Academic Policies/Guidelines

The Academic Terms

The calendar year is divided into three academic terms: Spring (January to mid-May); Summer (mid-May to mid-August); and Fall (mid-August to December).

A student who wishes to graduate in minimum time should work closely with his/her academic advisor in planning an appropriate class schedule for each semester.

Grading System Policy

The College has a right to set academic standards that students must meet. Grades are based on quality of achievement of the objectives of the course being taken. The following system is used for recording student achievement:

The College operates on a quality point system. For each credit hour of work with a grade of A, B, C, D or F, a numerical value of 4, 3, 2, 1 or 0, respectively, is awarded. This number is multiplied by the number of credit hours for the course to determine the quality points earned.

A student’s semester grade point average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total quality points earned in all courses by the total credit hours attempted (excluding I, R, TR, CE, P and AU grades). This grade point average (GPA) is a general measure of the quality of the student’s work. Hours attempted and quality points earned in previous terms are included in the above procedures to determine the Cumulative Grade Point Average. All students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in the student’s current program of study to graduate.

I - Incomplete

This indicates that a student has made significant and satisfactory progress in the course; however, due to unavoidable circumstances the student is not able to complete course requirements by the end of the semester. Since the “incomplete” extends enrollment in the course, requirements and deadlines for satisfactory completion will be established through faculty/student consultation. The work for the “I” grade must be completed, and a grade assigned “A, B, C, D, F” no later than the end of the next semester/term, or the grade of “I” will automatically be changed to an “F.”

R - Re-enroll

A student who has been unable to meet the course objectives in the specified time must re-enroll to earn credit. This grade may only be given to students in noncredit developmental courses.

WP - Withdrew Passing

A student may withdraw up to the 80% point of the course and receive a WP. Instructors can withdraw a student during this time for excessive absences. The WP grade is not used to compute the student’s GPA. After the official drop date as published in the student calendar, students must complete the course and will be awarded the appropriate grade earned at the end of the semester.

P - Passed

This grade is awarded in corequisite noncredit developmental courses and in the work experience portion of work-based learning. It may also be awarded for other experiential learning courses such as supervised field studies or review courses. When a course is graded in this manner, it must be reflected in the master course plan, and the Registrar’s Office must be notified when the course is established. This grade signifies that the student has satisfactorily completed the course (equivalent to a C or better). Failure to complete the course graded in this manner may be indicated with any other appropriate grade as prescribed in the course plan. No grade points are awarded for hours completed in this manner, and the P grade is not used to compute the grade point average (GPA).

P1 - Passed Tier 1

This grade is awarded in transitional noncredit developmental mathematics and/or English courses. No grade points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the grade point average (GPA).

P2 - Passed Tier 2

This grade is awarded in transitional noncredit developmental mathematics and/or English courses. No grade points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the grade point average (GPA).

P3 - Passed Tier 3

This grade is awarded in transitional noncredit developmental mathematics and/or English courses. No grade points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the grade point average (GPA).

TR - Transfer

This signifies that credit for a course was accepted from another institution. No quality points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the GPA.

CE - Credit by Examination

This signifies that the student has met the course objectives as demonstrated by a proficiency examination. No quality points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the GPA.

AU - Audit

This signifies that the student has taken a course for no credit. No quality points are awarded, and the grade is not used in the computation of the GPA. The student who enrolls for a course cannot change from audit to credit or credit to audit after the official drop/add period. The North Carolina Community College System may enact temporary grades due to emergencies such as a pandemic. In such situations, the College will adopt such grades as necessary and in the best interest of students.

June 13, 2022

Grade Appeal Policy

This policy shall apply to grade appeals unrelated to issues pertaining to academic dishonesty as outlined in Policy 5.3.2 - Student Code of Conduct. The grade appeal process applies only to course grades.

In the event a student appeals a grade that prevents progression in a program, the student will be allowed to enroll and attend the following semester pending the outcome of the appeal, except clinical and work-based learning courses/experiences. If the grade is upheld, the student will be administratively dropped from the course and refunded the tuition.

An appeal should be initiated within 30 days from the date the grade was issued and the appeal must be in writing. The steps a student should take are described in Procedure 5.2.5.1. An appeal to the Vice President of Instruction is the final step in the appeal process.

June 13, 2022

Grade Appeal Procedure

The grade appeal process is:

1. If a student is dissatisfied with a grade issued by an instructor, the student must first request to meet with the instructor who assigned the grade within five (5) business days after official issue of that grade and submit the Grade Appeal Form. The instructor will make a written determination via the Grade Appeal Form and provide a copy to the student and Department Head. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the instructor, the student may contact the instructor by letter or email including the Grade Appeal Form in that communication. If the instructor is no longer employed at the College, the student may proceed to the next step.
2. If the student is dissatisfied with the instructor’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may appeal in writing using the Grade Appeal Form to the Department Head. The student must present the instructor’s written determination. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the Department Head, the student may contact the Department Head by letter or email including the Grade Appeal Form in that communication. The Department Head will make a written determination and provide it to the student and appropriate Dean.
3. If the student is dissatisfied with the Department Head’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may appeal in writing using the Grade Appeal Form to the appropriate Dean. The student must present the Department Head’s written determination. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the Dean, the student may contact the Dean by letter or email including the Grade Appeal Form in that communication. The Dean shall make a written determination and provide it to the student and Vice President of Instruction.
4. If the student is dissatisfied with the Dean’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may file a written appeal via the Grade Appeal Form with all documentary evidence to the Vice President of Instruction (“Vice President”). The Vice President shall perform an “on the record review” and will make a determination within 10 business days after receipt of the student’s appeal. If needed for clarification, the Vice President may meet with the student or ask the student to submit additional information. The Vice President shall make a written determination and provide a copy of the decision to the student, instructor, Department Head, and appropriate Dean. The Vice President’s decision is final.

June 23, 2022

Scholastic Standing

President’s List-The President’s List honors those students who have obtained a 3.8 (rounded) or higher grade point average for a grading period. To be eligible for the President’s List, the student must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Dean’s List-The Dean’s List honors those students who have obtained a grade point average of 3.3 to 3.7 (rounded) for a grading period. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, the student must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Part-Time Honors List-The Part-Time Honors List honors those students who attend less than full time who have obtained a 3.5 or higher grade point average for a grading period. To be eligible for the Part-Time Honors List, the student must have completed a minimum of six credit hours.

Academic Progress Standards Policy

The College’s minimum standards of academic progress are intended to ensure academic success and graduation. The standards provide advance notice to students and opportunities to improve by students who perform at or below the minimum grade point average (GPA) required for graduation. The GPA used in these standards refers to the student’s cumulative GPA in his or her current program of study.

Academic Progress Standards

1. A student who is making unsatisfactory academic progress will be placed on academic warning when his or her cumulative grade point average falls below 2.0 at the end of an academic term.
2. A student on academic warning is placed on academic probation when his or her cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 after completion of an academic warning semester.
3. If a student is on academic probation for two consecutive semesters, he or she will be placed on academic suspension for the next semester.

I. ACADEMIC WARNING

1. At the end of each semester, cumulative grade point averages in students’ current program of study are reviewed. A student is expected to achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in the student’s current program of study based on credit hours attempted.
2. If a student’s cumulative GPA in the student’s current program of study is below 2.0, the student is placed on Academic Warning.
   1. Access to the College’s course registration system is prevented by an Academic Warning “hold” placed on the student’s record.
   2. Students on Academic Warning receive written communication notifying them of the College’s Academic Progress Standards, providing them with information about resources available for academic support, and informing them of advising contacts for both academic and financial aid matters.
3. As soon as possible after notification of warning, but no later than midterm of the semester of Academic Warning, each student on Academic Warning must take the initiative to meet with a Faculty Advisor.
   1. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss academic challenges and develop an Academic Improvement Plan.
   2. The Academic Improvement Plan may include required time in the Tutoring Center, conferences with a Career Counselor, conferences with the Single Stop Coordinator, attending Academic Success workshops, and/or using other strategies for success.
   3. After an Academic Improvement Plan is in place, the student’s access to the course registration system is restored (if there are no other “registration hold” conditions in effect).

II. ACADEMIC PROBATION

1. A student on Academic Warning is placed on Academic Probation when the student’s cumulative GPA in the current program of study remains below 2.0 after completion of the Academic Warning semester.
   1. The student is not in good academic standing, but is permitted to enroll for a probationary semester.
   2. Access to the College’s course registration system is prevented by an Academic Probation “hold” placed on the student’s record.
   3. Students on Academic Probation receive written communication notifying them of the College’s Academic Progress Standards, providing them with information about resources available for academic support, and informing them of advising contacts for both academic and financial aid matters.
2. As soon as possible after notification of probation, but no later than midterm of the semester of Academic Probation, each student on Academic Probation must take the initiative to meet with a Faculty Advisor.
   1. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss academic challenges and develop an Academic Improvement Plan.
   2. The Academic Improvement Plan may include required time in the Tutoring Center, conferences with a Career Counselor, conferences with the Single Stop Coordinator, attending Academic Success workshops, and/or using other strategies for success.
   3. After an Academic Improvement Plan is in place, the student’s access to the course registration system is restored (if there are no other “registration hold” conditions in effect).
3. A student on Academic Probation who does not achieve a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA in the current program of study by the end of the first Academic Probation semester is permitted to enroll for one additional regular semester while continuing on Academic Probation. The conditions described above are re-imposed including the update of, and commitment to, an Academic Improvement plan in consultation with a Faculty Advisor.

III. ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

1. A student is placed on Academic Suspension from the College after his or her cumulative GPA in the student’s current program of study remains below 2.0 following two consecutive regular semesters of being on Academic Probation.
   1. The student is not in good academic standing, and a notation of “Academic Suspension” is made on the student’s official transcript.
   2. Access to the College’s course registration system is prevented by an Academic Suspension “hold” placed on the student’s record.
2. A student placed on Academic Suspension:
   1. Is dropped from any courses for which he or she is pre-registered (with refund of tuition and fees),
   2. Is not eligible to receive financial aid,
   3. Is not permitted to register for any curriculum courses for a minimum of the next semester,
   4. Is not allowed to participate in College functions on- or off-campus,
   5. Is not allowed to use College facilities except a) the Library which is open to the general public, and b) facilities required as part of the student’s enrollment in noncredit Workforce Development classes, and
   6. May not enroll in any curriculum courses at ACC during the period of Academic Suspension.

Note: Some limited-enrollment programs may have more rigorous academic progress standards as outlined in the College Catalog and in departmental handbooks. A student may be academically suspended from his or her program of study, independent of College-wide academic standing, if he or she does not meet the program-specific academic progression.

IV. RE-ENROLLMENT AFTER ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

1. Students who have been placed on Academic Suspension are prohibited from enrolling in any curriculum coursework in future semesters or terms.
2. A student who wants to re-enroll in curriculum courses or programs following a minimum of one semester of Academic Suspension must request a waiver of academic suspension by:
   1. Updating his or her Academic Improvement Plan with a Faculty Advisor,
   2. Completing a Reinstatement from Academic Suspension Form, and 3. Submitting the Reinstatement Form to the Dean responsible for the program of study.
3. The Dean consults with faculty, the student’s academic advisor, and counselors for assistance with the review. A decision will be finalized within five business days of the receipt of the Reinstatement from Academic Suspension Form.
4. If reinstatement is approved, the student must complete the College’s readmission process.
   1. The reinstatement is granted for one regular semester or summer session as appropriate to the student’s circumstances.
   2. The student is placed on Academic Probation with a notation on his or her official transcript.
   3. Reinstatement approval may include stipulations related to the number of credit hours for which a student may enroll, a semester or term grade point average that the student must achieve, and/ or required participation in specific student success services or activities.
5. If a student makes progress in that term but has not achieved a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA in the current program of study at the end of the term, the student may submit a written appeal to the Dean to continue enrollment on Academic Probation for one additional regular semester.
6. If the Reinstatement from Academic Suspension or the appeal to continue on Academic Probation is denied, the student is not permitted to enroll in curriculum courses at ACC for any subsequent semesters or terms without approval from the Vice President of Instruction.

June 13, 2022

Academic Forgiveness Policy

Academic forgiveness is awarded on a one-time basis for courses with a grade of “F.” It is designed to give students a second chance at successfully completing a degree. Students are eligible for academic forgiveness if they:

1. Complete a minimum of 12 credit hours at Alamance Community College following the semester(s) in which the “F” grade(s) was/were assigned, with a grade average of “C” or better, and

2. Are currently enrolled when requesting academic forgiveness students who failed a required course in their current program of study should retake the course

under Policy 5.2.8 - Repeating Courses.

Academic forgiveness does not apply to the grade point average (GPA) required to meet the requirements of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for federal and state financial aid eligibility.

Students must send a written request for academic forgiveness to the Vice President of Student Services. Forgiven grades still appear on a student’s official transcript, but they are not calculated into the student’s cumulative GPA.

Adopted: June 13, 2022; revised August 12, 2024

Attendance Policy

I. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

The following attendance requirements shall apply to all College students:

1. Students are expected to attend and be on time for all scheduled classes and labs. Students should refer to the course syllabus for individual course attendance requirements. At instructors’ discretion, students may make up work missed. When students must be absent, it is vital that they remain in contact with their instructors.
2. Any student who has not attended at least one face-to-face class meeting or completed one assignment/activity for an online class by the date in which 10% of the class has passed will be reported by the instructor as “never attended.” A student who has never attended a class by the 10% date is no longer enrolled in the class. Under extenuating circumstances, a student who has never attended by the 10% date may petition for reinstatement in the class and earn course credit. The student should notify the instructor, in writing, of the extenuating circumstances prior to the 10% percent date of the class and provide compelling documentation to support the request for reinstatement. Reinstatement will only be considered by the instructor when the absences were due to unforeseeable and uncontrollable circumstances. An instructor’s decision regarding reinstatement may be appealed to the appropriate Dean within two (2) business days. The Dean’s decision is final.
3. Any student who has been absent for 20% or more of the total contact hours prior to the withdrawal date of the course may be administratively withdrawn from the course. A student in an online or hybrid course may be administratively withdrawn following two consecutive weeks in a 16-week term (or one week in shorter academic terms) of missed assignments, missed attendance, and lack of communication with the instructor regarding course participation. Consistent with policies establishing attendance in online courses, logging into a course site but failing to perform the assignments does not constitute attendance. A grade of “WP” will be assigned for any course from which the student is administratively withdrawn. Administrative withdrawals will be allowed up to the published Administrative Withdrawal deadline each semester (the 80% point of the semester). Thereafter, the earned grade will be posted. Under extenuating circumstances, a student may petition, in writing, the instructor, for reinstatement in the course upon demonstrating the capacity and likelihood of satisfactorily completing requirements as indicated on the course syllabus. Tuition refunds or credits will not result from an administrative withdrawal.
4. A student’s absence while participating in a College-sponsored or approved activity or field trip will be considered an excused absence for participating students. Such excused absences will not be considered in the students’ class attendance for drop purposes, nor will excused absences be included in the determination of a grade for “participation” of which class attendance is a part. The responsibility for making up class work rests entirely with the student. All assignments, tests, labs, class time, and final exams to be missed due to College sponsored or approved activity will be rescheduled prior to the excused absences or otherwise rescheduled at the discretion of the instructor.
5. The College provides reasonable accommodations, including a maximum of two (2) excused absences each academic year, for religious observances required by a student’s religious practice or belief. Such reasonable accommodations must be requested in accordance with the procedures for this policy and include the opportunity for the student to make up any tests or other work missed due to an excused absence for a religious observance. An accommodation request imposes responsibilities and obligations on both the College and the student requesting the accommodation. College faculty are required, as part of their responsibility to their students and the College, to adhere to this policy and ensure its full and fair implementation by reasonably accommodating students’ religious practices or beliefs. Regardless of any accommodation that may be granted, College students are responsible for satisfying all academic objectives, requirements, and prerequisites as determined by their instructor and the College.
   1. Academic year: The sequence of fall, spring, and summer semesters.
   2. Reasonable accommodation: Any change in an academic course or program of study with respect to the way tasks or responsibilities are customarily done that enables a student to observe his/her religious practice or belief without creating an undue hardship.
   3. Religious practice or belief: A practice or observance that is sincerely held within the tenants of that religious belief.
   4. Undue hardship: An accommodation that would require significant expense or difficulty for the College or would result in the inability of the student to perform an essential function of his or her course/program of study. The determination of undue hardship is dependent on the facts of each individual situation.

June 13, 2022

Requirements for Attendance for an Online Class

Attendance in an online class is based upon the completion of academic work, not simply accessing the Moodle course. Logging in to Moodle and only viewing course components (e.g., assignments, announcements, or discussion board posts) does not constitute attending class. Therefore, students who log in to Moodle but do not complete assignments for two consecutive weeks (14 consecutive days) and who fail to communicate with the instructor during that time period will be dropped. Submission of any assignment, including those with failing grades, will constitute attendance in the class. Appeals of all drops due to attendance can be made to the appropriate dean. 

If an online student’s absences exceed 14 days after the last day to earn a Withdraw Passing (WP) grade, that student cannot drop the class; instead, he or she will receive the grade earned.

If a student is dropped by an instructor for nonattendance in a course, the last assignment submitted for a grade will constitute the last date of attendance for that student.

Student Classification Procedure

1. A full-time student is a student enrolled in a given semester with 12 or more semester hours of credit. A part-time student is a student enrolled with fewer than 12 semester hours of credit. A freshman is a student who has completed less than half the required credit hours of an associate degree program and a sophomore is a student who has completed more than half the required credit hours of an associate degree program.
2. Part-time students may enroll for individual curriculum courses. Credit earned by such students may be applied to a degree, diploma, or certificate depending upon the level of such work.
3. Special credit students who do not wish to apply for a degree, diploma, or certificate program may enroll for individual curriculum courses upon completion of an application for admission only. Special credit students who later wish to enroll in a program of study must complete all admission requirements and declare a program of study. Credit earned as a special credit student may be applied to program requirements, if appropriate.

June 13, 2022

Absences for Military Service Members Procedure

The College shall allow any enrolled student who is in the United States Armed Forces who has received temporary or permanent re-assignment as a result of military operations and a National Guard service member placed onto State active duty status during an academic term to be given an excused absence for the period of time the student is on active duty.

1. The College shall provide the student the opportunity to make up any test or other work missed during the excused absence.
2. The College shall give the student the option, when feasible, to continue classes and coursework during the academic term through online participation for the period of time the student is placed on active duty.
3. The College shall give the student the option of receiving a temporary grade of “incomplete” or “absent from the final exam” for any course that the student was unable to complete as a result of being placed on State active duty status; however, the student must complete the course requirements within one (1) semester following their return from active service to avoid receiving a failing grade for the course.
4. The College shall permit the student to drop, with no penalty, any course that the student was unable to complete because of being placed on State active duty status.

June 13, 2022

Student Religious Accommodations Procedure

Students shall be permitted no more than two (2) days of excused absences for religious observances during an academic year. These absences are not in addition to the number currently permitted by College policy; thus, the threshold of minimum absences from class each semester is 20% including those for religious observance, or the maximum percentage listed on the course syllabus, which has been approved by the College administration. The only difference for religious observance absences is that the student must be permitted the opportunity to make up any tests or other work missed due to an excused absence for religious observance.

Students requesting an excused absence for religious observance must complete the Religious Accommodation Form and submit it to their Instructor(s) at least 14 college working days in advance of the intended absence. The completed form includes not only the day requested and the class(es) to be missed, but also the agreed-upon manner on how, when, and where the make- up(s) will take place for the missed work. Failure to adhere to the agreed-upon schedule will void the student’s right to make up the work, unless the Instructor(s) involved agree to a reschedule.

Excused absences for religious observances do not relieve students from responsibility for any part of the course work required during the period of absence.

A student may not request different religious observance days for different classes offered on the same day. If a request is made for any class on a certain day, that request will count as one of the two days permitted for the entire academic year.

June 13, 2022

Student’s Attendance Responsibilities

1. The student is responsible for keeping a record of his/her absences or tardies.
2. Absence from class for any reason does not relieve the student from responsibility for the performance of any part of his/her work.
3. The student is responsible for initiating any request to make up work missed. The decision to assist the student with make up work, including tests, in every case rests with the instructor.
4. The student is responsible for complying with any special attendance regulations specified by the instructor.
5. If a student is dropped from a course due to absences and wishes to appeal the decision, he/she is expected to attend classes during the time of his/her appeal.

Instructor’s Attendance Responsibilities

1. An instructor may prescribe reasonable, special attendance regulations which are not less restrictive than standard school policy. At the beginning of each term, the instructor shall inform the students of these regulations and file a copy with the Vice President of Instruction for approval.
2. An instructor shall be responsible for recording all absences and dropping the student from the course when the allowable number of absences has been exceeded (excluding those for field trips and planned student activities as previously noted).
3. An instructor shall be responsible for notifying the student of the drop upon the student’s next attendance in class.

Course Readmission after Attendance Related Withdrawal Procedure

When a student is dropped from a course:

1. The instructor will notify the student of the drop.
2. The instructor will submit the drop/ add form with a recommendation to the appropriate Dean.
3. The student is permitted three (3) school days in which to submit an appeal of the instructor’s drop decision by stating in writing his or her reasons for the absences to the Dean.
4. If the student is readmitted to the course, the student and instructor will be notified by the Dean.

If the appeal of the instructor’s drop decision is denied by the Dean, the drop/ add form will be forwarded to the student records office for processing and the student and instructor will be notified of the decision.

June 13, 2022

Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom

Within the classroom, the student must behave in an appropriate manner so all members of the class can attain their educational objectives. If an act of misconduct threatens the health or well-being of any member of the classroom or seriously disrupts the learning environment, an instructor may direct the student(s) involved to cease and desist such conduct. If the behavior continues, the instructor will ask the student(s) to leave the classroom immediately, and the instructor will notify his/her immediate supervisor at the conclusion of the class period. The immediate supervisor will then notify the academic dean and the Vice President for Student Services. The student may not be allowed to return to class until an administrative review of the matter to determine whether further disciplinary action is warranted. A possible sanction is an administrative withdrawal of the student from the course.

Distance Learning

The Distance Learning program strives to provide quality instruction through web-based technologies to enable students to attain their educational goals. Courses delivered online earn the same credit and maintain the same quality and standards as traditional classroom courses. Courses are universally designed and delivered to meet the needs of a diverse population of students.

Distance learning students “attend class” by accessing the class using Moodle, ACC’s learning management system and completing assignments according to the class schedule. Students are required to complete assignments according to the class schedule, to maintain regular contact with the faculty member, and to participate in online class discussions. Students are subject to the same attendance policy as traditional, seated classes. Online courses are scheduled on the same semester schedule as traditional classes.

Students enrolling in distance learning courses should have access to a personal computer, possess the necessary computer skills, and access to reliable internet service. Personal computers should meet the minimum system requirements as listed on the Online Requirements webpage (https://www.alamancecc.edu/online-and-distance-education-site/course-requirements/). For students that do not have a computer of their own, ACC has two open access labs for students in the Academic Skills Lab and Library. In addition, many public libraries also offer access to computers and Wi-Fi. Some online courses require an online proctored exam. ACC uses a tool called Proctortrack for online proctored exams.

Types of Distance Learning Courses:

ACC offers several types of Distance Learning courses to choose from depending on students’ schedules and specific educational needs:

1. Online “E”
   1. Course with 100% of instruction delivered via the Internet.
   2. Course delivered asynchronously.
   3. Example: BUS 225 01E
2. Online Live Meetings “EL”
   1. Course with 100% of instruction delivered via the Internet.
   2. Course delivered synchronously.
   3. Meets virtually at specific days and times.
   4. Interact live with faculty and students in a virtual environment.
   5. Example: BUS 225 01EL
3. Hybrid/Blended “H”
   1. Face-to-face (on campus) course combined with required online assignments and tasks.
   2. Face-to-face meeting times are determined by each department.
   3. Students who register for a hybrid course must have access to the Internet and be able to complete assigned course activities online in addition to meeting on campus for scheduled class days.
   4. Example: HIS 131 03H

In addition to the numerous curriculum courses, ACC offers more than 200 non-credit online courses each month.

Contact Distance Learning

Phone 336-506-4115 and select option 1, email distancelearning@alamancecc.edu, or visit the web at https://www.alamancecc.edu/curriculum_programs/online-programs/online-programs/index.php.

Readmission to the College

Any student that previously attended Alamance Community College, including ACC graduates, but has not enrolled in curriculum courses for two or more consecutive semesters (summer session excluded), must submit an application for readmission. Students applying for readmission must meet the requirements for the current program of study, including an evaluation of all coursework at ACC and other institutions. The current catalog at the time of readmission will govern the student’s academic status and graduation requirements.

Students who have been suspended or dismissed for non-violent or academic disciplinary reasons may be readmitted either under a condition of general probation or subject to specific readmission provisions as determined by ACC, upon approval of the Vice President of Student Learning or Vice President of Student Services, as applicable. The Student Code of Conduct policy applies to all readmission considerations.

In instances when the dismissal of a student occurred because of articulable, imminent, and significant threats made by the applicant for readmission to himself/ herself, other individuals, or property, ACC reserves the right to deny readmission. Students who have been dismissed on the basis of making prior threats shall submit an application for readmission, including written evidence from qualified professional sources, that the student no longer poses a threat to himself/herself or other members and property of the College community.

ACC reserves the right to deny readmission in all instances of application for readmission, whether for academic or nonacademic reasons.

Instructor Absences

In cases when the instructor is not in class and other arrangements have not been made, the students are automatically dismissed after 10 minutes (30 minutes for evening courses). A roll must be signed by the students present and turned in to the receptionist at the main building entrance.

Changing Student Course Schedule

Drop/Add Period

The drop/add period for changing student course schedules is designated and announced each semester. Alert: Beginning with the first day of classes, students wishing to drop and add classes must do so simultaneously (same session) to avoid a 25 percent administrative tuition charge.

Examples:

1. A student drops ENG 111 for 3 credits and adds PSY 150 for 3 credits during the same session. The student will have an “even” exchange for tuition charges.
2. A different student drops ENG 111 for 3 credits on the first day of classes. The student changes his mind, returns five minutes later and adds the same or another class. The student would be given a 75 percent refund for the dropped ENG 111 class and then charged 100 percent for the added class, resulting in an additional 25 percent charge, even though maintaining the same credit hours.

Course Withdrawals After the Drop/Add Period

Each semester, a drop/add period for enrolled students to change their schedules begins on the first day of class and extends for a designated period of time. A 75 percent tuition refund will be awarded through the 10 percent point of the course. If a student drops a course during the last 20 percent of the semester, the final grade will reflect the earned numerical average of his/her work in the course. Students who have formally dropped a course may not continue attending those classes. Note: An instructor may drop a student from a course for excessive absences (see Attendance Policy).

Procedures: Students should obtain a “Drop Form” from the College’s website. Students must route to each instructor to electronically sign the drop form and record the appropriate grade. Return the drop form to dropadd@alamancecc.edu. Failure to follow this procedure may result in a grade of “F” for courses that the student stops attending.

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the drop form is completed and sent to the Registrar’s office.

Administrative Withdrawal

The College reserves the right to withdraw any student when such action is in the best interest of the College and/ or student. Such action will be taken only after careful deliberation and consultation with all parties who possess information pertinent to the situation.

Payment

Payment may be made to the Cashier’s Office, located in the S-Building, by cash, check, money order, or credit card (Discover, VISA, or MasterCard only). VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express payments can now be made on Self-Service. There is a $31 charge for returned checks, and any student who has had two checks returned will forfeit the privilege of paying by check for a period of three years. Any returned checks must be satisfied immediately. Payments may be submitted via Self Service or by visiting the Business office. Payments may also be made via a payment plan. Students may sign up for a payment plan through Self Service. There is a $25 charge to enroll in a payment plan.

Tax Information

Form 1098T-Tuition Payments Statement will be available in an electronic format on the student’s Self-Service account by January 31. If the student does not choose the electronic format, Form 1098T will be mailed to the student on January 31. If the information on the 1098T is incorrect according to his/her records, the student should bring it and copies of his/her records to the Cashier’s Office for correction. Form 1098T captures only the amount billed to the student.

Tuition Transfer

If a student has paid tuition for a given semester and moves to another area of North Carolina, the curriculum tuition paid for that semester can be transferred to any other technical college or community college, provided the student presents a copy of the receipt for that semester and satisfies all admissions, academic, and administrative requirements of each institution. This includes only the curriculum tuition and does not include any other student fees.

ACC Transcripts

No transcript will be released without the consent of the student/alumnus. Unofficial transcripts can be accessed at any time through the student Self-Service account and are free of charge. Official ACC transcripts are processed through the National Student Clearinghouse’s eTranscript service. Orders can be placed online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with tracking information provided to the requester. Electronic transcripts are processed within 15 minutes unless further research is needed. Requests to mail official transcripts are processed within 1-2 business days. 

Acceptance of Transfer Students/Credit Policy

1. Course work transferred or accepted for credit toward an undergraduate degree must represent collegiate course work relevant to the degree with course content and level of instruction resulting in student competencies at least equivalent to those of students enrolled in the College’s undergraduate degree program.
2. Any such earned credit must meet the minimum College academic standards of a grade of “C” or better and must parallel the content of similar courses offered. The maximum amount of credit allowed to be transferred is 75% of the student’s program of study. Any course taken at a North Carolina Community College System institution will be accepted for the equivalent course except as specified herein. For all others, the following criteria will be considered in determining the acceptability of the transfer course work:
   1. Accreditation of the school by a regional or national accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. Accreditation does not guarantee acceptance of transfer credit.
   2. Equivalency of course descriptions, outcomes and analysis of course level, content, quality, comparability, and degree program relevance. It shall be the student’s responsibility to provide documentation of this equivalency, which may include, but is not limited to, syllabi, course catalogs, course outcomes, etc.
   3. Use of recognized guides, such as those published by the American Council on Education, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, and the National Association of Foreign Student Affairs.
   4. If the school was not accredited by a regional or national accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education at the time the course was taken, additional documentation will be required. It shall be the student’s responsibility to provide any additional documentation requested.
   5. For skills-based courses, particularly those in the advanced technology programs, demonstration of student skills may be a component of the evaluation process. Decisions related to acceptance of credit will be made by the appropriate faculty member(s) and Dean, in consultation with the Vice President of Instruction.
   6. Within the Nursing department, departmental policy limits transfer credit for nursing courses to NUR 111 and NUR 117. These courses must have been taken no more than two years prior to enrollment at the College and have earned a grade of “B” or better. Credit for general education courses will transfer only with a grade of “C” or better.
3. The responsibility for determining transfer credit from other colleges and universities rests with the Registrar and Admissions staff. When there is doubt about the appropriateness of transfer credit or when a student wishes to appeal a transfer credit decision, the transcript will be referred to the appropriate Dean, whose decision will be final. In such cases, the Dean will note the decision in the student’s academic file. Time limits may be imposed in certain situations, such as for health sciences program courses. Enrollment Management and the appropriate Dean will maintain a list of courses that have time limits for transfer. Any student challenge regarding the award of transfer credit will be referred to the appropriate Department Head or Dean. This credit must be approved by the Dean.
4. When a student transfers from a postsecondary institution to the College, the following steps will be implemented:

1. The student fills out an application for admission and is responsible for providing an official high school transcript (except when the student has already earned an associate’s degree or higher) and an official transcript from any other postsecondary institution. The student should allow at least one month for the transcript evaluation process prior to registering for classes.

2. The Admissions staff evaluates the transcript and credit is accepted in accordance with the College’s program offerings and the procedure stated herein. No credit for a course with a grade lower than a “C” may be transferred. The transcript evaluation is conducted in cooperation with the appropriate Department Head and Dean, as applicable.

3. The student is given placement test(s), if applicable.

4. The student continues with registration procedure. The College recognizes the following additional opportunities for awarding transfer credits:

5. College Board Advanced Placement Program (AP): College course credit will be granted to students who pass the AP examinations with a score of three, four, or five. Students must submit a College Action Report to the Enrollment Management Office for consideration of granting college credit.

6. College-Level Examination Program (CLEP): College course credit will be granted to students who participate in CLEP Subject Examinations and achieve the minimum passing score as recommended by the American Council on Education. Students must submit a CLEP transcript to the Enrollment Management Office for consideration of granting college credit.

7. Educational Experiences in the Armed Services: Servicemen and veterans may be awarded college credit for service schools they have attended. The service schools must be accredited by a regional accrediting agency. Before applying for credit, students should contact the service school(s) and ask them to which regional accrediting agency they belong. Students should Contact Enrollment Management for more information.

8. Non-curriculum to Curriculum Transfer Credit: Non-curriculum course work from the College related to curriculum instruction may be transferred or accepted for credit towards curriculum courses in specific programs. Students must have earned a minimum letter grade of a “C,” passed the final assessment with a proficiency of 85% or better, or passed the applicable credentialing exam. The appropriate Dean for each division will approve non-curriculum course material prior to officially granting curriculum credit. Faculty teaching courses for which non-curriculum to curriculum credit may be awarded must meet all SACSCOC credentialing requirements.

9. Credit by Credential: Academic credit may be awarded for adequately documented and validated industry-recognized credentials. Credential credits must be approved by the subject-matter experts based on content and outcomes. The Department Head, Dean, and Vice President of Instruction must approve credential credits.

10. Transfer of credit to Nursing Program: Within the Nursing Department, departmental policy limits transfer credit for nursing courses to NUR 111 and NUR 117. These courses must have been taken no more than two years prior to enrollment at the College with a grade of “B” or better. Credit for general education courses will transfer only with a grade of “C” or better.

June 13, 2022

Course Loads

The minimum course load for classification as a full-time student is 12 credit hours. The normal course load to complete a program in a minimum amount of time varies from one curriculum to another. No student may enroll for more than 23 credit hours in any semester or more than 12 credit hours per 8-week term without the recommendation of the appropriate academic dean. Course loads and requirements for university transfer students may vary. Information on recommended loads may be obtained from the department head or from individual advisors.

Curriculum Prerequisite Policy

The purpose of a prerequisite and/or a corequisite is to ensure student success in subsequent coursework. While successful completion of prerequisites and/or corequisites is the traditional way students demonstrate readiness, in exceptional circumstances students may demonstrate readiness through other means. In such cases, prerequisites or corequisites may be waived with approval of the Department Head, Dean, and Vice President of Instruction. Documentation of the approved waiver will be maintained on file.

June 13, 2022

Procedure

In certain circumstances, students may demonstrate readiness through other means. In such cases, prerequisites or co-requisites may be met or waived with appropriate approvals and/or permission of the appropriate Dean and the Vice President of Instruction. Several routine ways in which prerequisite or co-requisite requirements are met are through: 1) credit by examination, 2) credit by credential, or 3) evaluation of Joint Services Transcripts.

I. CREDIT BY EXAMINATION

The College may award Credits for Prior Learning (“CPL”) as designated by law and state regulations for the following prior learning methods:

1. Apprenticeship

2. State or Industry Recognized Credentials/Continuing Education to Curriculum Credit

3. Courses listed in high school to community college articulation agreements

4. Military education and training

5. Standardized examinations

6. Challenge exams/Proficiency

7. Portfolio assessment

8. Public Safety Training (“PST”) prefix courses

The College may award curriculum CPL when the documentation of prior learning meets or exceeds a demonstration of learning outcomes at the College’s standards for awarding credit for the corresponding curriculum course. The College shall award CPL in a manner consistent with State Board regulations.

To be eligible to receive CPL, students must 1) meet all admission requirements for their program of study; 2) be enrolled in a curriculum program to which the credit will directly apply; and 3) request a prior learning assessment.

A. CREDIT THROUGH APPRENTICESHIP

The College shall award CPL based on statewide articulation as approved by the Curriculum Course Review Committee for related instruction provided by external

entities for registered apprenticeship programs. All apprenticeships must be approved and registered with the North Carolina State Apprenticeship Agency through

ApprenticeshipNC.

The College, participating employer, and North Carolina Community College System shall cooperatively put together an apprenticeship agreement that will require at least 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning plus an additional amount of classroom instruction.

Upon successful completion of a registered apprenticeship, the individual will receive work-based learning course credit.

B. CREDIT THROUGH CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURES

Students seeking CPL via industry recognized and/or state regulated credentials will complete a request form for a prior learning assessment, attach supporting documentation that substantiates credential attainment, and submit it to the designated college official or office for consideration. Designated faculty/staff should review the request form and supporting documentation to determine whether the student is eligible to receive

academic credit.

Students are responsible for providing evidence of their valid (non-expired) certification(s) which must have been issued within five (5) years prior to their request

for articulated credit. Students must be enrolled in the associated program to receive course credit.

C. HIGH SCHOOL TO COMMUNITY COLLEGE ARTICULATION AGREEMENT CREDITS

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction high school courses that are listed in the High School to Community College Articulation Agreement are eligible for Combined Course Library curriculum course credit. Transcripts of high school courses must be submitted to the College.

D. MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Servicemen and veterans may be awarded college credit for service schools they have attended. The service schools must be accredited by a regional accrediting agency. Before applying for credit, contact the service school(s) and ask them to which regional accrediting agency they belong. Contact Student Services for more information.

E. STANDARDIZED EXAMINATIONS

The College may award CPL credit for the following standardized examinations:

1. College Board Advanced Placement Program (“AP”): College course credit will be granted to students who pass the AP examinations with a score of three, four or five.

2. Cambridge Assessment International Education: College course credit will be granted to students who score a grade of e/E or better based on the AS and A

Level exam(s) taken.

3. College-Level Examination Program (“CLEP”): College course credit will be granted to students who participate in CLEP Subject Examinations and achieve

the minimum passing score as recommended by the American Council on Education.

4. DANTES Subject Standardized Tests: College course credit will be granted to students who score at or above the credit-granting score recommended by the

American Council on Education.

5. International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: College course credit will be granted to students who earn a grade of 70% or higher in courses taken from a

recognized international institution, validated by a US credentialing agency.

F. REQUESTING CHALLENGE/PROFICIENCY EXAMINATION

CPL may be awarded through examinations created and administered by academic units that offer the course. The examination is constructed to allow the student to demonstrate mastery of the learning outcomes of the course.

If a department offers credit by examination, no eligible student can be refused the opportunity to take the exam for course credit. A student must meet all pre-requisite requirements before they are eligible to take the challenge/proficiency examination for a course.

Students meeting challenge exam eligibility requirements, as provided by the State Board, state and federal law, and this policy, are responsible for submitting a challenge examination request.

As defined in the State Board of Community Colleges Code, developmental courses, supplemental courses, and courses including clinical practice are not eligible for challenge exams/proficiency.

G. PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT PROCESS

CPL may be awarded through a portfolio assessment process managed by an academic department of the College. A portfolio is “a formal communication” presented by a student as a request for prior learning credit.

Prior learning assessment by portfolio assessment will follow a course-equivalency credit model. Students demonstrate college-level learning by submitting a portfolio consisting of an organized collection of evidence that demonstrates mastery of the learning outcomes of a specific course offered at the College.

To submit a portfolio for assessment, students must contact the department offering the course and follow the schedule established by the department. Courses eligible for credit by portfolio assessment are determined by the department. All portfolio assessments will be completed by discipline-appropriate faculty trained in assessing portfolios for credit.

Departments offering prior learning assessment by portfolio will establish rubrics to guide faculty assessment and scoring.

H. CREDIT THROUGH PUBLIC SAFETY TRAINING PREFIX COURSES

Courses in the Combined Course Library with a Public Safety Training (PST) prefix may be used for awarding prior learning credit for industry-recognized public safety training and/or credentials.

Credit shall be considered for public safety training that meets the criteria outlined in the Public Safety Training course descriptions as listed in the Combined Course Library.

Official documentation from the training provider or credentialing entity shall be provided to the College to validate the training.

Adopted: September 11, 2023

Legal Reference: N.C.G.S. § 115D-5; 1D SBCCC 800.1; 4A SBCCC 100.1; 4B SBCCC 100.1

GPA for Graduation Policy

Requirements for the certificate, diploma, or degree will vary according to curriculum. Course requirements for graduation are stated in the College catalog.

In order to graduate with any Associate in Applied Science Degree, the student must have a minimum of 15 semester hours in general education including at least one course from each of the following areas: Humanities/Fine Arts, Social/ Behavioral Sciences, and Natural Sciences/Mathematics. Degree programs must contain a minimum of six semester hours of communications. Diploma programs must contain a minimum of six semester hours of general education; three semester hours must be in communications. General education is optional in certificate programs.

Each student must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 in his or her current program of study. The program of study is defined as the program identified in the graduation application and all courses required for the program.

January 9, 2012

Graduation

Requirements for the degree, diploma or certificate vary according to each curriculum as outlined in the catalog and available through the student’s Self Service account. Students should confer with their academic advisors each term to ensure they are taking the proper sequence of courses leading to graduation.

At the beginning of the semester in which a student will complete degree requirements, he/she must apply for graduation online via Self Service. Applications must be completed prior to the graduation application deadline posted annually in the ACC Curriculum Student Handbook.

Graduation Fee/Attire

After applying for graduation, each curriculum student is charged a graduation fee to cover the costs of the certificate, diploma or degree, and the cap and gown. This fee will be refunded only in the event the student does not meet graduation requirements. Any student completing a second certificate, diploma or degree within the same graduation year may be required to pay the additional cost of the certificate, diploma or degree.

Information about how to order caps and gowns is located at https://www.alamancecc.edu/graduation/index.php.