A A

Academic Course Catalog and Student Handbook

The UA Cossatot Academic Catalog and Student Handbook are published for the purpose of providing information about the College and its programs. This online version of the Catalog and Student Handbook will be updated, as necessary, to provide you the most current and accurate information available. Therefore, you should reference this version rather than a printed copy of the Academic Catalog and Student Handbook in order to have the most up to date information. Alternative formats of catalog information may be received by contacting Student Services at 800-844-4471.

Faculty and students are responsible for keeping informed regarding the information contained in this Catalog and other official communications issued by the College regarding regulations, policies, and requirements affecting the employee and the student’s status at the College. Communication venues include but are not limited to, UA Cossatot email, USPS, written announcements, oral announcements, web statements, and Blackboard announcements.

UA COSSATOT CAMPUS CONTACT INFORMATION

183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832

1558 Hwy 371 West, Nashville, AR 71852

1411 N. Constitution Ave., Ashdown, AR 71822

128 E. Main Lockesburg, AR 71816

Campuses on Google Maps

800-844-4471 / 870-584-4471

www.cccua.edu

AR Relay Services: 711

UA COSSATOT LEADERSHIP INFORMATION

UA Cossatot Board of Visitors

UA Cossatot Leadership

Dr. Steve Cole

Chancellor

Dr. Ashley Aylett

Vice Chancellor

Academic Services

Mike Kinkade

Vice Chancellor

Facilities

Charlotte Johnson

Vice Chancellor

Business Services

870-584-1173

870-584-1125

870-584-1320

870-584-1115

CHANCELLOR'S WELCOME

Welcome to UA Cossatot! Chancellor Steve Cole

You may not know it yet, but you have taken the first step in getting a top-flight education and are on your way to a rewarding career.

Many people know the name Cossatot as it applies to the beautiful local river, but few know that Cossatot is a Native American word meaning "skull crusher." Our college adopted this name when we opened our doors in 1974. We feel that it is a name that fits our school well because imparting knowledge is what we do best at UA Cossatot.

We have come a long way since 1974 – with just 35 students. We now educate more than 1,400 students each semester, helping each student to carve out his or her start to a great future.

UA Cossatot is consistently ranked in the top five colleges in Arkansas for graduation rate and affordability. Our college and our faculty routinely win awards for creativity and excellence. This means you are enrolling in a college that supports and guides you all the way through your classroom education while still making it all incredibly inexpensive to attend.

Throw in the most creative and affordable textbook program in Arkansas, innovation in industry-certified technical training, a college that ranks in the top five for transfer education and you have the recipe for the perfect college for you!

We are glad to welcome you as a part of the "skull crusher" heritage at the University of Arkansas Cossatot.

Dr. Steve Cole
UA Cossatot Chancellor

INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIPS AND ACCREDIATION

INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Arkansas Association for the Assessment of Collegiate Learning (AAACL)
Arkansas Association for Continuing and Adult Education (AACAE)
Arkansas Association of College and University Business Officers (AACUBO)
Arkansas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (ArkACRAO)
Arkansas Association of Higher Education and Disability (ARK-AHEAD)
Arkansas Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (AASFAA)
Arkansas Community Colleges (ACC)
Arkansas Institutional Research Organization (AIRO)
Chamber of Commerce- De Queen/Sevier County, Little River County, City of Nashville, City of Dierks, City of Murfreesboro
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
Learning Ally
National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)
National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA)
National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)
NIRSA Leaders in Collegiate Recreation
Southern Association of College and University Business Officers (SACUBO)

ACCREDIATIONS

Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604 / 800.621.7440
Accredited May 1998
Most Recent Reaffirmation: 2019-2020
Next Reaffirmation: 2029-2030

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
11520 West 119th Street, Overland Park, KS 66213 / 913.339.6226
Accredited April 2002

Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814-3449 / 301.652.2682
Accredited December 2013

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085;
Telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org.
Accreditation Granted: October 2019

APPROVED BY

Arkansas Association of General Contractors (AGC)
Arkansas Department of Workforce Education
Arkansas Department of Health, Cosmetology
Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas State Department of Education
American Welding Society (AWS)
National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF)
State Approving Agency for Veteran’s Training
National Career Center for Educational Research (NCCER)

WHO ARE WE

MISSION

UA Cossatot embraces diversity and is committed to improving the lives of those in our region by providing quality education, outstanding service, and relevant industry training.

CORE VALUES

We believe in the humanity of each individual, and no one has the right, in word or deed, to lower the existence of another human being.
We believe each student should have the opportunity to excel to his/her full potential to acquire skills for the workplace and to enrich himself/herself through general education to become more understanding and tolerant of human differences.
We believe integrity, honesty, perseverance, patience, kindness, justice, and faith in one’s personal efforts are hallmarks to which the College shall always strive toward and help our students to achieve these values.
We believe a rural college must be comprehensive in its curriculum and open to the varying academic differences and past experiences of our stakeholders. Through superior service and mastery of teaching, we will help students to help themselves become the individuals they strive to be.

VISION

UA Cossatot is an institution esteemed by the communities it serves for producing quality graduates, collaborating in economic development activities, and participating in the education of our citizens.

UA Cossatot, a well-developed system of three strategically located campuses, is taking the college to the communities it serves. It is convenient for the current workforce, the unemployed, and those seeking new skills. UA Cossatot has a flexible, tenacious staff of risk takers who seek new and improved means to deliver comprehensive curricula and services to its constituents. Curricula are up-to-date and structured with diverse learning patterns to meet the needs of its students. Services are provided with commitment, compassion, and caring.

PHILOSOPHY OF GENERAL EDUCATION

UA Cossatot enjoys the diversity of its student population and welcomes all students from the region, state, nation, and the world. UA Cossatot believes that general education is providing opportunity for students to acquire knowledge and skills necessary for living and working in today’s global society. The College has established a required core of general education courses for the Associate of Applied Science degrees, the Associate of Arts and Science degrees, and the Technical Certificates. General education is integrated into teaching each college course so that one or more of these concepts are practiced.

College Learning Outcomes and Assessment

Programs Offered

Transfer Programs/Agreements

ADMISSIONS

STEPS TO ADMISSION

Complete and return an Application for Admission

UA Cossatot – Office of Admissions
183 College Drive
De Queen, Arkansas 71832

Proof of high school graduation or completion of GED. International transcripts MUST be certified and translated into English to be considered. GED graduates must provide GED test scores. Students who have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher are not required to provide high school transcripts or GED information but must provide official college/university transcripts.
Placement Scores – ACCUPLACER, ACT, ASSET, COMPASS, and SAT are accepted. UA Cossatot Testing Centers administer the ACCUPLACER free of charge after the application for admission has been processed. ACCUPLACER retakes are $10.00 per section per attempt.
Proof of Immunization – Arkansas State law requires proof of two (2) immunizations against measles (rubeola), one (1) immunization against rubella, and one (1) against mumps. Students may go to the local county health office for additional immunizations if needed. Students may also contact the Arkansas Department of Health at 501-661-2169 or visit https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs- services/topics/immunizations to claim a medical, philosophical, or religious exemption or to have immunity verified through serum testing documentation. Students born before Jan. 1, 1957, are not required to provide proof of immunization.
College Transcripts (if applicable) – Provide official transcripts from all colleges attended, including those where concurrent credit was gained during high school. Students who have graduated with a 4-year degree or higher and submit a college transcript documenting such may have the requirement of an official high school transcript waived. International transcripts MUST be certified and translated into English to be considered.

Additional documentation may be requested such as a copy of a photo id and/or social security card.

The Admissions Packet is considered incomplete, and students will not be eligible for financial aid until ALL of the above documents are in the student’s file.

COURSE TRANSFER POLICY

UA Cossatot may accept credit from transfer from other colleges/universities that are accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. In order for a course to be eligible for transfer a grade of C or better must have been earned in the course.

TRANSFER ADMISSION FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS

Students wishing to enroll at UA Cossatot after attending another institution will be required to provide all admission documents as required by UA Cossatot’s admission policy. Students must be in good standing at previous institutions as UA Cossatot honors other institutions’ probation/suspension policies; therefore, students on suspension or probation from another institution may not be allowed to enroll at UA Cossatot OR may be allowed to enroll under special circumstances with the approval of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services. To appeal an academic probation or suspension, submit request in writing to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services. The transfer institution may or may not grant credit for courses taken at UA Cossatot while the student was on probation or suspension from their institution. Transfer students who have college-level work in reading; English composition, and/or college algebra by a score of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale shall be exempt from providing/taking placement tests for reading, English, and mathematics.

READMITTED STUDENTS

Students wishing to return to UA Cossatot after an absence of one semester or longer (not including summer terms) must submit a new application for readmission and provide official college transcripts from all colleges attended since last attending UA Cossatot.

PROGRAMS WITH SPECIAL ADMISSION PROCEDURES

Cosmetology
Emergency Medical Technician
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Physical Therapist Assistant
Practical Nursing
Registered Nursing

FELONY ENORLMENT POLICY

When a student or applicant has been charged with or convicted of a violent crime or felony, the College reserves the right to place the student’s registration on hold pending further review. To address these situations and to fulfill the College’s obligation to provide a safe campus, the UAC Police Officers will obtain information from the student regarding the situation and submit said information to the Review Committee.

The existence of a conviction or pending charges may not mean a student will be denied registration privileges; however, failure to provide complete, accurate, and truthful information will be grounds to deny or withdraw admission or to dismiss after enrollment. Each case will be individually evaluated and assessed based on the facts of the conviction.

VETERANS PREFERENCE FOR ENROLLMENT

Students currently serving in the military and those with veteran status who have been honorably discharged will have preference of enrollment when all factors are held equal for classes with limited seating. Current military personnel and honorably discharged veterans will not take precedence over currently enrolled students.

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

SECONDARY CAREER CENTER

UA Cossatot, in conjunction with area high schools, the De Queen-Mena Educational Cooperative, offers high school students the opportunity to get a head start on a degree and technical career. High school students may enroll in skilled and technical classes that will count as credit toward high school graduation as well as credit toward a certificate of proficiency, technical certificate, or associate’s degree. To obtain the most current course offerings, contact the high school counselor, Career Coach, or UA Cossatot Director of High School Programs. Students enrolled in Secondary Career Center Programs must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 at UA Cossatot and their high school to continue taking courses at the college.

CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT

Academically qualified high school students who meet the admission requirements are allowed to enroll in college credit classes as concurrent students. Students may receive credit for the course(s) at the high school they attend, as well as at the college. Contact the high school counselor to ensure the college courses will count for high school credit. To obtain the most current course offerings, contact the high school counselor, Career Coach, or UA Cossatot Director of High School Programs. Students concurrently enrolled must maintain a 2.0 GPA in UA Cossatot classes and on their high school transcript. Failure to achieve a 2.0 GPA will result in the student being barred from enrolling in UA Cossatot classes until after high school graduation.

To enroll in Mathematics or Natural Science courses it is recommended, but not required, that students provide an ACT Math or Accuplacer Elementary Algebra score. Math scores will not prevent the student from taking an English, Social Science, or Technology course.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Click here for additional information regarding high school programs.

Students who have completed the eighth grade and meet admission standards of UA Cossatot may be allowed to enroll in concurrent college courses.

Requirements for concurrent enrollment include:

Complete UA Cossatot Application
High school transcript showing a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Placement test (ACT, ACCUPLACER, ASPIRE [9-12 grade score] scores which meet the established minimums
Provide proof of TWO (2) immunizations against measles (rubeola) and ONE (1) immunization against rubella and ONE (1) immunization against mumps.
Student’s signature on Concurrent Enrollment form
Payment arrangements of all tuition and fees made with the Business Office

In order to be accepted for post-secondary admission, concurrent/secondary students will be required to complete a post-secondary application

MINIMUM SCORES FOR CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT
	Communications, Life Sciences, or Technology classes		Mathematics or Physical Sciences classes		All other classes (ex., Speech, Health, etc.)
TEST	Reading & English/Writing		Reading & Math		Reading
ACCUPLACER	88	94	88	Elem. Alg. 77	88
ACCUPLACER Next Gen.	253	260	253	263	253
ACT	19	19	19	19	19
ASSET	43	45	43	Intrmd.Alg. 39	43
ASPIRE(9-12 grade score)	428	428	428	432	428
COMPASS	83	80	83	Algebra 36	83

TUITION, FEES, AND FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION

2020-21 TUITION AND FEES

SECTION 702 OF THE VETERANS CHOICE ACT

Section 702 of the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014 (“Choice Act”) requires VA to disapprove programs of education for payment of benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Montgomery GI Bill®-Active Duty at public institutions of higher learning if the schools charge qualifying veterans and dependents tuition and fees in excess of the rate for resident students for terms beginning after July 1, 2015. These new requirements will ensure that our nation’s recently discharged veterans, and their eligible family members, will not have to bear the cost of out-of-state charges while using their well- deserved education benefits.

UA Cossatot charges in-state tuition and fee amounts to “covered individuals.” A “covered individual” is defined in the Choice Act as:

A veteran who lives in the state in which the institution of higher learning is located (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within three years of discharge from a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
A spouse or child using transferred benefits who lives in the state in which the institution of higher learning is located (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within 3 years of the transferor’s discharge from a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
A spouse or child using benefits under the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship who lives in the state in which the institution of higher learning is located (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within three years of the service member’s death in the line of duty following a period of active duty service of 90 days or more. Questions regarding the provisions of Section 702 may be submitted to Section702.Vbavaco@va.gov.

VA will provide updates on its website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

STUDENT ACCOUNT INFORMATION

All student accounts must be paid or have concrete payment arrangements made by the first day of classes. Payment arrangements include payment by cash, check, money order, or credit card. The college accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Payment arrangements also include completed and approved (awarded) financial aid of all types. Those who have not completed and been approved for financial aid by the first day of class either pay in full or set up payment plan arrangements. (See Payment Plan Information below.)
All student accounts must be paid in full by the end of the semester. If these accounts become delinquent, they will be turned over for collection. Finance charges and/or collection fees may be assessed on these overdue accounts.
Non-sufficient (NSF) check policy – Students who pay their account with a non-sufficient check will be charged a returned check fee by the college. NSF checks must be paid by cash, credit card, or money order, along with the returned check fee within two weeks of the return. Any returned check not paid within that period will be subject to action by the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. The College reserves the right to refuse future check payments from students who have had a check returned as NSF.
Students who owe a balance from a previous semester will be prohibited from enrolling in courses at the College until the debt is satisfied.
Transcripts, degrees, certificates, and grades will not be issued to any student who has an overdue balance at the college.
Students with overdue balances are ineligible for work-study, student employment, extra-help, or any other part-time or full-time position with the college until their indebtedness is resolved. The Human Resources Office will check records on all former students who apply for employment at the college to determine if there is any unresolved indebtedness to the college.

PAYMENT PLAN

UA Cossatot has made available to students an Automatic Online Payment Plan. This plan can be accessed by visiting the college website and clicking on PAY FOR COLLEGE and then the Payments option or through a link within Campus Connect. Students may set up their own payment plan online at their convenience. Students must have payment plans set up by the first day of classes of the semester attending. The Automatic Online Payment Plan is for tuition and fees only. Book rental fees attached to a course may be included in the payment plan, but other books and supply costs cannot be charged. Changes to a student’s schedule may result in the adjustment of the payment amount.

To participate:

Students must have a checking or savings account or a credit card.

There is a $35.00 set-up fee per semester to use the Automatic Online Payment Plan through NELNET.
Payments are drafted on the 5th of each month through NELNET Enterprises.

QUICK PAY

UA Cossatot provides QuikPAY for student e-billing and e-payment options. QuikPAY is accessible from Campus Connect under the Student Information menu. QuikPAY will allow students to make electronic payments in real time from their checking, savings and/or credit cards. Using QuikPAY, a student may set up “authorized payers,” such as parents, on his/her student account so that his/her authorized payers can set up payment options. Another preference students may select through QuikPAY is to receive e-bill notification by text.

UA Cossatot offers direct deposit for all student refunds. Students wishing to receive Pell grant and all other scholarship refunds may sign up for direct deposit by visiting the college website and logging in to the student account at Campus Connect and go to Direct Deposit Refund under Student Information menu. This Direct Deposit feature is part of the QuikPAY platform. Students must have a checking or savings account to receive direct deposit refunds. Direct deposit refunds may allow students to receive refunds quicker than the ordinary check method.

TEXTBOOK RENTAL PROGRAM

Prior to the beginning of each semester, dates in which textbooks will be available for rental will be announced and posted at the ERC website www.youseemore.com/cccua. Textbooks are available a week prior to the first day of class. Pell grants and/or scholarships may be applied to textbook rentals. (Check with Financial Aid to make sure particular scholarships cover textbook rental expenses). Upon course enrollment, textbook rental fees and/or purchases will be charged to the student account. Fees may not show up for certain courses upon enrollment but will be added manually. Students may return rental textbooks without incurring rental fees until the 11th day of class. Opened or used software and/or access codes are not eligible for refund. After the 11th day, students still pay the full rental fee. Students enrolled in a course but opting not to rent the textbook must notify the ERC to ensure the rental fee is removed from their account. Textbook rentals are currently $30 per textbook, unless otherwise indicated on the expense list at www.youseemore.com/cccua. (Some courses may require purchase of additional workbooks, software and/or access codes).

The college will ship textbooks with a return label to students who live 60 miles or more from any UA Cossatot campus.

Students may return rented textbooks at any point during the semester; however, if returned after the 11th class day, the rental fee is applicable. Students must return textbooks by a specified deadline each semester, which is noted on the rental agreement. After the return deadline passes, students will be charged the full price of the textbook plus a $20 handling fee. Textbooks will not be accepted after the return deadline. STUDENTS WILL BE CHARGED THE FULL PRICE OF THE TEXTBOOK FOR NOT RETURNING BY THE DEADLINE OR FOR ANY DAMAGE INCURRED DURING THE RENTAL PERIOD.

INSTITUTIONAL REFUND POLICY

Refund of Tuition Schedule
Regular 16 Week Term
Through 10th class day	100%
After 10th class day	No refund
8 Week FLEX Term
Through 4th class day	100%
After 4th class day	No refund
4 Week FLEX Term
Through the 2nd class day	100%
After the 2nd class day	No refund

Class days are counted from the first day of class for the current semester. These do not include weekends or holidays.
Students receiving VA benefits will receive a pro-rata refund based on the total length of the course. This complies with VA Regulations.
UA Cossatot complies with Arkansas Act 85 for activated military personnel and will adjust accordingly, depending upon the choice of the activated student at the time of his/her withdrawal.
The Institutional Refund Policy is not available to Cosmetology students due to the unique fee and course structure of the program.
Refunds of unearned tuition and fees for military students receiving Federal Tuition Assistance will be adjusted accordingly and refunded to the federal government on a proportional basis.

STUDENT ACCOUNT APPEALS

Students may appeal for a Financial Adjustment on their Student Account for a course or courses if they have a

Valid reason or issue due to unforeseen circumstances, either medical or extraordinary in nature. Appeals for charges older than two years will not be accepted. Forms for the Student Account Appeal may be obtained from the Business Office and must be returned to the Vice Chancellor for Business Services with the proper back-up documentation to be considered by the Student Account Appeals Committee.

FINANCIAL AID DEADLINES

UA Cossatot FAFSA School Code:

012432

Institutional and Foundation Scholarships ..............April 1

Pell Grant:

Fall Semester (Priority Deadline) ............................ May 1

Spring Semester (Priority Deadline) ............. November 1

Summer Semester Deadline .................................April 15

SEOG:

Fall Semester .......................................................... May 1

Spring Semester ........................................... November 1

TITLE IV/PELL GRANT PROGRAM

The Federal Pell Grant Program is designed to assist eligible students in their postsecondary education. The Pell Grant provides a foundation of financial aid to help defray the costs of education. The maximum yearly award is determined by the Department of Education. All undergraduate students may apply for Pell Grant assistance. Student eligibility is based on financial need and is determined by a formula that is applied consistently to all applications.

LIFETIME ELIGIBILIGY FOR FEDERAL PELL GRANT

New regulations effective July 1, 2012 limits the receipt of a Pell Grant to a lifetime limit of up to 6 full-time years (600%) which is equal to 12 full-time semesters. This regulation applies to all institutions that award Federal Pell grant funds: community colleges, vocational schools, and four-year public and private universities. The U.S. Department of Education will track the limits for students’ eligibility. The consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012 provided changes to the Federal Pell Grant eligibility and reduced the lifetime limit for students. The bill reduced the number of semester a student is eligible to receive Pell funds from 18 semesters to 12 semesters.

Regardless of the Pell Grant amount (i.e. maximum or minimum Pell eligibility), if a student received the full year amount then he/she has received 100%.

For example, if a student’s Pell Grant for the year is $5,000 and the student receives $2,500 in fall and $2,500 in spring, the student has received the entire $5,000 or $100% for the year.

Fall $2,500 (50%)

Spring $2,500 (50%)

=100% Eligibility (2 semesters at full time)

For example, if student’s Pell Grant for the year is $5,000 and the student receives $1,250 in fall and $1,250 in spring, the student has received 50% for the year.

Fall $1,250 (25%)

Spring $1,250 (25%)

=50% Eligibility (2 semesters at part time)

The 600% total eligibility applies at all schools and colleges. However, once the student has earned a Bachelor’s Degree, he/she is no longer eligible for a Pell Grant even if he/she has not received the entire 600% eligibility. In addition, a student must also meet and maintain satisfactory academic progress standards to remain eligible each year.

Students that have questions about their eligibility should contact their UA Cossatot Financial Aid Office. To read more about Federal Pell grant lifetime limits visit http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/eng lish/PellLimit.jsp

SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY GRANT (SEOG)

This program makes funds available to qualified students who have the greatest need, as determined by the Financial Aid office. A limited amount of funds is available for this program: therefore, the funds are awarded based on student need. When the money for the program is gone, no more awards can be made from that program for that year.

LOANS

UA Cossatot does not participate in Federal Loan Programs.

FEDERAL WORK STUDY

The Federal Work Study Program is a campus-based program that provides part-time employment for students who have financial need. This program provides employment opportunities to assist students in earning the funds necessary to meet the cost of postsecondary education. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is required for financial need to be determined. Upon completion of the FAFSA, students may contact the UA Cossatot Financial Aid Office to see which jobs are available for Work Study. The available positions usually consist of employment opportunities in an office or lab on the UA Cossatot campus. Eligibility is restricted to those students having need, as determined by the Financial Aid Office. Hours of work will be determined by each department at the beginning of each academic year. Checks are disbursed on the fifteenth and the last working day of the month.

FEDERAL STUDENT AID GUIDE

For further information in regards to the planning, preparing, and paying for college, please see the Pay For College section of our website and link to the Federal Student Aid Guide, or go to https://studentaid.ed.gov

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS POLICY

Federal Regulations require students to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) while working towards an approved degree or technical certificate program at CCCUA. All hours attempted at or transferred into CCCUA will be counted as part of the student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress. Academic Progress will be reviewed prior to a student’s initial enrollment period and at the end of each semester.

To be in good standing for Financial Aid, a student must:

Not Exceed Lifetime Eligibility for Pell Grant
Successfully complete at least 67% of all attempted credit hours
Have not received an Associate Degree* (Refer to Appeal Process on page 3)
Maintain a 2.00 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA)
Be on track to complete degree plan within the maximum time frame

Financial Aid Warning:

Students will be placed on Financial Aid Warning if they do not complete 67% of attempted credit hours and/or do not maintain a 2.00 CGPA. The first semester a student fails to meet SAP, the student will be placed on financial aid warning and may receive financial aid. If the student does not meet SAP the following semester, the student will be placed on Financial Aid Suspension.

How does Financial Aid Warning affect my financial aid? Students may still receive federal (Pell, SEOG and Federal Work-Study) funds. Students are eligible under the Warning status for one semester. At the end of the semester, the student must be in Good Standing.

Financial Aid Suspension:

If you do not attain the required cumulative GPA and/or credit hour completion ratio during your warning period, exceed your maximum credit hour timeframe required to complete your program, or receive all “F” grades or a combination of W’s and F’s during the semester, you will be placed on Financial Aid Suspension. While on suspension, you are not eligible for financial aid programs. You may attend CCCUA, at your own expense, until you attain the cumulative GPA and cumulative credit hour completion requirement. To regain financial aid eligibility, your record must reflect that you have met these requirements at CCCUA (transferring to another college and transferring back to CCCUA does not remove your suspension status).

Financial Aid Warning and Financial Aid Suspension notifications are emailed to the student’s CCCUA email or by mail once academic transcripts are reviewed. Notice of Financial Aid Warning or Suspension may be issued for past semesters based on an evaluation of the student’s previous academic transcripts.

How does Financial Aid Suspension affect my financial aid? Students on Financial Aid Suspension are not eligible to receive federal (Pell, SEOG and Federal Work-Study) funding.

How can I be removed from Financial Aid Suspension? Being reinstated to Good Standing once the student’s CGPA and overall course completion rate meet the Good Standing minimum standards. Students may be reinstated to Financial Aid Probation status with an approved Financial Aid Appeal.

Financial Aid Probation: Students may be placed on Financial Aid Probation for one payment period after an approved appeal. After Financial Aid Probation, the student must be making SAP or must be successfully following an academic plan.

Maximum Time Frame to Complete Program: Students are expected to complete degree requirements after attempting a certain number of credit hours. The maximum attempted credit hours allowed for degree/certificate completion will be up to 150% of the credit hours needed to complete that type of degree. All credit hours count whether or not the student received aid. All hours attempted including repeated courses, F’s, W’s, I’s, P’s, and audits count toward the student’s maximum time frame. Students who change their degree and/or majors or who are pursuing a second degree are subject to the maximum number of hours. Changing your degree may suspend your Financial Aid if you cannot mathematically complete the degree within the maximum time frame.

Students must complete the requirements for a degree within the following time frames:

Cosmetology Certificate 2250 Clock Hours

Technical Certificates 60 Credit Hours

LPN Certificate 90 Credit Hours

Associate Degrees 92 Credit Hours

PTA Associate Degree 116 Credit Hours

OTA Associate Degree 128 Credit Hours

LPN to RN Associate Degree 185 Credit Hours

Transfer Students: Transcripts from previous colleges will be evaluated in the same manner as CCCUA transcripts. Transfer hours accepted toward completion of the student’s program will count as hours attempted and completed. Students must submit completed official transcripts. If a transcript is received with “in progress” grades, the student will be required to submit a second official transcript with completed grades.

Repeated Courses: Students may repeat a previously passed course once. Students may repeat a failed course until it is passed. All repeated courses will be counted against the maximum number of hours allowed. The highest grade received will be calculated in the student’s CGPA.

NR = For Institutional and Financial Aid purposes, these students have not passed the course and must repeat the course in order to advance to the next course offered for the student’s program of study.

Remedial Coursework: Financial Aid will be awarded for up to 30 credit hours of remedial coursework. Remedial courses are not counted in the maximum timeframe allowed for the student’s degree.

FINANCIAL AID APPEALS PROCESS

Students whose aid is cancelled may appeal this decision ONLY if there are EXTENUATING circumstances. The appeal should include a statement explaining the request for Financial Aid reinstatement and an explanation of the reasons for the request and what has changed that will now allow the student to be successful in meeting the SAP standards. The Appeal Form and all required supporting documentation must be submitted to the CCCUA Financial Aid Office by the first day of classes for the current semester. Appeal forms are available at the Financial Aid Office or you can download one from our website

*If a student has completed a two-year degree within published credit hours and lacks one semester (15 credit hours) to complete a second degree, the student only needs to provide an Appeal Form, degree audit and explanation of how an additional two-year degree will benefit your educational intent.

Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals are reviewed by the Financial Aid Appeals Committee. The committee meets as needed. Their decision is final and the student will be sent a response to their CCCUA email account or by mail.

WITHDRAWAL AND FINANCIAL AID

Recipients of financial aid, who withdraw before the 60% point in time of the period of enrollment, calculated using calendar days, will be required to return a portion of Title IV funds awarded in accordance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998. Title IV funds to be refunded include Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, but not Federal Work Study. The calculation of the return of these funds may result in the student owing a balance to the college and/or the federal government. Students who intend to return will have their eligibility evaluated under the applicable satisfactory academic progress policy. For additional information, contact the Financial Aid Office. Students receiving other forms of aid and scholarships will have their refund calculated using UA Cossatot refund policy unless the scholarship/grant stipulates differently.

FINANCIAL AID SAP CREDIT HOUR REQUIREMENTS

SEMESTER SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS CREDIT HOURS ATTEMPTED COMPLETED
1-4	3
5-6	4
7	5
8	6
9-10	7
11	8
12-13	9
14	10
15-16	11
17	12
18-19	13
20	14
21	15

RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDS

This requirement applies to students who receive federal student aid (Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Academic Competitiveness Grant, but not Federal Work-Study) and completely terminate enrollment prior to completing 60% of the enrollment period.

Termination of enrollment can be the result of any of the following actions:

Student initiates an official withdrawal from UA Cossatot
Student is administratively dropped by instructors from all courses due to non-attendance.
Student is administratively withdrawn from all courses as a result of disciplinary action.
Students receiving all F’s are considered to have unofficially withdrawn. The drop date is determined by your last day of attendance.

The amount of Title IV aid an institution must refund to the federal aid programs is determined by the federal return to Title IV funds formula as specified in Section 484B of the Higher Education Act. UA Cossatot utilizes software provided by the U.S. Department of Education to calculate the amount of aid that must be refunded, which was initially used to pay institutional charges. The drop date provided by your instructors will be utilized to document the last date of enrollment.

UA Cossatot returns unearned aid used to pay institutional charges in the following order within 45 days of the withdrawal determination:

Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Other Title IV Programs.

A repayment may also be required of the student when a refund check has been issued to a student from financial aid funds in excess of the amount used to pay institutional charges that the student fails to earn by maintaining enrollment. If the student owes a repayment, the student has 45 days to repay the funding. If the student does not pay the funding within 45 days, UA Cossatot will notify the

U.S. Department of Education that the student is in overpayment.

Students are notified by letter if the student owes funding to UA Cossatot or the U.S. Department of Education.

If a student earns more aid than was disbursed, the student may be eligible to receive a post withdrawal disbursement. Students are notified by mail of their eligibility for such a disbursement. A post withdrawal of grant funds is automatically credited to the student’s account for outstanding charges.

VETERANS AFFAIRS BENEFITS

STATE GRANT PROGRAMS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) is a state agency that administers the financial aid programs for the State of Arkansas.

Scholarships and grants include:

Arkansas Academic Challenge (traditional and non- traditional students)
AR Future Grant (traditional and non-traditional students)
Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship
Military Dependents Scholarship (MDS)
Single Parent Scholarship http://scholarships.adhe.edu/scholarships-and- programs/a-z/ for more information and application requirements. All applicants are encouraged to check the status of their ADHE accounts online through the YOUniversal website (www.adhe.edu). When an applicant’s account is updated, the change is reflected in the respective account. However, it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all required documentation is properly submitted to ADHE.

CAREER PATHWAYS

FOUNDATION AND INSTITUTIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

ARKANSAS REHABILITATION SERVICES

UA Cossatot cooperates with the Arkansas Rehabilitation Services offices in placing students in approved training programs. Area rehabilitation counselors determine the benefits that students receive from this program. Arkansas Rehabilitation Texarkana office serves the following counties: Howard, Hempstead, Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Polk, Pike, and Sevier. Contact the Arkansas Rehabilitation Counselor at 870.773.2807.

AMERICAN INDIAN

UA Cossatot collaborates with the American Indian Center offices in placing students in approved degree programs. American Indian Center counselors determine the benefits that students receive from this program. Contact the AIC Office 1.800.441.4513 or visit American Indian website at www.arindianctr.org

SINGLE PARENT SCHOLARSHIP

The purpose of the Single Parent Scholarship is to provide supplemental financial assistance to those single parents living in Arkansas who are pursuing a course of instruction that will improve their income-earning potential. Single Parent Scholarships are listed by county. Applications and deadlines are available online at www.aspsf.org/students_spscholarships.html

WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program is designed to help job seekers find employment, education, training and supportive services to succeed in the labor marker. Information and eligibility requirements are available from the following agency:

Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. - Residents of the following counties should call the appropriate career planner:

Ouachita, Dallas, Calhoun: 870.836.5024
Hempstead, Sevier, Nevada, Little River, Howard, Miller: 870.777.3421
Columbia, Lafayette: 870.234.3440
Union: 870.863.0218

TUITION WAIVERS

UA Cossatot has many waivers available for students, employees, and employee members. Waivers include:

UA Cossatot Employee Dependent Waiver
Military Tuition Waiver
Senior Citizen Waiver
Out of State Tuition Waiver
Waiver of Non-Resident Tuition for Native Americans
Educational Assistance Plan for UA Cossatot employees

All Tuition Waiver forms are available in the Financial Aid Office or on the UA Cossatot website. All forms should be completed before the 11th class day of each semester.

STUDENT POLICIES

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

ACADEMIC ADVISING

In order to coordinate services and assist with educational goals, each student at UA Cossatot is assigned an advisor who specializes in a particular area of study. Advisors help guide students to academic completion through individual correspondence and follow up. Students are encouraged to make contact with their advisors each semester.

Students planning to transfer from UA Cossatot to another college should be aware that courses completed at UA Cossatot toward a Certificate or an Associate of Applied Science Degree are designed for employment purposes and may not transfer to four-year institutions. Students seeking transferable credits should consult with their advisor before enrolling.

Grades of “D” are considered passing, but these courses may not be accepted when transferring to another institution. As a general rule, students planning to transfer to another institution should contact the Registrar’s office of the receiving school to verify transferability of courses prior to taking the course.

ARKANSAS COURSE TRANSFER SYSTEM

The Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) outlines the transferability of courses within Arkansas public colleges and universities. Students are guaranteed the transfer of applicable credits and equitable treatment in the application of credits for the admissions and degree requirements.

ADDING COURSES

Students may add courses during the registration period ONLY. VIP registration opens a week prior to general registration allowing currently enrolled students the opportunity to register early. Fall registration is available April through the first day of classes in August. Spring registration is available October through first day of classes in January. Summer registration is available April through first day of classes in June. Enrollment in FLEX courses follows a different registration schedule; refer to the Academic Calendar for specific dates. A student may drop a class prior to the Census Date (10th class day fall/spring; 4th class day summer) without penalty or payment required.

DROPPING COURSES

A student may drop a class prior to the Census Date without penalty or payment required. After the 10th class day for the fall/spring semesters and the 4th class day for the summer semester, a student must contact Student Services (studentservices@cccua.edu) to complete the withdrawal process. Instructors may withdraw students for lack of attendance, low academic achievement, or inadequate progress without student consent.

Failure to withdraw properly (in writing with signature and date) will result in an “F” being posted on the student’s transcript.

CREDIT FOR COURSES

UA Cossatot uses the semester credit hour for computation of courses, which is defined as the amount of credit given for one contact hour in class per week for a minimum of 16 weeks (or the equivalent). Some technical courses that consist of predominantly laboratory, hands-on training will contain more class (contact) hours for one semester hour credit. For detailed information about specific courses (including technical and medical courses), see the course descriptions.

Each course number provides specific information about the course. The first number is the academic level. The final digit of the course number on the right indicates the number of credit hours awarded for the course — 1, 2, 3, or 4. For example, course number 1113 would be a freshman level course valued at 3 hours credit. The two middle numbers help UA Cossatot to identify the course (see below).

ENGL 1113

ENGL indicates a course in the English department.

1 Indicates a first-year or freshman-level course.

1 Generally has no official meaning.

1 Sequence number of a class in a series; in this case, English Composition I as opposed to Composition II.

3 Indicates 3 credit hours.

AUDITING COURSES

Auditing a course means a student can take classes but is not graded or awarded credit for the course. Academic exploration and self-enrichment are reasons to audit a course. In order to audit a course, a student must meet the admission requirements and make payment of tuition and fees for the course. Students auditing a course are subject to the same regulations as regular students but do not take examinations. A student may change from credit status to audit status until mid-term of each semester. Students may audit a course after completing it for credit, or they may take a course for credit after previously auditing it.

COURSE LOAD

Full-time status for fall and spring terms is 15 semester hours, although 12 semester hours is considered full-time for federal financial aid programs. Some scholarships or grants may require additional hours each semester. Most programs of study require more than 12 semester hours per semester to complete a degree within the suggested timeframe. Generally, 19 hours is the maximum load a student may carry during a regular semester. Any student wishing to take more than 19 hours, that are not flex courses, must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and request permission from the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services.

INSTITUTIONAL CREDIT HOUR POLICY

FACE-TO-FACE LECTURE: direct instruction with an instructor. Institution standards follow 1 credit hour for each 800 minutes of lecture.

WEB CONFERENCING COURSE: equivalent to a face-to-face lecture course, but offered via web conference technology. These courses have the same learning outcomes and substantive components of a standard/lecture course with an alternate delivery method. Institution standards follow 1 credit hour for each 800 minutes of lecture.

LABORATORY: instruction with a focus on experiential learning under the direct supervision of a faculty member where the student performs substantive work in a laboratory setting. Institution standards follow 1 credit hour for each 800 minutes of lecture and 1600 minutes of lab instruction for 1 credit hour of lab.

FIELDWORK: describes instruction in a supervised clinical/medical, social work, or school setting where students have an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge they have acquired at an approved off-campus site. Contact time and outside student work must be established and documented.

CLINICAL: courses with a focus on experiential learning under the direct supervision of a faculty member or preceptor where the student performs substantive work in a clinical setting.

INTERNSHIP: applied and supervised learning experience where students gain practical experience following a directed plan of study

INDEPENDENT STUDY: instruction where a faculty member regularly interacts and directs student outcomes with periodic contact. Institution standards follow 1 credit hour for each 800 minutes of contact time/instructional materials.

ONLINE COURSE: courses offered 100% online without any face-to-face meetings. These courses have the same learning outcomes and substantive components of a standard/lecture course with an alternate delivery method. Contact time is satisfied by several means which can include but is not limited to a) regular instruction or interaction with a faculty meeting weekly during the duration of the course b) academic engagement through interactive components, group discussions, virtual group projects. Institution standards follow 1 credit hour for each 800 minutes of contact time/instructional materials.

HYBRID COURSE: courses meeting with split interaction across face-to-face, interactive, independent, or online channels with at least 50% but less than 100% of the course offered in an online format. These courses have the same learning outcomes and substantive components of a standard/lecture course with an alternate delivery method. Institution standards follow 1200 minutes of face-to-face instruction and 1200 minutes of online instruction for a 3 credit hour course. Lab-based hybrid courses follow 2100 minutes of face-to-face instruction and 2100 minutes of online instruction for a 4 credit hour course.

FLEX Course: courses offered outside the standard 15 week semester in which the credit hours offered are the same as the standard semester and the content and learning outcomes are the same as those in the standard semester. These courses meet the total amount of instructional and student work time even if delivered within an accelerated time frame.

TEXTBOOK PROGRAM

UA Cossatot provides the option to rent course-required textbooks, for a maximum fee of $30 each per semester, directly from the college. Students should check the course list at www.youseemore.com/cccua to determine if a textbook is required and visit the Educational Resource Center (ERC) to rent textbooks. Textbook rental and return dates are posted. Some courses may require the purchase of software or supplementary material. Please direct any questions about the Textbook Program to the Director of Educational Resources at the ERC.

COURSE ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

The college recognizes the correlation between student attendance and student retention, achievement and success. Any class session or activity missed, regardless of cause, reduces the opportunity for learning and may adversely affect a student’s achievement. Non-attendance may impact a student’s financial aid. The college requires that instructors take and timely report student attendance.

Students are expected to attend all class sessions and laboratory periods for which they are enrolled. The class instructor defines circumstances under which an absence may be excused and absences are generally an individual matter between the student and instructor. Each instructor shall, in writing, at the beginning of each semester make clear to the students in the course the expectations regarding attendance. The attendance policy is located in syllabi or program handbooks. Students are responsible to instructors for class attendance and for any class work missed during an absence. Students are responsible for contacting instructors regarding work missed. Make-up assignments are only permitted with the approval of the instructor. Students who will be absent from class due to participation in athletics or a college-sponsored activity are responsible for completing all required coursework as provided by the instructor. The instructor determines how in-class activities associated with an absence(s) can be accommodated.

Instructors reserve the right to drop or withdraw students from classes due to lack of attendance at the point that a student has missed 25% of the class. Courses meeting twice a week correlates to 7 days; courses meeting once a week correlates to 4 days; online and summer courses correlate to 4 days. Certain programs may require more stringent attendance requirements.

Students are required to establish initial attendance in physical classes by the second week of class and in virtual classes by making a substantial contribution by the tenth (10^th) business day of the semester. [fourth (4^th) day of class for eight (8) week semesters, second (2^nd) day of class for four (4) week semesters]. The instructor determines a substantial contribution as a homework assignment, a quiz or test, or an appropriately involved discussion board posting.

Students failing to establish initial attendance by the tenth (10^th) business day of the semester will be reported as “no-shows” by their instructor. [Fourth (4^th) day of class for eight (8) week semesters, second (2^nd) day of class for four (4) week semesters.]

Student attendance in virtual classes will be established by weekly substantial contributions as defined above.

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must contact Student Services and/or the instructor to complete the drop process. Failure to withdraw can result in an “F” being posted on the student’s transcript.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE COLLEGE

Students must contact the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services or Student Services to complete a total withdraw from the college. Students withdrawing prior to the last day to withdraw will receive a “W” on their transcript. Failure to officially withdraw will result in an “F” being posted to the student’s transcript. It is also the student’s responsibility to pay the appropriate tuition, fees, and other charges. Information concerning procedures and dates are widely publicized. The Appeals Committee will not consider petitions from students who claim “non-awareness” of withdrawal procedures and deadlines.

ADMINISTRATIVE REMOVAL

At the discretion of the appropriate Division Chair, and after consultation with the instructor and Vice Chancellor for Academic Services, a student may be removed from a program or course for violating division, program, and/or college policy/procedures. Students who are administratively removed for violating a policy or procedure are responsible for any remaining financial obligation to the school and may be required to repay federal financial aid.

INCOMPLETE COURSE GRADES

An instructor may assign an “Incomplete grade” (I) if the student requests and extenuating circumstances are present. Division Chairs must approve all incompletes prior to the “I” being assigned. The student must request the “I” grade prior to the last day of withdrawal for the semester. An instructor can initiate an “I” grade request after the last day under special instances and with approval of Vice Chancellor for Academic Services. An “I” grade will be calculated for that semester’s grade point the same as if it were an “F” grade, i.e., zero quality points will be earned. If the “I” grade is remedied within eight weeks after the grade was assigned that semester’s GPA will be revised accordingly. “I” grades may be extended past the eight-week period under extenuating circumstances with the pre-approval of both Division Chair and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services, but the extension will not exceed one calendar year.

GRADES

Students may contact their instructors at any time to determine grade standing. 5 week, 12 week, and final grades will be posted via CampusConnect, provided the student is not on academic or financial hold. The following grading system is used to evaluate students:

Grade	Range*	Rating	Quality Points/ Credit Hour	Calc. in GPA
A	90% - 100%	Excellent	4	yes
B	80% - 89%	Above Standard	3	yes
C	70% - 79%	Meets Standard	2	yes
D	60% - 69%	Below Standard	1	yes
F	59% and below	Failing	0	yes
I		Incomplete	0	yes
W		Withdrew	N/A	no
NR		Not Recorded	N/A	no
N		No Grade	N/A	no
AU		Audit	N/A	no
TR		Transfer	N/A	no
P		Pass	0	no

*The following medical programs have higher required grade ranges (EMT; LPN; RN; Medical Assisting; OTA; PTA)

W” grades are disregarded when calculating grade point averages. A grade of “AU” indicates that the course has been audited and that no credit was given for the course; this will be indicated by the code on the transcript. A grade of “N” indicates that the credit was earned by work experience, advanced placement, or CLEP.

CALCULATION OF GPA

A student’s grade point average (GPA) is calculated using the quality points earned in the course and the semester hours assigned to that course, in the following formula:

Total Quality Points earned divided by

Total Semester Credit Hours Pursued

Quality points are calculated by multiplying the value of the letter grade assigned for a course (A= 4; B= 3; C= 2; D= 1; F or I= 0) times the credit hours awarded for the course. A grade of “A” in a 3 credit hour course would be equal to 12 quality points (4 x 3=12).

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER

The UA Cossatot Educational Resource Center (ERC) is a fully functioning, media-rich, user-friendly resource center striving to enrich the lives of students through active learning. Working with faculty, we seek to promote higher education and help students achieve their maximum academic potential.

DISABILITY SERVICES

The United States’ Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act establishes that individuals with disabilities have a legal right to equal access to a college education. The ADA defines “disability” as “having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities.” The ADA protects individuals from discrimination if they have a record of such impairments or if they are regarded as having such impairments. An individual with a disability is someone a) with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity, b) who has a record of such an impairment, and/or c) who is regarded as having such an impairment. Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability against participants in programs receiving federal funds. Campuses are required to be physically and programmatically accessible and to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to college offerings. ADA defines reasonable accommodation as: “changes or adjustments in a school site, program, or job that makes it possible for an otherwise qualified student with a disability to perform the duties or tasks required.” A student with a disability is to have what is needed so that they may access every activity (or its equivalent) that is available to other students. Colleges are not required to provide personal aides or assistants. Colleges are not expected to provide something that will cause an “undue hardship” on the college. “Undue hardship” is defined as “action requiring significant difficulty or expense” when considered in light of factors such as: nature and cost of the accommodation in relation to the overall size, resources, nature and structure of the college’s operation. Alternatives which may serve in place of the specific accommodation should be considered.

NON-CREDIT REQUESTING ACCOMMODATIONS

Non-credit students participating in Adult Education, Continuing Education, or Workforce Development programs or services may request accommodations due to a disability by completing an Application for Disability Services for Non-Credit Students and providing relevant documentation.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Students who complete the requirements of a program of study as prescribed by UA Cossatot and approved by the Arkansas State Department of Higher Education will receive a certificate or a degree. Specific degree information may be found later in the catalog. Graduating students must satisfactorily complete all course with minimum amounts as outlined below completed through UA Cossatot:

Associate Degree: 15 hours

Technical Certificate: 50% of the degree

Certificate of Proficiency: 100% of the degree

Exceptions may be made with approval from the Vice Chancellor for Academic Services.

Exception: Members of the armed services who are enrolled under the Service-members Opportunity College (SOC) must complete at least 25% of their certificate or degree program requirements through UA Cossatot. Each required course must be passed with at least a “D.”

EMT, Practical Nursing, Registered Nursing, OTA, PTA and Medical Assisting programs require at least a “C” and the student’s cumulative GPA must be at least 2.0.

AS Education requires cumulative GPA of 3.0 in order to graduate.

Developmental and/or preparatory courses (all GSTD courses) will not be used to fulfill degree requirements or elective course requirements for any diploma or degree. Prospective graduates must complete an “Application to Graduate” by the date listed in the Academic Calendar. It is the student’s responsibility to clear outstanding debts to the College prior to graduation.

Students not participating in the graduation ceremony will receive their diploma/certificate after the ceremony. A student may contact the Registrar to pick up awards at a specific UAC campus or by mail.

HONOR STUDENT DESIGNATIONS

UA Cossatot recognizes students who excel in college- level courses in the following manner.

Vice Chancellor’s List: Full-time students (12 or more hours completed within the semester) who have achieved a 3.5 to 3.99 grade point average for that semester and notification will be sent to area news media.
Chancellor’s List: Full-time students (12 or more hours completed within the semester) who have achieved a 4.0 grade point average for that semester and notification will be sent to area news media.

Exceptions may apply for programs with restricted admissions which may require under 12 hours during a term.

The following designations are reserved for graduates of Degree and Technical Certificate programs.

Cum Laude: Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 to 3.74
Magna Cum Laude: Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 to 3.8
Summa Cum Laude: Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.90 to 4.00

Developmental courses (GSTD prefix) will not be calculated for the purpose of Honors designation. Certificate of Proficiency programs are not included in these honors.

CATALOG PRIVILEGE

A student has the option to graduate under the requirements of the catalog in effect at the time of initial enrollment, providing the student has maintained continuous enrollment, and meets all requirements within five (5) years of initial enrollment.

REVERSE TRANSFER

Students wishing to reverse transfer must meet the catalog requirements that they fall under. If a student is not currently enrolled, the catalog degree plan from when they were enrolled will be used. It is the responsibility of the student to have transcripts from other colleges sent to UAC Cossatot and confirm they wish to reverse transfer.

PLACEMENT AND TESTING

PLACEMENT GUIDELINES

PRIOR LEARNING CREDIT

College credit may be awarded for verifiable prior learning experiences deemed to have outcomes equivalent to college coursework. Some training or licensing is recognized for credit in the National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs. Credit will be granted as recommended in the Guide as appropriate to the certificate or degree programs approved for the College.

If the Guide does not identify the specific learning for credit, the student must provide the College with substantial information, through such things as letters from employers, certificates of training, licenses, verifications of job positions, job descriptions, etc., in order to support the request. When seeking such credit, a student will arrange with the Division Chair to take SPD 2002 Portfolio Development. The Division Chair will direct the student as a portfolio is developed detailing the learning experiences for which credit is sought. There is no guarantee that, upon completion of the course, the prior learning credit sought will be granted. In some instances verification of learning and training are impossible — businesses close, supervisors leave, records are lost. In such cases, it may be possible to test out of a course through special arrangements with the course instructor and Division Chair. A maximum of 15 hours is available for prior learning credit.

COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)

In accordance with the recommendations of the American Council on Education, UA Cossatot accepts the results of the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), for specific subject exams and grants credit within established limitations. A student must complete at least twelve (12) scheduled hours of college level coursework in residence prior to placing CLEP coursework on UA Cossatot transcript. Contact the Registrar’s office to determine which CLEP exam to take in order to receive credit at UA Cossatot. For consideration to receive disability testing accommodations, contact the Disability Services office.

American Literature (elective credit only)
College Composition
English Literature (elective credit only)
Analyzing and Interpreting Literature (elective credit only)
Humanities
Spanish Levels 1 and 2
American Government
History of the US I
History of the US II
Human Growth and Development
Introductory Psychology
Introductory Sociology
Principles of Macroeconomics
Principles of Microeconomics
Social Sciences and History (elective credit only)
Western Civilization I
Western Civilization II
Biology (elective credit only)
Calculus
Chemistry
College Algebra
College Mathematics
Precalculus (elective credit only)
Introductory Business Law
Financial Accounting

CREDIT BY EXAM

Challenge exams may be completed prior to the student enrolling in the course or at any point during the semester after enrolling in the course. Students who pass the exam will receive credit for the course and will be noted on their transcript as the grade received on the exam

Taking Exam Prior to Enrolling in Course—

Determine if a CLEP test is available (Division Chair for General Education can assist or see prior paragraph). If a CLEP exam exists, credit through a challenge exam will not be appropriate. Other institutions are not required to accept credit in transfer from institutional challenge exams. CLEP is a nationally recognized examination.
If moving forward with a challenge exam, student contacts academics assistant. If a medical student, the student will be referred to medical advisor. Vice Chancellor for Academics assistant or medical advisor will work with the student and testing center to schedule a testing time.
Student goes to the Business Office and pays the fee
Student takes receipt to Testing Center and takes exam
Exam is graded by UA Cossatot instructor
The instructor completes the Course Credit by Examination form indicating the score made on the challenge exam.
The form is then submitted to the Division Chair, who signs, and submits to the Registrar.
The Registrar awards credit on the transcript

Note: transfer institutions do not have to accept credit for classes awarded by challenge exams.

Challenging course during the semester while enrolled—

Note: Students enrolled in a course may request to challenge the course at any point during the semester but will remained enrolled in the course and must pay for the course.

The instructor sends the exam to the Testing Center and notifies the Testing Center.
Exam is graded by UA Cossatot instructor
Instructor reviews grade with the student. If passing and student wishes to proceed with the grade, grade is entered into Campus Connect and instructor completes form to be scanned into student file.

CREDIT FOR MILITARY EXPERIENCE

Those students with military experience (MOS and Service Schools) will be evaluated upon presentation of a certified copy of the Discharge Form DD 214 or DD

295 to the Registrar. Credit will be awarded in accordance with recommendations set forth in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services, published by the American Council on Education (ACE).

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CREDIT

Institutions should award course credit to students who score a three (3) or higher on any Advanced Placement Exam. In order to increase transferability, ACTS courses have been assigned to relevant exams. These courses are outlined in the following section of this policy. This list is maintained by the Department of Higher Education and will be reviewed every five years. The following table outlines the courses that a student should earn credit for if a three (3) or higher on the corresponding AP Exam is earned. Those Advanced Placement exams without a corresponding ACTS course listed below should be awarded at the discretion of the institution.

Institutions are limited in awarding additional course credit for a score of three (3). Institutions will be limited to awarding credit for one corresponding ACTS course listed in the table above to students who score a three (3) on the exam. Institutions may choose to award additional credit for those students who score a four (4) or five (5) on an exam. While transfer institutions are encouraged to accept any additional AP credit awarded, the transfer institution will not be obligated to honor additional credit given beyond the requirement. In order to maintain consistency and high academic standards in the state, no course credit will be awarded for an Advanced Placement test score below a three (3). An institution is not required to award credit for an AP exam if the institution does not offer the corresponding ACTS course.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

PROFESSIONAL STUDIES PROGRAMS

MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SKILLED AND TECHNICAL PROGRAMS

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

TRANSFER PROGRAM INFORMATION

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

ACADEMIC CATALOG ARCHIVE

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

UA Cossatot is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution in compliance with the Higher Education Act of 1965 and other Civil Rights laws, and offers equal opportunity for admission and employment. Employment preference is given to applicants possessing a Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) with all other qualifications being equal. Programs and activities of UAC are provided to all students without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, Vietnam era veteran or special disabled veteran status, or sex. Questions or concerns regarding affirmative action can be directed to the Compliance Officer, c/o UA Cossatot, 183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832. For Arkansas, RELAY Voiced Services call 711 or 800-285-1121.