat a course in which a “B” or higher was made should be submitted in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs prior to the term during which the course is to be repeated. A request must include the reasons for the request. A written response to the request will be sent to the student.

The grade received in repeating a course (other than “NC,” or “W”) is credited in the semester in which the course was repeated. To be effective in the cumulative grade point average (GPA) for the current term, a Repeat Form (for all courses being repeated) must be filed in the Office of Admissions and Records no later than three weeks prior to the end of the semester in which the course is being repeated. Repeating a course will affect a student’s academic record in the following ways:

1. Only the last grade received in repeating a course will be used in computing the cumulative grade point average provided that the number of repeats of any single course does not exceed two (three attempts). In the event a student repeats a course more than twice, the grade received in the third attempt and all subsequent attempts will be used in computing the cumulative grade point average.
2. The hours attempted in repeating a course are subtracted from the total hours attempted before dividing to compute the cumulative grade point average provided the number of repeats of any single course does not exceed two (three attempts). In the event a student repeats a course more than twice, the hours attempted in the third attempt and all subsequent attempts will be included in the total hours attempted before dividing to compute the cumulative grade point average.
3. The credit hours earned for a course will be included only one time in the cumulative hours earned no matter how many times the course is completed.
4. All grades received for a course will remain on a student’s transcript. A notation is added to indicate that the course has been repeated. The information showing the grade received when the course was repeated is given in the report for the semester during which the course was re-repeated. If a course is repeated and no completed Repeat Form is submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records, appropriate reductions in cumulative hours earned will be made when the academic record is revised. In order to keep academic records up to date and avoid inflating cumulative hours earned, Repeat Forms should be completed and submitted at the time of registration for a course being repeated.

GRADING SYSTEM

The following grading system is used at Motlow State Community College: 

*This grade is not used for any basic or developmental studies, nor does it remove any A89 deficiency.
**The FA grade indicates that the student earned a grade of F (failing) and accumulated excessive absences (non-school-related absences totaling more than fifteen percent (15%) of the total number of times a class meets during the semester).

Other markings which may appear on the grade report and/or transcript are as follows: 

*This grade applies only to developmental studies courses.

The “I” indicates that a student has not completed all course requirements because of illness or other circumstances beyond his or her control, especially those which may occur toward the close of the term. Failure to make up work or to turn in required work on time does not provide a basis for the “I” unless extenuating circumstances noted above exist. The “I” is not included in computing the grade point average in the semester for which it is assigned. An incomplete may be removed during the succeeding semester excluding summer, or the “I” may be extended by the faculty member. If the “I” is not removed or extended, a grade of “F” is automatically entered.

An “I” in nursing (NET) courses must be removed by the end of the second week of the semester following the term in which the “I” was received, including summer term.

An In Progress (IP) grade may be assigned to a student’s grade report when all of the following exist: a student 1) has not previously been assigned an “IP” grade in the course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 2) has not withdrawn (W) from the college or course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 3) has not previously failed the course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 4) has put forth his or her best effort to pass the course, 5) has a strong likelihood of passing the course during the next attempt, and 6) has attended at least 85% of t he class meetings throughout the term. Students who receive an “IP” must repeat the course in the following semester or the “IP” converts to an “F.” Students who receive an “IP” in the spring semester will observe the schedule for the following fall semester.

The “AU” is used when a student requests audit status for a course and receives no credit and no grade.

The grades “P” and “F” are used for courses with the Pass/Fail grading option. The “P” is used when a student receives credit for a course by challenge examination. The “P” is not used in computing the grade point average. When a “P” is assigned, the hours earned are increased, but total hours attempted and quality points earned are not affected. The “F” is used in computing the grade point average by including the number of hours of the course in the hours attempted total and including zero grade points in the grade points earned.

The “S” is used only for reporting a general interest community service course and indicates successful completion of that course and receipt of Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

The “W” is used when a student drops a class or withdraws from the college after the last day to be deleted from the roll and no later than ten weeks into the semester. The “W” is not used in computing the grade point average. The “W” has is no effect on quality hours attempted (even though a “W” does constitute a course attempt in Basic/Developmental Studies classes), hours earned, or quality points earned.

APPEAL OF A GRADE

The grade assigned by the course instructor is final unless there is evidence that an error has occurred. The student shall assume the burden of proof with respect to the allegation. The student has thirty (30) calendar days from the end of the term during which the grade was earned to initiate the appeal.

Steps for Appeal of a Grade:

1. Student addresses concern directly with course instructor.
2. In the absence of a successful resolution, the student may submit an appeal to the appropriate dean. The appeal should include a written statement identifying the element(s) of concern; justification for appeal; and attachment of any and/or all supporting rationale.
3. The dean will review the appeal, perform whatever investigation is deemed necessary, and make a decision.
4. Should the student after following the above procedure feel that circumstances warrant further appeal, the student may appeal in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
5. The Vice President for Academic Affairs will review the merits of the case, and will notify the student, the instructor, and the dean in writing of the response of the appeal. The decision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs is final.

ACADEMIC FRESH START

The Academic Fresh Start Program is available to any person who has not been enrolled in a college or university for a period of four (4) years, who makes application for the Academic Fresh Start Program during the first 15 collegiate level semester hours of enrollment as a degree-seeking student, and who attains a cumulative GPA of 2.000 by the time the fifteen (15) collegiate hours are earned. The Academic Fresh Start disregards grades on all prior credit coursework except credits earned to satisfy COMPASS requirements if the Academic Fresh Start is approved. In order to utilize this option, the student must submit a request in writing to the Director of Admissions and Records to be submitted to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The earlier coursework will not count toward meeting requirements for graduation but will appear on the student’s transcript.

A student who plans to transfer to another institution should contact that institution to determine the impact of Academic Fresh Start prior to implementing the program at Motlow. If assistance is needed, the student should contact the Office of Admissions and Records.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA) / QUALITY POINT AVERAGE (QPA)

The academic standing of a student is expressed in terms of a cumulative grade point average (CGPA). When a course is completed, the number of grade points earned is determined by multiplying the credit hours earned for that course by the grade points assigned to the letter grade earned. The cumulative grade point average is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours which the student attempted except for credit hours in courses from which the student withdraws in good standing or for courses in which the student received grades which are not considered when determining the CGPA. Credit hours and grades which are not used in computing the CGPA include (1) hours attempted in a repeated course, provided the number of repeats does not exceed two (see section entitled “Repeating A Course”), (2) hours attempted in a course for which the grade “I” is in effect, and (3) hours attempted in a course for which the grade “IP” is in effect.

Assigned grade point values per letter grade are: A - 4 points, B - 3 points, C - 2 points, D - 1 point, and F - 0 points.

Example:

With the exclusions described above, two pairs of grade point averages are calculated: (1) a “college only” GPA–a cumulative GPA and term GPA comprised only of hours taken in courses numbered 1000 and above and (2) a “combined” GPA–a cumulative GPA and term GPA comprised of both hours taken in courses numbered 1000 and above and hours taken in Basic/Developmental courses. Each of these averages is used in the following manner:

The “college only” GPA is used in

1. calculating the required cumulative GPA for graduation,
2. determining graduation honors,
3. determining term honors, and
4. academic fresh start.

The “combined” GPA is used in

1. determining suspension and probation,
2. determining financial aid eligibility,
3. determining athletic eligibility.
    

ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

The minimum cumulative “college only” grade point average required to achieve the associate degree or receive a certificate of credit is 2.0.

In order to establish a measure of academic standing, a table of minimum retention standards has been established. The table below describes minimum retention standards in terms of the minimum cumulative “combined” grade point average required for the credit hours attempted and is designed to serve as a guide to students who fall below the 2.00 cumulative “combined” grade point average.

A student who fails during any term to attain a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the level indicated in the table for the credit hours attempted will be placed on academic probation for the subsequent term. At the end of the next term of enrollment, a student on academic probation who has failed to attain either a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the cumulative standard given in the table or a 2.00 “combined” grade point average for that term will be suspended. 

CERTIFICATE OF CREDIT PROGRAMS

The minimum cumulative “college only” grade point average required to receive a Certificate of Credit is 2.0. The table below describes minimum retention standards for Certificate of Credit programs in terms of the minimum cumulative “combined” grade point average required for credit hours attempted.

A student who fails during any term to attain a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the level indicated in the table for the credit hours attempted will be placed on academic probation for the subsequent term. At the end of the next term of enrollment, a student on academic probation who has failed to attain either a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the cumulative standard given in the table or a 2.0 “combined” grade point average for that term will be suspended. 

PROBATION AND SUSPENSION

A student who fails during any term to attain a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the level indicated in the table for the credit hours attempted will be placed on academic probation for the subsequent term. At the end of the next term of enrollment, a student on academic probation who has failed to attain either a cumulative “combined” grade point average at or above the cumulative standard given in the table or a 2.00 “combined” grade point average for that term will be suspended.

The period of academic suspension is as follows: first suspension – one semester; second and subsequent suspensions – one calendar year. A student who is suspended for the first time at the end of the spring term will not be readmitted to the following summer or fall terms.

A student who is (enrolled) on academic probation and attains a 2.00 “combined” grade point average in the term of the probation will continue to be enrolled on academic probation until attaining a cumulative “combined” graded point average at or above the standard given in the table.

Transfer students are subject to Motlow retention standards for admission or readmission to Motlow. A transfer student must be eligible to re-enter the school from which he/she is transferring. A transfer student whose cumulative grade point average at the time of entry into Motlow is below the Motlow cumulative standard for the semester hours attempted will enter on a probationary basis.

Students who are being admitted or readmitted to Motlow after having been suspended will enter on a probationary basis.

APPEAL OF ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

A student who is suspended from Motlow College or another institution for academic reasons may appeal his or her suspension to the Student Affairs Committee if he or she feels there are extenuating circumstances or hardships which have contributed to his or her suspension. A student who is allowed to re-enter college through this appeal process may be advised to reduce his or her load, repeat certain courses, or change program of study. The student will continue on academic probation.

The student appealing academic suspension must contact the Office of Student Affairs located in the Ingram Administration Building. The student should request a suspension appeal form from the Office of Student Affairs, complete the form as indicated, and return it with a copy of his/her college transcript to the Vice President for Student Affairs prior to the day scheduled for hearing appeals. Appeals are heard by the Student Affairs Committee; decisions of the Committee are final.

The Vice President for Student Affairs has the authority to remove suspension status for students when recommended by the Student Affairs Committee.

ACADEMIC SCHEDULE

Motlow State Community College operates on the semester system. There are three academic semesters: fall, spring, and summer. The projected calendar for each term of the academic year appears at the front of this catalog. The calendar for each term is confirmed in the Schedule of Classes when published. Credit granted for each course generally corresponds to the number of hours (50 minutes lecture time = 1 class hour) a class meets each week. Activities such as laboratory courses and physical education courses may require more than one hour for each credit hour.

CLASS SCHEDULE AND SCHEDULE ADDENDUM

Prior to the beginning of each semester, a class schedule is published online at www.mscc.edu/schedules.html. Courses in the schedule are listed by a department code, a course number, a call number, course description, room number, days of the week the class meets, period or time of day, the credit for each course, and the instructor assigned to the course.

Each course has a separate number. Students should attempt to identify the discipline code, course number, and call number when registering or when communicating with college personnel about a course.

Changes in the Schedule of Classes may occur between the publication of the schedule and the opening of the semester. These changes are reflected online, in WEBWAY listing for students and communicated to advisors as they occur. Students should check with their advisors or appropriate dean for schedule changes and updates.

CLASS CANCELLATION

Any class listed in the curriculum may be discontinued by the college. The right is reserved to cancel any class scheduled for a given semester when the number enrolled is considered insufficient. Other factors which may contribute to the cancellation of a class include the availability of qualified instructors and the availability of appropriate facilities.

When a class is canceled students may withdraw via the web and are encouraged to contact their advisors regarding alternate course selections.

DISCIPLINE CODES

Attention to the symbols and abbreviations below may help in understanding class schedules as well as the catalog. 

DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES PROGRAM (DSP)

In 1985, all Tennessee Board of Regents universities, colleges, and technology centers implemented the Developmental Studies Program as a condition for enrollment. All policies and procedures for assessment and placement under this program have been implemented at Motlow State Community College along with a full complement of developmental courses. The purpose of this program is threefold: (1) identify students who are underprepared for college-level studies, (2) provide programs of instruction designed to remove academic deficiencies, and (3) prepare students for entry into the college-level curriculum.

DSP ASSESSMENT AND PLACEMENT PROCEDURES

The provisions for assessment and placement apply to all degree-seeking applicants, some returning/re-admit students, and special students for credit. Additionally, other students enrolling in English or mathematics for the first time are subject to assessment/placement requirements in the applicable subject area. Listed below are applicant categories subject to assessment/placement provisions:

1. Applicants who are under twenty-one (21) years of age must take the American College Test (ACT). Applicants whose ACT sub-scores in English, mathematics, and reading are 19 or greater may enroll in college-level curriculum without further assessment/placement provided they have met high school criteria under the 1989 Admissions Requirements. (See section entitled “Removing Unit Deficiencies” for information on removing high school unit deficiencies in English and mathematics.). Applicants whose ACT sub-scores in English, mathematics, or reading are eighteen (18) or lower will be placed in basic or developmental courses according to the placement chart shown below. Students who place into two or more developmental subject areas must also complete DSPS 0800, Learning Strategies, within their first twelve (12) credit hours of enrollment. 

1. Students who are placed by ACT sub-scores may “challenge” in an attempt to improve their placement by taking one or more portions of the COMPASS test. The highest score on all valid assessments is used for placement into college-level or developmental courses.
2. Applicants who are under twenty-one (21) years of age must take the American College Test (ACT). Only valid ACT scores that are on file in the Office of Admissions and Records at the time of admission will be considered. Valid ACT/Sat scores are those earned within three years prior to the first day of a student’s entering term.
3. Applicants who are twenty-one (21) years of age or older as of the first day of classes of their entering term and who seek regular admission must take all portions of the COMPASS test. Although students 21 years of age or older are not required to present ACT or SAT scores, those who elect to submit valid scores will be assessed according to the regulations applying to students under twenty-one (21) years of age. Valid ACT/SAT scores are those earned within three years prior to the first day of a student’s entering term. Performance on the COMPASS test results in placement in either the college-level curriculum, developmental studies, or a combination of these. Students who place into two or more developmental subject areas must also complete DSPS 0800, Learning Strategies, within their first twelve (12) hours of enrollment. Students who are initially places by COMPASS scores may have one opportunity to “challenge” in an attempt to improve their placement by retaking one or more parts of the COMPASS test. The highest score on all valid test is used to determine final placement into college-level or developmental courses.
4. Returning or readmit students and transfer students who have not previously been assessed or who have not earned credit in college-level English composition or college-level, algebra-based mathematics must take the appropriate portion(s) of the COMPASS test before they can enroll unless they are under twenty-one (21) years of age and otherwise exempt by ACT scores. Performance on the COMPASS test results in placement in either a college-level course, a developmental course, or a basic course.
5. Special Students for Credit who accrue twelve (12) or more semester hours or who plan to enroll in English or mathematics for the first time must take the appropriate portion of the COMPASS test before enrolling. Performance on the COMPASS test results in placement in either a college-level course, a developmental course, or a basic course.
6. Applicants who graduated from high school in spring 1989 or after and who lack required high school credits in English or mathematics must take the appropriate portions of the COMPASS test and enroll in the course(s) prescribed by the test results or provide a valid ACT with a composite score of twenty-six (26) or greater (See section entitled “Undergraduate Admissions Requirements.”).
7. Applicants seeking the Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree who have the GED credential must take all portions of the COMPASS test to remove English and math high school unit deficiencies. Performance on the COMPASS test results in placement in either a college-level course, a developmental course, or a basic course.

Students who gain regular admission to the college without assessment and who later prove to be underprepared for college-level work will be referred to the DSP coordinator for assessment in the appropriate subject area. These students must enroll in the course(s) appropriate to their assessment results. Students who are enrolled in a college-level course for which they lack prerequisite skills must drop that course and enroll in the appropriate developmental or basic course. Students who have previously taken the AAPP test must take the COMPASS test (or portions of it) if their previous test scores are three or more years old and if the students have not completed their placement requirements at the admitting institution or any other TBR institution. Referred students must comply with all operational guidelines relevant to their progression through the Developmental Studies Program.

Exceptions to mandatory assessment and placement may be granted by the DSP coordinator in individual cases in which a student’s level of readiness for college-level course(s) is not considered detrimental to his/her academic progression. Such exceptions to mandatory assessment/placement will be permitted only after thorough evaluation of student records and documented performance. All exceptions will be adequately documented by the DSP coordinator.

DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES PROGRAM TEST: COMPASS

In fall 1999, the Developmental Studies Program implemented the COMPASS test to assess students’ readiness for college-level work. COMPASS is a computer testing system which assesses students to determine their academic readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics. Interactive response software is designed to determine academic readiness and to record student results in institutional records for appropriate placement. The reading skills portion of the COMPASS is designed to measure the student’s reading comprehension. This component assesses the student’s ability to recognize appropriate vocabulary, to isolate main ideas, locate explicit textual information, and draw inferences. This test also provides a reader profile to assist instructional programming. The writing skills component assesses the student’s knowledge of mechanics, language, and rhetorical skills. The mathematics portion measures the student’s ability to solve problems in pre-algebra/numeric skills, elementary algebra, and intermediate algebra.

The COMPASS is not a pass/fail test, and test results do not determine whether or not a student is admitted to the college. Instead, test results determine which courses are best suited to the student’s level of readiness. Each test component has a separate score which determines student placement. Students who transfer to other Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) institutions may have their test results forwarded. Additionally, test results are included in student transfer information sent to other TBR institutions.

The COMPASS test is given free of charge to students for whom COMPASS test scores provide initial placement. Students who feel their COMPASS test results have placed them incorrectly may have one opportunity to challenge their initial placement scores by retaking the entire COMPASS test or portions of it. Students who used ACT/SAT scores for their initial placement may also take the COMPASS test to challenge their placement. Challenge test scores replace the initial placement scores; students must comply with placement from the more recent test scores. The highest score on all valid assessments is used to determine final placement into college-level or developmental courses. Students may not challenge the test or any portion of the test after they have enrolled in a DSP course or earned a letter grade in a DSP course. Exceptions to these guidelines must be approved by the DSP coordinator. The college charges $10 to challenge each portion of the test or $20 to challenge the entire test. Fees are payable at the time the challenge test is taken.

The COMPASS test is given regularly on the Motlow campuses in Moore County, Fayetteville, McMinnville, and Smyrna. Special test accommodations are available for students who need them. The Counseling and Testing Center should be contacted for information about the placement tests, test dates, and special test accommodations.

DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES

The Developmental Studies Program includes developmental courses in writing, mathematics, and reading, and a developmental course in learning strategies. These courses are designed to provide learning experiences which help students prepare for success in their college-level courses.

DEVELOPMENTAL COURSES

Applicants who are placed in developmental studies will be admitted to the college on a controlled-admission basis. Applicants who are found to be deficient in a basic academic competency at the level of developmental studies may not enroll in a regular college-level course which requires that competency as a prerequisite until the exit criteria of the appropriate developmental studies course have been met. Developmental courses may not be taken for audit. (See section entitled “Developmental Curriculum”)

POLICIES OF DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES PROGRAM

DSP Courses as Prerequisites. Students who need DSP courses must enroll in and satisfactorily complete these courses during their initial terms of enrollment. Students may concurrently enroll in college-level courses that do not require prerequisite DSP skills for completion.

Student Participation. Student participation in DSP courses is mandatory. Instructors may impose grade penalties at their discretion for student absence or lack of participation. Excessive absences will be reported to the Vice President for Student Affairs for review and subsequent action. The only exceptions to this policy are extenuating circumstances which must be verified by the DSP coordinator.

Student Failure. A grade of “C” or higher is necessary for students to successfully complete basic or developmental courses. Students who earn a grade lower than “C” in a basic or developmental course must repeat the course before enrolling in a higher-level course.

Credit Hours and Grades Earned in Developmental Courses. Credit hours earned in developmental courses may not be used to meet any degree requirement. These credits are institutional credit only and become “add-on” hours. The grades earned in developmental courses become part of the academic record and will be used in determining semester GPA and cumulative GPA for retention, probation, and suspension purposes, as well as eligibility for financial aid and athletics; but these grades will not be used when determining eligibility for the honor roll, dean’s list, or graduation honors.

Grade Assignments. Letter grades assigned to developmental courses are as follows: A, B, C, F, FA, I (Incomplete), IP (In Progress) and W (Withdrawal). (See Student Failure above.) A grade of Incomplete (I) is awarded only under extenuating circumstances. Students who receive an “I” in a developmental course may not enroll in the next higher-level course in the sequence until the “I” is removed from the transcript. An In Progress (IP) grade may be assigned to a student’s grade report when all of the following exist: a student 1) has not previously been assigned an “IP” grade in the course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 2) has not withdrawn (W) from the college or course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 3) has not previously failed the course for which the “IP” grade is being considered, 4) has put forth his or her best effort to pass the course, 5) has a strong likelihood of passing the course during the next attempt, and 6) has attended at least 85% of the class meetings throughout the term. Students who receive an “IP” must repeat the course in the following semester or the “IP” converts to an “F.” Students who receive an “IP” in the spring semester will observe the schedule for the following fall semester. Students are not permitted to audit developmental courses.

Prohibition Against Placement in Basic or Developmental Courses Without Assessment. Students may not enroll in basic or developmental courses unless they have been assessed and placed according to their test results. Exceptions must be approved by the DSP coordinator.

Student Appeal of Placement. Students may appeal placement if, in the judgment of the DSP coordinator, placement results are inconsistent with student performance or other diagnostic test results. Students’ placement may be changed holistically according to the coordinator’s determination in consultation with faculty. For students admitted with high school unit deficiencies in English and mathematics, the DSP coordinator may re-evaluate initial placements and correct placements within DSP through alternate placement practices when such corrections are warranted. Students cannot be holistically placed out of DSP into the college-level curriculum.

Transfer of Credit of Basic/Developmental Courses. Credits earned in developmental courses at other Tennessee Board of Regents institutions are normally accepted. Motlow reserves the right to place transferring students who have not completed their basic or developmental requirements into courses commensurate with their level of progression.

Follow-up on Students Completing the Developmental Studies Program. Files on all students who undergo placement assessment and enroll in any basic or developmental course are maintained for as long as students are enrolled in college or for six (6) years.

INTERINSTITUTIONAL ARTICULATION

The Tennessee Board of Regents has established guidelines to provide for collegiate between community colleges and universities in the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. The guidelines are intended to promote the orderly progress of students who transfer from the community colleges to baccalaureate degree programs in the universities, while protecting the integrity of the university and community college programs.

The contact person at Motlow State Community College for advisement and for interinstitutional articulation is the Coordinator of Academic Services. Applications, catalogs, and course equivalency information from many Tennessee colleges and universities are available in the Admissions and Records and Advisement offices. Faculty advisors also have information to assist students in making decisions related to academic programs of study designed to transfer.

The programs designed for transfer are identified under the University Parallel Major section of the catalog with areas of emphases. Career technology programs and certificate of credit programs are designed for students who do not intend to transfer to a baccalaureate degree program. This information is indicated for each of the career programs.

When a student has satisfactorily completed an associate degree designed for transfer to a university in the Tennessee Board of Regents System, with an area of emphasis which corresponds to the degree major to be pursued at the university, the university shall grant credit toward completion of the baccalaureate degree for all courses completed for the associate degree, subject to the provisions of the next paragraph, provided that credit need not be granted for any course which would not be acceptable by the university for its native students. When a student has been awarded an associate degree not designed for transfer purposes, each university shall accept those level one (freshman and sophomore) courses completed at a community college which have been determined to be equivalent to level one courses offered by the university, as creditable toward completion of relevant requirements for degree programs at the university, to the same extent that the courses would be creditable toward completion of the degree programs by the university’s native students with the same degree major.

There shall be no limit to the number of credits transferred from a community college to a university within the System. However, the application of these credits to meet degree requirements will vary according to the degree sought, and transferring students must meet the requirements for level two work and residency at the university.

Transfer students shall have the same privileges of catalog options as native students at the receiving institution, i.e., the option of complying with the catalog for the transfer student’s freshman year to the extent that this privilege is provided for native students.