| Parents
Common Questions
Common Questions
Select the area that
interests you:
Q&A: Academics
| Q&A: Campus Life
Q & A: Academics
Does someone help students with course
selection?
During the summer months prior to the start of classes our New Student
Registration Coordinator will probably have made contact with the
student to review and enter course selections for the coming year.
If for some reason that is not able to happen, then there will be
a specific time set aside during the first few days on campus for
the student to have an individual advising session for the purpose
of course selection. In addition, every college student is assigned
to a faculty advisor. During Orientation students will meet with
others in the same academic program. Together with other students
they will meet as an advisee group with their faculty advisor. Although
advisors are available to help students plan their program of study,
each student is responsible for knowing and satisfying degree requirements.
How much time should be devoted to study?
Most students learn quickly that college courses require considerably
more study time than was required in high school. It is suggested
that students study approximately two hours for every hour in class.
For example, if a student is carrying fifteen credit hours, he or
she should spend thirty hours a week studying or involved in course
work, for a total of 45 hours. As you can see, college is a full-time
job.
How many credit hours does the average
student take in a semester?
The average number of hours the typical freshman takes is 15-16
during their first semester. The number of hours a student should
take depends on individual circumstances, high school preparation,
whether they have a job, activities in which they are involved and
other obligations on campus. There is no minimum number of credit
hours that a student must take, but to be classified as full-time,
they must be enrolled in at least 12 hours. Sometimes students need
to be enrolled on a full-time basis for reasons such as financial
aid eligibility or insurance coverage; therefore, the student is
urged to check their own particular circumstances.
Are students able to change classes?
At some point your son or daughter may find it necessary to add
or drop a course. This may be due to a change in his or her work
or activity schedule or the recognition that a different class would
be more beneficial. A student can add or drop courses with no consequences
during the first 7 weekdays after classes begin. After that up until
20 weekdays after class begins, they may drop but will pay 50% of
the tuition. Thereafter there is no refund.
Can students change degree
programs?
Yes, new students may change programs at any time up to the end
of their first semester with no charge. Thereafter, a $25 fee will
be charged unless they are changing to a program of greater length,
in which case the charge is waived.
What are the minimum standards
for academic performance?
Good academic standing is defined as a 2.00 grade point average
on a 4.00 scale, except for the BABT and BATE degrees and the Explore,
Discover , and SPORT certificates which require a 2.3 g.p.a. Please
consult the Academic Guide or the College Catalogue for a detailed
description on academic standing, including probation, suspension
and dismissal.
Where can my son or daughter get help
with school work?
College courses are challenging by design. If your son or daughter
is having trouble in a class, there are several resources which
can be helpful to them. However, the key to getting help is seeking
it. Encourage your son or daughter to get help early before the
problem becomes overwhelming. The first resource should be to make
an appointment with the professor to discuss the problem. Instructors
welcome the opportunity to help someone do well in their classes.
Tutoring is available through resources within the Assistive Resource Centre and the Spiritual Formation office throughout the college year.
Are grades sent to parents?
The college mails a final grade report to the student at his or
her home address. Midterm grades are mailed to the student’s
local address. The Privacy Information Protection Act prohibits
the release of this information to anyone but the student. Student
records, whether academic or otherwise, are considered private documents.
Q&A: Campus Life
How can my son or daughter adjust
well to life on campus?
This is one of the critical areas of concern for parents, students
and colleges alike. The first few weeks of college life are vital
in making good connections for a life of learning. In preparation
for arrival on campus your student should read through the online
Student Handbook and also review the College Catalogue to become
familiar with the general environment of college life. Once your
son or daughter arrives on campus the orientation process begins
with introductions to new friends, academic programs and campus
life. This time is structured to ensure that students gain the confidence
and ability to handle the transitions in a comfortable, non-threatening
atmosphere. Familiarity and camaraderie grow as they continue to
participate in disciple building and ministry groups and develop
relationships within the residences.
What if my child has trouble choosing
a course of study?
Choosing a life direction and thus choosing a degree or a major
is an introspective decision and not one that students should be
encouraged to make quickly or take lightly. Do not be alarmed if
it takes your son or daughter a semester or two to select a major,
or change their degree or major. No matter how much you want them
to be prosperous and secure, this is their decision. There are resources
on campus through the Career Development office to help students
understand themselves, set career and life goals and directions
and choose an appropriate course of study.
Can college faculty and staff share information
with you about your student?
We know your desire for the health and wellness of your son or daughter,
and we hold similar concerns. We want to work with you in the process
of successful maturation and development. However, the Privacy Information
Protection Act prohibits the discussion of personal and confidential
information with anyone, including the parents. Your son or daughter
can give the appropriate faculty/staff member permission to discuss
issues with you. Be assured that in emergencies or in situations
of necessity, we will contact you and we always welcome your call
to express your thoughts and questions.
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