Glossary of College Terms

A Term Class – A Course that starts at the beginning of the semester and runs for ½ of the semester or 8 weeks.

Academic Advising Center –

Academic Dishonesty – Academic work that is not one’s own. Academic dishonesty may include plagiarism, intentionally falsifying information, pretending to be someone else when taking a test, paying someone to complete work on your behalf or accepting money from someone else to complete work lying about why academic work was not completed timely.

Academic Progress- All colleges require students to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) to remain in school.

Academic Warning- A student whose semester grade point average (GPA) falls below the minimum described above will be place on academic warning and will be restricted to 12 semester credits at the next registration. A warning will be noted on the student’s grade report.

Academic Probation–A student enrolled in degree, diploma, or certificate programs are expected to maintain satisfactory progress toward the completion of requirements. Since a 2.0 grade point average is required for graduation in all programs, students are expected to maintain upward progress toward this average to be considered in good academic standing. For purposes of determining academic progress, grade point averages are based on final grades received. To be considered making minimum acade4mic progress toward successful completion, students must maintain the following minimum grade point average in relation to the number of credit hours earned:

Students failing to maintain the average shown will be placed on academic probation and will remain on probation until student’s cumulative GPA reaches the standards of progress listed. However, if after one academic year the student is not demonstration satisfactory progress, the student will e placed on Academic Suspension. The Director of Records and Registration will notify students by letter of probationary status and will advise those students to make an appointment with their academic advisor. The advisor will explore various options with students, including the following:

1. Reduction of course load;
2. Referral to Student Services for counseling;
3. Tutoring assistance;
4. Attending seminars on effective study techniques;
5. Guidance into another program;
6. Enrolling in additional preparatory courses; and/or
7. Reduction of non-scholastic activities

Academic Success Center –The Academic Success Center, located in Moore Hall, specials in free individualized instruction. The open lab environment enables staff to serve students with varying educational purposes and levels of academic competencies. Curriculum students may be assigned work to be completed in the Center or they may come on their own to receive individual instruction in subjects such as Math and English. Computers are available for completion of assignments. A computer tutor is available on a limited basis to provide assistance. In additional to serving curriculum students, the Academic Success Center is open to adults in the community who wish to prepare for college admissions. Professional tutors are available during the hours posted each semester. Students may also request peer tutoring sessions, which are scheduled based on tutor availability.

Academic Suspension–A student who fails to maintain the minimum grade point average outlined below or who has not demonstrated satisfactory progress for one academic year will be subject to a period of academic suspension equal to one calendar year. Credit hours earned include only those courses for which grades of A, B, C, D, or F are assigned. Suspended students seeking readmission must petition the Director of Records and Registration’s Office at least 30 days prior to the beginning of the semester for which readmission is sought. Returning student must also receive academic counseling prior to reentrance.

Accreditation- A status awarded by a professional body with an interest in maintaining standards for its members.  For example, Western Piedmont Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the associate degree.  Western Piedmont Community College accepts transfer credits from institutions accredited by a regional accrediting body.

ACT and SAT-   These letters are acronyms for the American College Test and the Scholastic Aptitude Test.  The two tests are designed to measure a student’s level of knowledge in basic areas as math, science, English, and social studies.  Colleges may require the results  of either the ACT or SAT before before granting admission,

Add/Drop- The period of time at the beginning of each term when schedules can be adjusted without penalty.  The length of the add/drop period varies by class and is determined by the number of instructional weeks.

Adjunct- Adjunct faculty shall mean any instructor teaching courses whose compensation in salary and/or fringe benefits is not equal to the compensation received by full-time contractual faculty.  Part-time is considered synonymous with adjunct.

Advisor- Your academic advisor will help you choose the correct courses, review the course requirements in the program you have chosen to pursue, and help you with any academic problems you may encounter.  At some institutions, faculty as part of their job duties conduct academic advisement.  Other institutions may designate specific staff as academic counselors.  Advisors help select classes, plan course schedules, and answer questions about course credits.

Alumni- People who have graduated from the college.  At Western Piedmont Community College, that means everyone with a degree, certificate, and/or diploma or who has completed 24 or more curriculum credit hours and ins not a current student.

Application/Acceptance/Admission- The process by which a prospective students submits the required forms and credentials to his/her chosen institution.  Application criteria may include one or more of the following: previous academic records, test scores, interviews, recommendations, and other information provided by the applicant.  Depending on the application requirements of a particular college, the student can gain acceptance to the institution if the decision to accept the application is positive.  Admissions is the status granted to an applicant who meets the prescribed entrance requirements of the college.  (It must be noted that there is a wide variation nationwide in the Application/Acceptance/Admission policies of higher education institutions.  Check the college catalog for specific requirements of the schools you are considering.)

Articulation Agreement- the process of comparing the content of courses that are transferred between post-secondary institutions.  NC Community Colleges have signed an articulation agreement with the North Carolina University System allowing the transfer of credit between the institutions.  Transferable courses are designated in the course descriptions in the College catalog.  Courses may also transfer to private colleges and universities, students are encouraged to ask the private institution for specific information.

Associate Degree- The Associate Degree is granted upon completion of a program or at least two, but less that four years of full-time equivalent college work.  Associate of Arts (A.A) and Associate of Science (A.S.) degrees are conferred upon students who successfully complete programs designed for transfer to a senior college.  The Associate Degree requires completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours, including general education courses along with courses within a specific program of study, with a cumulative GPS of 2.0 (a “C” average).

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)- The Associate in Applied Science (AAS), or career degree, gives you technical skills for entry-level employment in the workforce.  It is not designated for transfer.  Although the AAS is not considered a transfer degree, agreements may be in place with other institutions that allow smooth transfer of credits.

Audit- A student who does not want to receive credit in a course may, with the approval of the instruction, audit the course as a “visitor.”  A student who audits a course cannot ask or petition the college at a later date to obtain college credit for the audited course.  Fees for auditors are the same as those for students enrolling for credit.  No financial aid or VA benefits can be awarded for an audited course.  The student is required to complete a college application and meet any admissions requirements, including prerequisites for the course.  Students are also expected to attend class, complete assignments, and participate in class activities.  Students may not audit physical education classes.

Award Letter- The notification of financial aid award.  The award letter lists the types and amounts of financial aid the student is eligible for.  To finalize the award package, the student must sign and return the award letter to the Financial Aid office.

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“B” Term – A Course that starts during the second eight (8) weeks of the semester and runs for ½ of the semester or 8 weeks.

Bachelor’s Degree – This is the undergraduate degree offered by four-year colleges and universities. The Bachelor of Arts degree requires that a portion of the student’s studies be dedicated to the arts -literature, language, music, etc. The Bachelor of Science degree requires that a portion of the studies be in the sciences – chemistry, biology, math, etc. The minimum credit hour requirement for a bachelor’s degree is 120 hours.

Blackboard – Blackboard is a Web-based set of Course Tools designed to deliver online learning.

Book Cellar – The College bookstore generally stocks all the books and other materials required in all the courses offered at the institution as well as providing basic sundries and clothing items.

Burke Collegiate Scholar – A competitive program designed to encourage academically able rising sixth graders identified as potential first-generation college students, to complete high school and enroll at WPCC. The students are eligible for full funding for tuition and fees for five consecutive semesters in the event they are not eligible for sufficient Pell grant funding.

Burke Middle College -Burke Middle College (BMC) is a two-year educational program operated by Burke County Public Schools and Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC). Through this program students complete their 11th and 12th grade years of high school on the campus of WPCC, while also working toward a college associate degree. All college courses completed during their enrollment in BMC are completely tuition-free. Students may complete their entire community college degree by the time they graduate high school, thereby giving them a two-year head start on achieving their college and career goals.

Business Office – The Business Office is responsible for all financial transactions of the college, including student accounts for tuition, fees, fines, etc.

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Career Degree (AAS)- The Associate in Applied Science (AAS), or career degree, gives you technical skills for entry-level employment in the workforce. Although the AAS is not considered a transfer degree, agreements may be in place with other institutions that allow smooth transfer of credits.

Career and College Promise- Educational opportunities for eligible high school juniors and seniors to enroll in specific pathways leading to a certificate, diploma, or college degree as well as provide entry level job skills. Tuition for courses in approved pathways will be waived; however, the student is responsible for student fees as well as the cost of books. Interested students should contact their high school counselors and the Director of Enrollment Management for more information.

Catalog- The college catalog provide all types of information parents and students need to know about a school. It lists, for example: the institution’s history and philosophy, policies and procedures, its accreditation status, courses of study, degrees and certificates offered, physical facilities, admission and enrollment procedures, financial aid, student life activities, etc.

Certificate program- an organized series of credit courses, consisting of 8-40 credit hours, which concentrates study in a particular field, though some certificates also include one or more general education courses.

Civic Engagement / Service Learning- Civic Engagement is defined as “individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern. Civic engagement can take many forms, from individual voluntarism to organizational involvement to electoral participation. It can include efforts to directly address an issue, work with others in a community to solve a problem or interact with the institutions of representative democracy” (American Psychological Association). / Service Learning -“Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.” (National Service-learning Clearinghouse) Western Piedmont students may participate in service learning n a variety of classes throughout a number of disciplines. Instructors will indicate that the course has a service learning component and will describe the criteria for successfully completing a service learning project. The service learning component may be required or optional The College may recognize service learners in a number of formal ways during the academic year.

Classes: 

• Clinical: Hands-on learning and/or application of learned course skills
• Lab: Laboratory classes require students to perform certain functions in controlled situations that help them test and understand what is being taught in the lecture.
• Lecture: In lecture classes, students attend class on a regular basis and the instructor lectures on class material.

Code of Conduct- The administration, faculty, staff, and Student Government Association of Western Piedmont Community College believe that self-discipline is an integral part of all students’ education. They also assume that students will maintain standards of conduct appropriate for students; however, in those rare instances when individuals interfere with the rights of others to educational opportunities, the College will maintain order. Please reference the full listing of conduct rules and expectations found in the Student Handbook.

Career and College Promise- Western Piedmont Community College campus offers opportunities for eligible high school juniors and seniors to enroll in community college courses that provide pathways that lead to a certificate, diploma, or college degree as well as provide entry-level job skills. High school students participating in CCP will have the opportunity to earn up to two years of career training or a two-year college degree tuition free.

Consistently Enrolled- Students are considered consistently enrolled unless there is a non-enrollment period of two consecutive semesters. Students will be required to update their program information in Student Record upon their return to WPCC.

Continuing Education- Continuing education is education intended for adult learners, especially those beyond traditional undergraduate college or university age. However, it is not normally considered to include basic instruction such as literacy or GED preparation. Instead, as the term suggests, it is assumed that the student already has an education and is simply continuing it. Included within continuing education are non-degree career training, workforce training, and formal personal enrichment courses (both on-campus and online).

CO-OP Education- Cooperative Education enhances the student’s learning experience by integrating classroom lessons with “real- world” employment. The college and business community cooperate to provide the student work experience in jobs related to his/her major. This employment is arranged around class hours, is normally part-time and may continue each semester the student is enrolled at Western Piedmont Community College.

Cost of Attendance- A total amount of attending the college including tuition and fees, housing, books, supplies, transportation, miscellaneous personal items, loan fees, study abroad costs, dependent care expenses, disability-related expenses and cooperative education program costs.

Co-requisite Courses- Courses that are taken during the same semester. Most co-requisites are recommended; however, some may be required.

Counselor- Counselors assist with career exploration, personal development, academic challenges and short-term personal counseling. They can also refer you to community agencies.

• Career Counselor
• Transfer Counselor

Course Document- The guiding document for an overarching course offered by the College to outline the foundational requirements of a specific course including: course description or overview, required textbook(s), learning objectives, and department guidelines such as attendance and grading policies.

Course Numbers- All courses are identified by numbers usually containing 3 digits, for example Freshman English might be 101. The first digit indicates the class year in which the subject is usually taken. A course number beginning with a “0” indicates that it does not carry credit hours applicable to a degree.

Course Schedule

Credit Hour- A unit of measure that represents an hour of instruction that can be applied to the total number of hours needed for completing the requirements of a degree, diploma, certificate or other formal award. Courses taken in college are usually measured in terms of credit hours. To earn one credit hour, a student must attend a class for one classroom hour (usually 50 minutes) per week for the whole semester (usually 18 weeks). Classes are offered in 1 – 4 credit hour increments and sometimes larger amounts.

Continuing Student-

Current Student- A student currently enrolled this semester at Western Piedmont Community College

Curriculum- A curriculum is a program of courses approved for a particular degree or certificate. To earn a degree or certificate in a specific program, you must complete the curriculum for that program.

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Dean’s List- A category of students in a college or university who achieve high grades during their stay in an academic term or academic year. At Western Piedmont Community College, all students who earn a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in 100-level courses and above, and who achieve a minimum GPA of 3.4 (with no grade lower than a “C”), will be placed on the Dean’s List. All part-time students who earn a minimum of 6-11 semester credit hours in 100- level courses and above, and who achieve a minimum GPA of 3.4 (with no grade lower than a “C”), will also be placed on the Dean’s List.

Degree Audit/Program Evaluation- Degree Audit compares a student’s academic progress to the requirements of any desired academic program accessible through Pioneer Pass.

Degree Plan- A degree plan, curriculum or program plan, is a list of courses and requirements needed for a degree or certificate. Use it to plan your schedule and get approval for financial aid. You can get a copy in the course catalog or in an advising office often associated with AAS degree program.

Degree Requirements- Those requirements prescribed by institutions for completion of a program of study are generally termed degree requirements. Requirements may include a minimum number of hours, required GPA, prerequisite and elective courses within the specified major and/or minor areas of study.

Degrees- Degrees are rewards for the successful completion of a prescribed program of study. There are three basic types of degrees Associate – obtainable at a two year community or junior college; Baccalaureate or Bachelor’s – offered by four-year colleges and universities; and Graduate – obtained after the bachelor’s degree; i.e., Masters or Doctorate.

Department- A department is the basic organizational unit in a higher education institution, and is responsible for the academic functions in a field of study. It may also be used in the broader sense to indicate an administrative or service unit of an institution.

Developmental Courses- These are classes or courses that do not meet the requirements for a certificate or a degree at a given institution. Non-credit courses may serve one of several purposes: to explore new fields of study, increase proficiency in a particular profession, develop potential or enrich life experiences through cultural and/or recreational studies. Classes numbered below 100 level. These classes are not considered in determining a student’s SAP status. Students may take a maximum of 30 developmental credit hours utilizing financial aid.

Diploma program- an organized series of credit courses, consisting of 37-47 credit hours, which may include a few general education courses but mainly concentrates courses in a particular field of study.

Disability Access Office-

Distance Learning-

Division- A division could be several different things: an administrative unit of an institution, usually consisting of more than one department; a unit of an institution based on the year-level of students (i.e., lower and upper division); or a branch of the institution, instructional or not (i.e., the Division of Student Affairs).

Drop- When you drop a course, there is no record on your transcript and there is no charge for the course. You can drop a course without penalty before the end of the add/drop period. An official drop does not appear on a transcript, does not count as an attempt on a class, and grants a 100% refund prior to the time that class begin and a 75% refund of tuition and fees if course is dropped by the identified deadline.

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Educational Talent Search- A federally-funded, academic outreach program facilitated by Western Piedmont Community College that works cooperatively with the Burke County Public Schools to provide identified, eligible participants in grades 6-12 with additional academic and career counseling to ensure post-secondary enrollment and success in school and life.

EFC (Expected Family Contribution)- A formula established by the U. S. Congress calculates the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) or what the family can contribute to education. Western Piedmont Community College determines the student’s financial aid eligibility based on the results of this formula. The formula takes into account the family’s income, assets, number of family members, and number in the household attending college at least half- time. The EFC is based on income from the prior year of enrollment. For example, for the 2009-10 academic year, the students (and parents, if required) 2008 income is considered when calculating the contribution.

Electives- Credit courses of choice which may be taken for credit toward a degree or certificate in any curriculum. They may be chosen from a wide variety of courses.

Enroll/Register- This is the procedure by which students choose classes each semester. It also includes the assessment and collection of fees.

Expulsion- Permanent separation of the college and student.

Extra-Curricular Activities- These are non-classroom activities that can contribute to a well-rounded education. They can include such activities as athletics, clubs, student government, recreational and social organizations, and events.

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Faculty- The faculty is composed of all persons who teach classes for the college.

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)- The federal application that must be completed to receive all federal aid and South Carolina
Lottery. The forms may be completed online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/.

Fees- Fees are additional charges not included in the tuition. Fees may be charged to cover the cost of materials and equipment needed in certain courses, and they may be assessed for student events, programs, and publications.

FERPA- The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Final Exams (Finals)- These exams are usually given during the last week of classes each semester. The type of final administered in a course is left to the discretion of the instructor. Final exams are given on specified dates, which may be different than the regular class time, and are usually listed in each semester’s class schedule.

Financial Aid- Financial Aid is made available from grants, scholarships, loans, North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship and part-time employment from federal, state, institutional, and private sources. Awards from these programs may be combined in an “award package” to meet the cost of education. Financial need, available funds, student classification, academic performance, and sometimes the timeliness of the application determine the types and amounts of aid awarded.

Financial Need: Cost of Attendance (COA)- Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial need

Flagged Account- see Hold

Full-Time Enrollment/Part-Time Enrollment- A full-time student is enrolled in 12 or more credit hours in a semester (full-time status for a summer term is 12 credit hours). A part-time student is enrolled in less than 12 credit hours in a semester.

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Grade Point Average (GPA)- A student’s grade point average is the equivalent of his or her average for curriculum course work. Each letter grade has an equivalent point value: A = 4 points, B = 3 points, C = 2, D = 1 and F = 0. A student may determine the grade points for each course by multiplying the number of points a grade is worth times the number of credits the course carries. Thus, a “B” grade, worth three points, in a three- credit course is worth nine grade points; an “A” grade in the same three-credit course is worth 12 grade points. The grade point average is found by adding the total grade point values for all courses and dividing by the total number of credits attempted during the same period of time.

Grade Appeal- Final course grades are determined by the course instructor in accordance with a grading policy distributed at the beginning of the course; grading is the prerogative of the instructor. Students may appeal a grade received in accordance with outlined procedures outlined fully in the College Catalog. The appeal of a grade must be initiated prior to the end of the next term.

Grant- A monetary award given to a student to help pay college expenses. Grants are usually not repaid by the student.

Grievance- The Student Government Association (SGA) provides for participation in the formulation and application of College policy affecting academic and student affairs with the assistance of the Dean of Student Services. Proposals for changes in policy, regulations, or procedures, which affect the
student body as a whole, are to be directed through the SGA and the Dean of Student Services to appropriate College administrators. Students have the right, individually, to appeal any decision which adversely affects them. The proper procedure for such an appeal is to contact the Dean of Student Services who will advise and assist students in directing appeals to the proper authority. Students who have grievances with other Western Piedmont Community College students which do not involve violations of state, federal or local law or violations of the Student Code of Conduct should direct their concerns to the Dean of Student Services. It is the legal right of all students, and the responsibility of Western Piedmont Community College to ensure, that all grievances are given due process. A formal complaint may be filed any time by students who believe that a personal right has been violated. Grievances may arise over sexual harassment or alleged discrimination on the basis of race, religion, status, sex, age, national origin or handicap. However, all students and faculty members, administrators, or staff members have an obligation to make every effort to resolve problems fairly and informally so that they do not become sources of grievances to be pursued formally through the grievance procedure. If a suitable solution cannot be reached informally through independent means, which may include consultation with staff members in Student Services or with the College’s Affirmative Action Officer, a formal grievance may be initiated by students who wish to appeal a decision by the Dean of Student Services in cases arising from violations of the Student Code of Conduct. A procedure for handling formal complaints is outlined in the Student Handbook.

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Hold/Flagged Account- A hold is placed on a student’s academic record when an outstanding obligation, monetary or material, occurs. The Hold is released when the obligation has been satisfactorily met. Any person who has a Hold placed on their record will not be allowed to register, receive transcripts, or receive any other services from the college until the Hold is released.

Humanities Courses- Humanities courses are classes that cover subjects such as literature, philosophy, language, and the fine arts. Most undergraduate degrees require a certain number of humanities credit hours.

Hybrid classes- A hybrid course is one that combines online learning (accessible from the Web) and face-to-face instruction. The schedule and structure (which include online assignments and discussion forums as well as required labs) can significantly vary from one class to another. These are typically determined by the instructor based upon learning goals, course objectives, content, and available resources. Generally, a course designated by course section numbers in the 30’s.

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Incomplete- The use of the “I” (Incomplete) is restricted to extenuating situations which prevent a student from completing course objectives. It is to be given only with a commitment by the student to remove the deficiency by the end of the following semester (not including summer term). At that time, the “I” can be changed to A, B, C, D, or F. “I” grade cannot be changed to a “W” (withdrawal). If a student does not remove the deficiency by the end of the following semester, the grade will automatically change to “F”. A student with two incompletes in a given semester will ordinarily be expected to take a reduced load until all work is completed satisfactorily. Students will not be allowed to register for a course or courses in which the “Incomplete” course is a prerequisite until the student receives a passing grade for the prerequisite course.

In-state Student- Refers to student tuition classification: According to the NC Community College System, To obtain in-state tuition, a person must 1) Establish legal domicile in NC; AND 2) Maintain that legal domicile for at least 12 months immediately prior to his or her classification as a resident for tuition purposes; AND 3) Establish that his or her presence in the State currently is, and during the requisite 12-month qualifying period was, for purposes of maintaining a bona fide domicile rather than of maintaining a mere temporary residence or abode incident to enrollment in an institution of high education. Otherwise, students not meeting the above criteria, are charged out-of-state tuition. There are some exemptions to the above requirements which can be discussed with the Director of Enrollment Management.

International Student- An applicant who is requesting a student visa (F-1) or transferring from another college under a student visa.

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Loan- Loans are borrowed money that must be repaid.

Loan Counseling- Counseling session provides information about how to manage your student loans, both during and after college. Sessions are required for all borrowers at Western Piedmont Community College and must be completed before loans are certified with the lender.

Letter Grades/Grade Point Averages (GPA)- Most colleges use both letter grades and GPA’s in determining students’ grades. Grades at most colleges are figured using the following method: A’s are worth 4 points, B’s are worth 3 points, C’s are worth 2 points, D’s are worth 1 point, F’s are worth 0 points. To figure a GPA, simply multiply the number of hours a course is worth by the number of points for the letter grade, then add up the totals for each course and divide by the number of credit hours. The result is the grade point average.

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Major/Minor- A major is a student’s chosen field of study. It usually requires the successful completion of a specified number of credit hours. A
minor is designated as a specific number of credit hours in a secondary field of study.

Midterm Exams (Midterms)- During the middle of each semester, instructors may give mid-term exams that test students on the material covered during the first half of the semester. Some classes have only two tests, a mid-term and a final.

Module- a unit of study. At WPCC, a module generally comprises four weeks of study in a particular area.

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New Student- A student who has never been a student at Western Piedmont Community College before.

No Show (NS)- The “NS” No Show will be recorded for students who register for a course and do not attend at least one class meeting prior to the ten=percent point for that course.

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Online Classes- Online classes meet via computer, through an online learning management system, like Blackboard. Online students log in to attend class. There they access course lectures, receive assignments, and correspond with classmates and instructors.

Orientation- Orientation is a valuable resource that provides a variety of information that will help students navigate through college policies and procedures. All new (and some qualifying returning students) students starting in curriculum programs are required to participate in new student orientation prior to enrolling in classes.

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Part-Time Enrollment/Full-Time Enrollment- A full-time student is enrolled in 12 or more credit hours in a semester (full-time status for a summer term is 12 credit hours). A part-time student is enrolled in less than 12 credit hours in a semester.

Phi Theta Kappa-

Placement Testing- Placement tests ensure that you get started in the right classes for your academic background and your program. Taking a class for which you are not prepared could prevent you from successfully moving forward in your college career. If your test scores indicate that you need additional preparation before you enter classes that count toward your program, you may need to take one or more developmental courses.

Plagiarism-

Pioneer Pass- The web-based system that allows students to register, check grades, run program evaluations/degree audits, and see unofficial transcripts.

Prerequisite- This is a condition or requirement that must be met before enrolling in a course.

President’s List- A category of students in a college or university who achieve high grades during their stay in an academic term or academic year.  At Western Piedmont Community College, all students who earn within a semester a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in 100-level courses and above, and who achieve a grade point average of 4.0, will be placed on the President’s List.

Private/Public Institutions- Private and public institutions differ primarily in terms of their source of financial support. Public institutions receive funding from the state or other governmental entities and are administered by public boards. Private institutions rely on income from private donations, from religious or other organizations, and student tuition.

Priority Dates- Priority Dates are the dates by which you should have your file completed in order to get financial aid before the fee-payment deadline.

Program Evaluation- (a.k.a Degree Audit) Outlines a program of study and incorporates all of the course requirements and sub-requirements to complete the degree. Helpful to both students and advisors in guiding the course selection and registration process as well as determining fulfillment towards graduation requirements. Can be completed through Pioneer Pass by students and Advsors. Advisors may also complete the same feature in Datatel by using the PSPR pneumonic.

Promissory Note- The legal, binding document that must be signed by the student borrower prior to loan funds being disbursed to Western Piedmont Community College. The promissory note states the terms and conditions of the loan, including repayment schedule, interest rate, deferment policies, and cancellation provisions.

Purge- The “purge” is the date that registered students with any balance due will be deleted from all classes. Three things can protect you from the purge.

• A completed financial aid file
• A Do Not Purge payment plan
• Full payment of all charges

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Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP)- As defined by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, “the QEP describes a carefully designed and focused course of action that addresses a well-defined topic or issue(s) related to enhancing student learning for an institution.”

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Refunds- Western Piedmont Community College will refund a portion of tuition paid by students who withdraw from courses by specified dates. The schedule of dates, the percentage of tuition eligible to be refunded, and other pertinent policies regarding refunds can be found in Student Services offices at all campuses. The college reserves the right to modify its tuition refund policies as necessary.

Register/Enroll- This is the procedure by which students choose classes each semester. It also includes the assessment and collection of fees.

Registrar- The registrar of an institution is responsible for the maintenance of all academic records and may include such duties as: maintenance of class enrollments, providing statistical information on student enrollment, student eligibility for academic honors, administering probation and retention policies, and verification of the completion of degree requirements for graduation.

Registration- The registration period is the time when students can register for classes to be offered during the upcoming semester.

• Early
• Regular

Registration Hold- A registration hold is automatically placed on each student record prior to each registration period. The hold can only be removed by an academic advisor or registrar after the course scheduling has been discussed.

Returning Student- a.k.a. Readmission – Students who have not attended the College for a period of two semesters and later wish to be readmitted should contact the Director of Enrollment Management. Students should be aware that some programs have specific requirements for readmission. Additionally, some programs limit the number of times students can be readmitted. Students who were suspended due to academic deficiencies may seek readmission after one calendar year. Any student who was suspended due to a violation of the Student Code of Conduct must meet the terms of his/her suspension to be considered for readmission. Former students will not be readmitted until all financial obligations to any program or activity under the adminsi6trative jurisdiction of the College have been satisfied.

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SACS- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)- SAP is required by all programs to ensure that students who are receiving federal and state aid are making measurable progress toward completion of a degree, diploma or certificate program within a reasonable time frame. Performance is measured in the following areas: completion rate, GPA and length of eligibility.

• Completion Rate: Financial Aid recipients are required to complete at least two-thirds (67%) of the credit attempted. Cumulative GPA: Financial Aid recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
• Length of eligibility (150% rule): Financial aid recipients must complete their program of study without having attempted more that 150% of the credit hours required to complete curriculum. Maximum length of eligibility is 180 non-remedial total credits. This limit includes transfer credit earned.

SAP Appeal: Students who fail to meet the standards of satisfactory academic progress as defined in the college catalog and student handbook have the option of submitting an appeal. The financial aid office is able to consider appeals based on illness, separation/divorce, or work-related issues.

• Students who become ineligible due to GPA or completion rate: Submit SAP appeal only if their academic difficulties were a direct result of events beyond their control (i.e. illness, separation/divorce, death, or work related). Note: If the student does not have an appealable situation, the student can take at least 6 non-remedial credit hours during the same semester (pay out of pocket), pass both classes with a 2.0 GPA or better and regain federal aid eligibility the following semester.
• Students who become ineligible due to 150% rule Submit SAP appeal explaining why they have accumulated so many hours beyond their program’s requirements along with a degree evaluation form completed by an academic advisor. Note: If the student completes or has completed a program of study, submit a transcript or degree verifying completion. Students ineligible due to the 150% rule may not regain eligibility by paying out pocket for six credit hours in the same semester.

Schedule of Classes- Colleges prepare a Class Schedule for each semester during the previous semester. With the help of academic advisors and/or faculty members, students make up their own individual class schedules for each semester they are enrolled. Courses are designated in the Class Schedule by course department, course number, time, and days the course meets.

Scholarship- Is a form of educational financial aid that is generally gift money, not expected to be repaid. Scholarships often have their own specific eligibility criteria.

Section Numbers- Each course offered during a semester has an accompanying section number which designates when or how the course is taught.

• 01-29: Traditional, Seated: 100% of instruction is delivered in face-to-face sessions in a seated environment.
• 31-39: Hybrid: Instruction uses a combination of online information delivery and face-to-face class meetings.
• 41-59: Internet: 100% of instruction is delivered online
• 41 –OPT – 59OPT: Internet Courses: Like above Internet courses, but with optional on-campus meetings available.
• 61-69: Courses with irregular meetings times
• A: “A” Term Courses meet during the first six weeks of the full semester
• B: “B” Term Courses meet during the second six weeks of the full semester
• C: Designates Course for Career & College Promise (CCP)
• E: Designates course taught during the evening
• M: Designates “Module” for Developmental Courses
• WB: Web Assisted Courses –Primary delivery is via traditional face-to-face method with a requirement that students have Internet access as supplemental part of the course

Service Learning / Civic Engagement- “Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.” (National Service-learning Clearinghouse) Western Piedmont students may participate in service learning n a variety of classes throughout a number of disciplines. Instructors will indicate that the course has a service learning component and will describe the criteria for successfully completing a service learning project. The service learning component may be required or optional The College may recognize service learners in a number of formal ways during the academic year. Civic Engagement -Civic Engagement is defined as “individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern. Civic engagement can take many forms, from individual voluntarism to organizational involvement to electoral participation. It can include efforts to directly address an issue, work with others in a community to solve a problem or interact with the institutions of representative democracy” (American Psychological Association).

Special Credit Student: A special credit student is defined as one who is enrolled in curriculum credit courses but who is not working toward a degree or diploma.

Student Aid Report (SAR)- A Student Aid Report (SAR) is a document received after the FAFSA is processed. The SAR will list all of the answers provided on the FAFSA. The SAR will contain an individual’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid. The institution will use this number to determine eligibility for financial aid based on the school’s cost of attendance.

Student Activity Fee- All curriculum students, except for North Carolina residents who are 65 years of age or older, and inmates in prison or correctional units are charged an activity fee based upon the number of credits taken. This fee is not refundable.

Student Government Association- The Student Government Association is designed to promote the general welfare of the College in a democratic fashion and to facilitate communication between students, the faculty, and the administration. It includes: Executive Council: President, Vice President, Parliamentarian/Public Information Officer (PIO), Secretary, and Treasurer.

Student Identification Number (I.D.)- A student I.D. number is the unique number assigned to each student at the institution. This number is used often to access their personal account of information. Students may acquire a Student ID Card with their name and photo. Some colleges and universities require students to utilize their photo id’s to access certain buildings and/or services on campus.

Student Services- Activities that contribute to the emotional and physical well-being of the students, as well as to their intellectual, cultural, and social development outside of the context of the institution’s formal instruction program.

Suspension- A temporary separation of the college and student under specified conditions.

Syllabus- The guiding document for each course compiled by individual instructors that outlines the instructor’s expectations for the course and generally includes the course timeline for completion of certain activities or objectives.

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Transcript- The transcript is a permanent academic record. It may show courses taken, grades received, academic status, and honors received. The college will not release the transcript of a student who owes any money to the college. According to the guidelines set by the American Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) and endorsed by the Southern Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers (SACRAO), “An official college transcript is one that you (the receiving institution) have received directly from the issuing college or university. It must bear the college seal, current date and an appropriate signature. Transcripts received that do not meet these requirements should not be considered official and should be routinely rejected for any permanent use.”

• Official
• Unofficial

Transfer Agreements- Western Piedmont Community College has transfer agreements with area colleges and universities to help you transfer. If you follow one of these agreements, you can move from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree without loss of credits or duplication of courses.

Transfer Degree (AA/AS)- Transfer degrees are designed for students who want to complete their first two years of college work and then transfer on to a four-year institution. Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees are the primary transfer degrees.

Transfer of Credits- Some students attend more than one institution during their college career. When they move or transfer from one college to another, they also transfer accumulated credit hours from the former institution to the new one. The new institution determines which courses will apply toward graduation requirements.

Transfer Student- A student entering the reporting institution for the first time but known to have previously attended a post-secondary institution at the same level (e.g., undergraduate, graduate). The student may transfer with or without credit.

Transferable Courses- All transfer courses articulated for successful transfer are designated in the course description with the same italicized sentence describing the course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement for transferability –it will further denote how the course transfers, e.g., as an elective or as a humanities/fine art credit, etc.

Tuition- Tuition is the amount paid for each credit hour of enrollment. Tuition does not include the cost of books, fees, or room and board. Tuition charges vary from college to college and are dependent on such factors as resident or out-of-state status, level of classes enrolled in (lower, upper or graduate division), and whether the institution is publicly or privately financed.

Tutors- A tutor is a person, generally another student, who has completed and/or demonstrated proficiency in a course or subject, and is able to provide instruction to another student. Tutors usually help students better understand course material and make better grades. Tutors are available as a service through the Academic Success Center.

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Undergraduate- An undergraduate is a student who is pursuing a one-, two-, or four-year degree.

University Transfer- The Associate in Arts and the Associate in Science degrees at Western Piedmont Community College enable students to complete the equivalent of their freshman and sophomore years of college in an affordable, flexible, close-to-home situation conducive to college success. Students planning to transfer to a four-year degree are encouraged to meet with advisors to plan their schedules. Individual factors to be considered are scholastic aptitude, career goals and the student’s specific transfer plans.

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Verification- Verification is a process required by federal regulations, used to validate the accuracy of information and data reported on the FAFSA and/or for resolving conflicting information in a student’s financial aid record. Students are randomly selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education or by Western Piedmont Community College, based on certain criteria. Applications selected for verification are indicated by an asterisk (*) next to the EFC number on the Student Aid Report (SAR).

Visiting Student- Any student who is enrolled at a college other than Western Piedmont Community College who would like to take classes at WPCC and transfer the credit back to the college they attended during the school year is a Visiting Student.

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Western Piedmont Foundation- Western Piedmont Foundation, Incorporated, a non-profit organization, was founded to encourage and develop public and private support for Western Piedmont Community College beyond that provided by county, state, and federal funds. Created in 1967, it was among the first fund-raising organizations within the North Carolina Community College System.

Withdrawal- “W” and “IW” – Students may withdraw after the ten percent point of the semester, or after the official refund period of the term, by contacting the instructor of the course, either in person or via email. The instructor will process the withdrawal information through WPCC’s electronic forms process, sending the information to Student Services. A grade of “W” or “IW” will be recorded if withdrawal is on or before the fifty-percent point of the course, regardless of the procedure used for the withdrawal. After the fifty-percent point, a “W” or “IW” grade will be recorded if students were satisfactorily achieving the course objectives at the time of withdrawal; otherwise a grade of “F” may be recorded.

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