PWSCC ACAdemiC CAtAlog 2014-2015

Transcription

PWSCC ACAdemiC CAtAlog 2014-2015
PWSCC
CATALOG
PWSCC
Academic
2014-2015
Catalog
2014-2015
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
a
ACADEMIC CATALOG 2014 - 2015
www.pwscc.edu
VALDEZ - MAIN CAMPUS
PO Box 97
303 Lowe St.
Valdez, Alaska 99686
907-834-1600
1-800-478-8000
FAX 907-834-1691
[email protected]
COPPER BASIN EXTENSION
PO Box 730
200 Ridley Circle
Glennallen, Alaska 99588
907-822-3673
1-800-478-8000
FAX 907-822-5574
[email protected]
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
CORDOVA EXTENSION
PO Box 1248
Cordova, Alaska 99574
907-424-7598
1-800-478-8000
FAX 907-424-7588
[email protected]
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WELCOME TO PWSCC
Prince William Sound Community College offers
opportunities to grow and learn in a supportive
learning community amidst unparalleled natural
beauty. The College is dedicated to widening
academic and career opportunities for students
by preparing them with skills for an ever-changing
global workforce.
As a PWSCC student, you will benefit from a
close-knit learning community with a high level
of faculty interaction and valuable experiences
both within and beyond the classroom. With NO
out-of-state tuition, you can pursue one of the
most affordable educations available in Alaska,
regardless of where you’re from. Oceanfront,
mountains, rivers, and glaciers provide an
inspirational setting with ample time for quiet
reflection, creative thought, and outdoor
adventure-seeking. Small class sizes will allow you to develop one-on-one relationships
with peers and faculty, ensuring an intimate learning experience. Opportunities for
leadership, service, practical training, and engagement in campus and community
activities abound.
PWSCC is at the forefront of educational technology. With a variety of courses and
delivery options, you can easily explore personal and professional interests to meet
your individual needs and schedules. A wide range of support services are readily
available to help students reach their goals. Newly remodeled student housing in
Valdez affords students a chance to live independently in fully furnished apartments
among their peers. The College caters to a total student population of 750 students,
comprised of many out-of-state and international students, distance learners, and
rural students taking courses through one of several outreach delivery sites.
We truly believe that at PWSCC, you will find inspiration to explore new ways of
thinking and to seek out every opportunity for yourself as you pursue your higher
education goals.
You will find personal growth in your self-awareness, in how you embrace diverse perspectives, and
in the way you incorporate your values and passions into a sense of personal and civic responsibility.
You will find learning to be not only a process of advancing your skills and knowledge for your career,
but also a path to becoming an active and productive member of your community and chosen
profession.
And, it is our belief that you will accomplish all of this naturally as you willingly engage in your studies
and in campus life, flourishing in the uniquely inspiring cultural and physical setting that Alaska
provides.
Contact a Student Services professional at our main Valdez campus or one of our extension centers in
Cordova or the Copper Basin Region to learn more about getting started on your educational journey.
Academic advising and financial aid are available.
Prince William Sound Community College.
Inspiration, Growth, and Learning . . .
Naturally.
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement
Certificate and Degree Programs Academic Calendar 2014-2015 General Information and Accreditation Information Directory PWSCC Campus & Extension Centers Admissions Financial Aid Student Fees and Expenses
Student Housing
Registration and Graduation
Student Services Academic Services Community Services
Academic Regulations Student Competencies General Course Requirements Academic Programs
Occupational Endorsements Certificates Associate Degrees Other Academic Opportunities Course Definitions Course Descriptions PWSCC Register Faculty Staff Student Rights & Responsibilities, College Policies
Campus Security & Fire Safety Report (2013)
PWSCC Drug Free Schools Notification (2013)
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
MISSION AND CORE THEMES
Mission
Prince William Sound Community College applies innovative and sustainable practices in providing
accessibility, student success, effective teaching and learning, and community engagement.
This mission is fulfilled through the following objectives:
PWSCC is about accessible education for all as we cultivate partnerships that provide training and
educational programs, help stimulate economic development, and enable students to be engaged
members of a rapidly changing world.
Core Themes
Accessibility and Sustainability
•
Provide educational opportunities to diverse learners
•
ake instruction and services available to local, distance, and rural students within our region
M
and beyond
•
Maintain a physical and social environment that is supportive, inclusive, and sustainable
Student Success
•
Empower students to reach their potential through transition, persistence, and achievement of goals
•
Enhance the quality of student life and learning
Effective Teaching and Learning
•
Faculty and curriculum support achievement of student learning outcomes and actively engage students in quality academic pursuits
Community Engagement
•
Enhance the quality of life and learning through engagement with the communities we serve
•
Maintain collaborations and partnerships that allow PWSCC to contribute meaningfully to regional,
state, and national economic and workforce development
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
CERTIFICATE & DEGREE PROGRAMS
OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENTS
Disability Services
Direct Service Specialist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Computer Information and Office Systems
Office Foundations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Office Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
CERTIFICATES
Industrial Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Oil Spill Response Emphasis
Safety Management Emphasis
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS (AA) DEGREE
General Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE (AAS) DEGREES
Disability Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Community Support Emphasis
Educational Support Emphasis
Speech-Language Support Emphasis
Industrial Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Millwright Emphasis
Oil Spill Response Emphasis
Safety Management Emphasis
Outdoor Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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ACADEMIC CALENDAR
FALL 2014
Fall PWSCC Scholarship and Tuition Grant
application deadline
31-Jul
Residence halls open (9am); Fall Housing
Agreement period begins 21-Aug
New Student Orientation First day of instruction* 25-Aug
Add/Drop period begins*
25-Aug
Registration with senior citizen tuition waiver
permitted 25-Aug
Labor Day holiday – No class (campus closed) 1-Sep
No Class Day
2-Sep
Restricted Add Period begins; Instructor permission
required to register 2-Sep
Drop Deadline – Deadline for 100% refund of
tuition and fees* 5-Sep
Last day to add classes with instructor permission 5-Sep
Last day to change credit/audit status for
full-term classes 5-Sep
Fall 2014 Graduation Application deadline 5-Sep
Withdrawal period begins online (no refunds) 6-Sep
Payment Deadline 15-Sep
$125 late payment fee assessed 16-Sep
$175 late payment fee assessed* 1-Nov
Withdrawal Deadline 7-Nov
Spring scholarship and tuition grant application deadline**
26-Nov
No Class Day Thanksgiving Holiday – No class
(campus closed) Fall Semester Final Exams 4
Aug 22 & 23
26-Nov
Nov 27 & 28
9-12 Dec
Residence Halls close (5pm); Fall Housing
Agreement period ends 14-Dec
Housing Winter Break period begins (5pm) 15-Dec
Grades Due*
17-Dec
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Online Catalog Updates
SPRING 2015
PWSCC Re-opens 5-Jan
Residence halls open (9am); Spring Housing
Agreement period begins 9-Jan
New Student Orientation 9-Jan
First day of instruction*
12-Jan
Add/Drop period begins*
12-Jan
Registration with senior citizen tuition waivers
permitted 12-Jan
Alaska Civil Rights Holiday – No class (campus closed)
19-Jan
Restricted Add Period begins; Instructor permission
required to register 20-Jan
Drop Deadline – Deadline for 100% refund of tuition
and fees*
23-Jan
Last day to add classes with instructor permission
23-Jan
Last day to change credit/audit status for
full-term classes 23-Jan
Spring 2015 Graduation Application deadline 23-Jan
Withdrawal period begins online (no refunds) 24-Jan
Payment Deadline 2-Feb
$125 late payment fee assessed 3-Feb
Spring Break – No class Printing of this catalog will take place only once a year.
An online version is available at www.pwscc.edu/catalog.
Updates will be made to the online version as necessary.
Readers are encouraged to check the online catalog for
the most up-to-date information. It is considered the
official academic catalog of the institution.
Mar 9 – 13
Spring Break Holiday – no class (campus closed) 13-Mar
$175 late payment fee assessed*
20-Mar
Withdrawal Deadline 3-Apr
Spring Semester Final Exams Apr 28 – May 1
Commencement 2-May
Residence Halls close (5pm); Fall Housing
Agreement period ends 4-May
Grades Due* 6-May
Faculty Contracts End 9-May
* Deadlines are for full-semester classes. For classes with
irregular start or end dates, the 100% refund period ends at
5pm five business days after the first class day.
** Spring PWSCC Scholarship applicants and Fall 2014 recipients
intending to renew their scholarship for Spring 2015 must be
registered in at least 12 credits by Dec 1.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
GENERAL INFORMATION
Policy Statement
This catalog is designed to provide current and accurate information for guidance of prospective students, for faculty
and administrative officers, for students
currently enrolled, and for other education or allied agencies. It is published for
informational purposes only and should
not be construed as the basis of a contract between a student and Prince William Sound Community College. The offering of course work and/or certificate
and degree programs by Prince William
Sound Community College is governed
by the availability of resources. Every
effort is made to provide information
that is accurate at the time the catalog
is prepared. Information concerning
regulations, programs, faculty, and other
matters is, however, subject to change
at any time during the period for which
the catalog is in effect. The College reserves the right to initiate changes in
any of its regulations or programs, and
such changes shall become effective in
relation to time periods required by applicable statutes, College or University of
Alaska regulations, or program requirements. Applicants are therefore advised
to contact individual departments regarding possible changes. All changes to
the Academic Catalog will be published
online in the most current edition of this
document.
It is the responsibility of the individual
student to become familiar with the
policies and regulations printed in this
catalog. The responsibility for meeting
all graduation requirements rests with
the student. Every effort is made to
ensure the accuracy of the information
contained in this catalog. However, the
Prince William Sound Community College catalog is not a
contract but rather a guide for the convenience of students.
The College reserves the right to change or withdraw courses;
to change the fees, rules, and calendar for admission, registration, instruction, and graduation; and to change other
regulations affecting the student body at any time.
Equal Education
and Employment Policy Statement
It is the policy of the College to provide equal education and
employment opportunities and to provide service and benefits to all students and employees without regard to race,
color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation,
disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. This
policy is in accordance with the laws enforced by the Department of Education and the Department of Labor, including
Presidential Executive Order 11246, as amended, Title VI and
Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, the Public Health Service Act of 1971,
the Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, the Vo-
cational Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination
in Employment Act of 1967, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the
14th Amendment, EEOC’s Sex Discrimination Guidelines, and
Alaska Statutes 18.80.220 and 14.18. Inquiries regarding application of these and other regulations should be directed
to UAA’s Affirmative Action Director, the Office of Civil Rights
(Department of Education, Washington, D.C.), or the Office
of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (Department of
Labor, Washington, D.C.). For information, contact the college Title IX Coordinator, Ana Hinkle, Prince William Sound
Community College, PO Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686. Telephone:
(907) 834-1612.
Affirmative Action
Through the Affirmative Action Plan, which is updated annually, Prince William Sound Community College and the
University of Alaska recognizes its responsibility to provide
education and employment opportunities for all qualified
individuals. The UAA Director of Personnel Services acts as
the Affirmative Action Officer for PWSCC and is responsible
for implementing state and federal laws, orders, decisions,
and college policies to prevent illegal discrimination or institutional exclusion. It is the policy of Prince William Sound
Community College to provide equal education and employment opportunities and to provide service and benefits (such
as admission decisions, financial aid, access to academic
programs, employment, and health and counseling services)
to all students and employees without regard to race, color,
religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. If students,
prospective students, or employees feel they have been
discriminated against, they have the right to contact the appropriate supervisor for assistance and follow the resolution
process outlined in University Regulation 04.02.020. They
can also contact the campus Affirmative Action Officer at the
regional Personnel office. Information is also available from
the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights, the Federal
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Office of
Federal Contract Compliance Programs, the Department of
Labor, or the Office of Civil Rights in the Federal Department
of Education. For further information on the campus level,
contact Ryan Belnap at (907) 834-1613.
Harassment
Prince William Sound Community College is a community
that cherishes the free and open exchange of ideas in the
pursuit of knowledge.Maintaining this freedom and openness requires the presence of safety and trust; it requires
the absence of coercion, intimidation andexploitation.
Harassment subjects its victims to pressures that destroythe
conditions necessary for true learning. Faculty, supervisors
and the leadership are principally responsible for creating
a harassment-freecommunity at PWSCC and all campus
constituents are expected to helpmaintain a positive working and learning environment. Additionally, all members of
the campus community are expected to conduct themselves
in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others.
Anyone who believes he or she has been a victim of harassment should contact the following: PWSCC Title IX Coordinator, Ana Hinkle, at [email protected] or 907-834-1612,
after which point a review and possible investigation will be
conducted. PWSCC takes all matters of sexual harassment,
sexual assault and sexual violence seriously. Title IX prohibits
gender discrimination in all programs and activities. In
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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accordance with Title IX regulations, PWSCC has designated
Ana Hinkle, at [email protected] or 907-834-1612, If you
have concerns or need to report an incident, please contact
the Title IX investigators.
Free Speech and Academic Inquiry
In the pursuit of knowledge, any member of the university
community shall be free to investigate and question any fact,
context, action, purpose or belief that is encountered in any
number of discipline. Any member shall be free to articulate
discoveries, opinions and judgments that are found or formed
in the process. PWSCC enables and encourages this activity
and creates a culture of inquiry that is open to the expression
and debate of ideas, whether or not they are popular, judicious or refined.
Official Communications via E-mail
PWSCC uses e-mail to communicate with students on many
important matters. The university automatically assigns each
student an official UA e-mail account at the time of admission
to the university for certificate/degree-seeking students and
at the time of registration for all other students.
All communication related to registration and enrollment
activities will occur either through the preferred email that
students submit via UAOnline or through the official UAassigned email. Students should be careful to keep this account clear and review the correspondence received there
regularly.
Change of Name
A student’s name on official records at PWSCC must be the
student’s full legal name. A Change Form may be processed
through the Office of the Registrar and must be supported by
legal documentation, i.e., Social Security card, driver’s license
or a court order. PWSCC employees (past or present) must
present their Social Security card.
Change of Address or Email
Currently enrolled students may update their address or
email through UAOnline (https://uaonline.alaska.edu) or by
completing a Change Form.
Social Security Number
The University of Alaska has established student identification numbers and does not use Social Security numbers for
student identification. The university is still required to collect a valid Social Security number from each student for IRS,
employment and federal financial aid purposes. The last four
digits of the Social Security number are included on official
transcripts for identification matching purposes.
Computer Use and Software Copyright
Policy (http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/informationtechnologyservices)
Students are responsible for knowing and, when appropriate, acting on the contents of all university communications
sent to their official UA e-mail accounts. To receive university communication at a different e-mail address, students
may forward e-mail from their assigned UA accounts to any
valid third party e-mail address of their choice that accepts
forwarded e-mail. More information may be found on the IT
Services website (http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/informationtechnologyservices/email.cfm).
All faculty, staff, and students who use any computer at the
university are responsible for using computer resources in an
ethical and legal manner. For detailed information see the Acceptable Use Policy on the IT Services website (http://www.
uaa.alaska.edu/informationtechnologyservices).
Facsimile (Fax) or Electronic
Transmission
The University of Alaska provides a network and computing
infrastructure to promote the basic missions of the university
in learning, research, and service by facilitating communication, collaboration and access to information resources.
Users of this infrastructure must be mindful of and respect
ownership of intellectual property and copyrighted information to which this infrastructure can provide access.
Documents received electronically or via fax are held to the
same dates and deadlines and are processed after original
documents. Documents received after 5 p.m. are considered
as being received by the following business day. Electronic
submissions and faxes are not guaranteed nor will they be
confirmed. Students and departments are encouraged to retain the record of transmission.
Biographic/Demographic Information
PWSCC must comply with state and federal reporting requirements and therefore requires that students provide specific
biographic or demographic information on registration or
admission forms. The university uses the information for statistical purposes and as an identifier for university records.
This information is relevant to the university’s admission and
enrollment policies. The university is careful to guard private
information and does not discriminate on the basis of this
information.
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Copyright and Intellectual Property
(http://www.alaska.edu/active/copyright-issues)
Copyright and intellectual property rights may attach to files
of any media type including software, texts, databases, images, video, music and other audio files. Abuse of computing
or network technologies to copy or distribute materials in
violation of copyright, license or intellectual property rights
undermines the free exchange of ideas and access to information resources central to the university’s mission and is
expressly forbidden by university policy and regulation.
The University of Alaska aggressively investigates specific claims of such abuse, including abuses using personally owned computers connected to the university’s network.
Verified abuses may lead Institutional Accreditation
Prince William Sound Community College is accredited by
the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
(NWCCU), an institutional accrediting body recognized by
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Specialized Program Accreditations
Millwright
The instruction, course of study, facilities, and equipment
of the Millwright emphasis of the Industrial Technology AAS
degree have been evaluated and accredited by the National
Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER), and
students who successfully complete PWSCC
Nursing
PWSCC’s Nursing program is an extension of the UAA School
of Nursing Associate Degree nursing program, and as such
is accredited under the UAA School of Nursing through the
National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission, approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing.
Educational & Institutional Assessment
Educational program assessment provides the foundation for
evaluating the effectiveness of an institution’s educational
programs and activities. Student knowledge and skills are assessed at the time of entry and at various points throughout
a student’s educational tenure at PWSCC. PWSCC requires all
entering students who are degree oriented to take placement
tests prior to registration. These placement tests are assessment tools developed by the American College Testing Program and are used to determine the student’s preparedness
for college-level work and placement in appropriate English
and math courses. Each degree program and special learning
activity at PWSCC has specified program outcomes.
Prince William Sound Community College Institutional Assessment is designed to evaluate the overall effectiveness
of PWSCC in carrying out its mission. Assessment activities
provide valuable information that is used by PWSCC in planning for the future of the College and to strengthen the many
programs and services provided.
Institutional Research and Assessment falls under the direction of the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and
Student Affairs.
Institutional Assessment activities include:
•
Adjunct Faculty Evaluation - conducted biennially
•
Analysis of Institution Statistics related to enrollment,
demographics, etc. – ongoing
•
Curriculum Review and Approval - ongoing
•
Employee Survey - conducted biennially
•
Faculty Evaluation - conducted annually
•
Follow-up with Non-returning Students - conducted periodically
•
Residence Life Survey – conducted annually
•
Student Course Evaluations - conducted each semester
Valdez Campus
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S.
Department of Education (8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite 100,
Redmond, Washington 98052; phone 425-558-4224). www.
nwccu.org.
303 Lowe St.
PO Box 97
Valdez, AK 99686
(907) 834-1600
(800) 478-8800 toll free
[email protected]
Copper Basin Extension Center
200 Ridley Circle
PO Box 730
Glennallen, AK 99588
(907) 822-3673
[email protected]
Cordova Extension Center
PO Box 1248
Cordova, AK 99574
(907) 424-5177
[email protected]
All phone numbers are area code
(907) unless otherwise noted
ADMINISTRATION
Interim President
J. Daniel O’Connor, Ph.D
834-1610
Assistant Director 834-1631
Student Affairs
Ana Hinkle
834-1612
Director of Administrative Services
Steve Shiell 834-1622
Assistant to the President
Ryan Belnap
834-1613
Director of Workforce
Development and Training
B.J. Williams
834-1649
Community Relations Officer
Dawson Moore
834-1614
Director, Copper Basin
Extension Center
Katrina Church-Chmielowski 822-3673
Director, Cordova Extension Center
Susan Harding
424-7598
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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STUDENT SERVICES
PRESIDENT’S OFFICE & ADVANCEMENT
Main Line 834-1600
Admissions
834-1645
Academic Advising 834-1626
Alumni Association 834-1645
Career Guidance Services 834-1626
Counseling & Behavioral Health
834-1631
Disability Support Services 834-1631
Financial Aid
834-1645
Housing & Residence Life 834-1634
International Student Affairs & Admissions 834-1632
Native & Rural Student Services
834-1662
Records & Registration, Petitions
834-1632
Recreation & Fitness Center
834-1684
Student Activities & Organizations 834-1634
Student Conduct and Judicial Affairs 834-1612
Student Employment
834-1623
Student Government
834-1634
Student Identification Cards
834-1600
Student Resources/Academic Support
834-1626
Testing & Proctoring Services 834-1600
Transcripts
834-1632
Veterans Assistance
834-1645
INSTRUCTION & ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
Reception/Information
834-1660
Accreditation Liaison 834-1662
Adult Basic Education
834-1671
Adjunct Faculty Office
834-1683
Dual Credit
834-1660
Special Interest Courses
834-1660
Tutoring
834-1600
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES OFFICE
Cashiering & Information
834-1620
834-1624
Accounts Payable
834-1621
Accounts Receivable
Grants and Contracts
834-1621
Passports
834-1620
Payroll
834-1624
Property Management
834-1623
Risk Management & Safety
834-1622
Student Accounts
834-1621
Travel Authorization/Reimbursement
834-1620
LIBRARY
Valdez Consortium Library
10
835-4632
Human Resources/Personnel
Institutional Research & Assessment
Public Relations & Marketing
Title IX Coordinator
834-1623
834-1662
834-1614
834-1612
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING
Reception/Information
834-1640
Training, Corporate & Industry Liaison
834-1618
Career & Technical Education
834-1667
INFORMATIONAL TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
IT Support
Blackboard Assistance (UAA Help Desk)
UA Online Support/Password Reset Virtual Classroom Design & Support
834-1650
786-4646
834-1600
834-1646
MAINTENANCE/FACILITIES SERVICES
Maintenance Shop
834-1636
HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER
Fitness Center Reception
Coordinator
834-1684
834-1685
THEATRE
Theatre Programs
834-1614
MAXINE & JESSE WHITNEY MUSEUM
Museum Reception
834-1690
Museum Manager
834-1689
Community Education Programming
834-1689
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Student Government Office (Valdez) 834-1625
COPPER BASIN EXTENSION CENTER
Reception/Information
Adult Basic Education, GED Instruction
Director
822-3673
822-3507
822-3673
CORDOVA EXTENSION CENTER
Reception/Information
Adult Basic Education, GED Instruction
Director
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
424-7598
424-5177
424-7598
CAMPUS & EXTENSION CENTER
Prince William Sound
Community College
PWSCC is an individually accredited
college that is affiliated with the University of Alaska statewide system of higher
education. It serves the greater Prince
William Sound and Copper Basin regions
of Alaska. The primary PWSCC campus is
in Valdez, with extension centers located
in Glennallen and Cordova. PWSCC also
supports multiple outreach sites in rural
towns and villages of the surrounding
area, including Chitina, Chistochina,
Kenny Lake, Mentasta and Slana, Alaska.
PWSCC serves a geographic area of more
than 44,000 square miles, in addition to
reaching beyond the local region with
quality distance-delivered programs of
study.
History of PWSCC
In 1971, concerned citizens of Valdez
and Cordova petitioned the University
of Alaska to establish extension offices
in each of the Valdez and Cordova
communities. The centers offered
their first courses in 1971. In 1976 a
Learning Center was established in
the Copper Basin area. Community
college status was granted in July of
1978 and the three centers officially
became Prince William Sound Community College. In 1989, PWSCC became independently accredited by the
Northwest Commission on Colleges
and Universities. PWSCC continues to
develop programs which responsibly
serve the individuals and communities
of its entire service area.
History of the University of
Alaska
On July 4, 1915, the Honorable James
Wickersham, delegate to Congress from
Alaska, laid the cornerstone for a land
grant college. The Territorial Legislature,
by its acts of May 4, 1917, accepted the
land grant and created a corporation, the
Alaska Agricultural College and School of
Mines, defining its duties and providing
for a Board of Trustees. The college opened on September
18, 1922, with the Honorable Charles E. Bunnell as president.
The college became the University of Alaska by act of the Territorial Legislature on July 1, 1935, and the Board of Trustees
became the Board of Regents.
In 1948, Dr. Terris Moore succeeded President Bunnell, who
became President Emeritus. Dr. Earnest N. Patty was inaugurated as the third president of the University in 1953 and was
named President Emeritus upon his retirement in 1960. Dr.
William R. Wood became the University’s fourth president.
Dr. Robert H. Hiatt became the fifth president in 1973 upon
the retirement of Dr. Wood. Mr. Foster Diebold was appointed
president in February 1978 and was succeeded by Dr. Jay Barton in July 1979. Dr. Barton was granted an honorary degree
in 1984, and was succeeded by Dr. Donald O’Dowd in July of
that year. Dr. Jerome Komisar served as President until July
1998. He was succeeded by the President and Chief Executive of the Alaska Railroad Corp, Patrick Gamble who serves
as president of the University of Alaska Statewide System
consisting of three major university centers—in Juneau, Fairbanks, and Anchorage—and one community college (PWSCC)
serving the Prince William Sound and Copper Basin regions.
Valdez Campus
Location: Valdez is located on the shores of north-eastern
Prince William Sound in south-central Alaska and sits within
the spectacular Chugach National Forest and Chugach coastal
mountain range. Valdez is 305 road miles from Anchorage at
the end of the Richardson Hwy, or a short 45 minute flight. Valdez is also a stop along the Alaska marine highway system
with connections between Cordova and Whittier. It is sometime referred to as the “Switzerland of Alaska” because of its
rugged, snow-clad peaks that surround the city.
History: Historically—as well as now—the territory south of
Valdez belonged to the Chugach (pronounced “chew-gach”)
Eskimo, a maritime hunting people. To the north the land is
that of the Ahtna, an Athabaskan speaking people of the Copper River Basin. Although it is unclear whether there was a
native village at one time in Port Valdez, it is certain that the
Chugach and Ahtna did use the area for fishing and trading
copper, jade, hides and other furs. The town of Valdez was
established in the late 1890’s when prospectors set up camp
at the toe of the Valdez Glacier before embarking on the “All
American Route” in search of gold and copper. The town
grew around the needs of the prospectors and continued to
prosper with the creation of the Richardson Hwy in 1899 that
connected Valdez with Fairbanks and Interior Alaska. After
the initial dash of the gold-rush, a boom and bust tradition
continued in Valdez with the 1964 earthquake and subsequent tidal-wave that forced the town to move from its original location, the building of the pipeline in the 1970’s, and
the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.
Economy: Valdez, population 4,022, is a small town with a
surprising amount of opportunity. The 800-mile trans-Alaska
oil pipeline terminates here and the operation continues to
be a major employer along with the U.S. Coast Guard, the
shipping & transportation industry, commercial and sport
fishing, and tourism.
Climate: Valdez has a maritime climate, and receives the
greatest amount of snowfall of any coastal community on
the North American continent-- 300 annual inches of snow
in town, and up to 600 inches in nearby Thompson Pass. Average summer temperatures are 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit,
and Winter temperatures average right around 20 degrees.
Temperatures can change drastically as one drives out of
town, passing through three climate zones before reaching
the nearest town of Glennallen, 120 miles up the Richardson
Highway.
Copper Basin Extension Center
Location: The Copper Basin Extension Center is located in
the south-central mountainous interior portion of Alaska
in the town of Glennallen. It is surrounded by the Chugach
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
11
Mountains to the south, the Alaska Range to the north, the
Wrangell-St. Elias Mountains to the east, and the Talkeetna
Range to the west. Glennallenn is connected by the road
system, a distance of 120 miles from Valdez, 180 miles from
Anchorage, and 248 miles from Fairbanks. The Copper Basin
region covers an area that is 20,000 square miles, and is
made up of many small communities and villages scattered
over this enormous area. It is home to about 2,700 people,
one-third of who are Athabaskan Indians of the Ahtna Tribe.
PWSCC’s Copper Basin Extension Center is located in the
regional hub of Glennallen, and serves many of the outlying
rural towns and villages of the region.
History: For eleven thousand years, Native Alaskans have
inhabited the Copper Basin. The Ahtna Indians of the Interior
pursued a subsistence life style. In 1899, the U.S. Army built
a pack trail for summer use between the port of Valdez and
Eagle, which passed through the Copper River Valley. In the
early 20th century, the trail was widened and became the
Richardson Highway. During World War II, the United States
built a series of military bases in Alaska, primarily for the
purpose of supplying aircraft and other war material to Russia by way of Alaska and the Russian Far East as part of the
Lend-lease program. As part of this operation, highways were
built to supply the bases. One of these was the Glenn Highway, which connected Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, with
the Richardson Highway, and thus with the rest of Alaska,
Canada, and the then-48 United States. Construction for the
Glenn Highway began at a camp on the Richardson Highway
in the Copper River Valley named Glennallen after two U.S.
Army explorers of the late 19th century: Capt. Edwin Glenn
and Lt. Henry T. Allen. The highway was completed in 1945.
Glennallen developed as a small community around the site
of the camp. It became a commercial center for motor traffic
along the Glenn and Richardson highways. It is one of the few
communities in the region that was not built on the site of
a Native village. In 1961 “Glenallen” was officially renamed
“Glennallen” by the US Postal Service, adding the extra ‘n’.
Economy: With a modest population of 554 residents, Glennallen serves as the regional hub for the surrounding Copper
Basin region of rural town and Native villages. Glennallen’s
economy grew with the construction of the Trans-Alaska
Pipeline System from 1975–1977 and the continuing service
needs of the pipeline. The economy of the area was negatively impacted by the construction of the George Parks Highway, which connected Anchorage to Denali National Park and
Fairbanks along the Alaska Railroad route, bypassing Glennallen. Today, the Copper River Basin calls visitors from around
the world to raft its rivers, climb its mountains and marvel at
abundant wildlife. A strong Athabaskan heritage offers cultural diversity and traditional experiences from dog sledding
to dip netting on the famous Copper River. The Wrangell-St.
Elias National Park and Preserve gives a sense of the past
while nearby villages and towns provide modern services and
educational opportunities. The main economy in the area
includes: education, tourism, medical services, and Fish and
Game Management.
Cordova Extension Center
Location: The town of Cordova is located at the mouth
of the Copper River and at the head of Orca Inlet in
south-eastern Prince William Sound (PWS). This quaint
old railroad town and fishing village is one of the most
picturesque towns in Alaska. Cordova is not on the road
system, accessible only by boat or plane. The Eyak Native
Village is located adjacent to the community of Cordova.
Its colorful past, charm, and natural beauty make Cordova
a special place in Alaska. At the turn of the century, the
town of Cordova boomed as the terminus of the Copper
River Railroad, which carried valuable copper ore from the
Kennecott mines to the port of Cordova.
History: The Cordova area has historically been home to
Aleuts, with the addition of migrating Athabascan and
Tlingit natives who called themselves Eyaks. Alaskan Natives of other descents also settled in Cordova. Orca Inlet
was originally named “Puerto Cordova” by Don Salvador
Fidalgo in 1790. The town of Cordova was named in 1906
by the builder of the Copper River and Northwestern
Railroad, Michael Heney. Soon after, Cordova became the
railroad terminus and ocean shipping port for copper ore
from the Kennecott Mine, in Kennecott, Alaska.
Economy: Commercial fishing is the main industry in
Cordova. Most households in Cordova have at least one
person involved in commercial fishing or processing. The
fishing fleet mainly fishes the Prince William Sound and
Copper River Delta area. There are various fisheries in the
area, the most economically important of which is the
salmon fishery.
Climate: Cordova has a very temperate climate, making it
a lovely and pleasant place to live. Westerly winds coming
from the North Pacific Ocean are forced upwards by the
Chugach Mountains, which cause large rainfall and various
forms of precipitation year round. The average rainfall is
89 inches with 125 rainy days out of the year. Snowfall occurs mostly between the months of December and March,
averaging 127 inches yearly. Winter temperatures reach
lows of 15 degrees; summer temperatures reach highs of
60 degrees.
Climate: The basin is included in the continental climate
zone; long cold winters and fairly warm summers. The average winter temperature in January is -10 F and July is 56 F
making for longer winters and shorter summers. The average
snowfall totals about 39 inches, while the average precipitation is 9 inches.
12
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
GETTING STARTED: ADMISSIONS
The mission of the Admissions Office is
to encourage prospective students of
all ages and backgrounds to pursue an
undergraduate liberal arts or vocational
education at Prince William Sound
Community College and assist students
through the admission process.
Prospective Students
Prospective students and their families
are encouraged to visit our campuses.
Campus visits enable students to
become acquainted with academics,
extracurricular activities, on-campus
living options, faculty, staff and current
students. Guided campus tours, advising
appointments, and visits to classes
are available by request. Please refer
to our contact information and online
resources to set up a campus visit.
We encourage students to contact
Admissions or visit our website for more
information about PWSCC.
Phone: 907-834-1645
Toll-free:800-478-8800
Email: admissions@
pwscc.edu
Website: www.pwscc.edu
Valdez Campus
303 Lowe St.
PO Box 97
Valdez, AK 99686
(907) 834-1600
[email protected]
Copper Basin Extension Center
200 Ridley Circle
PO Box 730
Glennallen, AK 99588
(907) 822-3673
[email protected]
How to Apply:
1. Choose a degree program and major
2. Submit an application:
Apply online at uaonline.alaska.edu (You must be a US Citizen
or have a current permanent resident card to use our online
application) If you are an international student please mail a
printed, complete application form (available at www.pwscc.
edu) to: Registrar, Prince William Sound Community College,
PO Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686.
3. Pay non-refundable application fee:
$25 – PWSCC Certificate or Associate degree program
4. Submit official transcripts:
High School transcripts/General Education Development
(GED) Certificate: All certificate or degree seeking students
seeking financial aid must submit an official high school or
GED transcripts.
Home School transcripts: Home-schooled students who have
gone through a state certified program must submit official
transcripts. Students who have not gone through a state
certified program must submit GED transcripts.
College transcripts: All certificate and degree seeking
students who have an academic record from one or more
postsecondary institutions must arrange for their official
college or university transcripts to be sent directly to PWSCC in
a sealed envelope from the original institution(s). Transcripts
from all colleges or universities must be submitted; failure to
disclose all postsecondary institutions where the student has
an academic record will result in denied admission. Students
do not need to request transcripts from any University of
Alaska campus.
All official transcripts must be sent to: Registrar, Prince
William Sound Community College, PO Box 97, Valdez, AK
99686 or may be emailed from secure providers to vytrans@
pwscc.edu.
5. Submit Test Results
Students are encouraged to submit official test results from
ACT or SAT examinations. Alaska High School Students - ACT/
SAT scores are required to be considered for the Alaska
Performance Scholarship (APS).
Cordova Extension Center
PO Box 1248
Cordova, AK 99574
(907) 424-7598
[email protected]
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
13
Admissions Requirements
PWSCC has an open door admissions policy, meaning
that individuals are eligible to enroll at PWSCC, in any
semester, who:
1. H
ave earned a high school diploma or equivalent (GED
certificate); or
2. Are at least 18 years of age or have been a member of a
high school class which has graduated; or
3. Are high school students with written permission from a
parent/legal guardian, high school official, and PWSCC’s Registrar.
a. Any student participating in the high school student
early admissions/dual credit program will receive
college grades and a college transcript.
b. Any duplication in the use of PWSCC credits by high
school students to satisfy pre-college requirements is
unrelated to the use of these credits at the community
college level.
Admission to a degree or certificate program is not required
to register for classes at PWSCC. Registration does not imply
formal admission to degree programs.
Admission to Certificate Programs,
Associate Degree, and Bachelor Degree
Programs
1. Submit a completed Application for Admission form and
a $25 processing fee.
2. Arrange to have sent to PWSCC Admissions & Records
Office official transcripts from graduating high school,
all colleges, universities and other postsecondary
institutions previously and currently attend.
3. When the file is complete, notification of status is emailed
or mailed. A separate admission form and payment
are required for each degree or certificate program for
which application is made. A specific grade point average
(GPA) in previous high school or college work is not
required. Some programs may have special admissions
requirements. College level work completed at other
campuses may be applied toward a PWSCC degree or
certificate.
*Students must apply
of their program, even
completed at PWSCC.
requirements. Please
requirements.
to the degree-granting institution
though the entire program may be
Certain programs have additional
see program listing for specific
International Student Admissions
PWSCC welcomes students from other countries. PWSCC
has no additional out-of-state tuition charge. International
students with Permanent Resident or Immigrant visas may
enroll under the open enrollment option or through formal
admission. Individuals wanting to apply for the International
Student Form I-20 must be formally admitted to degreeseeking status; we recommend starting this process in
the spring for those hoping to enroll for the fall semester.
Depending on the country of residence, the approval process
for a student visa can take at least 3-6 months, sometimes
longer. Individuals with other visa types are advised to contact
14
the Admission and Records Office. An international student
requesting issuance of an I-20 form for an F-1 (student) visa
must meet the following requirements:
1. Submit an official test score of 45 on the Internet-based,
or 450 paper-based or better on the Test of English as
a Foreign Language (TOEFL), unless English is the first
language in the home country. A minimum score of 5 on
the IELTS is also accepted.
2. Submission of a completed PWSCC Application for
Admission form and a $25 processing fee to the
Registration Office.
3. Acceptance for admission to a degree program at PWSCC.
4. Submission of a completed PWSCC International Student
Form.
5. All official Transcripts must be received by the Registrar.
After Acceptance:
1. PWSCC Registrar will send the international student I-20A-B forms (required for entrance into the U.S.) after the
student has been formally admitted. NOTE: The I-20-A-B
form is necessary to obtain an F-1 Student Visa. Students
must take PWSCC- issued I-20-A-B form to their home
country’s embassy or consulate. The home country’s
embassy or consulate will then issue the student an
F-1 Visa.
2. The $200.00 SEVIS fee must be paid directly to SEVIS
before a VISA will be issued.
3. Proof of Health Insurance must be provided. Federal
law requires all exchange visitors and their dependents
to have medical insurance that meets certain minimum
standards. Beyond the federal requirement, Prince
William Sound Community College requires its F-1 visa
students and their dependents (individuals with I-20s
issued by PWSCC) to maintain medical insurance that
will protect them in the United States during their
time at PWSCC. Insurance may be purchased through
PWSCC/UAA (https://www.uhcsr.com) or independently,
as long as the requirements outlined here are met by
the deadline.
4. Financial Certification: The College must certify to
the Immigration and Naturalization Service that the
prospective student has been accepted for full-time
enrollment and has sufficient funds to meet estimated
expenses for one year of study ($15,000 USD). With the
financial certification form, also include:
a. Evidence of funds available: Submit a certified
statement obtained from your financial institution
verifying that funds are available for this use. This
certified statement needs to be dated no more than
six (6) months prior to the date that the application is
submitted.
b. Letter of Authorization: If the student’s expenses
will be paid by someone other than him/herself, the
applicant must submit a letter of guarantee that is
signed by person or authority providing funding,
with either an official signature-witness (by a bank
or government official) or licensed-notary of that
person’s signature.
5. Students must enroll full-time (minimum of twelve (12)
credits each of the Fall and Spring semesters), and not
allow their GPA to drop below 2.0 in any two semesters.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Non-Degree Seeking Students
Individuals in this category are not currently seeking a PWSCC
certificate or degree. Non-degree seeking students need
only satisfy course prerequisites to register in courses. Nondegree seeking students do not qualify for financial aid or
immigration status. A limit of 9 PWSCC credits earned in nondegree seeking status can later be applied towards degree
requirements.
Transfer Students
Admission Requirements
A transfer applicant who has attended an accredited
institution is eligible for admission provided the applicant has
earned a 2.00 (C) cumulative grade point average (GPA) in
previous college work.
Transfer Credit Policies
PWSCC reserves the right to reject work of doubtful quality,
to require an examination before credit is allowed, or to
determine applicability to GERs and program requirements.
Transfer credit equivalents vary among semester, unit,
and quarter universities. PWSCC converts quarter credits
to semester credits automatically. The standard formula
for quarter hour conversion is: #quarter hours x 0.667
= # semester hours. Example: 5 quarter hours x 0.667 =
3.34 semester hours. Courses equated to PWSCC courses
that are short 1.00 credits or less will meet PWSCC course
requirements without requiring a petition (3.34 will meet 4.00
requirement); remaining credit can be made up in electives.
If more than 1.00 credit short for a course requirement,
students may need to take additional credits to make up the
difference.
PWSCC also awards credit with appropriate scores from the
following:
•
Advanced Placement (AP) Credit through College
Entrance Examination Board (CEEB)
•
Placement for ACT or SAT I (English only)
•
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)
•
DANTES Subject Standardized Tests
•
PWSCC Credit by Examination, Certification and Credit
for Prior Learning
The following regulations apply to the transfer of credits:
1. PWSCC will perform an official evaluation of transfer
credits only after a student has been admitted to an
undergraduate degree or certificate program.
2. PWSCC will transfer college-level credit from institutions
accredited by one of the following accrediting
organizations:
• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
• Higher Learning Commission of the North Central
Association
• New England Association of Colleges and Schools
• Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
3. College level (100 level or above) credits earned with
grades of 2.00 (C) or higher at other regionally accredited
institutions normally will be accepted for transfer. Grades
of D- or higher will be transferred from other University
of Alaska campuses.
4. Placement test results from PWSCC Student Services
Department.
Returning Students
Degree seeking students who have enrolled in classes for at
least one semester and have not attended another institution
outside of the University of Alaska (UA) system may remain in
their degree programs for up to five years without attending
PWSCC. If the student attends another institution or is absent
for more than five years, the student needs to reapply for
admission. Students are required to notify the Admissions
Office if they have attended another institution outside of the
University of Alaska (UA) system.
Secondary Student & Dual Credit Enrollment
Select high school students under the age of 18 may enroll in
PWSCC courses by providing the standard registration forms
plus the following materials:
•
A completed Secondary Student Enrollment form with
signed approval by parent/guardian and appropriate
High School official (counselor/principal), indicating that
PWSCC enrollment will not negatively impact attendance
or performance in high school coursework.
•
For Dual Credit enrollment in courses formally arranged
with the student’s high school to satisfy both high school
and college credit accrual, a Dual Credit Student Info
Release form must be signed by student and parent,
allowing PWSCC to communicate coursework progress,
conduct, and grades to the High School.
All required forms can be found at: www.pwscc.edu/forms
under the Registration tab. Students may continue to take
PWSCC courses as long as high school and college grades
are satisfactory (3.00) high school GPA and 2.00 PWSCC
GPA and with the above stated permissions each semester.
All documentation, and payment, must be on file at PWSCC
before registration can occur. Web registration is not available
for dual enrollment students; no exceptions can be made.
Due to the rigor and potential adult themes of college-level
work, PWSCC reserves the right to deny or discontinue the
enrollment of a high school student in a course or courses if
the College determines that the student lacks the maturity
or the legal or intellectual ability to participate on an equal
footing with other students, or it is otherwise not in the
legitimate interest of the College for the student to participate.
Minors may not enroll in 1-credit or 2-credit Outdoor Studies
courses, or other courses that have travel components due
to increased risk and liability unless otherwise noted in the
class schedule or course description (see Outdoor Leadership
Program for more information). A list of reasons for denial
or discontinuation of enrollment is available through the
Registrar’s Office.
For more information about the Dual Enrollment programs
below please contact Student Services at 907-8341626 or email [email protected]. High School
administrators seeking information about how to establish a
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
15
Dual Credit agreement with PWSCC should contact the Office
of Academic Affairs at 907-834-1660.
Participating Dual Credit High Schools
Cordova High School
Glennallen High School
Haines High School
Kenny Lake High School
Denied Admission
Students who do not meet the admission requirements may
be denied admission for that semester. Denied students
are encouraged to complete 12 credits with a cumulative
GPA at or above a 2.00 (C), after which they can reapply for
admission and may then be admitted on probation. Students
may petition a Denied Admission status by completing a
Petition form and submitting to the Registrar’s Office which
will be reviewed by PWSCC Petition Reviewer(s).
Request to Postpone
Tri-Valley High School (Healy)
Valdez High School
Wrangell High School
Dual Enrollment Application for Admission
High school students who wish to work toward a degree
while still attending high school can apply for an Associate
of Arts (AA) degree. In addition to the above requirements
students must also:
•
Submit an Application for Admission
•
Pay the $25 non-refundable application fee
Students who submitted an application but did not attend
classes during that semester may defer his or her application
for up to one year. All students must submit a Postponement
form to the Registrar before the end of the semester their
application was submitted. Students who do not submit a
Postponement form will have their application withdrawn
and will be required to reapply, including paying the
application fee.
Dual enrollment AA students will be permitted to graduate
with their college degree immediately after they earn their
high school diploma and have successfully met all PWSCC
program and graduation requirements. Dual credit students
are not eligible for financial aid.
Undergraduate Admission Status
Admit Clear
Applicants who submit all required paperwork for admissions
and meet admissions requirements will be admitted in good
standing.
Admit Conditionally
Applicants who meet the requirements for admission but are
unable to submit official documents prior to registration may
be granted conditional admission status for one semester
only. PWSCC will accept partial transcripts for conditional
admission, however, the student must submit official final
transcripts within the semester of his or her conditional
admission to be fully admitted into the degree program.
Should the student not complete the admission process
within one semester the application for admission will
be inactivated and the student must reapply and pay the
application fee.
Admit on Probation
Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements
for regular admission to undergraduate study but show the
potential for college work may be considered for probationary
admission. Students admitted on probation must achieve
a cumulative GPA at or above a 2.00 (C) at the end of the
first semester in order to remain in a certificate or degree
program. Students admitted on probation who do not meet
the 2.00 GPA requirement at the end of the first semester will
be removed from their academic program.
16
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
FINANCIAL AID
Financial aid helps make college affordable. It can help pay for tuition and fees,
books and supplies, and living expenses.
The Financial Aid Office assists students in
applying for funds, if necessary, to attend
PWSCC. State and federal governments,
the College, the University of Alaska
system, and many private organizations
offer grants, scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities to students who
demonstrate need for such assistance.
Each student’s financial situation is carefully assessed, taking into consideration
family size, assets, income, debts, and estimated costs of attending college. Type and
amount of financial aid varies according to
state and federal guidelines, student need,
and availability of funds. All applications
for financial aid for students at PWSCC are
processed by UAA.
Office of Student
Financial Assistance
complete before awarding and/or disbursement can occur.
4. Students who wish to apply for Bureau of Indian Affairs
(http://www.bia.gov) grants or scholarships should contact
the BIA or their Native regional corporation for applications.
6. For more detailed instructions, see the financial aid checklist (http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/checklist.cfm)
available from the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
Financial Aid Eligibility
To receive most financial aid, including all federal aid, a student must:
1. Be fully admitted to an eligible degree or certificate program;
2. Demonstrate financial need for federal assistance as determined by the FAFSA (except for certain loan programs);
3. Meet satisfactory academic progress as defined by Student
Financial Aid regulations;
4. Have a high school diploma or its equivalent;
(907) 786-1480
5. Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen;
http://ww.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid
6. Have a valid Social Security number;
Financial aid is available to qualified students at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Financial aid is any grant, scholarship,
employment opportunity or loan with the express purpose of
assisting students with expenses related to their education.
The main sources of financial aid are the federal government,
state government, private organizations and the University of
Alaska. Types and amount of financial aid vary according to
federal and state guidelines, student needs, and availability
of funds. For detailed descriptions of available financial aid
programs, eligibility requirements and application procedures, please visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance
website (http:// www.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/aid-types.
cfm).
Federal Financial Aid Application
Procedures
Students interested in receiving financial aid to help fund
their PWSCC education should apply at least six months
before the beginning of the semester for which they plan
to attend in order to allow sufficient processing time. Basic
procedures are as follows:
1. New students must apply for admission to UAA through
the Office of Admissions (http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/admissions) by the appropriate deadline.
2. Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (http://
www.fafsa.gov) (FAFSA) online. Be sure to include PWSCCschool code: 011462.
3. Submit requested documentation, if requested, to the Office of Student Financial Assistance (http://www.uaa.alaska.
edu/financialaid). The U.S. Department of Education and Office of Student Financial Assistance selects certain applicants
for a verification process. Students selected for verification
must submit the requested documents; if they are not received, federal financial aid cannot be awarded. Certain types
of state and institutional aid also require verification to be
7. Register with Selective Service, if required;
8. Certify that they are not in default on a federal student
loan and do not owe money on a federal student grant;
9. Certify that they will use federal student aid only for educational purposes; and
10. Enroll in degree-applicable credits.
Types of Financial Aid
http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/aid-types.cfm
Grants
Grants are financial aid awards that do not need to be repaid
as long as the student meets academic progress requirements of the granting agency.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant makes funds available to eli
gible students with financial need. To be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, students must not have earned their first baccalaureate degree or have used more than 12 full-time equivalent se
mesters of Federal Pell Grants during their lifetime.
Federal Supplemental Educational
Opportunity Grant
(FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grantprogram is similar to the Federal Pell Grant program and can
provide additional assistance to students with financial need
and who are eligible for the maximum Federal Pell Grant.
FSEOG funds are limited.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
17
University of Alaska Grant (UAG)
The UAG provides need-based assistance to Alaska residents
in the first 60 credits of their academic program. It is not
available to students who have already earned an associate
degree or higher.
AlaskAdvantage Education Grant (AEG)
The Alaska legislature created the AlaskAdvantage Education Grant Program (AEG) to provide need-based financial
assistance to eligible qualifying postsecondary educational
institutions in Alaska.
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
The Bureau of Indian Affairs makes grants available to eligible
full-time students. Applicants must be at least one-quarter
Alaska Native or American Indian. For further information,
contact the local BIA area office or the Native regional corporations.
Scholarships
The Office of Student Financial Assistance awards federal
workstudy to eligible students who express interest on the
FAFSA. Federal work-study is based on financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. Students offered federal work-study
are not guaranteed employment. Available employment
positions are posted on UAKjobs (http://www.UAKjobs.com)
and students must use this website to apply for the workstudy positions that they are interested in. There is usually no
work-study money appropriated for the summer. All summer
student employee jobs are primarily department-funded.
Student Employment
The University of Alaska provides employment opportunities
for qualified students. Student employment will normally not
exceed 20 hours per week during a semester. For information
on eligibility criteria for student employment, refer to the
PWSCC Student Employment
Guidelines and Procedures
(http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/students/guidelines.cfm).
Institutional Scholarships
Human Resource Services (HRS)
(http://www.pwscc.edu/scholarships)
(907) 834.1600 HRS advertises full-time, part-time, regular,
term and temporary positions at PWSCC on UAKJobs (http://
www.uakjobs.com). Applicants needing reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process should contact the recruitment manager in HRS.
Scholarships are usually awarded for academic achievement
or talent. Students interested in applying for institutional
scholarships should do so via our website (http://www.pwscc.
edu/scholarships) Students should visit the UAA scholarship
website for additional information and to view scholarship
listings. The majority of scholarships at PWSCC have an application deadline of February 15 for the upcoming school year.
Students should also check with their academic department
regarding departmental scholarship opportunities.
Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS)
(http://acpe.alaska.gov/STUDENT-PARENT/Grants_Scholarships/Alaska_Performance_Scholarship)
The Alaska Performance Scholarship is a state scholarship
that provides an opportunity for Alaska high school students
to receive help covering the cost of an Alaska post-secondary
education. Alaska high school students who take a rigorous
curriculum, get good grades and score well on college placement or work ready exams can earn an Alaska Performance
Scholarship for use at PWSCC Students can receive APS for a
maximum of eight semesters within six years of graduation
from high school. Continued eligibility is based on academic
progress, enrollment status, other need-based financial aid
resources, cost of attendance and minimum GPA requirements. Students must complete a FAFSA by the state’s deadline.
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships are provided by donors outside of the
university. Such awards may range from a few hundred dollars given by a local service organization to several thousand
dollars awarded by a foundation. The Internet is one of the
best ways to find private scholarship opportunities. There
are free scholarship search engines and private scholarship
opportunities listed on PWSCC’s scholarship website (http://
www.pwscc.edu/scholarships).
Federal Work-Study Program
Loans (https://www.pwscc.edu/financialaid/loaninfo)
Student loans are designed to help students pay for educational costs such as tuition, fees and related living expenses.
As with any loan, students should be conservative and only
borrow what they absolutely need. Student loans must be repaid with interest, under the terms of the master promissory
note (MPN). Education loans come in three major categories:
federal student loans, federal loans for parents and private
alternative loans.
Federal Direct Loans
The Direct Loan Program enables students to borrow directly
from the U.S. Department of Education. To qualify, a student
must complete the FAFSA. Students must be enrolled at least
half-time in order to receive a disbursement. Other eligibility
requirements are listed on the Office of Student Financial Assistance website
(http://www.pwscc.edu/financialaid).
• Federal Subsidized Student Loan: This is a need-based
loanin which the federal government pays the interest while
the student is attending post-secondary education at least
half-time and for six months after graduation or after the
student leaves school. There are annual and aggregate (i.e.,
lifetime) limits on subsidized student loans.
• Federal Unsubsidized Student Loan: This loan is considered
a non-need-based loan, meaning that all eligible students
qualify regardless of financial need. Interest accumulates on
these loans from the time they are disbursed to the student’s
account. There are annual and aggregate (i.e., lifetime) limits
on unsubsidized student loans.
(http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/federal-workstudy.cfm)
18
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
• Federal Direct PLUS Loan for Graduates: PLUS loans are
federal loans that graduate or professional degree students
can use to help pay educational expenses. The maximum
loan amount is the student’s cost of attendance minus other
financial aid received.
Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans
Parents can borrow for their dependent student’s educational costs. The maximum loan amount is the student’s cost of
attendance minus other financial aid received. Completion of
the FAFSA is required to borrow a PLUS loan. The interest on
the PLUS loan begins to accrue with disbursement. Payments
usually begin 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed.
Alternative Private Loans
An alternative private loan is a personal loan from a bank that
is used for educational expenses. These loans are often used
as a supplement to a student’s existing financial aid package
so Federal Direct Loans should be maximized before applying
for an alternative private loan. Many alternative loans may
be deferred until graduation; some may require interest payments while the student is still enrolled. Interest rates, origination fees, repayment options, and other terms and conditions of alternative private loans will vary so it’s important
that students research alternative private loan options carefully. Once a lender is selected, the student must complete
an application and MPN for each alternative loan requested.
Emergency Loan Fund (ELF)
Thirty-day loans are available to students who can document
extenuating need. An admitted full-time student making satisfactory progress may borrow a maximum of $600 for up to
30 days. A $10 administrative fee is charged. Students may
receive one ELF per semester subject to the approval of the
Offices of Student Financial Assistance and Financial Aid Disbursement.
Satisfactory Academic Progress
In order to receive financial aid from any of the federal, state
or institutional aid programs, a student must maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP). SAP requirements include
minimum cumulative GPAs, minimum cumulative completion ratios, and completion of a degree or certificate within
a maximum time frame. For more information and requirements view the complete SAP policy (http://www.uaa.alaska.
edu/financialaid/policies.cfm).
Return of Federal Financial Aid Policy
http://ww.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/policies.cfm
The Higher Education Amendments of 1998 changed the
formula for calculating the amount of aid a student and
school can retain when the student withdraws from all of
their classes. Students who withdraw from all classes prior
to completing over 60 percent of the semester will have their
financial aid eligibility recalculated based on the percent of
the term completed. For example, a student who totally withdraws after completing only 30 percent of the term will have
“earned” only 30 percent of any federal financial aid received.
The school and/or the student must return the remaining 70
percent. A student thinking about withdrawing from classes
should contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance to
see how the withdrawal will affect their aid.
Veterans Assistance
(907) 834.1645
http://www.pwscc.edu/financialaid/veterans
Prince William Sound Community College is approved to
provide training to veterans, service members and eligible
dependents of veterans. Students who plan to use the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) educational benefits
must notify the UAA Office of Student Financial Assistance by
submitting an online request for certification (http:// www.
uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/veterans). Students using DVA
educational benefits must apply for admission to a degree
or certificate program at PWSCC. In accordance with federal regulations, PWSCC must report this information to the
DVA, along with information regarding students’ enrollment,
grades, academic progress, and eligible tuition and fee rates
if the student is using the Post 9-11 G.I. Bill. Only coursework
that is applicable to the student’s current degree or certificate program is eligible for funding under DVA programs.
DVA students with previous college or university experience
must have official transcripts on file with the university. Each
student must request these transcripts from each previous
institution when applying for admission to PWSCC. DVA may
withhold benefits until this requirement is satisfied.
Financial Aid Appeal Policy
http://ww.uaa.alaska.edu/financialaid/policies.cfm
Students with extenuating circumstances who wish to appeal for reinstatement of their financial aid must provide
sufficient evidence to support their assertion that unusual
circumstances prevented them from maintaining satisfactory
academic progress. As part of the appeal process, students
must meet with an academic advisor and have a degree plan
created. If the appeal is approved, the student is placed on
financial aid probation and must comply with the requirements of their academic plan, which includes maintaining a
100 percent term completion ratio (i.e., successfully completing all classes attempted) and a term GPA over 2.00 for undergraduate students or 3.00 for graduate students. Failure
to meet the terms of this academic plan will result in the loss
of financial aid eligiblity.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
19
20
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
STUDENT FEES & EXPENSES
All fees are approved by the University of
Alaska Board of Regents. The University
reserves the right to change or add to its
fees at any time. Fee assessments are subject to audit and correction, and any such
adjustments will be made within 30 days
following the close of late registration.
Students will be notified by mail of any
such adjustments.
Graduation Application Fee
$20
Student Services Fee/Activity Fee*
$5/credit
$50
Students are expected to make full payment when they register. Other arrangements may be made subject to approval
with the Business Office. PWSCC accepts
MasterCard and Visa. If a student becomes
delinquent in payment of any amount due
to PWSCC or any other unit within the University of Alaska statewide system, PWSCC
reserves the right to withhold transcripts,
diplomas, and final grade reports and to
refuse future registration until the amount
due is paid in full. In addition, delinquent
accounts may be sent to a collection agency and reported to the credit bureau.
UA Facilities Fee$2/credit
PWSCC Tuition 2014-2015
Credit Lower Division Undergraduate
(000–299)
2014-2015
Credit: Tuition:
1 2 3
4
5 6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Maximum per semester
Technology Fee
Maximum per semester
$5/credit
$60
Transcript Fee (PDF, Paper, Expedited)
$12 - $30
Network Fee
$5/credit
Distance Fee
$35
(for each Web-based or ITV class)
Science Lab Fee (except Chemistry)
$45
Chemistry Lab Fee
$65
Course Fees (materials, travel, services, etc.)**varies
Initial Late Payment Fee***
$125
Second Late Payment Fee***
$175
Payment Plan Setup Fee
$60
*Student Services Fee in Valdez is divided 50% to Student
Government, 50% Student Activities.
**Course fees are charged for courses that require the use of
special materials, supplies, or services. In special cases, these
fees may exceed $500. All course fees will be published in the
Class Schedule each semester and will not change after the
start of the semester.
***Late Payment Fees are assessed to student accounts with
an unpaid balance and no payment plan in place. These fees
are charged at scheduled intervals based on full-semester
classes.
$152
$304
$456
$608
$760
$912
$1,064
$1,216
$1,368
$1,520
$1,672
$1,824
$1,976
$2,128
$2,280
$2,432
$2,584
$2,736
Non-academic Course Fees
Fees for non-academic, vocational/technical and special
courses vary with individual programs and communities.
Community Education & Self-Support Course Fees
Tuition waivers do not apply to these sponsored, community
education, or special interest courses. There are no refunds
unless the College cancels the course, or unless the student
officially drops the course 7 days in advance.
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
PWSCC has no non-resident tuition rate.
Academic Year 2014-2015 Fee Schedule
CEU Tuition
varies
Admission Fee (per application)
$25
Credit-by-Exam Fee $25/credit
Alaska is one of twelve participating western states in the
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program. The following states participate in WUE: Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho,
Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon,
South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. In addition, Washington,
Arizona and California are treated like WUE states by Board
of Regents policy. Residents of the 14 states listed above benefit from PWSCC’s no non-resident tuition rate; they pay the
same as all students attending the College. There is no reason
to enroll under the WUE program at PWSCC since there is no
tuition benefit for doing so.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
21
Payment Plan Option
PWSCC uses a third party company, Tuition Management
Systems (TMS), to administer our payment plans. Plan enrollment requires a $60 registration fee and it will not be activated unless the deposit (initial payment) and registration fee
has been made. The earlier you sign up for the payment plan,
the smaller your monthly payments will be. To enroll please
contact administrative services.
When tuition and fees are paid by financial aid, another
person, or an agency, the student must coordinate payment
arrangements in advance with Student Enrollment Services.
Financial Obligations
If you register for courses, the University holds you financially
responsible for that registration. There will NOT be a University-initiated drop for non-payment. If you do not plan to
attend, you must drop your courses within the 100% refund
period to avoid assessment of tuition and fees. If a student
fails to attend the courses for which they have registered,
they are still financially obligated for any tuition and fees due.
online at UAOnline.alaska.edu. Student fees are non-refundable. Any debts owed to the College (and any UA campus) by
the student will be subtracted from the refund before issuance of a check or direct deposit to the student or the source
of financial aid. The refund deadlines are also published in
the semester Class Schedule and on the Academic Calendar.
Students are responsible for thoroughly reading the Class
Schedule and being aware of the published refund deadlines
for their particular classes. Full or partial refund of tuition and
fees will be made according to the schedule on this page.
Refund Schedule
15 Week Sessions
1-14 calendar days* 100% tuition & fees
On or after 15th calendar day** No refund
Short Courses
Before 1st day of instruction After the course has begun*
Self-Support Courses
Before class begins After class begins 100% tuition & fees
Varies – see Registrar
100% refund
No Refund
University policy requires a financial hold be placed on student records if the student fails to meet financial obligations.
This prevents any enrollment, transcript, or graduation activity. Past due accounts will be sent to a collection agency.
Interest and late fees will be assessed. Past due debts will be
reported to a local credit bureau. The University is authorized
to garnish State of Alaska Permanent Fund Dividents (PFDs)
for payment of past due accounts.
*If a class is cancelled, the student may add another course
of equal credit at no additional tuition. If another course is
not added, the Business Office will automatically determine
the refund and send it directly to the address listed on the
student’s account (managed on UAonline). The refund will
be for tuition and fees due. For short-term classes, the drop
deadline for a full refund of tuition and fees will vary depending on the length of the class. Contact the Registrar at 907834-1632.
Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver
Non-Credit Course Refunds
The Board of Regents has approved a waiver of tuition only
for Alaska residents who are the age of full social security
benefits by REGENTS’ POLICY 05.10.080B. Regular tuition
shall be waived for Alaska residents who are otherwise age
eligible to receive full social security retirement benefits, who
register on a space available basis; that is, when courses can
accommodate such students in addition to other enrolled students. Individuals who were eligible for senior citizen tuition
waivers on September 21, 2005 under the previous regents’
policy shall continue to be eligible for the waiver. A resident
is any person who has been physically present in Alaska
for one year, excepting only vacations or other absence for
temporary purposes with the intent to return. Such students
may receive tuition waivers to enroll in any classes offered by
PWSCC for which they are qualified, except those classes in
which student work spaces may not be available and except
for self-support classes. Self-support courses include Community Education and certain other identified classes. Senior
citizens using tuition waivers must register on or after the first
day of the semester for semester-based classes, or on or after
the first day of the class for non semester-based classes. Senior citizens who register before these times are not eligible
for the tuition waiver. Also, senior citizens who paid normal
tuition to register early will not be allowed to drop and later
re–add the class to take advantage of the waiver. The waiver
is for tuition only and does not cover lab or material fees, the
general technology fee, or the Student Services fee.
Refunds
Students who wish to drop courses must complete and submit a drop form through the Registrar’s Office or may drop
22
All non-credit courses are self-support; minimum enrollment
is required. To be eligible for a refund, students must drop
seven days prior to the course start date.
Student Financial Assistance (SFA) Refunds
The Financial Aid Office requests that funds be disbursed
10 days prior to the start of each term to facilitate refund
checks; however the actual receipt of aid is dependent on the
completeness of each student’s financial aid application. The
Student Accounts Office will release refund checks no earlier
than the first day of class each term. Refund checks may be
picked up at the Student Accounts Office, or will be direct deposited if the student has signed up via UAOnline.alaska.edu
for this option. Federal regulations stipulate that PWSCC students who are receiving Federal Student Financial Assistance
(SFA) and withdraws from all classes may be eligible to receive a refund of tuition and fees, which is to be repaid to the
appropriate SFA program(s). Consult Financial Aid or Student
Accounts for details. Self–support courses, correspondence
courses, and sponsored courses offered at the professionallevel may have different refund policies than those indicated
here. Please check with the Registrar at 907-834-1632 for
information concerning refund policies for these classes. The
first day of instruction for semester–length courses is the first
day of instruction listed in the official academic calendar.
1. Registrations for courses by PWSCC, tuition and fees will
be refunded in full.
2. The date of the drop transaction determines eligibility for
a refund.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
3. If registration is cancelled as a result of disciplinary action, students forfeit all rights to a refund of any portion
of tuition and fees.
4. Vocational/technical course fees are subject to this refund schedule.
5. In case the operations of PWSCC are adversely affected
by war, riot, natural act, action of civil authority, strike or
other emergency or condition, the College reserves the
right to take action to curtail part of all of its operations,
including action to cancel classes and action to discontinue services. In any case in which a significant curtailment is judged proper by PWSCC, the College’s liability
is limited to (at most) a refund of tuition and fees paid.
6. Housing refunds: See Housing in the Student Services
section of this catalog or refer to the current Residence
Life Handbook.
Refund Petitions
The Vice President of Student Affairs may grant exceptions
to financial obligations on the student’s account for circumstances beyond the student’s control that prevent him/her
from being able to complete coursework or attend class.
Refund petitions are usually considered only when a student
has been medically disabled, has experienced a death in the
family, or has military service-related obligations that prevent
regular attendance.
•
Written documentation of these conditions is required.
•
Petitions are not reviewed unless documentation of circumstances is provided.
•
Petitions are not reviewed unless the student has officially dropped or withdrawn from course(s).
•
Exceptions are not considered for a student’s failure to
comply with published deadlines, or changes in employment under the student’s control.
•
Refund Petitions will not be considered for semesters
that occurred beyond an annual academic cycle from the
current in-progress semester. For instance, a student petitioning for a fall semester refund will not receive consideration once the following fall semester has begun.
The petitioner must submit a completed and signed Petition form and supporting documentation to the Records and
Registration Office, P.O. Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686. Students
should allow up to 30 days for the petition to be reviewed
and processed. Refund processing begins after the first day
of class and takes ten working days. Students who paid by
credit card will have their card credited. If the student paid
by cash or check, a refund check will be mailed to the address
of record, or direct deposited into their bank account if this
option was set up in advance. Refunds will not be issued for
amount of less than $1. For general information please call
907-834-1600.
Student Expenses
Costs of special materials, supplies and services, including
textbooks, are not included in the cost of tuition but are assessed separately. Because student living arrangements and
personal spending habits vary widely, there is no single figure
that can be used to represent the cost of attending PWSCC.
Therefore, the following estimated costs are offered only as a
guide in budget planning, and are based off of one semester
(4 months). If planning to attend school in Valdez for one academic year (2 semesters), multiply the semester amount by
two. Summer semester is not included in these figures.
Resident/Non-Resident Tuition*
$1,824
Single Student Housing
$2,105 - 3,455
Family Student Housing
$3,890 - 5,480
Off-Campus Housing (w/roommate) $2,900
*Tuition based on 12 credits. Refundable campus housing
damage deposit of $200. Housing rates vary according to
room size and number of occupants. Off-campus housing
costs vary with size, location and number of people sharing
the accommodations.
Books and supplies:
$600 - $700
Lab Fees and Insurance
$75
Food
$1550
Wellness Center Membership (F/T) $25
Transportation
-0-
Personal Expenses
$1000
Academic Year Annual Estimated Costs
of Attendance
Tuition and Fees: These costs vary with the student’s enrollment status (full or part-time). Refer to the fee schedule.
Books and Supplies: These costs average $1,253 per year for
a full–time student but can vary with student course load.
Food: An allowance of about $3,100 seems to be sufficient
for most students for two semesters.
Campus Housing: In Valdez, the academic year (fall and
spring only) cost range is $4,210 per person, shared room in
a one-bedroom furnished apartment, to $6,910 for a private
one-bedroom apartment. Many options for private rooms in
shared apartments, or a private studio apartment offer rates
in between.
Off–Campus Housing: The average cost of an off-campus
1-bedroom shared apartment is approximately $900 per
month per person, including basic utilities.
Campus Recreation/Wellness Center Membership: $25 per
semester for full-time students.
Transportation: An allowance of about $0-1,440 is sufficient
to meet most needs for two semesters; cost depends on
how close a student lives to campus and whether there are
car expenses. Residence Halls at PWSCC are within walking
distance of the campus, stores, and most residential areas.
Students should also allow for airfare if they plan to return to
their hometown during the school year.
Personal Expenses: A student should budget for clothing,
laundry, medical and dental expenses, entertainment, personal supplies, and other items. An allowance of $2,000 per
academic year is usually sufficient.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
23
Debts to the College
Deferred payment agreements of any type and debts arising
from contractual agreements such as housing contracts are
legal obligations to PWSCC. It is the student’s responsibility to make payments by the date due. Debts arising from a
contractual agreement such as cleaning and repairs under a
housing contract are immediately due unless otherwise stated in the contract. Students who do not repay amounts by
the designated due date will receive one additional notice. If
the payment is not received by the date specified on the notice, collection proceedings which may include garnishment
of student’s Alaska PFD, will be instituted to collect the debt.
A fee of $30 will be collected from each person who has given
the College a check that has been dishonored. If payment is
not made by the date specified, collection proceedings will
be instituted. Note: Grades, diplomas, and transcripts will not
be released until all debts are paid.
24
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
STUDENT HOUSING
Choosing a college is a very important
decision and deciding whether to
live on or off campus can be just as
important. College experiences can be
greatly enhanced by living on campus.
But it is not just about living; it is about
living and learning, about being a part
of a community that can foster close
friendships and academic achievement
not found in off campus living situations.
At the Valdez campus, PWSCC offers
newly-remodeled studio, 1-bedroom,
2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom apartments
in a residence hall layout. Students select
the size of apartment they wish to live in,
whether they wish to have a shared or
private bedroom, and whether they prefer
to have living-mates in a shared apartment
or have a studio apartment to themselves.
Rates vary with these options.
Students on the Valdez campus can apply
for college housing as a single student or
as a family student with a partner and/or
children based on eligibility and availability.
All housing application materials can be
obtained on PWSCC Student Services
website. For more information, contact
the Campus Life Coordinator at 834-1634,
or by emailing [email protected].
Eligibility
To be eligible to reside in Student Housing,
residents must be enrolled in a minimum
of nine credits, however preference will be
given to students who are enrolled in 12 or more credits for
the semester during which they intend to reside on campus,
unless the Vice President of Student Affairs announces
otherwise in any given year. Residents must maintain the
minimum credit load throughout the semester and are
expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to remain eligible
for on-campus housing. The Housing Manager conducts
periodic GPA and credit load checks for all residents. Students
who do not maintain these academic requirements will be
notified in writing of their ineligibility and given a deadline by
which to appeal in writing before their Housing Agreement
is terminated. Students must also show a record of current
immunizations – contact the Housing and Residence Life
Office for a list of required immunizations.
Students with families may be eligible for family housing,
provided they meet the criteria outlined in the Residence Life
Handbook.
rented to families with partners and children (see Residence
Life Handbook Section II. Rental Terms: Family Housing
Criteria).
Studio Apartment. The studio apartments have an open
floor plan with a combined living and sleeping space for
one occupant. Full kitchen facilities are located along
one wall of this room behind a accordion-style door that
can be pulled closed. Two large closets and one small
closet are located near the entryway and bathroom.
1-Bedroom Apartment. One-bedroom apartments
can be shared by two people or occupied singly. This
apartment has a small kitchen, dining area, and living
room separated from the bedroom. In addition to the
bedroom closet, two additional large closets are located
near the bathroom.
2-Bedroom Apartment. Two-bedroom apartments may
be occupied by two single students or by families with
up to four total residents. Two separate bedrooms are
separated from the living, dining, and kitchen areas. An
additional shared closet is located in the entryway of
the apartment, and additional linen cabinetry is in the
bathroom of these apartments.
3-Bedroom Apartment. Three-bedroom apartments
can be shared by three single students or by families
with up to six total residents. This apartment has a
kitchen, dining area, and living room separated from the
bedrooms. One small shared closet is located near the
entryway and another is located in the hallway.
Amenities
All student units are fully furnished with living room and
dining room furniture. Kitchen appliances, including stove,
refrigerator, and microwaves are provided. Each resident is
provided a personal twin-sized bed, mattress, desk, chair, and
dresser. Each bedroom has one closet, and additional shared
closets are located in hallways. Local phone service and highspeed wi-fi internet access is included in the rent.
What to Pack:
· Linens (sheets, blankets, towels, pillows, dish rags, etc.)
· Dish ware
· Silverware
· Cookware/Utensils
· TV
· Computer
· Alarm Clock
· Toilet Paper/Paper Towels/Tissues/Napkins
Housing Details
Apartment Living: Various apartment styles and layouts
are available to provide students with multiple options for
affordability and degrees of privacy. Students can choose
to live in a private studio or 1-bedroom apartment or to
occupy a private bedroom but share a larger apartment
with roommates to reduce costs. Or, they can take a more
traditional route and share a 1-bedroom apartment with
another person to maximize savings. The units can also be
· Cleaning Supplies
· Personal Toiletries
· Laundry Basket/Soap
· Hangers
Make sure to bring any of the above you cannot live without
or be ready to buy them when you get here. Also, remember
clothes, shoes (tennis shoes and boots are a great start),
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
25
an umbrella, rain gear, and jackets (remember this is the
snowiest place in Alaska.) Weather in Alaska is unpredictable
and can change several times a day; dressing in layers is a
great way to be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws
our way.
Staffing: The student housing complex is staffed by a live-in
manager (the Campus Life Coordinator) as well as student
Community Advisors, or CAs. The CAs act as peer advisors to
help residents adjust to the everyday tasks and experiences
associated with pursuing a college education. The CAs are
also available for conflict mediation and emergency response.
A CA can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling
(907) 831-1264.
Community Facilities: Residents of the student housing
complex share laundry facilities located in each building as
well as the computer lab located in Copper Basin Hall and
the lounge located in Cordova Hall. Convenient parking
is available, but students must register their vehicles and
purchase a parking pass, which costs $25 for the academic
year.
Application Procedure
Housing application materials may be picked up in person
from the Help Desk or downloaded from www.pwscc.edu/
housing. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; however
students should submit their application materials as soon
as possible to ensure preferences are accommodated. An
application is not considered complete until the $400 deposit
and initial payment is received, signed housing agreement
is returned, proof of immunization has been verified, and
Student Housing Placement Profile provided.
2014-2015 Housing Rates
Individual Room Rates
Room Type
Private Studio Apartment
1 Bedroom Apartment, Shared Bedroom
Private 1 Bedroom Apartment
2 Bedroom apartment Single
3 Bedroom Apartment Single
Family Housing Rates
Room Type
1 Bedroom Apartment (2 Occupants)
2 Bedroom Apartment (2-4 Occupants)
3 Bedroom Apartment (3-6 Occupants)
Semester Rate
$4,176
$5,017
$5,887
Additional charges apply for students wishing to occupy their
unit during the winter break closure.
Penalties
Strict financial penalties apply to students who break their
housing agreement before the end date. Please see the
Housing Agreement for a schedule of these penalties.
Housing Placements
Assignments to student housing are made prior to the start
of each semester. Students will be informed of the details
of their assignment before they arrive. Priority is given on a
first come, first serve basis once an application and deposit
have been received. Assignments will not be made unless an
application is complete. This means that a signed housing
agreement and proof of current immunizations have been
received. All efforts will be made to honor special housing
requests such as roommate preferences; however, staff may
not be able to accommodate all requests.
26
Semester Rate
$2,900
$2,320
$3,480
$2,465
$2,117
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
REGISTRATION & GRADUATION
Prince William Sound Community College is an open-enrollment institution. In
addition to providing courses for degreeseeking students, PWSCC offers a variety
of special interest courses for personal
enrichment.
Preparing to Register
Placement Testing: Most English and
Mathematics classes have specific prerequisites. Newly admitted students and
those who have not previously met those
requirements will need to take placement tests. Placement testing is available
through Student Services and at both
of our extension campuses. Placement
tests can also be administered to distance
students. Non-degree-seeking students
wishing to take English and Mathematics
classes MUST also meet the prerequisites,
which require completion of PWSCC Accuplacer placement tests. Test results are
shared with the academic advisor when
the test is complete and students are
strongly encouraged to meet with the
academic advisor prior to registering for
classes.
If registering for the first time in English
or Math courses, students must show evidence of appropriate placement. English,
Preparatory English and Math courses
require appropriate placement scores
for course registration. Test scores reflect
national norms and are subject to change.
For English and Preparatory English course
placement purposes, Accuplacer scores
are valid for two years. For Math course
placement purposes, Accuplacer scores
are valid for one year. Refer to this catalog
and the class schedule for specific course
prerequisites and placement score requirements.
Testing Policy:
PWSCC requires that all new students
who are degree seeking or planning to
enroll in six credits or more take our
placement tests before enrolling in any
PWSCC coursework. Placement results will
indicate the starting level for students and
may require specific course(s) as a prerequisite to college level work. The testing
requirement will be waived for transfer
students who provide transcripts from their previous college
work that demonstrate their math and English proficiencies.
Academic Advising:
In order to determine placement, course options, and applicability of courses to degree programs, all students are strongly
encouraged to meet with their academic advisor. All new first
year (under 30 transfer credits) degree seeking students are
strongly urged to work with an advisor prior to registering for
classes. The Academic Advisor in Student Services is available
to assist students in registering for classes their first semester, and in following semesters until the student is referred to
a faculty advisor in the student’s chosen academic program.
Advisor Signatures:
All new first year (under 30 transfer credits) degree seeking
students are strongly encouraged to work with an advisor
prior to registering for classes. Students can meet with an
academic advisor in person or work with them at a distance.
Students not in Good Academic Standing and on financial aid
probation may be required to obtain an advisor’s signature
prior to registering for classes. Non-degree seeking students
may register for courses without seeing an academic advisor.
General Registration Information:
Registration and payment or payment arrangement of tuition
and fees are required by the first day of classes. Failure to arrange timely payment will result in late fees. Degree seeking
students are encouraged to register early, once registration
opens for each semester. Registration for special programs,
short courses, seminars and other classes that are not part of
the semester academic offerings will be announced prior to
the beginning of their start dates.
Course Prerequisites
Prerequisites indicate the preparation students must have to
enter a course. Students will be blocked from registering for
courses when they have not met the prerequisites. Students
should have achieved upper division standing to take courses
at the 300 and 400 level. Prerequisites may be waived with an
instructor’s approval signature.
Semester Study Load
Typical undergraduate students register for 15 credits each
semester. Students registering for 19 or more semester credit
hours need approval from the student’s academic advisor
and Vice President of Student Affairs. During summer sessions, students may not exceed a total of 12 credits for any
combination of summer sessions without prior approval of
the student’s advisor and the Vice President of Student Affairs.
Developmental students are limited to 12 credits per semester, unless otherwise approved by the Vice President of
Academic Affairs. “Developmental students” are those who
are registered by placement exam in two or more pre-college
(pre-100 level) courses, including ENGL 091, ENGL 092, ENGL
108, MATH 054 and MATH 055. The intention of this limitation is to help ensure student academic success. For the purposes of qualification to live in student housing, 12 credits
is considered a full-time load. Most financial aid, including
federal financial aid, is not affected by this limitation as 12
credits is recognized as a full-time load.
Students should consider their graduation time line when
planning their study load. The minimum number of required
credits is 30 for a certificate and 60 -67 for an associate degree. To complete a certificate in one year or an associate
degree in two years (excluding summers), a full-time student
should plan to take a minimum of 15 credits each semester.
Some degrees require more than the minimum number of
credits. Students should be aware that the need for remedial
work (for example, in English or mathematics) in preparation
for general education required courses may further extend
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
27
the time required to complete their programs. When planning study load, students should also keep non-school demands of available time, such as employment and/or family
responsibilities, firmly in mind.
sity for the purpose of raising their grade point average at
PWSCC. To determine eligibility for graduation with honors,
all credits and grades from repeated courses are included in
GPA calculations.
Registering for Classes
Registration Actions
Registration can be conducted in person by fax or via internet preceding the beginning of each semester. Registration
is available during the dates listed in the semester Class
Schedule. For fall and spring semesters, a two-week late
registration and add/drop period begins on the first day of
the semester. Registration of semester length classes is not
allowed after the first week of the semester without instructor approval. Students may continue to add classes through
the second week of the semester with instructor approval,
after which point late-adds will will require approval of both
the instructor and the Vice President of Student Affairs.
PWSCC holds students academically and financially responsible for their registration. After registering, if a student
changes plans or becomes unable to attend, the courses
must be dropped or withdrawn within published deadlines
in order to avoid a final grade of “F” for non-attendance. The
courses must be dropped within the 100% refund period
to avoid tuition and fee assessment. Refer to the Academic
Calendar published each semester in the Class Schedule for
specific deadlines.
Caution: Withdrawing from or auditing courses may affect
eligibility for current and future financial aid. Financial aid
students should check with their academic advisor before
withdrawing from or adding a course. All students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor prior to each
semester; however, the primary responsibility for meeting
PWSCC requirements is the student’s. Not every course listed
in this catalog is offered each semester. The semester class
schedule lists course and registration information specific to
that semester. Academic advisors will have access to a multiyear sequence of course offerings to better predict the next
time a class will be offered.
Use of Social Security Numbers
The University of Alaska has established student identification numbers and does not use Social Security numbers for
student identification. The university is still required to collect a valid Social Security number from each student for IRS,
employment and federal financial aid purposes. The last four
digits of the Social Security number are included on official
transcripts for identification matching purposes.
Full-Time and Part-Time Status
Those undergraduate students carrying 12 or more semester
credits are classified as full-time. Those carrying fewer than
12 credits are classified as part-time students.
Repeating Courses
Some courses may be repeated for additional credits if this
option is stated in the course description. All courses may be
repeated for student GPA improvements. Previous courses
and grades remain on the student’s transcript, but only the
credits and last grade earned are applied toward graduation
requirements and calculated in the student’s PWSCC GPA.
Students may not repeat a course by credit-by-exam, correspondence or through work at another college or univer-
28
Credit/No Credit
All formal PWSCC classes are offered as “for-credit” courses
only. Non-credit courses are labeled as such. There is no option to complete a credit-bearing course for non-credit.
Adding Classes
It is the responsibility of the student to become familiar
with PWSCC policies, procedures and deadlines. Refer to
the Academic Calendar published each semester in the Class
Schedule for specific deadlines. Add, drop, withdrawal, and
audit deadlines for courses other than semester-length will
be prorated according to the length of the class. Semesterlength classes may be added up to the second week of
instruction. Faculty signatures are required for any added
activity after the first week of class. Generally, short courses
(any class less than fifteen weeks) may not be added after the
first class has met. Independently Arranged courses may be
added up to the 12th week of the semester with permission
of the instructor. Add transactions follow the normal registration procedures. Students are expected to register only for
course sections which they plan to attend and to complete all
courses for which they register.
Auditing
A student who meets the course prerequisites and wishes to
“sit in on a class” but not be graded or receive credit may
do so by registering as an audit student. Auditors must formally register during the designated registration dates and
pay normal tuition and fees. Auditors are not graded by instructors, do not receive credit, and are not required to take
exams; nor are instructors required to grade auditors’ papers
or exams. An “AU” is designated on the transcript at the end
of the course. Audited courses do not apply toward degree
requirements, nor will they transfer to other institutions. A
student may change registration status from “audit” to “credit” or from “credit” to “audit” up through the second week
of classes in any regular semester course or for a prorated
length of time in the summer session or short course. These
deadlines are clearly indicated on the Campus Calendar.
Dropping or Withdrawing from Classes
To drop or withdraw from classes, go to UAONLINE (www.
uaonline.alaska.edu) or fill out a drop/withdraw form at the
Registration Office or download the form off of our website.
Until official drop paperwork is completed, the student remains enrolled. A failing grade may be received if a student
does not drop or withdraw from a class she/he is not attending. Deadlines for dropping and withdrawing are listed in the
Academic Calendar. No transactions will be accepted after
the deadline date. If a course is dropped within the refund
period, that course will not appear on a student’s transcripts.
For withdrawals after the refund period, a “W” is recorded
on the permanent record. Withdrawals do not figure into any
grade point computations, nor do they have any reference to
a student’s academic standing in the class—however, withdrawing from classes may impact financial aid eligibility.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Military Service-Related Withdrawals and Absences: PWSCC
is proud to help its servicemen, servicewomen, and their de­
pendents achieve their academic and professional goals. For
this reason, it is the policy of the college to support students
with documented service obligations in the following ways:
•
Accommodate short absences from class attendance and
participation due to service obligations.
•
Allow students to be readmitted to a program of they
must temporarily suspend their studies due to service
requirements.
•
Refund 100% of tuition and fees for semesters that
can not be feasibly completed due to service obligations,
including relocation orders; this accommodation will be
made to active duty, reservists, and their dependents.
To be eligible for military service-related accommodations including those listed above, formal documentation of the service obligation must be submitted through the petition process. The VA Student Services Coordinator will help provide
individualized support for military and veteran students and
assist in navigating the petition process for service-related
absences and withdrawals. For more information, call (907)
834-1645.
Faculty-Initiated Withdrawals
A faculty member may initiate a drop/withdrawal for students who fail to meet published individual course attendance requirements; however, the faculty member is under
no obligation to do so. At the beginning of the semester,
faculty may begin to drop students who fail to attend class by
the 7th calendar day of the semester. Faculty initiated drops/
withdrawals are permitted through week 12 of the semester
for semester-length courses (15 weeks). For courses other
than semester length, the faculty option to drop/withdraw
a student for non-attendance is prorated according to the
length of the course. An instructor withdrawal may be initiated for those students who enroll without prerequisites or
required instructor approval.
Administrative Withdrawals
the college website (www.pwscc.edu/forms/). When com­
pleting the petition, students are strongly encouraged to be
very clear in their requests and explanation as to why they
feel they should be entitled to an exception or reconsidera­
tion of college policies or decisions. Supporting documenta­
tion can be attached to the petition. Completed petitions
must be submitted to the Records and Registration Coordina­
tor by email, fax (907-834-1635), or physically addressed to
PO Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686.
Students may be asked to provide additional explanation or documentation before a final decision can be made.
The Vice President of Student Affairs is the primary petition
hearing officer, though petitions may be forwarded to the
Vice President of Academic Affairs that pertain to academic
program requirements or course transferability into PWSCC.
Once a petition deci­sion has been made and the student has
been notified, the student has up to 30 days to appeal the
petition decision.
Cancellations and Rescheduling
PWSCC reserves the right to cancel, combine, change instructor, date, time and/or place of instruction, and/or make other
revisions in class offerings at any time as deemed necessary
and to do so without incurring obligation. If the college cancels a class in which a student is enrolled, the Registrar will
automatically process the drop and refund request. The student will be notified of the cancellation.
Credit by Examination
PWSCC offers and accepts a number of credit-by-exam options. These exams are accepted or offered based upon academic policy and accreditation standards. A maximum of 15
semester credit hours taken through standardized exams will
be accepted by PWSCC toward an associate’s degree, and 9
semester credit hours will be accepted toward an undergraduate certificate and 3 credits toward Occupational Endorsement Certificates. There is a $25 per credit fee.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CREDIT THROUGH COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMINATION BOARD (CEEB):
Administrative withdrawals may be initiated by the Vice
President of Academic Affairs and Vice President of Student
Affairs for reasons of misconduct, disruptive behavior, egregious disrespect for the instructor or other students, or other
reasons deemed by the Vice President of Academic Affairs
as adverse to the learning environment. Such action will be
taken after the student is given an opportunity to discuss the
matter with the Dean/Director.
The University of Alaska grants transfer credit for satisfactory
performance (a grade of 3 or higher) on the College Board Advanced Placement Tests. Students would normally complete
this test during their senior year in high school. An individual
wanting CEEB advanced placement credit must request an
official report of scores obtained on the exam to be sent to
the Office of Admissions. Upon admission, appropriate credit
will be awarded. Individuals may receive credit for more than
one examination.
Academic Petitions
AP Exams Accepted PWSCC Course Credits Min.
Students have the right to petition for exceptions and special
accommodations regarding standard and published academic
policies, deadlines, and program requirements. Petitions may
be submitted up to one year from the date of the administra­
tive decision or action in question; often this is the end of
the semester in question. A period of up to 30 days should
be expected for the petition to be reviewed and processed.
Students will be notified in writing and/or email when a final
decision has been made.
Art: History Art: Studio Biology Biology
Chemistry Computer Science A Economics-Macro Economics-Micro English Language & Comp English Literature & Comp
ART 261 & 262 ART ELEC
BIOL 102 & 103
BIOL 115 & 116
CHEM 105/105L CIOS 201 ECON 201 ECON 202 ENGL 111 ENGL 121
6
3
8
8
4
3
3
3
3
3
Petition forms are available from the Records & Registration
Coordinator on the Valdez Campus, or can be obtained from
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
3
4
4
5
3
3
3
3
3
3
29
Environmental Science French Language French Literature
Geography
German Language German Literature Government & Politics
History, European History, U.S. History, World Math: Calculus AB Math: Calculus BC Music: Listening/Literature Music Theory Physics B Physics C: Mechanics Psychology Spanish Language
Spanish Literature Statistics U.S. Government & Politics ENVS 211/211L FREN 101 & 102
FREN Elective
GEOG 101
LANG GER LANG Elective
PS 102
HIST 102 HIST 131 & 132 HIST 101 & 102 MATH 200 MATH 200 & 201 MUS 123 MUS 111 PHYS 123/123L
PHYS 211/211L
PSY 111 SPAN 101 & 102 SPAN Elective STAT 252 PS 101 4
8
3
3
8
3
3
3
6
6
4
8
3
3
4
4
3
8
3
3 3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
For course listings that are not typically offered at PWSCC and
are not located within the Course Descriptions section of this
catalog, refer to UAA’s catalog.
PLACEMENT FOR ACT (ENGLISH) OR SAT (VERBAL)
Students who pass the ACT or SAT exam will have the opportunity to waive English V111. Test scores will be evaluated
upon admission to PWSCC. Student’s test results must reflect
one of the following:
•
ACT English score of 30 or higher (English Competent)
•
SAT Critical Reading Score of 680 or higher
DANTES SUBJECT STANDARDIZED TESTS
Credit for non-traditional education can be earned through
the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests program (DSST).
Credits will be awarded only if students are admitted to
degree and certificate programs and have taken courses at
PWSCC. American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations for minimum test scores will be accepted. Exams may
be repeated after an interval of one year. Auditing a course
does not preclude obtaining credit for the course by taking
the DSST subject standardized test. Credit will not be given
for any course for which credit has previously been earned.
CREDIT BY EXAMINATION-PWSCC
Students admitted to a degree program and currently enrolled at PWSCC are eligible to request credit by examination.
The first step is to check with the instructor of the course
that an individual would like to challenge, or with the chair
of the department under which the course is offered. Final
approval to challenge a course comes from the Vice President
of Student Learning and Academic Affairs. Students may not
receive credit by examination for a course that is a prerequisite to another course in which they are currently enrolled
or have completed. A course challenged for credit must not
duplicate a course for which credit has already been given. If
a student has audited or previously enrolled in a class, he or
30
she may not request credit via departmental examination for
the class until the subsequent academic year. Departmental
exams will be graded pass/fail and do not carry grade points.
Exams may not be repeated earlier than one year from the
previous test date. Cost is $25 per semester credit.
COLLEGE-LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) provides an
opportunity for students admitted to PWSCC degree programs to test out of coursework in fine arts, humanities,
social science, foreign language, English, mathematics, and
natural science. With the 2001 transition from paper- andpencil exams to a computer-delivered system, ACE (American
Council on Education) recommends that a minimum score of
“50” must be attained to earn college credit. Students who
take the CLEP English Composition with Essay and score 500
points or higher will receive 3 semester hours of credit for
English 111. The maximum allowable credits earned by CLEP
examinations is 24 credits. Students should request that official report of scores be sent to the Records & Registration
Office at PWSCC. Exams may not be repeated until 6 months
have passed since the initial exam date. Contact: CLEP, P.O.
Box 660. Princeton, NJ 08541-6600, Ph: 1-800-257-9558
CLEP Test Name PWSCC Course Credits Min.
Algebra (College) Pre-Calculus (College) American Government Biology, General Business Law Level 2
Calculus Elem. Functions Chemistry, General College Composition College, Mathematics English Comp (with essay)
Financial Accounting French (College Level)
German (College Level) History of the U.S. I History of the U.S. II Human Growth & Devpmt.
Humanities Natural Sciences Pre-Calculus Principles of Marketing 2 MATH 107 MATH 107 & 108 GOVT 101 BIOL 105 & 106 Elective MATH 200 CHEM 105 & 106 ENGL 111 MATH 105 ENGL 111
ACCT 101 FREN 101 & 102 FREN 201 & 202 LANG 1 GER LANG 2 ELEC HIST 131 HIST 132 PSY 250 HUM Elective
SCI Elective MATH 1 GER BUS Elective 4
6
3
8
3
4
8
3
4
3
3
8
8
8
8
3
3
3
3
4
6
3
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
500
50
50
59
50
60
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
Non-Traditional Credit
Non-traditional credit evaluations are available for accepted
degree-seeking PWSCC students. These allow students who
have gained knowledge and skills through work and other life
experiences to gain credits for equivalent PWSCC courses.
Documenting military or occupational training, taking local or
national examinations, and developing portfolios for faculty
review are some of the methods used. The specific process
are listed below.
MILITARY SERVICE CREDIT
Eight elective credits may be awarded to the students who
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
have completed one (1) calendar year of active duty military
service. In addition, credits may be transferred from formal
service schools and MOS/Ratings as recommended in the
Guide to the Evaluation of Education Experiences in the
Armed Services prepared by the American Council on Education. No more than 15 semester credits are awarded toward
and associate degree.
CREDIT FOR PRIOR LEARNING
For some courses, students may receive non-traditional credit on a case-by-case basis by documenting their prior learning
through experience and training. The process involves development of a documented portfolio, faculty and administrative review, an initial evaluation fee, and a fee for each credit
awarded. Contact PWSCC Prior Learning Coordinator through
the Instruction Department for more information.
CERTIFIED EXPERIENCE CREDIT
This program allows crediting of certified training not sponsored by an accredited post-secondary institution. PWSCC
may award elective credit or specific course credit by petition
or departmental agreement.
National/State/Local Certificates. Persons who have met
certain standards and/or passed certain tests may be
awarded academic credit.
Business or Industry Credit. Recommendations for business or industry credit equivalents are found in the American Council on Education’s National Guide. They cover
courses or formal instruction offered by businesses, government agencies, labor unions, and professional or voluntary associations.
Independently Arranged Courses
Students can register for a number of independently arranged
(IA) classes at PWSCC. These courses provide students with a
flexible alternative to traditional classroom instruction.
DIRECTED STUDY
A Directed Study course is a permanent catalog course delivered on an individual basis when the course is not offered
that semester. The course must be supervised by an instructor who has taught the permanent course or a related course,
and it must receive final approval from the Vice President of
Student Learning and Academic Affairs. It provides the opportunity for the student who has completed most of the
required courses in their program to study topics which are
not offered.
INDEPENDENT STUDY
An Independent Study course is a course consisting of topics
or problems chosen by the student with the approval of the
department concerned, with the supervision of an instructor,
and final approval by the Vice President of Student Learning and Academic Affairs. It provides the opportunity for the
student who has completed most of the required courses
in their program to study topics which are not offered. Independent Study courses cannot be used to fulfill General
Education Requirements. Independent Study courses will be
assigned a -61 number (i.e., 161 or 261) if the course is not a
catalog course. Students are responsible for initiating the paperwork for an Independent Study course and must register
for independent studies as for any regular class. Independent
Study courses cannot be used to fulfill General Education Re-
quirements. Tuition and fees for independent studies are the
same as for other courses.
Correspondence Credit
Correspondence credits may be accepted by PWSCC up to a
maximum of 15 credits toward an associate program. Only
correspondence courses taken through the University of
Alaska Correspondence Study Program will be considered for
resident credit. DANTES/USAFI credits are considered correspondence credits. For course and registration information
on correspondence study available through the University of
Alaska, contact:
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Center for Distance Education and Independent Learning
2175 University Avenue South, Suite 200
P.O. Box 756700
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK 99775-6700
Phone: (907)479-3444
Fax: (907)479-3443
http://distance.uaf.edu
International Baccalaureate Diploma
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a twoyear curriculum for student aged 16-19 and is similar to the final year of secondary school in Europe. PWSCC awards credit
for IB higher-level exams on which Students have earned a
score of 5 or better. Students should submit an official record
of their IB certificate(s) or diploma for review by PWSCC.
PWSCC Communication Via E-mail
PWSCC uses e-mail to communicate with students on many
important matters including all official communication
regarding student account statements and direct deposit
notices. The University of Alaska automatically assigns each
student an official UA e-mail account after the student first
registers for a PWSCC class, unless he/she has already taken
classes at UA. You are responsible for knowing and, when appropriate, acting on the contents of all university communications sent to your official UA e-mail account. If you want to
receive college and university communication at a different
e-mail address, you must forward e-mail from your assigned
UA account to the e-mail address of your choice.
Information Release
Access to Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of
1974, as amended, was designed to protect the privacy of
educational records, to establish the right to inspect and
review academic records, and to provide guidelines for the
correction of inaccurate or misleading data within academic
records. Those wishing to review academic records at PWSCC
should make an appointment with PWSCC Registrar for review. Records must be reviewed in the Registrar’s office with
the Registrar present. Records cannot be reviewed without a
prior appointment. Under FERPA, you are entitled, as a University of Alaska student, to review your education records.
Except for directory information, no personally identifiable
information is disclosed to agencies outside the College without the written permission of the student or as otherwise
permitted under FERPA.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
31
Within the College, records are made available to school officials with a legitimate educational interest. A school official
is any individual designated by the college to perform an assigned function on behalf of the college, including faculty, administrators, staff, other students serving on official college
committees or assisting a college official in performing his or
her duties, and third parties with whom the college or the
University of Alaska has contracted, such as attorneys, auditors and collection agents. School officials have a legitimate
educational interest if they need information from a student’s
education records to perform work appropriate to their position. No other information from a student’s education record
will be disclosed to anyone outside the college without the
written consent of the student except to officials of other
institutions in which a student seeks to enroll, in connection
with financial aid which the student has applied for or has
received, in compliance with a judicial order or subpoena, to
persons in an emergency in order to protect the health or
safety of the student or other persons, or as otherwise permitted under FERPA.
Directory Information
Directory information may be disclosed on a routine basis to
the public unless the student requests that such information
not be released. The following is considered directory information:
•
Name
•
E-mail
•
Home city and state
•
Dates of attendance at PWSCC
•
Program/major field(s) of study
•
Degrees and certificates received, including dates
•
Participation in officially recognized college activities
•
Chancellor’s List and Dean’s List recognition
•
Academic and co-curricular honors, awards, and scholarships, including dates received.
PWSCC and the University of Alaska now offer multiple options when ordering official transcripts:
1. Order online: electronic copies sent to through secure
email as a watermarked PDF file ($12 per copy)
2. Order online/in person: paper copy sent within 5–7 business days ($15 per copy)
3. Order online/in person expedited: paper copy sent within
1 business day ($30 per copy)
Three Types of Official Transcript Processing
$12 Official PDF
Transcript-the
fastest delivery
$30 Official Paper
Transcript-EXPEDITED 24hr processing
$15 Official Paper
Transcript-Normal
Processing
Processed and
delivered by the
next business
day. University
of Alaska official
transcript delivered by email in a
secure electronic
PDF.
Official University
of Alaska paper
transcript EXPEDITED is processed
and mailed by
next business day.
Sent by US Postal
Service first class
mail.
Official University of Alaska
paper transcript
processed and
sent by US Postal
Service first class
mail within 5
business days.
Three Ways to Order
Students may inform the Registration Office that he/she does
not give permission for the college to release his/her directory information. A written and signed request made by the
student to not release his/her directory information must be
given to the Registration Office within two weeks of the start
of the academic term. The requests for non-disclosure are
valid until a subsequent written request to release directory
information is received.
Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S.
Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the
college to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name
and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
A complete copy of FERPA, including procedures for challenging the content of one’s records, is available in the Registration Office. Links to the University of Alaska Board of Regents’
Policy and University Regulation 09.04.00 regarding education records is on the website http://www.alaska.edu/bor/
contents/pt9.html.
32
Transcript Requests (PWSCC)
UAOnline
In Person
Mail
Fastest way to
order and ensure
receipt.
Order in person
at our cashier’s
window.
Mail the completed form.
Monday, Tuesday,
& Thursday 9 am-5
pm located at
PWSCC, 303 Lowe
St, Valdez, Alaska.
Prince William
Sound Community
College, Office of
the Registrar, PO
Box 97, Valdez, AK.
99686
1. Log in to the
secured area of
UAOnline
2. Select “Student
Services &
Account Information”
3. Select “Official Transcript
Request Service”
UAOnline requests require a major credit card, UA Student ID,
PIN number, and email account. If you do not know your ID,
PIN number, or username which is reflected in your email address, visit https://elmo.alaska.edu
Students who have taken classes at other University of Alaska
institutions may obtain those transcripts as well at no additional charge by indicating their attendance when requesting
official transcripts. This option is only available when ordering transcripts online; when requesting by paper, students
will receive official transcripts only for the institution where
the transcripts were requested. Enrolled students may obtain
unofficial copies of transcripts at www.uaonline.alaska.edu:
1. Login to the Secured Area
2. Enter your User ID (student ID number 3XXX XXXX) and
your PIN.
3. Click on Student Services & Account Information
4. Click on Student Records
5. Click on Academic Transcript
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
6. Select a Transcript Level (undergraduate, graduate, all
levels, etc.)
7. Select Transcript Type (WEB Unofficial, etc.) and click
Submit
*Please note: if you have multiple levels you will need to repeat Step 7 for each level.
Paper - In Person Requests
Submit in-person requests at PWSCC 303 Lowe St. Valdez,
AK 99686. Forms are available at the help desk.. Submit
completed form with payment to the business office.
Please present photo ID.
PWSCC Campuses
Prince William Sound Community College maintains academic records for the following campuses:
PWSCC - Valdez Campus
PWSCC - Copper Basin Extension Center
PWSCC - Cordova Extension Center
Before You Order
Holds: You must clear any holds on your record before
transcripts will be released. Current and recently enrolled
students may check for holds on the web at http://uaonline.
alaska.edu.
Pending grades, degrees, changes: Check your unofficial
transcript through UAOnline to insure that this information
is present before you place your transcript order. If you want
to delay the release of your transcript until assignment of
pending grades, degrees, changes, etc. have been completed;
indicate the appropriate ‘hold’ when ordering. For questions
about missing grade(s) - contact the registrar’s office.
Third party requests: Written requests for transcripts must
be signed by the owner of the record. Third party requests
require the representative of the student to present written
authorization from the owner of the record designating the
representative as his/her agent. The third party must also
present photo ID and a photocopy of the record owner’s valid
photo ID.
Non-Credit/CEU’s: Official transcripts will include: Undergraduate, Graduate and Professional (500) level courses.
Non-credit and/or Continuing Education courses will NOT be
included unless noted on the request form.
Important Information
To maintain confidentiality, the university does not publish
social security numbers on written requests, forms, electronic displays, or other communication unless required and/
or permitted by law (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
of 1974). The last 4-digits of social security numbers will be
printed on official transcript.
If You Attended Prior To Spring 1982: If you have attended
the UA system at any time since 1982, you will have a UAOnline account, if you attended PWSCC prior to spring 1982
(and you have not attended since) you must order Paper
Transcripts, In-Person or Mail Order.
Transcript Request (5-7 days)
Transcript Request (1-day)
Fees and Processing Time
$15 (5-7 days); $30 (1 day). The processing time begins
the day Registrar’s office receives request and processed
Monday through Friday during normal business hours,
except holidays and during winter break. Methods of Payment
Cash (in person only), personal checks (payable to
PWSCC), U.S. money orders, and the following credit
cards; VISA and MasterCard. If you do not know your ID or username, which is reflected
in your email address, please visit https://elmo.alaska.edu to
order transcripts online at UAonline.
Unofficial Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts can be found at http://uaonline.alaska.
edu (UA ID and PIN required). If you do not know your ID,
PIN number, or username which is reflected in your email
address, visit https://elmo.alaska.edu. Login to Secured Area
and follow the links - Student Services & Account Information,
Student Records, and Academic Transcript. For a complete
transcript of your course work, view ALL LEVELS & submit.
Courses taken before 1982 are maintained on microfilm and
microfiche and may not appear on this record. Please examine your transcript carefully.
Change of Name or Address
A student’s name on official records at PWSCC must be the
student’s full legal name. A Change of Name form may be
processed through Admission and Records and must be supported by legal documentation, i.e., a Social Security card,
driver’s license, marriage certificate, dissolution or divorce
decree, or a court order. Currently enrolled students who
have changed their address should update their information
on UAONLINE or notify PWSCC by completing the appropriate
form. Official notification of change of address is necessary
for accurate mailing of correspondence, transcripts, registration instructions, registration billing, and information about
graduation requirements.
Adult Basic Education (GED)
If you received your GED from the Adult Learning Center,
please forward your request to PWSCC ATTN: Adult Basic Education PO Box 97 Valdez, AK 99686 or phone at 907.834.1671.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
33
Graduation
More Than One Degree
Application for Graduation
1. A student must be admitted to a degree program before
he or she can apply for graduation. Students cannot
graduate the same term they apply for admissions except
for occupational endorsement certificates. If the student
is a bachelor’s degree student intending to graduate at
UAS or UAA with an associate’s degree from PWSCC prior
to graduation with a bachelor’s degree, he or she should
check with the advisor to be admitted to the selected associate degree at PWSCC.
2. Once a student has clarified admissions status, he or she
must formally apply for graduation and pay a $20 fee.
The application for graduation must be filed with the
Registrar’s office on the campus attended during the semester in which he or she plans to graduate.
Spring completion deadline, February 1
Students who graduate with more than one degree will receive a separate diploma for each degree awarded. Outstanding Balances
Students must satisfy all unpaid student account balances
through PWSCC Business Office before their diploma will be
released.
Name on Diploma
The name on your diploma will be the official name on file
with the college at the time of printing. Diplomas will be
printed with first name, middle initial, last name; unless
specifically indicated otherwise by the student. PWSCC does
not print nicknames on diplomas, but will print full middle
and maiden names upon request.
Replacement Diplomas
3. Applications submitted after the deadline will be charged
an additional $25 late application fee. Applications received subsequent to the late application deadline of
March 1/November 1 may be moved to the following
term.
4. The request for graduation will be processed and the student will receive written notification from the Registrar’s
Office regarding graduation status. Students who apply
for graduation and who do not complete their degree/
certificate requirements by the end of the semester in
which they have been approved to graduate must reapply for graduation and pay another application fee.
You may order a replacement if your original diploma has
been lost or damaged. Complete and return Application for
Replacement Diploma form with $25 fee. Processing time is
14 -21 days beginning the day Registration office receives request and processed Monday through Friday during normal
business hours, except holidays and during winter break. All
replacement diplomas will be printed with current University President, Chancellor, and Chair of the Board of Regents
signatures and will have the words “Replacement Diploma
issued (date)” printed under the college seal. Graduates
wishing to order a replacement diploma for a change of
name must submit Change Form along with documentation.
At the end of one year, any unclaimed/returned diplomas
will be shredded. Students should contact Registrar’s Office
for current procedures for reprinting a shredded diploma.
Catalog
Graduation with Honors
Fall completion deadline, October 1
Students may choose from either of two catalogs to determine their graduation requirements—the catalog in effect
when formally admitted to a program, or the catalog in effect
during the semester of graduation. If the requirements for an
associate degree as specified in the entry level catalog are not
met within 5 years of formal acceptance into the program,
that program will expire and the student must reapply for
admission and meet the requirements in effect at the time of
formal acceptance.
Diplomas and Commencement
PWSCC issues diplomas once per year: in May following the
spring semester. Commencement ceremonies are only held
once a year, in May. Students who complete degree requirements during the academic year are invited to participate in
the May ceremony. Names of students receiving undergraduate certificates and degrees appear in the commencement
program in the spring and are released to the media unless
a directory hold has been placed on the student account.
Occupational endorsement certificates are awarded by the
offering academic unit, rather than at commencement. Students should check with their advisors to determine what arrangements are followed. For more information on PWSCC’s
commencement program and to apply for graduation, please
visit our website at www.pwscc.edu or our Registrar’s Office
at 907-834-1632. Approximately 4-6 weeks after graduation
diplomas will be mailed to the graduate’s address listed on
their graduation application
34
Students earning degrees who obtain a cumulative grade
point average of 3.5 will graduate cum laude, 3.8 magna
cum laude and 4.0 summa cum laude. In addition to the
general residency requirements, students must have been
in attendance at PWSCC for at least 15 credit hours for an
associate degree to graduate with honors. All college work
attempted, including that attempted at other institutions
and grades earned from repeated courses, is considered
in the determination of a student’s eligibility for graduation with honors. Honors are not awarded to occupational
endorsement certificates, certificate and graduate degree
students. For transfer students to be considered for graduation with honors they must have a 3.5 cumulative GPA in all
attempted PWSCC credits and 24 resident credits for an associate degree. Once those requirements are met, cumulative GPA is calculated combining all college work attempted
at PWSCC, as well as all college work attempted at any other
institutions the student has attended, including repeated
credits and any credits that may not have been accepted
for transfer. Associate degree students who graduate with
honors in summer, fall, or spring will be recognized in the
annual commencement program and awarded gold honor
cords to wear at the May commencement ceremony. Final
grades will be verified prior to noting graduation honors on
the diploma or the official transcript.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Occupational Endorsement Completion
Occupational Endorsement candidates must formally apply for completion. The application must be filed with the
Registrar’s Office by October 1 for fall, February 1 for spring
and July 1 for summer completion. Students completing Occupational Endorsements are not eligible for honors or to
participate in the commencement ceremony.
Average Student Right-to-Know Rates
PWSCC provides general consumer information such as
tuition costs and fees, timelines, procedures to officially
withdraw, refund schedules, financial assistance programs,
eligibility and application process. This information may be
found in PWSCC Catalog, or by calling (907) 834-1600. Student completion and graduation rates; transfer-out rates; and
retention rates are available from the University of Alaska Office of Institutional Research by visiting www.uaa.alaska.edu/
opra/gradrate.cfm.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
35
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
36
STUDENT SERVICES
Student Services and Campus Life staff
seek to aid all students in their transition
to college life and academic work, to engage them in campus life and community
affairs, to help them grow and explore opportunities, and to improve the general
quality of student life for those attending
PWSCC. Many of the services listed below can be obtained not only at the main
campus in Valdez but also at the extension
centers in Cordova and Copper Basin. Others can be offered to students via distance
delivery. It is the goal of the College to
make all students feel supported, engaged,
healthy, and successful as they work towards their goals. To request assistance of
any kind, please contact the Help Desk at
907-834-1600 or email studentservices@
pwscc.edu. For assistance in Cordova, call
424-7598; in Copper Basin, call 822-3673.
New Student Orientation
Activities & Campus Life
Student Government
Recognizing that learning also takes
place outside of the classroom, PWSCC
cultivates a variety of social, cultural,
and recreational extracurricular experiences for students. Getting involved with
PWSCC outside of the classroom provides
students with opportunities to develop
leadership skills, meet others, and become
integrated into their communities. PWSCC
prides itself in listening to students’ suggestions for activities and then designing
programs to meet those wishes. Hiking,
kayak, and ski trips are staple outdoor activities and are
planned throughout the year. Indoor activities are also offered with film screenings, karaoke nights, video game tournaments, casino nights, and performers are just some of the
traditional offerings. Co-curricular opportunities consist of
leadership trainings and retreats, workshops and trainings to
provide students with skills and certifications to help others,
and service projects in the surrounding communities.
In addition to college-sponsored activities, self-directed outdoor opportunities abound, and students will find that endless opportunities – such as hiking, cross country and downhill skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing – can be found on
area trails and waterways. Additionally, Valdez, Cordova, and
Glennallen are vibrant, active communities with unique cultural, recreational, and entertainment opportunities. Crosscountry and downhill skiing, ice climbing, snow machining,
swimming, boating and sailing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting
and scuba diving, hiking, mountain climbing and camping,
berry picking, gold panning and bicycling, sport fishing, hunting, bird watching, rock hunting, gardening, basketball, softball, volleyball and racquetball are also other great activities
that can be done in the area. For more information about recreational activities and to learn about recreational facilities
on the Valdez campus, see Wellness Center in the Community
Services section. For a full listing of events, watch the campus calendar on PWSCC home page, or sign up with Student
Services to receive notices of upcoming events. Share activity
ideas by emailing [email protected].
37
The first step to success at PWSCC begins with New Student
Orientation. Orientation helps bridge the gap between high
school or previous college or university experience and PWSCC
by preparing students for a successful transition, academically and socially, into the campus culture and community. By
participating in New Student Orientation, students will learn
their way around campus, have a chance to get acquainted
with other new students, and learn about the programs and
opportunities PWSCC has to offer. New Student Orientation
is provided at the start of each fall and spring semester. New
Student Orientation is required for all new, degree seeking
students registered for 12 credits or more. New students who
are registered for less than 12 credits are highly encouraged
to attend. For more information about New Student Orientation, including the schedule, contact Student Services by
calling (907) 834-1600 or email [email protected].
Copper Basin and Cordova students interested in attending
orientation or receiving the Orientation Handbook are also
encouraged to contact Student Services.
Student government plays an important role in the development of college policies, academic programs, and student
services. In addition, student government organizes and promotes many activities and groups on campus and nominates
students to faculty and administrative committees. PWSCC
has two student government groups to serve the unique issues of the students in their regions, but collaborate to offer events, travel opportunities, and to discuss issues that
are relevant college-wide. Although student government is
comprised of elected officers, all students may get involved.
A student government fee is collected from all students at the
time of registration, which appears as the “Student Services
Fee,” and supports the work that the elected representatives
do on each campus. Elections are typically held within the
third week of each semester, primarily in the fall. Students
interested in getting involved in Student Government may
contact:
Student Government:
Phone: (907) 834-1634
Email: [email protected]
Student Organizations
Students are invited to get involved in PWSCC student organizations like Multicultural Club, Phi Theta Kappa, the Archery
Club, and more – see PWSCC website for more information
about available student organizations. Additionally, students
may create student organizations, allowing access to college
resources including funding. Research shows that students
who engage more outside the classroom persist longer in
school, earn higher GPAs, and feel better connected. Student
organizations fall administratively under the purview of Student Government and are supported by this group of elected
officials. Contact the Help Desk for more information or email
[email protected].
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Bookstore
PWSCC currently uses an online “virtual bookstore” system
called MBS. Students can log onto http://direct.mbsbooks.
com/pwscc.htm and purchase books based on the course
identification. The purchase of textbooks is easily facilitated
when registration schedules have been confirmed. Using
MBS, Students with financial aid may obtain a book voucher
from Student Services allowing them to charge, for a fee, the
cost of textbooks and shipping to their student account with
PWSCC. Check the MBS website for return policies; return
policies on shorter classes may vary. Students should keep
receipts and packing slips until they are sure there will be
no need to return the book. Students who order books with
plenty of time before the first day of class can obtain the ISBN
number of the book assignment and pursue other options
on their own, and may find more luck obtaining affordable
used copies. Orders for graduation apparel and invitations
are available through Student Services. Check early each semester for graduation deadlines. Call the Help Desk for more
information, 907-834-1600.
Academic Advising
The Academic Advising Division of Student Services offers
personal, academic, and career guidance. The Student Services Staff provides valuable information and resources to
help enhance students’ ability to solve educational problems
relating to career planning and academic preparation. Information and resources available at PWSCC include aptitude
and interest assessments, note-taking and test-taking workshops, resume building workshops, cover letter composition,
interviewing skills, and much, much more. At PWSCC, we
know that academic success is often greater when students
and their advisor share a good working relationship and that
is why at PWSCC, we provide academic advising for all new,
returning, and transfer students.
The Academic Advisor is available to help students plan their
program of study, and help students make informed choices
about courses. Although students are fully responsible for
their academic decisions, they should recognize the advantages of close cooperation and understanding between
themselves and their advisor. Advisors assist students in selecting semester courses, planning their academic program
and explaining University requirements and policies. The
Academic Advisor will also use placement scores, previous
and current transcript information, and student input to help
students select a degree program that is consistent with their
academic objectives and future goals. All first year (less than
30 transfer credits), degree-seeking students are strongly
encouraged to work with an Academic Advisor for their first
academic year. Degree-seeking students will later transition
to a faculty advisor in their selected program after certain
course sequences are passed successfully, per that program’s
specific requirements. Academic Advising is an integral part
of academic success at PWSCC. It is important to know who
your advisor is and to seek advice often, rather than meeting
only when problems arise. To request an appointment, call
834-1626 or email [email protected].
Disability Support Services (DSS)
Prince William Sound Community College provides services
to aid college students who experience a documented physical, cognitive, and/or psychiatric disability. It is the college’s
38
goal to make education as accessible as possible and to make
reasonable adaptations to the classroom environment and
instruction so that every student can be successful. Disability
Support Services are available on all PWSCC campuses and
extension sites. PWSCC is committed to equal opportunity
and programmatic access for students with disabilities including students who are taking distance classes (See University
of Alaska Regents Policy: www.alaska.edu/bor/policy/policy.
xml). It is the student’s sole responsibility to request services
in writing and to provide documentation for the purpose of
determining eligibility for services. Eligibility under ADA requires that a person has a diagnosed impairment which significantly limits one or more major life activities. Current case
law defines major life activities as walking, sitting, standing,
seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, reading, writing, working, performing mathematical calculations, and caring for
oneself. Both the impairment and the limitation of a major
life activity must be established to be eligible under ADA.
Diagnoses are primarily derived from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) version IV, Revised or the International
Classification of Diseases (ICD) version 10.
Students must request these services and submit documentation of their disability for consideration and a formal determination. Early contact at least one month before the start of
classes with this program is essential to a positive educational experience. For further information on disability support
services and guidelines about documentation please visit our
website at www.pwscc.edu/dss. For more information or to
schedule a DSS review, contact the DSS Coordinator at dss@
pwscc.edu. Documentation and a Request for Services can be
submitted via email, by confidential toll-free Fax: 800-3792230, or by mailing materials to: Greta Palmer, Disability Support Services, PWSCC, PO Box 97, Valdez, AK 99686.
Exchange & Study Abroad Opportunities
Imagine living and studying elsewhere while earning credit
toward your PWSCC degree! An academic exchange or study
abroad experience allows you to do just that! There are
hundreds of universities and program sites to consider for
an academic year or semester. Opportunities are available
throughout the United States, its territories, Canada, and
another 35 countries around the world. PWSCC Student Services staff will work with UAA’s Academic Exchange and Study
Abroad Office to connect PWSCC students with this valuable
opportunity. Interested students should begin the process in
the fall for a placement the following academic year. There
are spring and summer opportunities as well but there may
be some limitations. As a freshman, it’s not too early to start
asking questions when you arrive at PWSCC. Sophomores,
you are in the ideal position for most programs, especially
if you plan to continue on towards a baccalaureate degree.
Participants must be full-time, degree-seeking students with
a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Program costs are very affordable.
In the case of exchanges, students pay tuition to PWSCC or
UAA, and housing and meal costs to the host institution.
Financial aid is available, and Alaska residents can maintain
their residency and obtain their PFD. Exchange scholarships
may also be available, so be sure to inquire about financial
support for your travel when you apply. For more information
on exchange and study abroad opportunities, contact PWSCC
Student Services staff or visit UAA’s Academic Exchange Office website at www.uaa.alaska.edu/oia/studyabroad/index.
cfm to see what’s available.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Health & Counseling Services
As a small institution, PWSCC does not employ certified clinicians on any of its campuses. However, Student Services staff
on all three campuses can provide general guidance, conflict
mediation services, and simply provide a listening ear. More
serious physical or mental health needs can be referred to
our community clinical partners and service providers, who
we maintain close working relationships with. On the Valdez campus, students can seek moderate levels of behavioral health assistance, education, and guidance from highly
trained staff. Informational events regarding student health
and wellness are provided periodically on campus. To explore
resources for personal support, counseling, and health guidance, see a Student Services staff member on any of the
three PWSCC campuses.
Public Health Services & Local Clinics: Public Health Services
are available to students on a sliding pay scale determined
by income level. Immunizations, consultations, prescriptions,
physicals, and general health information can be provided by
Registered Nurses and/or Physician Assistants. Mental health
and counseling services can also be arranged and billed
through Public Health in most cases.
Valdez Public Health 907-835-4612
Glennallen Public Health Nurse 907-822-3209
Cordova Public Health
907-424-4547
Community Health Clinics provide care facilities for outpatient procedures by appointments or during walk-in hours.
Referral to counseling services can also be made by clinic
providers. Students with insurance, or who purchase student
insurance through the UA system, can easily utilize these services with minimal financial strain.
in with the individual to offer support. More significant needs
will be referred to off-campus clinical providers for formal
counseling and medical care. In the case of an emergency,
please call 9-1-1. See the Emergency Procedures section of
the Student Handbook for more information.
Information Technology Services
Computers are available for student use on all three PWSCC
campuses. On the Valdez campus, students may use computer classrooms when scheduled class is not in session, or they
may utilize the smaller labs available at all times for student
use, which are located in room 109C and in each of the three
residence halls.
Each of the three PWSCC campuses has at least one IT Support staff member to assist students with general network
issues, PWSCC computers and programs, and personal computer issues. For assistance with UAOnline, UAA email accounts, eLive, or Blackboard, students should call the UAA IT
Help Line at (907) 786-4646. Students experiencing difficulty
with online course access should contact their instructor before seeking assistance from IT support staff.
On the Valdez campus, IT staff members are in the office from
8:00am until 10:00pm on weekdays and can provide student
assistance as time permits. Support with college computers
and programs will take precedence over assistance with personal computers. Students are urged to communicate questions or assistance needs as soon as possible to help ensure
that staff can address the issue when they are first available
to do so. IT Support Services are located in room 116 on the
Valdez campus, and can be reached at 834-1642. Drop-in
hours for the IT Help Desk in Room 116 will be posted on the
door each semester.
Providence Medical Center Valdez 907-835-2249
Testing
Glennallen Health Center
907-822-3209
Cordova Community Medical Center
907-424-8200
PWSCC Student Services department offers placement testing and test-proctoring services. These services are available
to PWSCC students, faculty, University of Alaska students,
and the surrounding communities. Please call 834-1600 to
schedule an appointment or if you have any questions.
Student Health Insurance
To purchase optional Student Health Insurance through United Healthcare, students must carry six or more credits, with
three credits held in on-campus courses. Information about
the insurance policy can be found by calling 1.888.344.5989
or online at www.studentresources.com. Please call UAA at
907.786.4040 for assistance obtaining insurance.
Student Well-Being
A successful student maintains his/her personal health and
strives to achieve a state of wellness: physically, mentally,
emotionally, and spiritually. College can be a very stressful
time for many people, full of transition, deadlines, social adjustment, and pressure to succeed. Students commonly find
themselves struggling with homesickness, nutrition and diet,
high stress, mental health and depression, physical fitness,
relationship and sexual health issues, and even social matters
that are causing barriers to learning or happiness. There are
resources to assist you in all of these areas to provide support, education, and even clinical treatment. Don’t be afraid
to ask for help. We are here to listen and to give you options
to address these issues. Students, friends, or family members
with concerns about the well-being of a PWSCC student may
contact Student Services to request that a staff member check
Placement Testing: Before registering for classes, all incoming
PWSCC students are required to complete placement tests.
Placement tests include reading comprehension, sentence
skills, and pre-algebra or algebra. The results from these tests
will help your adviser place you in the best English and Math
courses for your skill-level. You can schedule to take all three
tests on one day, or on separate occasions. Testing can take
up to 1.5 hours and costs $10 per day of testing. If you think
you are exempt from placement testing, please call the registrar. PWSCC utilizes Accuplacer placement tests for math,
reading comprehension, and sentence skills assessments.
Test results are good for one-year. If you are in need of placement testing but you are not planning to attend PWSCC we
may still be able to help. Please check with your institution on
the specific computer programs used for placement testing. If
the institution accepts Accuplacer, you can schedule a test at
PWSCC and will then send the results to your school of choice
once provided with the proper contact information. Test-Proctoring Service: PWSCC Student Services provides
test-proctoring services to University of Alaska-distance students, as well as to members of the community in need of
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
39
an official proctored-test site. If you are not a University of
Alaska student you will be charged $25 for every 3-hours of
testing. Please call Student Services at 834-1600 to schedule
an appointment or if you have any questions.
PRAXIS Test Administration: The Praxis Series includes assessments that correspond to two key milestones in development as a teacher: entering a teacher training program,
and obtaining a license to teach. Praxis I: Pre-Professional
Skills Tests (PPST) are designed to be taken early in your college career and measure basic skills in reading, writing, and
mathematics. The PPST in Reading and Mathematics features
multiple choice items. The Writing test includes both multiple
choice questions and an essay section. Praxis II: Subject Assessments measure your content knowledge of the subjects
you will teach. The Praxis II Subject Assessments include:
Subject Assessment/Specialty Area Tests; Multiple Subject
Assessment for Teachers (MSAT); Principles of Learning and
Teach (PLT) Tests and Teaching Foundation Tests. Praxis I and
Praxis II tests are one, two, three, or four hours in length. The
assessments are available in paper based format. PWSCC
does not have the computer-based format. The registered
PRAXIS examiner at PWSCC is Ana Hinkle, (907) 834-1612.
Student Employment Services
PWSCC has various employment opportunities available to
full-time and part-time students. Working for the college is
convenient, flexible to your class schedule, and gets you better connected on campus. Students are currently on payroll
as Office Assistants, evening Custodial Assistants, Community
Advisors in student housing, and as Attendants in the Wellness Center. Seasonal employment in the summer is also
available. Students who are not eligible for the Federal Work
Study program may still find part-time employment on or
off campus. Information on position openings is available
through the Personnel Office and the Financial Aid Office,
and by viewing www.uakjobs.com. To support the prioritization of full-time academic endeavors, student employees
may work no more than 20 hours per week on campus. Students eligible for federal work study are encouraged to apply,
though work study applicants will not be given preference in
the selection process. International students may work on
campus without a work visa.
To be eligible for on-campus employment, students must:
•
Be enrolled in at least 6 credits
•
Maintain a semester GPA of at least 2.0
•
Be drug-free and remain in good conduct standing with
the college
Some campus jobs, such as the Community Advisor position,
require a criminal background check and a higher minimum
GPA. To learn about current on-campus student employment
opportunities, ask at the Help Desk or go online to www.uakjobs.com, where interested students can search openings by
location and/or “student” classification. All applications must
be submitted online through this website. See the Financial
Aid Coordinator to see if you are eligible for work study.
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ACADEMIC SERVICES
Technology Highlights
PWSCC prides itself on the current technology it employs regularly to deliver
education in classrooms, to outreach sites
in rural areas of Alaska, and via distance
delivery online. In addition to our dedicated computer classrooms and open
computing labs, PWSCC has multiple mobile laptops and mobile printers that can
be set up in most classrooms. Students can
take laptops anywhere on campus and access campus services or surf the web with
free wifi access. There is always an available computer lab on the main campus for
students to use, as well as a lab in Copper
Basin Hall for Housing residents.
Media Services
Scanners, mini DV tape reader, digital
cameras with video capability, DVD and CD
burners, scientific calculators, and other
technology are all available for student
use or checkout. Items are available on a
first-come, first-served basis and may have
varying rental period limits and rental deposit requirements. Priority may be given
to use by academic classes or reservations
by faculty. Color as well as black and white
printing is available to students from a
number of locations around campus. For
more information, contact IT Services at
[email protected].
Student E-mail
Upon their initial enrollment at PWSCC,
every student automatically receives an
individual E-mail account from with 25 megabytes of storage.
This is the official email address of the college by which staff
and faculty will attempt to contact students. If this account
is not checked frequently, students are strongly urged to forward messages from their UA email address into the account
they use regularly.
UAOnline
Why wait in line? Students can register and pay for classes,
check grades or transcripts, and update their personal information online at any time. Access to everything in one place
like grades, DegreeWorks, course schedules and much more
at UAOnline. Log in at http://uaonline.alaska.edu.
An IT technician is available five days a week, often into the
evening hours. The Help Desk can provide assistance in person, through e-mail, or over the telephone. Students outside
of Valdez may call toll-free 1-800-478-8800 and ask to be
transferred to IT Services. IT support is also available at both
the Copper Basin and Cordova extension centers.
Distance Learning
PWSCC offers technology enhanced courses; while technology in the classroom can be used to accomplish many
things, one of the primary reasons technology is employed
in education is to provide distance learning. Distance learn-
ing offers students the opportunity to advance educationally without the time and constraints of physically being on
campus. PWSCC offers distance learning and online courses
to help students complete degrees, certificates, and program
requirements entirely online or in blended formats. There are
varying technologies used to deliver distance learning. Most
courses use a combination of the following:
•
Videoconferencing (CMA-D)
•
Blackboard & Second Life
•
Audio and Tape
•
Telephone and Email communication with the Instructor
•
Fax, CD, CD-ROM, and World Wide Web
What are the benefits of Distance Learning?
Distance learning provides increased flexibility and access
for students who live in geographically remote locations or
for students who have schedules that prevent regular oncampus attendance.
How does Distance Learning work?
At PWSCC, distance learning encompasses two delivery systems: web-based conferencing and audio/videoconferencing. Web-based Instruction distributes course materials and
course activities online using standard internet access tools
(i.e. Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Google
Chrome or Opera).
Audio/Videoconferencing allows students and instructors to
conduct meetings via video and telephone. Here, students
connect with other campuses via video (CMA-D) or dial a provided toll-free access number to enter the audio-conference.
Student Services for Distance Learners
The same technology that makes it possible for students to
complete entire degrees from their own rooms, their hometowns or villages, and even their own states or countries also
permits the College to extend student services and academic
support to even their farthest-away classmates. Advising, career guidance, personal support, disability support reviews,
and even conflict mediations can be arranged over email,
phone, videoconference, or live chats on the web. Distance
students may need to be ready to ask for these services as
they need them, but should expect to receive the same attention and support as their on-site peers.
Library Services
PWSCC partners with the City of Valdez to offer a combined
public/college library to students and members of the community. PWSCC students also have the right to use the resources available from the UA-Anchorage Consortium Library.
Student access to both libraries is granted with their Student
ID card. In 1982, PWSCC and the city of Valdez established a
library consortium to serve the needs of both the college and
the citizens of Valdez. The Valdez Consortium Library’s holdings include nearly 60,000 volumes, 116 periodical subscriptions, and online access to the University of Alaska Anchorage Consortium Library’s full range of electronic databases.
PWSCC students have access to all the resources provided to
the community along with services that specifically serve stu-
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
41
dents. PWSCC faculty order many materials relevant to their
courses to be housed in the Valdez Consortium Library. Some
library volumes and texts are housed at the CBC extension
center in Glennallen. Resources available through the Valdez
Consortium Library include: Joint Library Catalog (provides
access to items owned by all UAA libraries and Anchorage
Public Libraries), Listen Alaska (downloadable eBooks and audio books), Interlibrary Loan (get books from libraries all over
the United States), and Mango Languages (online language
learning center). Services provided by the Alaska State Library
include the Digital Pipeline (databases and more), Alaska’s
Digital Archives and Live Homework Help. Links to these services can be found at www.ci.valdez.ak.us/library
The Valdez Consortium Library is available to all PWSCC students, regardless of where they study from. Many resources
are available from the library via distance for students located outside of Valdez. The Library is physically located at
212 Fairbanks St. in Valdez and can be reached by calling
907.835.4632 or by emailing [email protected].
Library Hours:
Monday: Tuesday -- Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday: are offered several times a week.
Adult Secondary Education & GED
PWSCC also offers Adult Secondary Education instruction
which is specifically designed to assist those who did not
complete high school. Prince William Sound Community College is a GED testing site and is available for those who wish
to pursue it. Instructors also tutor GED graduates as they enter post-secondary education or training. Students can obtain
his/her high school equivalency diploma (GED) by passing
five tests in the academic areas of Writing, Social Studies, Science, Reading (Literature and the Arts), and Math. Business,
industry, civil service, licensing bureaus, and institutions of
higher learning acknowledge the GED Diploma. Adult Basic
Education and Adult Secondary Education programs open
doors to self-sufficiency, stronger families, and improved citizenship. It helps and encourages success in building a strong
workforce, a vital economy, and healthy communities. At
PWSCC, we hope you will find information and connections
that will help you as an adult learner, provider, or partner
grow and discover new opportunities.
10 am – 6 pm
10 am – 8 pm
10 am -6pm
12 pm – 5 pm
1 pm – 5pm
PWSCC students also have access to services provided by
the UAA Consortium Library and are encouraged to request
assistance from a librarian to conduct research and obtain
educational materials. Library resources for students include research help, research guides, databases, document
delivery service (articles delivered via email), and RefWorks
(online bibliography tool). Students can access all of these
resources with their Blackboard User ID and Password. All of
these services can be found here: www.consortiumlibrary.
org. Information about PWSCC Library Services can also be
found at http://pwscc.edu/library.shtml. For assistance and
any questions about the above services please contact Mollie
Good, Library Director, at [email protected] or by calling 907-835-4632.
Adult Basic Education (ABE) Center
The Adult Basic Education (ABE) Center through PWSCC is
designed to provide individualized and group instruction to
adults in four specific areas. Instruction and instructional
materials are free to individuals 16 years of age and older.
Materials covered are below college level and, as possible,
draw from expressed individual and community needs. ABE
staff are available in Valdez, Cordova, and Glennallen. ABE’s
instructional focus is literacy and life-long learning; however,
staff will happily assist any student who walks through the
doors with any academic or professional needs. ABE staff can
assist students with resume-building help, study skills, and
assistance with editing papers and letters. The ABE computer
lab is open to all students and to the community. Adult Basic
Education provides instruction in any basic academic area,
such as math, reading, grammar or writing, as opportunities
to meet specific needs. Individualized study plans are developed for personalized learning opportunities to enhance anyone’s employability skills and/or to meet any other specific
needs. Classes in non-credit ELL (English Language Learner)
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
43
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
44
COMMUNITY SERVICES
As the only true separately-accredited
Community College remaining in Alaska,
PWSCC works to truly live up to this role by
meeting the needs of the communities of
Valdez, Cordova, and the Copper River Basin. Staff, faculty, and students are actively
involved in local and statewide events,
committees, and volunteerism activities.
Furthermore, the college seeks to provide
functions and opportunities that enrich
and support the unique communities that
it serves.
Health & Fitness Center
Your body’s health is as important as your
mind’s. There’s something for everyone at
the Health & Fitness Center and PWSCC
invites you to stay active all year long. The
Wellness Center is a partnership between
Prince William Sound Community College
and Alyeska Pipeline Service Company that
enables the college and the small town of
Valdez to have a dynamic and comprehensive fitness and recreation center.
Cardio equipment, weight room and fitness classes are available for all ability
levels. Full-time students pay a reduced
semester rate for full use of the Wellness
Center. The facility is also available for staff,
faculty, and community use for a membership fee. The Health & Fitness Center also
hosts a gear loan/rental program. Classic
and skate style cross country skis, boots,
and poles, as well as snowshoes, gaiters,
head lamps, and GPS units are available
for free checkout to students, staff, and
community members. Sign up for your free
“gear card” at the beginning of ski season
and use it to check out equipment all year.
Equipment can be checked out anytime
the Health & Fitness Center is open.
For more information on services available and membership
pricing, please visit our website at www.pwscc.edu/wellness
or call 907.834.1684.
Theatre Programming
PWSCC Drama Department started in 2003 and presents two
to three full-length shows a year, in addition to two sets of
one-act plays that come out of the acting classes. The program is centered on the Last Frontier Theatre Conference,
and focuses on giving its students a strong understanding in
play construction and dramaturgy. In addition to traditional
theatre students, the program involves the Valdez community
at large. The program’s principal instructor is Dawson Moore.
Dawson’s plays have been produced in Italy, Off Broadway,
and across the United States. He has won national awards for
his short comedies Bile in the Afterlife, In a Red Sea, The Bus,
Burning, The Fears of Harold Shivvers, and Domestic Companion. He is a member of the Dramatists Guild of America
and New York City’s Circle East. Along with Aoise Stratford, he
is the founding Co-Artistic Director of San Francisco’s Three
Wise Monkeys Theatre Company. At PWSCC, he teaches
acting, directing and playwriting.
45
The Last Frontier Theatre Conference continues to draw
hundreds of new and seasoned playwrights and theatre enthusiasts for a week-long program of readings, play labs, evening productions, and networking. The community of Valdez
warmly welcomes conference guests each summer. For more
information about the Last Frontier Theatre Conference, visit
www.theatreconference.org.
The Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum
The Maxine and Jesse Whitney Museum opened in May 2008
on the main campus, and provides a unique educational opportunity to the students of PWSCC. The museum is the repository of the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Collection, long-term
residents and pioneers of Alaska. Maxine Whitney traveled
extensively throughout the state to remote villages and communities across the state, collecting artwork and other artifacts that represent the unique natural history and cultures
of Alaska. The collection has been beautifully preserved and
displayed for the public at PWSCC.
The museum sustains programs of education, research, and
publication. Parts of the collection were highly sought after
by museums outside of Alaska, including the Smithsonian Institution. Artifacts from prehistoric cultures of Alaska allow us
to understand how early inhabitants lived successfully in what
many people consider an inhospitable environment. Artwork,
tools, and weapons are a window into the past through which
we can learn about the people who made and used them.
A major component of the collection is the modern Native
artwork. Native Alaskans express themselves using materials
readily available to them: ivory, baleen, grasses, bark, bone,
and stone. The natural history of Alaska can be explored
through exhibits of wildlife mounts, an extensive mineral collection, and prehistoric animal remains. The full-size mounts
represent wildlife from the breadth of Alaska.
Passport Processing
PWSCC Business Office, our Copper Basin and Cordova campuses are US Department of State Passport Acceptance Facilities. You can visit the Valdez business office Monday through
Friday between the hours of 1:00am and 4:00pm to apply for
a US passport. Contact the Copper Basin and Cordova sites
directly for available hours. Passport photos can also be taken
at the college. You must be able to provide certified evidence
of US citizenship (i.e. birth certificate, or naturalization certificate) and evidence of identity (i.e. driver’s license or military
ID). Passport fees paid to the US Department of State must
be either a check or money order; the fee will vary based on
age, expedited or normal process, type requested (passport
book or card.) Workforce Development & Training
Department
The Workforce Development & Training Department at
PWSCC provides industrial and safety training for a wide
range of Industries. Under contract with the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, PWSCC annually conducts oil spill
response training for boat crews across six ports with the
SERVS Vessel of Opportunity Program. Additionally, the Department maintains a cadre of adjunct instructors and staff,
ready to provide Tier III training in response to a major spill
incident. We offer courses in Hazwoper, Confined Space, First
Aid & CPR, as well as customized training in industrial rescue
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
and cold water safety and survival. We offer Undergraduate
Certificates and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in
Technology, with areas of emphasis in safety management,
oil spill response and millwright.
Service-Learning & Volunteerism
PWSCC is committed to providing meaningful opportunities
for students and staff interesting in learning about leadership and community involvement and developing their skills
in those areas. There are special courses, workshops, service projects that exist on all three campus that encourage
service-learning and volunteering. Several PWSCC courses
incorporate a service-learning project to help students see
how the academic disciplines directly relate to society and
community need. Other service projects and volunteerism
opportunities are organized by Student Services and Student
Government. Prince William Sound Community College aims
to develop responsible citizens with useful skills and experiences that allow them to be resilient and to fill meaningful
roles in society. To that extent, programs exist on campus to
aid in this growth by supporting a diverse student body and
challenging students to improve their skills, and to widen
their perspectives as they complete their college studies.
Occasionally, PWSCC may offer courses for credit in topics
of service learning, peer advocacy, public health, behavioral
health helping skills, leadership development, and similar
topics. PWSCC aims to actively promote a campus climate
that is suitable for all students and staff that encourages
volunteerism and continuous learning. For more information
about how to get involved off-campus, contact the Campus
Life Coordinator at 834-1634 or email [email protected].
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
The following academic regulations are
presented to students as a guide as they
enroll in classes and progress toward completing their academic program. It may not
be an exhaustive list, and any questions
are welcomed by the Registrar at 907-8341632.
Academic Standing
Class Standing
Good Standing: Students are in academic good standing
when they have a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or
higher and a recent semester grade point average of 2.00 or
higher (3.00 or higher for graduate students) First-semester
students are presumed to be in academic good standing during their initial semester unless the student has been admitted on probationary status. Please note that Good Standing is
not the same as Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial
Aid. See the policies regarding Verification of Academic Progress for students receiving financial aid.
Based on total credits earned, students
are classified as:
Freshman: 0 to 29 credits
Sophomore: 30 to 59 credits
Junior: 60 to 94 credits
Senior: 95 credits and above
Only students who are officially admitted
to degree programs have class standing.
Incoming transfer students will be given
initial class standing based on the number
of transfer credits accepted by PWSCC.
Attendance
Regular attendance is expected in all
classes but will not directly be a basis for
grading; however, multiple unexcused absences may result in a failing grade and at
the least should be expected to negatively
impact student mastery and assessment
of the material missed. It is the student’s
responsibility to confer with instructors
about absences and the possibility of arranging to make up missed work.
Full–Time/Part–Time Status
A student who registers for 12 or more
semester credit hours will be classified as
full–time. However, in order to complete
an associate degree in two years or a bachelor degree in four years, it is necessary for
undergraduates to take at least 15 credits
per semester or 30 credits per year, which
may include summer semester coursework. Students may enroll in up to 18 credits without special
permission. To enroll in 19 credits or more, a student will
need the approval of the academic advisor and the Vice President of Studen Affairs. Courses that are audited or challenged
through College credit-by-exam are not included in the fulland part-time status computation for PWSCC students. Students receiving financial aid should consult the Financial Aid
Office before registering for correspondence courses. In the
summer, full-time status is achieved by enrolling in 6 credits.
Academic Dishonesty
PWSCC students are expected to conduct themselves honestly and responsibly in all their academic work. Cheating,
plagiarism or any other forms of academic dishonesty will not
be tolerated. Course instructors and/or the institution may
impose consequences for any such actions. Consequences
may include, but are not limited to, verbal counseling, failure
or reduced grades on the specific assignment, failure in the
course, academic probation or suspension/expulsion from
the institution and the entire University of Alaska System.
Refer to the Student Handbook for additional information.
PWSCC assesses academic standing only for students admitted to a degree program. Below are descriptions for four
levels of academic standing. Students who fall below “good
standing” will be notified and directed to seek assistance
from an academic advisor.
Academic Warning: Any time a student’s semester GPA drops
below a 2.00, he or she will be given an academic warning.
Students will be required to meet with an academic advisor
prior to registering for the subsequent semester.
Academic Probation: If student’s cumulative and/or semester GPA drops below a 2.00, he or she will be placed on
academic probation. A student can only be removed from
probation status by raising his or her cumulative GPA to a
2.00 within one semester after being placed on academic
probation. Students will be required to meet with an advisor
prior to registering for the subsequent semester.
Continuing Probation: Continued on probation is the status
assigned to those students who begin a semester on probation and during that semester earn a semester GPA of 2.00
or higher without raising their cumulative GPA to 2.00. This
status may be continued until the student raises their cumulative GPA to 2.00 or loses their certificate or undergraduate
degree-seeking status.
Academic Program Removal & Reinstatement: Any student
who remains on academic probation for two consecutive
semesters of attendance will be removed from his or her
degree or certificate program. An application fee for readmission will not be required. Students who have been removed
from Certificate or Undergraduate Degree-Seeking status
may continue to attend PWSCC as Non-Degree Seeking students. However, students who are Non-Degree Seeking will
not qualify for financial aid and international students no
longer in a degree program will lose their immigration status. Students must apply for reinstatement to PWSCC. If a
student’s cumulative GPA is less than a 2.00, but he or she
earns a semester GPA above a 2.00, the College will recognize
the student’s attempt to reach academic good standing and
the student will continue on probation until both semester
and cumulative GPAs are above a 2.00. A reinstated student
whose PWSCC cumulative GPA is less than 2.00 will begin the
semester on probation. An Application for Reinstatement
Form is available from Student Services.
Degree Program Changes
Once formally admitted and in attendance, students may
request to change their degree/certificate, their emphasis,
or their assigned advisor. In addition, students may add a
second degree. These changes can be made by completing
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
47
the Change of Major form, available from the Registrar and
on the web. Formal acceptance of the requested change requires the signature of the Dean. All catalog requirements for
the new major or degree at the time of the admission to the
new major must be fulfilled. Students may choose the catalog under which they wish to graduate once they have been
admitted to their program (as long as it does not predate the
admission year).
Honors
Students maintaining exceptional academic achievements
are recognized after the fall, spring and summer semesters
on the Dean’s List and the President’s List. Names of students
appearing on the Dean’s List and the President’s List are
released to the media; also, names and addresses of honor
students are provided to the National Dean’s List publication,
unless a written request not to do so has been received by
the Registration Office.
2. The course outline and schedule of topics and due dates
for assignments.
3. Class participation and attendance expectations.
4. Evaluation techniques and grading procedures that will
be used.
5. When/how the instructor may be reached for assistance.
6. Bibliography of required texts and other resource material for the course.
If a student has not been attending classes, the instructor
is requested but is not obligated to attempt to contact the
student. Instructors are expected to hold class when scheduled, and to arrange for alternative class time when he/she
is unable to be present for class. Any student complaint concerning a faculty member should first be addressed with that
instructor so that he or she may have the chance to address
the student concern; further grievances should be directed
to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. An opportunity for
students to evaluate instructors and courses is offered before
the end of each semester. Students who drop or withdraw
will also be given the opportunity to complete withdrawal
surveys.
Dean’s Honor List: Undergraduate students who are admitted to certificate and degree programs at PWSCC and whose
grade point average for the semester is 3.5 or better on a
four–point scale are placed on the Dean’s Honor List in recognition of academic excellence. Eligibility is based on a
minimum of 12 credits of graded (letter grades A, B, C, D and
F) course work for the semester through the UA system. Incomplete grades and non-submitted grades will prevent the
calculation of honors.
Grades
President’s Honor List: Undergraduate students who are
admitted to certificate and degree programs at PWSCC and
whose grade point average for the semester is 4.0 on a
four–point scale are placed on the President’s Honor List in
recognition of academic excellence. Eligibility is based on a
minimum of 12 credits of letter graded course work for the
semester through the UA system. Incomplete grades and
non-submitted grades will prevent the calculation of honors.
A (4.0) Outstanding work, measured by the thorough mastery
of the course content and the outstanding completion of all
course requirements.
Course Expectations
Student Responsibilities: PWSCC students are expected to
meet the following criteria when they elect to enroll in a
course:
1. Best sincere effort toward academic achievement.
2. Actively attending class is expected in all classes for which
registered, participating in class activities and exercises,
and conducting oneself in a positive and civil manner.
3. Doing class work, even if there are legitimate reasons for
absence.
4. Requesting make-up work for any missed classes; however, any decision to provide the student help with makeup work is the instructor’s.
The value of a person’s academic experience cannot be fully
measured by testing alone. It is important to appreciate the
necessity and privilege of regular class attendance and accept
the consequences of failure to attend class.
Instructor Responsibilities: Each instructor should review
drop, withdrawal, and audit change deadlines specific to his/
her course and should provide in a syllabus:
1. A general statement about the course and what will be
covered.
48
All PWSCC grades are letter grades unless otherwise specified
in the course schedule. The grading method specified for the
course is the same for all students taking the course. Instructors are expected to state their grading policies in writing at
the beginning of each course. Grades appearing on academic
records at PWSCC are as follows:
B (3.0) Indication of an above–average level of acquired
knowledge and work performance in both course content
and completion of course requirements.
C (2.0) Indication of a satisfactory or average level of acquired
knowledge and work performance in both course content
and completion of course requirements. Some courses and
prerequisites may require at least a C or 2.00.
D (1.0) Indication of the lowest acceptable level of acquired
knowledge and work performance in both course content
and completion of course requirements.
F (0.0) Indicates failure to meet a minimal level of understanding of course content and/or performance in completion of course requirements.
The above grades carry grade points and are used to calculate student GPAs.
CR Credit. Indicates that credit was awarded under the credit/
no credit option and the student’s work was equivalent to C
or better (2.00). Credit carries no grade points. Courses may
be used to fulfill only elective requirements. They may not be
used for General Education Requirements or Major Course
Requirements.
P Pass. Indicates the satisfactory completion of course requirements. Satisfactory level of work is equivalent to C or
better (2.00) and carries no grade points.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
The following are non–grade designations:
AU Audit. Indicates registration status. It is a student option
and cannot be issued by the instructor in lieu of a grade.
DF Deferred. Indicates that course requirements cannot be
completed by the end of the semester and that credit will be
withheld without penalty until the course requirements are
met within an approved time. The designation will be used
for courses such as thesis and special projects that require
more than one semester to complete. DF applies to the
course as a whole, and may not be used to grade individuals.
NB No basis for grade. Indicates that student has not attended or has stopped attending early in the semester without officially withdrawing and there is insufficient student progress
and/or attendance for evaluation. No credit is given, nor is NB
calculated in the GPA. This is a permanent grade and may not
be used to substitute for the Incomplete. Grades of NB cannot be changed to letter grades or incompletes. (See Faculty
Initiated Withdrawal)
NP No Pass indicates non-passing in professional level (500599) and other select courses. No credit is given, and NP is
not calculated in the GPA.
W Withdrawn. This is a registration status that indicates withdrawal from a course after the official drop period. Course
will appear as W on transcript. A faculty member may initiate
a withdrawal for students or auditors who fail to meet specified course prerequisite or attendance requirements.
I Incomplete. A temporary grade used to indicate that the
student has satisfactorily completed (C 2.00 or better) the
majority of the work in a course, but for personal reasons
beyond the student’s control has not been able to complete
the final requirements of the course. Incomplete work must
be completed within one (1) semester or the date stipulated
by the instructor for completion of course work is at his or
her discretion, but it cannot exceed one semester. A change
of grade needs to be submitted by the faculty member or the
I (incomplete) will become permanent. The instructor must
submit a Course Completion Contract signed by the student
along with the grade report for that class. For each Incomplete, a Course Completion Contract must be signed between
the student and the instructor stipulating the assignment(s)
required to finish the course within the allowable time period. A copy of the contract is to be given to the student, and
the original is retained in the Registrar’s office. Forms are
available from the Registrar’s office. Students who receive
financial aid must contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss
the effect of I grades on future funding.
Grade Changes: All grades, other than incomplete and deferred grades, are assumed to be the student’s final grades
and they become part of the student’s permanent records. A
grade may not be changed unless a legitimate error has been
made on the part of the instructor in calculating the grade.
Such changes must then be approved by the Vice President
of Academic Affairs and the Registrar.
points awarded, according to the chart below, by the number
of credits attempted for the course. The sum of the grade
points is then divided by the total number of credits. Only
letter grades are weighted. Grades of I, DF, W, P, AU and CR do
not carry grade points and do not affect the GPA.
Letter grades are weighted as follows:
A = 4.0
B = 3.0
C = 2.0
D = 1.0
F=0
Courses graded P (pass) or CR (credit given) and credits
earned by credit-by-examination carry no grade points and
are not included in the grade point average computation.
These courses are also not included in the GPA computation
for Dean’s and President’s Honor Lists.
Repeated Courses
All courses and grades (original and retakes) for a course
completed at PWSCC are included on the academic record,
but only the last grade earned for a course is calculated in the
GPA unless the course is one that can be repeated for credit.
Resident Credit
Resident credit is defined as credit earned in formal classroom instruction, directed study, and independent study offered by PWSCC. In general, credit earned at UAA, UAF, and
UAS is not considered resident credit at PWSCC. However, if
a program is delivered cooperatively with UAA, UAF, or UAS,
credit from each participating institution will be counted toward fulfillment of residency requirements. All other courses
are defined as non-resident, including out of state correspondence courses, transfer courses, non-traditional courses, and
courses completed for credit by examination.
Academic Petition
Deviations from academic requirements and regulations for
undergraduate students must be approved by academic petition. Petition forms are available on PWSCC website and from
the Registrar’s Office or Student Services on each campus/
extension center. The petition reviewer or review committee reserves the right to request additional documentation
and signatures prior to making a final decision regarding the
petition request. By providing supporting documents and signatures the committee will be able to make a more informed
decision regarding the request. Changes in course level, grading, or number of credits awarded are not petitionable.
Academic Appeal: See Student Dispute Resolution and obtain
the Student Handbook for procedures.
Grading System: The grade point average (GPA) is a weighted
numerical average of the grades a student has earned while
taking courses at PWSCC. To compute the GPA, the total
number of credits a student has taken is divided into the
total number of grade points a student has earned. Grade
points are calculated by multiplying the number of grade
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
STUDENT COMPETENCIES
Assessment of Student
Competencies & General
Education Outcomes
•
Apply the scientific method in a laboratory setting
Outcome 4: Develop the Ability to make value
judgments and independent decisions
The faculty has defined seven competencies
in which associate degree students will be
assessed periodically during their studies
at PWSCC. The general education courses
as well as degree requirements will help
students develop and improve their skills
in seven critical areas. In addition, Critical
Thinking, Outcome 1, is essential to higherorder thinking of any type, and so it has
been adopted as a central component of
all courses meeting the General Education
Requirements of the college and will be
demonstrated as a learning outcome in all
GER classes. No one course will cover all the
competencies. Assignments and tasks will
be embedded into the course objectives of
many different courses at different levels
of the curricula to provide students the
opportunity to learn and demonstrate
mastery of these competencies.
Outcome 1: Develop Critical
Thinking Skills
“Critical Thinking,” Outcome 1, is essential
to higher order thinking of any type,
and so it has been adopted as a central
component for all courses meeting the
General Education Requirements of
the college and will be demonstrated
as a Learning Outcome in all General
Education courses. objectives of Outcome
1 will be able to:
• Demonstrate the ability to think
critically within a discipline
•
Identify one’s own values
•
Identify and demonstrate an understanding of
diverse values
•
Demonstrate an understanding of relevant ethical
and responsible behavior
Outcome 5: Develop Multicultural
Understanding and Global Awareness
•
Describe relationships between oneself and the world
•
Demonstrate understanding of issues related to global
interdependence
•
Demonstrate understanding of cultural issues such as race,
social class, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities.
Outcome 6: Develop Aesthetic Responsiveness
•
Discuss selected arts in terms of their formal elements
•
Relate artistic works to the contexts from which they
emerge
•
Defend judgments about the quality of selected
artistic expressions
Outcome 7: Develop the Ability use
Technology
Demonstrate effective use of technology for problem-solving,
communication, and information retrieval.
• Identify connections and relationships
amoung disciplines
• Use an integrated approach to analyze
new situations
Outcome 2: Develop
Communication Skills
• Demonstrate use of effective
listening, interpersonal, smallgroup/collaborative, and public
communication skills
•
Demonstrate effective writing skills that use awareness
of audience; clear thesis development; ethical use
of sources; and appropriate conventions of format,
structure, and language for multiple disciplines
•
Demonstrate the ability to read critically and analyze,
synthesize, and evaluate various forms of information
including written texts and other media
Outcome 3: Develop Quantitative Reasoning
and Problem-Solving Skills
Demonstrate degree-appropriate skills in applying the
principles of mathematics or logic
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GENERAL COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Note: The responsibility for meeting all
requirements for a degree rests with the
student. Students can monitor degree
progress through DegreeWorks located
in UAonline or request a transcript audit.
Contact your advisor or the Registrar’s
Office for more information or instructions.
Minimum Credit Requirements
Each degree and certificate program
at PWSCC has a minimum number of
credits that must be completed in various
categories. See Degree Requirements for
specific details.
Resident Credit
Resident credit is defined as credit earned
in formal classroom or online instruction,
directed study, and independent study
offered by PWSCC. In general, credit
earned at UAA, UAF, and UAS is not
considered resident credit at PWSCC.
However, if a program is delivered
cooperatively with UAA, UAF, or UAS,
credit from each participating institution
will be counted toward fulfillment of
residency requirements. All other courses
are defined as non-resident, including
out of state correspondence courses,
transfer courses, non-traditional courses,
and courses completed for credit by
examination.
Repeating Credits
All courses and grades (original and
retakes) for a course completed at PWSCC
are included on the academic record, but
only the last grade earned for a course is
calculated in the GPA unless the course is
one that can be repeated for credit.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
To earn any degree at PWSCC, a student
must have a minimum cumulative GPA of
2.00. Certain degrees have specific grades
and grade points that must be met before
the degree can be completed. Please refer
to the specific degrees for more details.
Internship and Practica Credit
Internship and practica credit may be
applied toward undergraduate programs
as follows: 6 credits in a certificate
program, 9 credits in an associate degree,
and 12 credits in a bachelor degree
program.
Independent Study Credit
Independent study may be applied toward
undergraduate programs as follows: 3
credits in a certificate program, 6 credits
in an associate degree program, and 12
credits in a bachelor degree program.
General Course Requirements (GCR)
Associate and bachelor degrees at PWSCC require a minimum
amount of general education requirement courses to be
completed. General Education Requirements encompass
broad areas of knowledge that support advanced learning
in the major and emphasis requirements of each degree.
Please note: the courses listed are not necessarily offered
every semester. Students are recommended to seek advisor
assistance in meeting program degree requirements. In
addition, some degree programs require specific courses
be included in the GER. Please review your degree program
in this catalog and consult with your academic advisor. If
required courses are not taken as a GER, they must be taken
as major requirements or electives as they are required for
your degree.
Transferring GERs within the UA System
Please ensure GER transferability to PWSCC if you are
considering taking a class from UAA, UAS, and/or UAF to
fulfill a GER requirement at PWSCC. Some courses may not fill
GER options at PWSCC, or if they fulfill the GER requirement,
they may not count towards the academic program’s major
requirements since they are not in PWSCC catalog. If you
have any questions, please contact the Registrar’s Office at
907-834-1632.
General Course Requirements
The following classifications of courses meet general course
requirements as follows:
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
ENGL 111 Methods of Written Communications
ENGL 211 Intermediate Exposition with reading
in Literature
ENGL 212 Technical Writing
ENGL 213 Writing in Academic Disciplines
CIOS 260
Business Communications
ORAL COMMUNICATION
COMM 111 Fundamentals of Oral Communication
COMM 237 Interpersonal Communication
GUIDANCE
GUID 150
First-Year Experience
GUID 192
First-Year Seminar
HUMANITIES
ENGL 201 Masterpieces of World Literature I
ENGL 202 Masterpieces of World Literature II
FREN 101
Elementary French I
FREN 102
Elementary French II
HIST 101
Western Civilization I
HIST 102
Western Civilization II
HIST 131
History of United States I
HIST 132
History of United States II
HIST 241
Alaska History
HUM 211 Introduction to the Humanities I
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SOCIAL SCIENCES
HUM 212
Introduction to the Humanities II
MUS 221
History of Music I
ANTH 200
Natives of Alaska
MUS 222
History of Music II
ANTH 202 Cultural Anthropology
PHIL 101
Introduction to Logic
BA 151
Introduction to Business
PHIL 201
Introduction to Philosophy
CEL 292
Introduction to Civil Engagement
PHIL 210
Comparative Religions
ECON 201
Principles of Macroeconomics
PHIL 211
History of Philosophy I
ECON 202
Principles of Microeconomics
PHIL 212
History of Philosophy II
GEOG 101
Introduction to Geography
PHIL 222
Ethics
HUMS 106
Introduction to Social Welfare
SPAN 101
Elementary Spanish I
JUST 110
Introduction to Justice
SPAN 102
Elementary Spanish II
LSSS 111
Cultural Foundations Behavior
SPAN 201
Intermediate Spanish I
MEDA 101
Introduction to Mass Communications
SPAN 202
FINE ARTS
Intermediate Spanish II
PS 101
Introduction to American Government
PS 102
Introduction to Political Science
ART 160
Art Appreciation
PSY 111
General Psychology
MUS 121
Music Appreciation
PSY 150
Lifespan Development
MUS 221
History of Music I
PSY 153
Human Relations
MUS 222
History of Music II
PSY 265
Abnormal Psychology
THR 111
Introduction to Theatre
SOC 101
Introduction to Sociology
SOC 201
Social Problems & Solutions
SOC 293
Selected Topics in Sociology
WGS 200
Introduction to Women’s Studies
MATHEMATICS
MATH 105
Intermediate Algebra
MATH 107
College Algebra
MATH 108
Trigonometry
MATH 200
Calculus I
MATH 201
Calculus II
STAT 252
Elementary Statistics
Course Classifications
NATURAL SCIENCES
ASTR 103
Solar Systems Astronomy
BIOL 103/L
Introduction to Biology and Lab
BIOL 104/L Natural History of Alaska
BIOL 105/L
Fundamentals of Biology I and Lab
BIOL 106/L
Fundamentals of Biology II and Lab
BIOL 111/L
Human Anatomy & Physiology and Lab
BIOL 112/L
Human Anatomy & Physiology II and Lab
BIOL 150/L
Introduction to Marine Biology and Lab
BIOL 178/L
Fundamentals of Oceanography and Lab
CHEM 103/L Survey of Chemistry and Lab
CHEM 104/L Introduction to Organic Chemistry &
Biochemistry and Lab
CHEM 105/L General Chemistry I and Lab
CHEM 106/L General Chemistry II and Lab
ENVI 202
Introduction to Environmental Science
GEOL 111/L Physical Geography
PHYS 103
Physics I
PHYS 104
Physics II
The following classifications of courses meet category requirements as follows:
HUMANITIES
Art
Communication
English
HIstory
Humanities
Journalism
Languages
Library Science
Linguistics
Literature
Music
Philosophy
Religion
Theatre
MATHEMATICS AND LOGIC
Mathematics
Statistics
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NATURAL SCIENCES
Astronomy
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Sciences
Fisheries
Geology
Natural Science
Oceanography
Physical Anthropology
Physical Geography
Physical Sciences
Physics
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Anthropology
Economics
Civic Engagement & Leadership
Geography
Government
Justice
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Women’s and Gender Studies
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Occupational Endorsements
Disability Services:
Direct Service Specialist O.E.
Computer Information & Office Systems:
Office Foundations O.E.
Office Support O.E.
Certificates
Industrial Technology
Oil Spill Response Emphasis
Safety Management Emphasis
Associate of Arts (AA)
Degree
Certificates
Certificates are programs that are designed to give intensive
training in specific occupational areas. Skills gained are jobentry level in nature, and coursework completed may apply
toward other degree programs. Certificates are programs of
one year length for full-time students. Certificates require
9 credits of general requirements be completed as well as
major requirements for a minimum of 30 credits. Programs
vary in length and in course requirements and are offered to
enhance the employment opportunities of persons who seek
specialized training. Requirements for the certificates may
be articulated with the associate of applied science degrees.
Contact an advisor for assistance in planning a program of
study and choosing appropriate courses. Certificate programs
are official catalog offerings of the college, are recorded on
the college transcript, and result in a diploma.
Minimum credit requirements: 30 semester credits
General Education
Resident credit requirements: 9 semester credits
Associate of Applied Science
(AAS) Degrees
Certificates Available: Industrial Technology (Oil Spill
Response or Safety Management)
Disability Services
Community Support Emphasis
Educational Support Emphasis
Speech-Language Support Emphasis
Industrial Technology
Millwright Emphasis
Oil Spill Response Emphasis
Safety Management Emphasis
Associate of Arts (A.A.)
The Associate of Arts degree provides students with a broad
general education. It is also designed to be a transfer degree
to bachelor degree programs. If a student intends to transfer
to a bachelor degree program, he/ she should consult the
requirements for the advanced degree as some special
general education and lower division courses are required in
bachelor degrees.
Minimum credit requirements: 60 semester credits
Special credit requirement: 20 semester credits must be at
the 200 level OR higher
Outdoor Leadership
General Education requirements: 34 semester credits
Occupational Endorsements
Resident credit requirement: 15 semester credits
Occupational endorsements are designed
to give students occupational training in
a specific field indicate competence in
technical and professional skills. These
endorsements are under 30 credit hours
and will be posted to student transcripts
upon completion as approved by the
academic department. The credit hours
may be applied (where applicable)
to degree programs. Occupational
Endorsements do not result in a diploma themselves, but
rather represent a specially-transcripted study emphasis.
They can be used to meet Computer Information & Office
Systems AAS or certificate requirements, or the Disability
Services AAS degree requirements. Students must receive a
satisfactory grade (C or higher, or P) in all courses required to
be awarded an Occupational Endorsement Certificate.
A.A. Degrees Available: General Studies
Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)
The Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) is a two-year
degree awarded in a specific career or occupational field of
expertise. See individual program requirements listed in the
appropriate degree section of the catalog.
Minimum credit requirements: 60 semester credits
Resident credit requirements: 15 semester credits
A.A.S. Degrees Available: Disability Services (concentrations
in Community Support, Educational Support, SpeechLanguage Support), Industrial Technology (concentrations
in Millwright, Oil Spill Response, Safety Management), and
Outdoor Leadership.
Resident credit requirement for Occupational Endorsement
Certificates is 30% of the program.
Occupational Endorsements Available: Direct Service
Specialist, Computer Information & Office Systems (Office
Foundations, Office Support.
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Additional Degrees
Second Associate Degree: An Associate of Applied Science
as a second degree requires completion of a minimum
of 15 semester hours of credit beyond the first (or latest)
Associate of Applied Science degree. All general College
requirements and degree requirements of the major must
be met for each degree.
OCCUPATIONAL
ENDORSEMENTS
General Course Requirements for Associate of
Arts and Bachelor Degrees
This requirement was developed to enhance academic
advising and to accommodate transferability and applicability
of courses to general education requirements for students
transferring from one unit to another. It encompasses those
areas of knowledge common to associate and bachelor
degrees and thus represents the minimum standards for
general education. However, courses are not necessarily
offered every semester. Students are advised to seek advisor
assistance in meeting program degree requirements. NOTE:
Some degree programs require specific courses be included in
the GERs. Students should consult the degree requirements
section of this catalog for the degree into which they are
admitted to determine which courses should be taken as
part of the 34 credit-hour-minimum general education
requirements. If required courses are not taken as GERs, they
must be taken as requirements or electives. Any given course
may be counted as fulfilling more than one requirement in
a degree program but the credit hour can only be counted
once. History courses may be counted to fulfill the humanities
or the social science requirements, but not both. General Ed.
requirements for more details.
Direct Service Specialist O.E.
Degree-Seeking Status for Undecided Students
PWSCC offers a variety of associate degree options, and
incoming students may not know which degree they would like
to pursue. Students need time to explore, gather information
and identify and examine alternatives. Undecided associate
degree-seeking students should select the Undeclared option
at the time of admission. Undeclared students are advised by
a Student Services Academic Advisor until they select a degree
program and can be referred to a faculty advisor in their
program. As an undeclared or deciding applicant, students
who have not selected a specific degree program when they
arrive will choose a degree by working with their advisors and
exploring career options. This transition usually takes place
within the student’s first year at PWSCC. Based on the student’s
interests, goals and academic background, an advisor assists
the student in the preparation of an individualized program
to explore various academic disciplines, and at the same
time fulfill general education and other course requirements
or electives.
58
Occupational Endorsement
The Direct Service Specialist O.E. provides students with
experience and knowledge in crisis intervention, community
based-supports, information and recovery from mental
illness, traumatic injuries, and other disabilities. Direct
Service Specialists typically provide direct care to individual
clients in their homes, depending on their individual needs.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 17
Complete the following (12 credits):
HUMS 109 Intro Long-Term Care &
Community-Based Support 2
HUMS 110
Techniques for Supporting Activities in
Daily Living & Social Skills
2
HUMS 202
Prevention of Abuse & Neglect of
Vulnerable Adults 1
HUMS 231
Managing Behaviors 3
HUMS 253
Positive Behavior Supports 2
HUMS 260
Ethical & Legal Issues in Disability Services 2
Select 5 credits from the following (5 credits):
HUMS 107
Introduction to Dementia 3
HUMS 108
Introduction to Geriatrics 3
HUMS 113
Partnering with Peers: Mentoring
& Recovery
3
HUMS 119 Care in Home &
Community Based Services 3
HUMS 120
Instructional Techniques 2
HUMS 129
Introduction to Restorative Care 3
HUMS 135
Introduction to Mental Illness 2
HUMS 137
Human Services Practicum I 3
HUMS 158
Working with people Experiencing
Mental Illness 3
HUMS 182
Community Services for People
with Disabilities 3
HUMS 208
Mentorship in Long-Term Care 2
HUMS 235
Recovery & Rehabilitation in Mental Illness 2
HUMS 236
Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury 3
HUMS 252
Employment Support Services 2
DLS 183
Disability: Contextual & Empowering Perspectives 1
DLS 184
Changing Workplace Culture in Long-Term Care 3
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Computer Information & Office Systems
Occupational Endorsements
Available by Distance Delivery
Within the CIOS course offerings, students are offered options
in Administrative Office Foundations & Office Support. These
endorsements are intended to indicate competence in
various areas of administrative support that prepare students
for office work in a variety of settings and fields.
Office Foundations O.E.
Occupational Endorsement
This certificate provides foundational skills required for
entry into the administrative office professional field and is
required for the completion of all the following Computer
Information & Office Systems OE’s.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 9
CIOS 101A Keyboarding A 1
CIOS 113 Operating Systems: MS Windows 1
CIOS 130A Word Processing I: MS Word 1
CIOS 135A Spreadsheets I: MS Excel 1
CIOS 146 Internet Concepts & Applications 2
CIOS 161A Proofreading 2
CNT 165 Customer Service Fundamentals 1
Office Support O.E.
Occupational Endorsement
This certificate builds on the Office Foundations OEC with
additional skills an administrative assistant would typically
use in an office setting.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 22
All course requirements of the OFFICE FOUNDATIONS O.E.
9
CIOS 101B Keyboarding B 1
CIOS 101C
Keyboarding C 1 CIOS 115 10-Key for Business Calculations 2 CIOS 125A Electronic Communications I: MS Outlook 1 CIOS 140A Databases I: MS Access 1
CIOS 150A Presentations: MS PowerPoint 2
CIOS 164
Filing
1
CIOS 165 Office Procedures 3
CIOS 259 Preparing Electronic Documents 1
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
CERTIFICATES
ASSOCIATE
DEGREES
Industrial Technology
Certificate
Associate of Arts, A.A.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 30
Students will complete 9 credits of GER courses and 21 credits from one
of the emphasis areas below.
Complete the following (6 credits):
ENGL 108
Basic Composition 3
MATH 101
Technical Math 3
Students must complete ENGL 108 or higher, as well as MATH 101 or
higher. Students who place into MATH 105 or higher, or ENGL 111 or
higher will have this requirement waived, though they will need to
take 6 additional credits of electives to meet the minimum program
requirement of 30 credits total.
Complete the following (3 credits):
PSY 153
Human Relations 3
OIL SPILL RESPONSE EMPHASIS REQUIREMENTS (21.5)
Select one from the following (1.5-2 credits):
ITEC 101
Hazwoper 24 Hour 1.5
ITEC 103
Hazwoper 40 Hour 2
Select one from the following (3-5 credits):
ITEC 165
Industrial Hygiene 5
ITEC 166
Intro to Environmental Technology 3
General Studies
Available in Classroom and by Distance Delivery
The Associate of Arts Degree is designed to provide a well-rounded
liberal arts education, designed to transfer to any accredited college for
further study, or to enter the workforce with a broad-based knowledge
and critical-thinking skills that can be applied to any career. Associate of
Arts degrees are accepted at most 4-year universities as meeting the first
two years of study in a bachelor degree program. The degree provides
the foundational knowledge required of most major fields of study,
and specifically prepares students for Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor
of Science degree programs, as well as degrees in Education. Students
intending to transfer to a baccalaureate degree program should check
the requirements for that program as some special general education
and lower-division classes are required. A minimum of 60 semester
credits at the 100 level or above and a GPA of 2.0 or higher, including
20 credits at the 200 level or higher, must be completed to earn the A.A.
degree. Of the 60 credits, 42 must be completed in the appropriate areas
of the General Education Requirements.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 60
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (42)
Complete the following (3 credits):
Complete the following (12 credits):
ITEC 172
Intro to Oil Spill Prevention 4
ENGL 111
ITEC 231
Spill Response Operations 4
Select one from the following (3 credits):
4
COMM 111 Fundamentals of Oral Communication 3
COMM 237
Interpersonal Communication
3
Approved Natural Science Course SAFETY MANAGEMENT EMPHASIS REQUIREMENTS (21.5)
Select one from the following (1.5-2 credits):
ITEC 101
Hazwoper 24 Hour 1.5
ITEC 103
Hazwoper 40 Hour 2
Complete the following (16 credits):
ITEC 105
Properties of Hazardous Materials 3
ITEC 123
Safety Laws and Standards 4
ITEC 165
Industrial Hygiene 5
Approved Natural Science Course 4
Fundamentals of Written Communication 3
Select one from the following (3 credits):
ENGL 211 Intermediate Expositions with Literature 3
ENGL 212 Technical Writing 3
ENGL 213
Writing in Academic Disciplines
3
CIOS 260A
Business Communications 3
Fine Arts - Select one from the following (3 credits):
THR 111 Introduction to Theatre 3
ART 160 Art Appreciation 3
MUS 121
Music Appreciation 3
MUS 221
Music History I
3
MUS 221
Music History II
3
Select one from the following (3 credits):
GUID 150
First-Year Experience 3
GUID 192 First-Year Seminar 3
Complete the following (27-30 credits):
Humanities
9
Social Sciences 9
Natural Sciences* and Math** 9-12
* Natural Science with a Lab is required.
** Math 105 or above is required for AA and AAS degrees; MATH 107
or above is recommended for transfer to a BA/BS program.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
61
ELECTIVES (18)
Electives include courses from any department at the 100 level or higher.
At least 20 credits in any area MUST be at the 200 level or higher.
Disability Services, A.A.S.
PWSCC is the only college in Alaska that offers an Associate
of Applied Science Degree and Occupational Endorsements
in Disability Services. This program provides students with
information and learning experiences designed to develop the
knowledge and skills important to providing quality support
services for people who experience disabilities. Students focus
their studies by selecting the Community Support Emphasis,
Educational Support Emphasis, or Speech-Language Support
Emphasis. The Community Support emphasis targets
knowledge and skills of service providers who work in
community agencies that support people who experience
disabilities to live, work and recreate in the community. The
Educational Support emphasis targets paraprofessionals and
para-educators who work within public school systems. The
Speech-Language Support emphasis prepares individuals to
be Speech-Language Assistants working in schools, hospitals,
or private Speech-Language clinics. A cooperative agreement
between PWSCC and the Center for Human Development
(CHD) at the University of Alaska Anchorage supports
delivery of this program. The program uses a combination of
distance delivery technologies to make courses available to
students throughout Alaska. Not all elective courses will be
available in all locations. Students are strongly encouraged
to seek assistance from an Academic Advisor at PWSCC
when selecting courses and planning their course of study.
Minimum of sixty two (62) credit hours and a GPA of 2.0 or
higher.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 60
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (18)
Complete the following (9-10 credits):
ENGL 111
Methods of Written Communication 3
COMM 111
Fundamentals of Oral Communication, or
3
COMM 237
Interpersonal Communication
3
MATH 105 Intermediate Algebra or higher*
3-4
Select one from the following (3 credits):
ENGL 211
Intermediate Exposition with Readings 3
ENGL 212
Technical Writing 3
ENGL 213
Writing in Academic Disciplines
3
CIOS 260A
Business Communications 3
Select one from the following (3 credits):
PSY 153
Human Relations 3
HUMS 223
Intro to Paraprofessional Counseling I 3
Complete 3 credits of approved electives:
Approved Humanities, Natural Science, or Social Science course
3
*Students intending to pursue a baccalaureate degree MUST complete
MATH 107 or higher
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
MAJOR EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (21)
HUMS 232
Applied Behavior Analysis II 2
HUMS 109
Intro to Long-Term Care
2
HUMS 235
Recovery & Rehabilitation in Mental Illness 2
HUMS 120
Instructional Techniques 2
HUMS 236
Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury 3
Support Roles in Community Environments 3
HUMS 205
Introduction to Human Exceptionality 3
HUMS 251
HUMS 231
Managing Behaviors 3
HUMS 252
Employment Support Services 2
HUMS 260
Ethical & Legal Issues in Disability Services 2
HUMS 280
Special Topics in Human Services 1-3
HUMS 295A*
Human Services Practicum I 3
ASL 121
American Sign Language I 3
PSY 150
Lifespan Development 3
COMM 212
Introduction to Speech Pathology 3
*Practicum courses must be completed in a placement that corresponds
to the student’s selected emphasis area and taken through the Center for
Human Development. Additional competencies specific to the emphasis
areas are delineated in the course outline.
COMM 215
Voice and Diction 2
COMM 220
Communication Disorders 3
COMM 251
Infants/Children with Comm. Disorders 2
Select one from the following (3 credits):
General Electives (4 credits)
ANTH 200
Natives of Alaska 3
ANTH 202
Cultural Anthropology 3
COMMUNITY SUPPORT EMPHASIS (21)
The Community Support Emphasis targets knowledge and
skills of service providers who work in community agencies
that support people who experience disabilities to live, work,
and recreate in the community.
Complete the following (12 credits):
SPEECH-LANGUAGE SUPPORT EMPHASIS (21)
The Speech-Language Support Emphasis prepares
individuals to be Speech-Language Assistants working in
schools, hospitals, or private Speech-Language clinics.
Complete the following (14 credits):
COMM 212
Introduction to Speech-Pathology COMM 215
Voice and Diction 3
2
COMM 220
Communication Disorders 3
COMM 258
Therapy Techniques 3
Practicum II - Speech-Language Support Emphasis 3
HUMS 135
Introduction to Mental Illness 2
HUMS 295D
HUMS 251
Support Roles in Community Environments 3
Select from the following (5 credits):
HUMS 252
Employment Support Services 2
COMM 251
Infants & Children with Comm. Disorders 2
HUMS 253
Positive Behavioral Supports 2
EDSE 219
Early Childhood Special Needs
3
3
HUMS 135
Introduction to Mental Illness 2
HUMS 137
Autism Fundamentals 3
HUMS 215
Intro to the Special Education System 2
HUMS 232
Applied Behavior Analysis II 2
HUMS 236
Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury 3
HUMS 251
Support Roles in Community Environments 3
HUMS 253
Positive Behavioral Supports 2
HUMS 280
Special Topics in Human Services 1-3
American Sign Language I 3
HUMS 295B
Practicum II - Community Support Emphasis
Select from the following (5 credits):
HUMS 101
Introduction to Human Services 3
HUMS 108
Introduction to Geriatrics 3
HUMS 110
Techniques for Supporting Activities 2
HUMS 137
Autism Fundamentals 3
HUMS 215
Intro to the Special Education System 2
HUMS 232
Applied Behavior Analysis II 2
HUMS 235
Recovery & Rehabilitation Mental Illness 2
ASL 121
HUMS 236
Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury 3
General Electives (2 credits)
HUMS 280
Special Topics in Human Services 1-3
ASL 121
American Sign Language I 3
COMM 212
Introduction to Speech Pathology 3
General Electives (4 credits)
EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT EMPHASIS (21)
The Educational Support Emphasis targets paraprofessionals
and paraeducators who work within public school systems
Complete the following (7 credits):
HUMS 215
Intro to the Special Education System 2
HUMS 253
Positive Behavioral Supports 2
HUMS 295C
Practicum II - Educational Support Emphasis3
Select from the following (10 credits):
HUMS 135
Introduction to Mental Illness 2
HUMS 137
Autism Fundamentals 3
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
64
Industrial Technology, A.A.S.
Select 6 Safety Management elective credits from the following:
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Industrial
Technology provides job skills and skill enhancement in
the areas of Oil Spill Response, Millwright, and Safety
Management. Industries in Alaska, along with individuals
employed or seeking employment in those industries,
are confronted with increasing requirements for certified
training. This degree requires a minimum of 62 credit hours
and can be completed within three years. Minimum of sixty
two (62) credit hours and a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 62-63
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (18)
Complete the following (15 credits):
ENGL 111 Methods of Written Communication 3
ENGL 212
Technical Writing
3
COMM 111
Fundamentals of Oral Communication 3
MATH 101
Technical Math 3
PSY 153
Human Relations 3
Select one from the following* (3 credits):
GUID 150
First-Year Experience
3
GUID 192
First-Year Seminar 3
*Waived for students who transfer in at least 24 credits, but must be
re­placed with 3 credits of electives to reach total 62-credit program
minimum.
MAJOR EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (15-17.5)
Select one from the following (1.5-2 credits):
ITEC 101
Hazwoper 24 Hour
1.5
ITEC 103
Hazwoper 40 Hour 2
Select one from the following (3-5 credits):
*ITEC 165
Industrial Hygiene
5
ITEC 166
Introduction to Environmental Technology 3
Complete the following (6.5 credits):
ITEC 125
Confined Space Awareness .5
ITEC 183
Sustainable Construction Practices 3
ITEC 274
Introduction to Agency Regulation & Admin.
Law for the Trades 3
*Must select ITEC 165 for Safety Management Emphasis
ITEC students must complete one of three emphasis studies, which in­
clude Safety Management, Oil Spill Response, and Millwright. Because
credit requirements vary with each emphasis, students may need to add
additional advisor-approved elective credits to reach the minimum credit
requirement of 62 credits for the degree.
SAFETY MANAGEMENT EMPHASIS (32)
ITEC 105
Properties of Hazardous Materials 3
ITEC 123
Safety Laws and Standards 4
ITEC 221
Safety Equipment & Operations 3
ITEC 225
Contingency Plans 3
ITEC 231
Spill Response Operations 4
ITEC 263
Incident Investigation
3
ITEC 275
Effective Training Methods 2
ITEC 295B
Industrial Technology - Safety Mgt. Internship 4
65
EMT 130
Emergency Medical Technician 6
ITEC 144
Introduction to Craft Skills
3
ITEC 166
Introduction to Environmental Technology
3
ITEC 172
Introduction to Oil Spill Prevention 4
ITEC 166
Introduction to Environmental Technology
3
ITEC 172
ITEC 227
Introduction to Oil Spill Prevention Process Safety Management 4
3
ITEC 280A
A Selected Topics in Oil Spill Response
1-3
ITEC 280B
Selected Topics in Safety Management 1-3
MT 135
Marine Safety & Survival 1
MT 136
Oil Tanker Operations MT 137
Pipeline Operations 2
MT 282A
Marine Technology I MT 282B
Marine Technology II Approved Natural Science Course 2
4
4
4
MILLWRIGHT EMPHASIS (33)
ITEC 111
Millwright Level I 4
ITEC 112
Millwright Level II 4
ITEC 211
Millwright Level III 5
ITEC 212
Millwright Level IV 5
ITEC 213
Millwright Level V 5
ITEC 295D
Industrial Technology - Millwright Internship 4
Select 6 Millwright elective credits from the following:
ITEC 105
Properties of Hazardous Materials ITEC 123
Safety Laws and Standards 4
3
ITEC 221
Safety Equipment & Operations 3
ITEC 227
Process Safety Management 3
ITEC 275
Effective Training Methods 2
ITEC 280D
Selected Topics in Millwright 1-3
MT 137 Pipeline Operations Approved Natural Science Course 2
4
OIL SPILL RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS (33)
CHEM 103/Lab Survey of Chemistry 4
ITEC 172
Introduction to Oil Spill Prevention 4
ITEC 225
Contingency Plans 3
ITEC 231
Spill Response Operations 4
ITEC 275
Effective Training Methods 2
ITEC 295A
Industrial Tech - Oil Spill Response Internship 4
Select one from the following (2 credits):
MT 136
Oil Tanker Operations
2
MT 137
Pipeline Operations 2
Select 10 Oil Spill Response elective credits from the following:
ITEC 105 Properties of Hazardous Materials ITEC 123
Safety Laws and Standards 3
3
ITEC 132
Wildlife Capture & Recovery 1
ITEC 133
Wildlife Hazing
.5
ITEC 263
Incident Investigation 3
ITEC 280A
Selected Topics in Oil Spill Response 1-3
ITEC 280B
Selected Topics in Safety Management 1-3
MT 230
Boat Operation License Prep 2
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
MT 234
Tanker Man License Preparation 1
ODS 250
Foundations of Search and Rescue
MT 135
Marine Safety & Survival 1
ODS 262
Foundations of Outdoor Recreation
MT 282A
Marine Technology I 4
ODS 264
Recreation Program Planning and Evaluation
3
MT 282B
Marine Technology II ODS 266
ODS 281
Introduction to Safety and Risk
Leadership Activities for Diverse Populations 3
3
ODS 295
Outdoor Leadership Internship-
3
Outdoor Leadership, A.A.S.
(Concentration based)
EMT 130
Emergency Medicial Technician6
The 66-credit AAS degree in Outdoor Leadership focuses
on a solid base-level of general education, including written
communication, mathematics, technical or business writing,
interpersonal communication skills, as well as a standard core
of Outdoor Leadership (OL)coursework. The standard core
for all OL majors is 43 credit hours, witha heavy emphasis
on risk management, emergency medicine, outdoor
leadership skills, and experiential education. AAS students
graduate with both industry-standards, as well as targeted,
certifications. All OL graduates will possess the Wilderness
First Responder, Emergency Medical Technician I, and can
also gain certification as an Avalanche Technician, Search &
Rescue Professional, and many others. Few other associates
or bachelors-level degree programs offer such highly certified
graduates. A minimum of sixty four (64) credit hours and a
GPA of 2.0 or higher are required for graduation.
EMPHASIS OPTIONS (15)
Specialized “Hard” Skills: Students select a concentration/
Emphasis area (Adventure Tourism, Adventure Filmmaking,
Expedition Specialist “Apline or Aquatic”), comprised of 15
credit hours of a targeted internship and 8 credit hours of
electives.
4
Approved Natural Science Course 4
Individuals must be at least 18 years of age and/or a matricu­
lated PWSCC student to enroll in Outdoor Leadership (ODS)
activity-based courses unless it is specified otherwise on the
class schedule. All courses that are fewer than 3 credit hours
are considered activity-based courses.
Matriculated PWSCC students under the age of 18 must com­
plete additional forms to be eligible for ODS activity-based
courses, which may include obtaining a signature from a
par­ent or guardian. Impacted students should contact the
ODS Advisor for more information prior to the first course
meeting.
3
3
Students complete all courses outlined for ONE (1) of the following
three Emphasis Areas:
Adventure Tourism:
ACCT 101
Principles of Financial Accounting I
3
LAW 101
Introduction to Law 3
BA 110
Tourism in Rural Alaska 3
BA 166
Small Business Management
3
PEP 181
Intro to Health, Physical Ed & Recreation 3
Adventure Filmmaking:
FLM 167
Intro to the Study of Adventure Film 3
FLM 172
Pre-Visualization & Preproduction
3
FLM 280
Video Storytelling
3
FLM 290
Digital Video Editing
3
FLM 292
Documentary Filmmaking
3
Expediation Specialist:
(Select Either Alpine or Aquatic Concentration)
Professional Alpine Leader:
ODS 118
Avalanche Evaluation and Theory I
2
ODS 121
Backcountry Skiing
1
ODS 163
Beginning Alpine Skiing
1
ODS 218
Avalanche Evaluation and Theory II
2
ODS 259
North American Mechanized Ski Guide
3
PEP 181
Intro to Health, Physical Ed & Recreation 3
BA 110
Tourism in Rural Alaska 3
Professional Aquatic Leader:
ODS 112
Swiftwater Rescue
1
ODS 152
Beginning River Rafting
1
ODS 153
Beginning Sea Kayaking
1
ODS 252
Intermediate River Rafting
2
ODS 253
Intermediate Sea Kayaking
2
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (12)
PEP 181
Intro to Health, Physical Ed & Recreation
3
Complete the following (12 credits):
PER 207
Emergency Water Safety & Lifeguard Training
2
BA 110
Tourism in Rural Alaska 3
MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS: 64
ENGL 111
Methods of Written Communication 3
COMM 111
Fundamentals of Oral Communications, or 3
COMM 237 Interpersonal Communication
3
ENGL 212
Technical Writing, or 3
CIOS 260
Business Communication
3
MATH 105
Intermediate Algebra
3
ELECTIVES (8)
Students complete any eight (8) credits from program courses outlined
about for any emphasis area, any other ODS course, or relevant PEP,
PER, FLM or CEL courses approved by the instructor.
CORE/MAJOR REQUIREMENTS (31)
ODS/HS 161
Wilderness First Responder 4
ODS 168
Winter Camping in Alaska 1
ODS 169
Four Seasons Backpacking 1
ODS 183
Alaska Marine Survival 1
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
OTHER ACADEMIC OPPORTUNITIES
Co-Curricular Programs
Prince William Sound Community College seeks to provide opportunities and
programming outside the classroom to
complement student academic pursuits; in
this way Student Services and partnering
organizations can help students to develop
and grow a holistic set of skills and knowledge on personal, group, community, and
societal levels. Leadership development,
Service-Learning and civic engagement,
peer helping skill-training, and other educational avenues will regularly be presented to PWSCC students. Some examples
include the annual Student Leadership
Retreat, Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention
training, PRIME for Life substance use
education training, Certified Peer Educator training, and more. Students may also
find opportunities to participate on campus or community committees or advisory
boards, to network with students at other
institutions, or even to travel in and out of
state to attend conferences and other professional development events. For more
information, inquire with Student Services
about these opportunities and when they
might next be available.
Health Science Careers:
Nursing, Allied Health
Nursing
Prince William Sound Community College has partnered with the University of
Alaska Anchorage (UAA) to bring nursing
education to all three campuses/extension
centers. Students interested in pursuing
careers in nursing are able to take a variety
of prerequisite and co-requisites needed
for successful application to the UAA nursing program. Interested students should
review course information in PWSCC
Pre-Nursing Qualifications by speaking
to an Advisor. The University of Alaska
has expanded its effort to recruit Alaska
Natives into nursing education. This UA
effort, known as the RRANN (Recruitment
and Retention of Alaskan Native Nurses)
program, is funded by a grant from the
U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Division of Nursing. The RRANN
program is dedicated to encouraging personal growth within an academic setting
that recognizes individual strengths and
cultural diversity. This program is being
offered at all UAA campuses and PWSCC.
Students are encouraged to contact a
Health Sciences advisor for specific information
about PWSCC pre-nursing program, the UAA
68
nursing program, the UAA Nursing programs, and the UA
RRANN program. Further information about these options
can liedhealth field that are offered at PWSCC, the University of Alaska, and other institutions of higher education.
Students should seek advisement at the earliest possible opportunity if career goals include nursing, medicine, or related
areas of allied health. Contact a PWSCC Advisor or the UAS
Health Sciences program for more
Other Options in Allied Health
There are other options in healthcare preparation in addition
to the Nursing opportunities described above. Students who
are interested in a general health sciences background should
review the A.A.S. in Health Sciences, a degree that also contains all required courses found in both the CPNQ and CPRTQ
certificates. The core of health science and related courses
may meet most of the needs of students interested in premedicine, health information management (HIM), or a number of other programs in the albe found at the UAA School
of Nursing website at: www.uaa.alaska.edu/schoolofnursing
and the UAS Health Science web page at: www.uas.alaska.
edu/career_ed/healthscience. information or go to the UAS
Health Science web page at: www.uas.alaska.edu/career_ed/
healthscience.
Internships
Academic internships are experience-based courses that
place a student in an organization, public or private, under
the supervision a qualified professional in the agency and a
PWSCC faculty member. In some cases, the internships may
carry a salary as well as credits. Internships that generate
credit require satisfactory completion of a minimum of four
hours of work per week for each credit (0+0+4). To apply for
an internship, a student must be admitted to a College degree
program, and must also demonstrate sufficient educational
preparation for the internship before applying. Interested
students should consult with their advisor before applying.
Internship credit may be applied toward undergraduate
programs at the certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s levels.
Contact an Advisor or a professor to learn more about these
opportunities.
Phi Theta Kappa
Prince William Sound Community College sponsors the Alpha
Psi Gamma, a chapter of Phi Theta Kappa international honorary society for students in two-year colleges. This is one of
only three chapters in Alaska, and provides opportunities for
academic growth as well as fellowship, transfer, and scholarship support. PWSCC chapter of PTK is also actively involved
in community service and leadership development.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
69
COURSE DEFINITIONS
Academic Credit
All courses, including special topics
courses, offered for academic credit must
meet minimum standard course and lecture approval requirements. One credit
represents satisfactory completion of 750
minutes of lecture or 1,500 of supervised
laboratory, or 2,250 minutes of supervised
or unsupervised laboratory, whichever
is appropriate to the course objectives.
Course numbers for academic credit are
050-499 (undergraduate) and 600-699
(graduate). Academic credit is applicable
toward academic programs, with the exception of 050- 099, which is considered
pre-college level, and 500-599, which is
professional development credit. Students
are expected to put in two hours of outside effort for every one hour in class in
accordance with the standard Carnegie
unit of credit.
Internships
Internships are experience-based courses
that involve placing students in an organization under the supervision of both a
qualified professional in the agency and
a faculty member from the discipline.
The College is not responsible for arranging internships, but interested students
may inquire with faculty for assistance
in identifying potential internship sites.
Internships may be either paid or unpaid,
but require satisfactory completion of a
minimum of four hours per week for each
credit (0+0+4) for which students are registered for the duration of the semester.
To apply for an internship, students must be admitted to a
College degree program. Students must also demonstrate
educational preparation for the internship and the connection between the internship and their educational goals. A
maximum of 9 hours can apply to an associate’s degree; 12
credit hours to a bachelor’s degree. Departments may have
additional requirements for internships.
Practica
Practica are supervised practical applications of a previously
studied theory conducted under the supervision of a qualified professional in cooperation with a faculty member. Practica courses require satisfactory completion of a minimum of
four hours of supervised experience per week for each credit
(0+0+4) for which students are registered for the duration
of the semester. These courses are generally at off-campus
settings where students are under the direct supervision of
agency personnel. A maximum of 9 credit hours can apply to
an associate’s degree; 12 credit hours to a bachelor’s degree.
Independent Study
Independent study courses are those in which the course
content, learning activities, and evaluative criteria are developed primarily by the student with guidance and concurrence from a faculty sponsor. Final approval for enrolling in
independent study must be gained from a faculty sponsor
70
and PWSCC Vice President of Academic Affairs. Independent
study courses are those with a course number ending in 97
and are offered at the 200, 300, 400, and 600 levels only. No
more than 12 credits earned in independent study may be
applied to an undergraduate baccalaureate degree, no more
than 6 credits to an associate degree, and no more than 3
credits to an undergraduate certificate. Independent studies
will not duplicate catalog courses. If the independent study
is designed to be conducted over more than one semester,
approval must be gained at the time the Dean approves the
course. Approval to enroll is accomplished with an Instructor
Approval Form, which is submitted with registration form.
Directed Study
A directed study course is identical to a catalog course with
regard to title, objectives, content, and evaluative criteria. A
directed study is not normally approved during the semester
in which the course is regularly offered. Such courses shall
bear the regular course title and number on the permanent
record with the designation Directed Study (DS).
Seminar
Seminars are regularly scheduled meetings of students for
the purpose of discussion and reports on special topics and
are conducted under the guidance of a faculty member.
Seminars require a minimum of 750 minutes of scheduled
classroom time for each credit earned (1+0).
Stacked Courses
Occasionally two or more courses are scheduled in the same
classroom at the same time. These are referred to as “stacked
courses.” Catalog descriptions of these courses include the
statement “May be stacked.” The semester class schedule will
indicate if a class is being offered in stacked format and will
list which course(s) are being stacked.
Special Topics
Special Topics Courses, with course numbers ending in 93,
are credit courses designed to pilot test course content or to
provide a specialty content areas on a one-time basis. Special
topics courses must meet the same standard as academic
credit courses in every way.
Cross–Listed Classes
Occasionally it is appropriate to designate a course as being
in more than one discipline. The content of the cross-listed
course is the same but students may select the designator
appropriate to their major. Students will be able to switch to
the other subject only during the published drop/add and
withdrawal dates of the semester taken.
Professional Development Courses
Course numbers of 500–599 are designed to provide continuing education for various professional groups and cannot be
applied to degree programs. Such courses are post–baccalaureate in nature but are not applicable to degree requirements. Courses may be graded Pass/No pass or, if the course
includes an evaluation component, by letter grading. The
measurement of student effort is indicated by professional
development credits. Each professional development credit
awarded requires at least 12.5 hours of student engagement
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
in a directed learning environment under the supervision of
a qualified instructor. These courses are provided on a selfsupport basis.
Continuing Education Unit (CEU)
–99 Thesis
Courses with any of the special numbers may be repeated
for credit provided the course content differs each time the
student registers for the course.
The CEU is a nationally recognized unit of credit granted for
participation in educational experiences under responsible
sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction that
has a ten-contact-hour-per-credit ratio. CEUs are not convertible to degree credit. Course numbers for continuing education courses are between 001–049.
Non–Credit Course
A course offering for which no credit is awarded by the institution.
Distance Delivery Instruction
PWSCC distance classes count towards residency credits at
PWSCC. Distance course coverage is equivalent and student
outcomes comparable to the same course delivered on
campus. The faculty groups and administration of campuses
delivering distance classes will periodically review the scope
and method of distance delivery.
Prerequisites
Students are responsible for checking to make sure that prerequisites have been met. Prerequisites are listed in individual
course descriptions in this catalog. If a student has not taken
the necessary prerequisites but feels confident of performing
the coursework, he or she may request permission from the
instructor of the course to enroll in the class.
Course Numbering System
Course numbers indicate the level of academic preparation
required as well as the year of study. The following course
numbers show the categories to which they apply:
001–049 Noncredit courses or CEU
050–099 Pre-college level or remedial courses; associate and
baccalaureate degree credit not allowed.
100–199 Undergraduate courses normally taken in the first
year.
200–299 Undergraduate courses normally taken in the second year.
Special or Reserved Numbers
–61 Independent study
–75 Current Issues
–81 Internships
–92 Seminar
–93 Special topics courses intended to be offered only during one academic year
–95 Practica
–98 Individual research
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Courses offered by Prince William Sound
Community College on the Valdez Campus,
Cordova Extension Center, Copper Basin
Extension Center, or via distance delivery
are described in this section. Courses are
listed alphabetically and by course number. The designation GER means the course
fulfills a General Education Requirement.
The designation CHD means the course is
offered via distance delivery by the Center
for Human Development in Anchorage.
Courses are offered in a scheduled twoyear sequence. For more information on
the sequence, contact the Instruction Department or visit the Instruction web page
on PWSCC website. The number of credits
offered for a course is shown following the
course number and title. Contact hours indicate the number of lecture and lab hours
the class meets each week for one semester. The first number represents lecture
hours; the second number represents required lab hours. For example, CEL V101, 3
credits 2+2 indicates that the class has the
equivalent of two hours of lecture and two
hours of lab work per week for an entire
semester. The number of credits listed is
for each semester. Lecture hours may also
reflect seminar meetings or equivalent
faculty instruction through distance delivery methods. Lab hours may constitute
instruction in laboratory settings in art studios, in field work, in internship/practicum
placements, or other gatherings outside a
traditional classroom environment.
New Courses
PWSCC course offerings are not limited to
courses described in this catalog. Special
topics and trial courses are offered each
semester as PWSCC continues to meet the
educational needs of its service areas through the development of new courses. Some course listings may have been
recently added to the catalog and will appear in the next
printing. Visit www.pwscc.edu/catalog.
Frequency of Course Offerings
PWSCC expects to offer the courses described in this catalog
at least once during the 2013-2014 academic years. Courses
may be canceled because of insufficient enrollment or a
change in resources since the catalog was printed.
Prerequisites
PWSCC lists one or more prerequisites for many classes. Prerequisites have been established to ensure that students have
the necessary requirements to be successful in particular
classes. Students wishing to enroll in a class for credit without the prerequisite may seek permission of the instructor
and/or approval from the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Students who wish to audit a course without the necessary
prerequisites may do so with the permission of the instructor.
ACCOUNTING
ACCT 101
Principles of Financial Accounting I Contact Hours: 3 CR
3+0
Introduces concepts and procedures for financial accounting.
Emphasis on accounting cycle, recording, summarizing and interpreting accounting data through presentation of formal financial
statements. Special Note: ACCT 101 & ACCT 102 will satisfy the
requirements for ACCT 201. Prerequisite: MATH 055 with a minimum grade of “C” or special permission of the instructor.
ACCT 102
Principles of Financial Accounting II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Second semester of principles of accounting. Includes long-term
debt and investments, analysis and preparation of cash flow
statements. Provides overview of managerial accounting. Special Note: ACCT 101 & ACCT 102 will satisfy the requirements for
ACCT 201. Prerequisite: ACCT 101
ACCT 120
Bookkeeping for Business I 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Basic concepts and procedures of practical bookkeeping. Fundamental principles and practices necessary to record and report
financial data in a service and merchandising business. Business
simulation and computerized systems are used to reinforce
learning objectives.
ACCT 201
Principles of Financial Accounting 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduction to financial accouting concepts and principles.
Emphasis on the accounting cycle, recording and summarizing
accounting data through the presentation of and interpretation
of datat and formal financial statements. ACCT 101 & 102 will
satisfy requirement for ACCT 201. Prerequisite: Math 055
ACCT 202
Principles of Managerial Accounting 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Studies the uses of accounting data internally by managers in directing the affairs of business and non- business activities. Planning and control techniques include budgeting, product costing,
break-even analysis, and relevent costing decision analysis.
which addresses sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporations. All courses must be completed with a minimum grade of
a “C” or higher. Prerequisite: Accounting (101 and 102 or 201)
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
73
ANTHROPOLOGY
ART 160
Art Appreciation Contact Hours: 3 + 0
ANTH 200
Natives of Alaska 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Introduction to culture and history of Alaska Natives. Includes
environmental settings, linguistic subdivisions, traditional sociocultural organizations and subsistence patterns, contact with
non-native groups and contemporary issues.
ANTH 202
Cultural Anthropology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
The course is an introduction to the methods, theories, and
fundamental concepts in the study of cultural systems. This will
includes social relationships, economic organizations, family
structures, political systems, symbols and beliefs.
ART
ART 100
Two-Dimensional Activities
1 – 3 CR
Contact Hours: varies
Art studio topics in two-dimensional activities give students an
introductory level opportunity to various art activities which may
include drawing, design, or painting. Special Note: This course
may be repeated for credit up to three times in differ­ent topic
areas.
ART 101
Three-Dimensional Activities
1 - 3 CR
Art studio topics in three-dimensional activities give students an
introductory level opportunity to various art activities which may
include weaving, carving, and ceramics. Special Note: This course
may be repeated for credit up to three times in differ­ent topic
areas.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
This class is an introduction to drawing, which is ideal for those
who have had little or no formal art training. Some of the subjects covered will be: basic classification of art, color theory,
composition, proportion, movement, gesture drawing, still-life,
and landscape drawing. These subjects will be explored through
pencil, charcoal, pastels, and possibly other mediums.
74
Course Attributes: GER Fine Arts or Humanities Requirement
This course is designed to help the student develop and appreciation of all the visual arts. Course emphasis is on the theories,
practice, materials and techniques of the visual arts.
ART 168
Introduction to Alaska Native Art
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is designed to introduce the student to the different
Alaska Native cultures and the art forms that are significant to
each group. The student will experience artwork of the Athabas­
can, Inupiat, Yupik, and Tlingit peoples.
ART 205
Intermediate Drawing 3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
This course is a continuation of training in various drawing techniques. Emphasis will be placed on drawing from the figure, realistic rendering of shapes, shadows, highlights, and portraiture.
Abstract and conceptual art will be covered and experimented
with. Students will be expected to work more independently on
subjects of their choosing. Prerequisite: ART 105
ART 212
Beginning Watercolor 3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
Exploration of aquarelle techniques. Emphasizes composition as
affected by color, value, stylistic considerations, and individual
expression; exhibition procedures are included.
ART 213
Beginning Painting
3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
Contact Hours: Varies
ART 105
Beginning Drawing 3 CR
Introduction to materials and traditional techniques as applied
to painting as a fine art. Focus on visual awareness, technical
ability and conceptual input with investigation of intuitive and
creative approaches. Subject matter drawn from still life, landscape/nature, interior spaces and the human form. Prerequisite:
ART 105
ART 225
Beginning Digital Photography 3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 +6
This course is designed to teach students basic principles including digital camera functions, digital tools and technology for
artistic expression in the creation of photographic images.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ART 290
Selected Topics in Studio Art
3 CR
In-depth study of a specialized 2-D or 3-D studio activity that is
not a significant part of the content of a regularly scheduled studio course. May include exploration of media, design, technique
and evaluation of the specified studio activity. Special note: may
be repeated for credit with a change of subtitle. Prerequisite:
Varies by topic; or Instructor permission.
1-4 CR
Contact Hours: Varies
Introduces students to various topics in art and design, including
investigation art forms and concepts through a particular
historical or cultural lens. The course may include and/or studio
components. Special Note: may be repeated once for credit with
a change of sub­title. Prerequisite: Instructor permission, may
vary by topic.
ASTRONOMY
ASTR 103
Solar System Astronomy 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 0+6
ART 293
Special Topics in Art BA 110
Development of Local Tourism
This is the Alaska that visitors come to see; the land, water,
animals, and people of rural Alaska. This course wil provide
information about the Alaska visitor and the visitor industry.
Local history, geography, geology, small business, land status,
Native culture, and ecotourism will be included Also starting and
operating a small business, advertising, and marketing, hiring
and training employees, and customer service. This is a great
overview of all aspects of the visitor industry for those working in
industry, thinking about starting a buisness or those who already
have a business in existence.
BA 131
Personal Finance Course will survey personal income, home mortgages, credit
laws, income tax, careers, budgeting, estate planning, invest­
ments in stocks, bonds, insurance, real estate and mutual funds,
and consumer fraud and consumer protection laws, transporta­
tion, leisure and recreation costs.
BA 151
Introduction to Business 4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science with Lab Requirement
Introduction to solar system astronomy; emphasis on most
recent results from space research. History of astronomy,
instruments, planetary motion, physical properties of planets,
satellites, comets, and solar system evolution. This class also
includes an astronomy laboratory with experiences in basic
observational methods and data analysis applicable to the study
of the solar system.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Understanding profit in business, issues of social responsibility and forms of business ownership. Roles of management in
specialized fields of human resources, finance, production and
marketing. Students explore opportunities and requirements in
several business positions as well as assess personal interests
and capabilities.
BA 166
Small Business Management 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
BA 081
Alaska Host
0.5 CR
Contact Hours: .5 + 0
Introductory course in Customer Service, certified by the State of
Alaska. Course will survey who are customers, why businesses lose
customers, the importance of communication, communication
skills, the value of customers, handling dissatisfied customers,
knowing your local area and state, what is the visitor industry
and how the visitor industry adds to the economy in Alaska.
Survey of core areas of business administration with particular
emphasis on organization and operation of small and middlescale businesses. Business law, personal finance, manufacturing,
marketing and finance are included at the introductory level.
BA 231
Fundamentals of Supervision 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For students with or without supervisory experience. Introduction to effective supervisor’s role. Emphasizes development of
insights and skills necessary to get things done through others by
planning, organizing, motivating, and controlling. Practical experience in decision-making approach to condemnatory situations
facing supervisors.
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BIOLOGY
BIOL 105
Fundamentals of Biology I BIOL 100
Human Biology Contact Hours: 3 + 0
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Survey of biological principles as applied to human anatomy,
physiology and genetics. Special Note: Primarily for non-science
majors; not accepted for GER or Biology Major Credit.
BIOL 103
Introductory Biology 3 CR
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Introductory Biology is a one semester non-majors science
course. Students will study the scientific method, evolution,
natural section, genetics, cell structure, DNA, biotechnology,
biodiversity, behavior and plant structure and function.
BIOL 103L
Introductory Biology Laboratory
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Lab Only
Introductory Biology Laboratory. This Laboratory accompanies
BIOL 103, a one semester non-majors science course. Laboratory
experiments will reinforce lecture topics relating to the scien­
tific method, evolution, natural section, genetics, cell structure,
DNA, biotechnology, biodiversity, behavior and plant structure
and function. Class meets 3 hours per week, online, in a virtual
platform.
BIOL 104
Natural History of Alaska 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Surveys important biological, physical and geological features
of Alaska and their changes over time. Includes study of major
landforms, ecosystems, and life forms.
BIOL 104L
Natural History of Alaska Laboratory
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Introduction to the basic principles of biology for the science major. Development of biology as science, simple biological chemistry, cell biology, energy transformation, cellular reproduction,
and genetics. Students must have one year of high school biology
and one year of high school chemistry. College level chemistry
is advised. Students must register separately for the laboratory
that coincides with this course. Prerequisite: CHEM 105/105L or
concurrent enrollment.
BIOL 105L
Fundamentals of Biology I Laboratory
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Lab Only
Field-based laboratory experience to support BIOL 104. Includes
study of major landforms, ecosystems, and biota especially in
the South-Central Bio-geological Region of Alaska. Field trips
include a full day boat trip and two overnights at Wrangell-St.
Elias National Park.
3 CR
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Lab only
Laboratory to accompany BIOL 105. Introduction to the basic
principles of biology for the science major. Development of biology as science, simple biological chemistry, cell biology, energy
transformation, cellular reproduction, and genetics. Prerequisite: BIOL 105 or concurrent enrollment.
BIOL 106
Fundamentals of Biology II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Continuation of an introduction to the principles of biology for
the science major: evolution, diversity, anatomy, physiology,
environ­mental problems, behavior and ecology of plants
and animals in the context of evolution. Students must sign
up separately for the laboratory. Students must register
separately for the laboratory that coincides with this course.
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 105, CHEM 105/105L, CHEM 106/106L, or
concurrent enrollment.
BIOL 106L
Fundamentals of Biology II Laboratory
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Lab only
Laboratory to accompany BIOL 106. Introduction to the basic
principles of biology for the science major. Students will engage
in scientific exploration of evolution, diversity, ecology, plant and
animal anatomy and physiology, diversity. Prerequisite(s): BIOL
106 or concurrent enrollment.
BIOL 111/111L
Human Anatomy and Physiology 3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Human Anatomy and physiology is the first semester of a two
semester sequence of courses. Students will study biological
concepts relating to defining life, cell chemistry, cell and tissue
structure, and human structure and function. Four hours
of credit will be earned upon successful completion of BIOL
111 and BIOL 111L requirements. Prerequisite: Math 055 or
equivalent on the placement test.
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
BIOL 112/112L
Human Anatomy & Physiology II 3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
A continuation of BIOL 111. The circulatory, respiratory, diges­
tive, excretory, reproductive, and immune systems are consid­
ered. Four hours of credit will be earned upon successful
completion of BIOL 112 and BIOL 112L requirements. Class
meets six (6) hours per week.
BIOL 150/150L
Introduction to Marine Biology
3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
An elementary course in marine natural history with emphasis
on inter-tidal invertebrates and algae. Other topics include sea­
birds, marine mammals, fish, bottom organisms and plankton.
BIOL 178/178L
BIOL 271
Principles of Ecology 4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Basic principles in physiological, ecosystem, population and
com­munity ecology. Environmental factors and their influence on plants and animals. Structure, growth and regulation
of popula­tions. The ecosystem concept, biogeochemical cycles,
and the structure and function of major terrestrial biomes.
Special Notes: Not accepted for GER or Biology Major Credit.
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 105/L & BIOL 106/L with a grade of a “C”
or higher.
CHEMISTRY
CHEM 103
Survey of Chemistry 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Fundamentals of Oceanography
3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course introduces students to the principles of oceanogra­
phy. The course will expose students to the scientific study of the
biology of oceanic life and the physical, chemical, and geological
processes as they occur in the seas and oceans of the world. Dis­
cussion of ocean processes and how they affect the atmosphere
will be a component of the course.
BIOL 239
Introduction to Plant Biology
4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Plant biology including plant form and function (morphology,
physiology, and development), ecology (including interactions
with herbivores, pollinators, and microbes), conservation, and
evolution. Emphasis on vascular plants (particularly angio­
sperms) but includes comparisons with nonvascular plants.
Prerequisite: BIOL 103 or BIOL 105/106 or approval of instructor.
BIOL 240
Introductory Microbiology for Health Sciences
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Survey of topics including: matter, energy, units of measurement,
the periodic table, atomic and molecular structure, chemical
bonding, radioactivity, oxidation-reduction reactions, solutions
involving acids, bases and buffers; and an introduction to organic
chemistry with units on functional groups and chemistry of alkanes, alkenes and alkynes. Students must register separately for
the laboratory section that coincides with this course. Prerequisite: MATH 055 or equivalent score on the placement test.
CHEM 103L
Survey of Chemistry Laboratory
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Lab only.
Laboratory component to accompany CHEM 103. Introductory
chemistry laboratory course with experiments designed to introduce students to the basics of laboratory equipment, data collection, data analysis, and reporting; and to illustrate, augment and
apply concepts covered in CHEM 103. Prerequisite: CHEM 103
(or concurrent enrollment).
CHEM 104/104L
Intro to Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry 3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
This course is designed for those entering into or interested in
health sciences. Topics to be discussed include an introduction
to the different kinds of bacteria and viruses, what affects their
growth, and how they interact with humans. Immunology, host
parasite interactions, epidemiology, and infections are empha­
sized. Students must register separately for the laboratory that
coincides with this course. Special Notes: Not accepted for GER
or Biology Major Credit.
BIOL 240L
Introductory Microbiology for Health Sciences
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course covers a survey of organic chemistry and biochemistry. It includes aldehydes, ketones, carbocyclic acids, esters,
amines, amides, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, bioenergetics, catabolic pathways, biosynthetic pathways, nucleic acids, protein synthesis, and selected topics in clinical physiology.
Prerequisite: Math 055 or equivalent score on the placement
test.
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Laboratory component to accompany BIOL 240. Students
will learn basic techniques for culturing and identification of
micro­bial life.
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CHEM 105/105L
General Chemistry I 3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Introduction to inorganic chemistry for science majors, which includes atomic and molecular structure, chemical equations and
calculations, states of matter, solutions, acids and bases, kinetics
and equilibrium, oxidation reduction reactions and thermodynamics. Class meets six (6) hours per week.
CHEM 106/106L
General Chemistry II 3+1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Second semester in a two-semester sequence in college inorganic chemistry. Includes the principles and methods of qualitative
analysis of the elements. Class meets six (6) hours per week.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
& LEADERSHIP
CEL 150
Service Learning & Social Responsibility 3 CR
This course utilizes both in-class and out-of-class service experience to provide a foundation for students’ orientation to
civic engagement, social action, cultural connections, and the
relationship between learning through service. Students will explore how groups and individuals empower themselves to make
change through direct action and examine personal attitudes,
shared responsibility, leadership skills, and social competencies
for serving as change agents in their community.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course will provide interested students with skills and practical experience to prepare them for leadership and peer educator roles on the college campus and beyond. Using a variety of
learning methods, students will actively explore such topics as
community- building, human & student development, clinical
interviewing and listening skills, personal wellness and referral
skills, social and educational programming, conflict mediation,
organizational theory and team dynamics, ethical decisionmaking and crisis response skills. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111 or
concurrent enrollment.
CEL 292
Introduction to Civic Engagement
COMM 111
Fundamentals of Oral Communication 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Sciences Requirement
Course Attributes: GER Oral Communication Requirement
Study of speaking with greater ease and listening more effectively in individual and group situations. Improvements in organizing
ideas and exchanging thoughts, opinions, information and data.
Students practice speaking and listening skills through group activities and individual speeches. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 108 with
a grade of “C” or higher or equivalent score on placement test.
COMM 212
Introduction to Speech Pathology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduction to the basic components of communication, speech
and language development, disorders, and remedial techniques.
Overview of the role of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant in schools and private practice.
2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course introduces the physiology and anatomy of hearing
and speech production, basic screening procedures for speech
disorders, and the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) used in
speech transcription.
COMM 220
Communication Disorders 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
In this course, students will become familiar with the most
common disorders diagnosed in infants, children, and adults.
It introduces communication deficits related to developmental
disabilities: speech, fluency, sensory, and voice disorders, and
special populations such as cleft palate and autism. Cultural factors in communication and basic screening approaches will be
discussed.
COMM 237
Interpersonal Communication 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Oral Communication Requirement
Study of theories and skills related to dyadic communication and
variables which affect it, includes conflict, culture, gender, and
rules in both personal and professional contexts. Students will
develop oral communication skills designed to improve communication in relationships engaging in a variety of individual
exercise, individual presentations, and group activities.
Introduces students to types of civic engagement in a democracy, practices of engagement and inquiry, and public issues of
ethics, environmental sustainability, community-building, and
human and civil rights through readings, reflections, and community inquiry. Prerequisite: ENGL 111.
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3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
COMM 215
Voice and Diction Contact Hours: 3 + 0
CEL 260
Leadership & Peer Advocacy
COMMUNICATION
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
COMM 251
Infants & Children Communication Disorders 2 CR
CIOS 101B
Keyboarding I: B Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
This course describes the continuum from normal to abnormal
speech and language development of infants and children. Students will be introduced to the basic components of communication such as speech sound development, grammar, vocabulary,
and nonverbal communication. They will practice the use of
observational checklists and other screening tools for communication disorders.
Introduces keyboarding of memos, personal and business letters, and envelopes in a word processing program and continues
to develop keyboarding speed and accuracy. Prerequisite: CIOS
101A.
COMM 258
Therapy Techniques for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants Contact Hours: 0 + 3
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
CIOS 101C
Keyboarding I: C
CIOS 113
Operating Systems: MS Windows
COMPUTER & NETWORK
TECHNOLOGY
CIOS 115
10-Key for Business Calculations
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
Introduction to the Windows environment. Includes file and disk
management, the control panel, print manager, windows setup
and maintenance.
2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
CNT 276A
A+ Certification: PC Hardware & PC Systems 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course is focused on the material covered in CompTIA’s A+
Certification exams. Students will learn the skills and abilities to
become a successful computer technicians. Prerequisite: Basic
Computer Knowledge or permission of instructor.
4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course is focused on the material covered in CompTIA’s A+
Certification exams. Students will learn the skills and abilities to
become successful computer technicians.
COMPUTER INFORMATION
& OFFICE SYSTEMS
CIOS 101A
Keyboarding I: A 1 CR
Introduces keyboarding of simple reports and tables in a word
processing program and continues to develop keyboarding
speed and accuracy. Prerequisite: CIOS 101B.
This course introduces assistant-level service delivery practices.
It focuses on the components of a therapy session, such as time
management, materials selection, therapeutic techniques, data
collection, use of equipment such as augmentative communication devices, and maintenance of documentation. Students will
learn how to read and follow a variety of therapeutic treatment
plans. Prerequisite(s): COMM 212, COMM 215, COMM 220.
CNT 276B
A+ Certification: PC Operating System 1 CR
Introduces the touch method of keyboarding on a 10-key electronic business calculator while developing speed and accuracy
in solving basic business math. Prerequisite(s): MATH 055.
CIOS 116
Business Calculations
3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 9
Introduces business calculations and use of calculators by touch
to solve problems in bank records, payroll, trade and cash discounts, mark-up and markdown, interest, consumer credit, depreciation, inventory, financial statements, insurance, and taxes.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 054 with minimum grade of C or higher.
CIOS 118
Payroll Procedures 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
Introduces payroll procedures including calculating various types
of payroll, keeping payroll records, federal laws, and reporting
procedures. Prerequisite(s): CIOS 113 and ACCT 120 or ACCT 101.
CIOS 120A
Bookkeeping Software Apps I: QuickBooks 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introductory Keyboarding. Covers techniques and mechanics of
learning to keyboard by touch.
Introduces QuickBooks Pro accounting program. Covers basic
bookkeeping procedures for company setup and maintenance,
data input for check register, accounts receivable, accounts payable, banking, and sales tax. Students strongly encouraged to
complete CIOS 220A to gain a full understanding of this topic.
Prerequisite: CIOS 113 and ACCT 120 or ACCT 101 completed
with a minimum grade of “C” or higher.
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CIOS 125A
Electronic Communications: Outlook 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces features of Microsoft Outlook electronic communication software. Outlook is a full-featured electronic program that
offers e-mail, contact, time, and task management features. Prerequisite: CIOS 101A and CIOS 113.
CIOS 130A
Word Processing I: MS Word 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Instruction and practice in use of personal computer and Microsoft Word software within the Windows environment for standard word processing operations. Prerequisite: CIOS 101A and
CIOS 113.
CIOS 135A
Spreadsheets I: Excel
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduction to design and use of electronic spreadsheet in a
Windows environment. Covers the basic Excel for Windows commands and functions needed to create, manipulate and print
spreadsheets. Prerequisite(s): CIOS 101A and CIOS 113.
CIOS 140A
Databases I: MS Access
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces the fundamentals and concepts of a database.
Includes tables, fields, sorting, keys, and relational database
concepts. Also introduces MOUS certification. Students strongly
encouraged to complete CIOS 240A to gain a full understanding
of this topic. Prerequisite: CIOS 101A and CIOS 113.
CIOS 146
Internet Concepts and Applications 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Introduces basic concepts, tools, and uses of the Internet. Explores using electronic mail and browsing for research, academic, and personal use. Prerequisite(s): CIOS 113.
CIOS 150A
Presentations I: MS PowerPoint
2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Introduces fundamentals and concepts of presentation software
and design techniques for development of graphic slides, including embedded graphs, tables, and visuals. Also introduces MOUS
certification. Prerequisite(s): CIOS 113.
CIOS 152A
Digital Imaging Concepts & Applications: Photoshop 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduces the fundamentals, concepts, and applications of digital imaging techniques, including basic color theory, manipulating images, adding images to documents, using digital images in
animation and web documents. Prerequisite: Students should
have a working knowledge of Windows.
CIOS 160
Business English
3CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Develops skills in English fundamentals with emphasis on language usage. Intensive study of grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, word usage, and sentence structure. Prerequisites: CIOS 101A-C.
CIOS 161A
Proofreading 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 6
Introduces basic proofreading techniques. Includes instruction
and practices in proofreading for content and usage. Reviews
grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. Prerequisite(s): CIOS
101A, B, C and ENGL 111.
CIOS 164
Filing 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces terminology, filing techniques, and ARMA (American
Records Management Association) filing rules as they apply to
alphabetic, numeric, subject, and geographic filing systems.
Students are encouraged to complete CIOS 264A to gain fuller
understanding of the topic.
CIOS 165
Office Procedures 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduces students to the duties and responsibilities of office
employees in the following areas: mail, records, management,
office communications, reprographics, public relations, travel,
meetings, conferences, and employment procedures. Prerequisite: CIOS 101A, B, C and CIOS 130A.
CIOS 208
Medical Transcription 3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 9
Applies word processing and business English skills to machine
transcription of medical dictation to produce accurate, quality
documents. Class is designed for students with no previous transcription experience. Students will learn needed medical terminology in the course. Prerequisite(s): CIOS 101A, B, C or ability to
type 45 WPM and ENGL 111.
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
CIOS 220A
Bookkeeping Software Applications II: QuickBooks 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Continuation of QuickBooks Pro accounting program. Covers
basic, intermediate, and advanced bookkeeping procedures for
company setup and maintenance, data input for check register,
accounts receivable, accounts payable, banking and sales tax.
Prerequisite(s): CIOS 120A.
CIOS 230A
Word Processing II: MS Word 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Applied skills acquired in CIOS 130A to learn intermediate and
advanced word processing and desktop publishing features, including styles, graphics, merging documents, object linking and
embedding, published as a web page, working with master documents, indexes, tables of contents, on-screen business forms and
macros. Prerequisite: CIOS 130A.
CIOS 235A
Spreadsheets II: MS Excel 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Applies skills learned in 135A toward designing more complex
spreadsheets. Including concepts and techniques for problemsolving and the decision making process. Topics include design
and construction of spreadsheets and templates, macros, data
exchange, database features, enhancing charts, and other advanced functions. Prerequisite: CIOS 135A.
CIOS 240A
Databases II: MS Access
CIOS 260A
Business Communications 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Written Communication Requirement
This course applies techniques of written communications to
situations that require problem solving and an understanding of
human relations. Students compose and evaluate various kinds
of communications that commonly pass between business asso
ciates, and customers and dealers; includes interoffice memos,
letters, and reports. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111.
CIOS 262A
Professional Development
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Focus on the knowledge and attitudes necessary to develop critical job survival skills, increase productivity, and improve job satisfaction and success. Each student will assess individual talents
and goals and create a career portfolio.
CIOS 264A
Records Management
2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Applies principles learned in CIOS 164 to management of information and records. Covers the field of records management,
legal and ethical issues, and controls and technology related to
creation, use, maintenance, protection, retrieval, and disposition of paper and electronic records. Prerequisite: CIOS 140A
& CIOS 164.
2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Applies skills learned in CIOS 140A to more complex databases.
Includes database concepts and techniques, queries, forms,
filters, relationships, and integration with other applications.
Discusses MOUS certification. Prerequisite: CIOS 140A.
CIOS 259
Preparing Electronic Documents: Adobe Acrobat 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 1
Prepares students in the use of software for the formation and
transformation of universal exchange documents. Covers publishing documents in portable document format, designing and
creating forms and documents that can be emailed, uploaded,
and accessed on the World Wide Web, placed on intranet file
systems, or permanently stored on any media storage device.
Prerequisite(s): CIOS 130A and CIOS 146.
CIOS 265
Office Management
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Examines workplace trends, management techniques, communication, conflict resolution, ethics, diversity, technology, legal
issues and changing roles of the administrative professional.
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111 and CIOS 165.
CIOS 276A
Independent Projects 1-3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + (3 – 9)
Learns a new software application to create a project applying
that application to significant problems and demonstrating the
results to other computer users. Requires 45 hours of work experience for each credit. May be taken more than once for credit
but shall not total more than three credits. Prerequisites – 12
CIOS credit hours and MUST HAVE INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION.
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CIOS 280
Special Topics – Organizational Documents and Web Pages 1–6 CR
Contact Hours 0 + (3 – 18)
Creation of a variety of on-line, printed documents and web page
to be used by an organization. A variety of media and applications will be used for the design and creation of the documents
and web page.
CIOS 295
Office Systems Internship (1-3)
1-3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + (45 -135)
This course places students in business office related to their
educational programs and occupational objectives. Including
seminar with faculty coordinator-online or face-to-face. Assumes
students has basic skills sufficient to perform office assignments.
Requires 45 hours of work experience for each credit. May be
taken more than once for credit but shall not total more than
three credits. Special Note: While the college has internship
partnerships in place and will make every effort to place students
with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not
guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to
secure an internship. Prerequisite(s): 12 CIOS credit including
CIOS 165 and MUST HAVE INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION.
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
CM 102
Methods of Building Construction
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduces basic knowledge of building materials, systems, and
assemblies practices used in the Construction Industry. Includes
site work, structural, and construction documents interpretation. Includes a field project involving student team research of a
current Alaska building type.
DIETETICS & NUTRITION
DN 203
Nutrition for Health Sciences
ECON 201
Principles of Macroeconomics 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Introduction to economics, analysis and theory of national income, money and banking, public finance and taxation, and international trade. Primary concentration on the capitalist system
and the U.S. economy.
ECON 202
Principles of Microeconomics 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Theory of prices and markets, industrial organization, public
policy, income distribution, and contemporary problems of labor
and business. Prerequisite: ECON 201.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL
TECHNOLOGY
EMT 130
Emergency Medical Technology I 6 CR
Contact Hours: 3.5 + 9
This course presents skills for proficiency in patient assessment, recognition, and treatment of medical and traumarelated emer­gencies and other associated basic life support
procedures. This program may include a practicum involving
a hospital emergency room or other sites. This course meets
the approved requirements of the State of Alaska Section of
Community Health and Emergency Medical Services, preparing the student for certification through the State and/or
National Registry for Emergency Medical Techni­cian - Basic.
Prerequisite(s): CPR certified or instructor approval.
ENGLISH
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
The study of nutrition in the life cycle including food sources and
requirements of nutrients, physiological and metabolic aspects
of nutrient function, food choices, selection, and contemporary
issues of concern to health professionals and consumers.
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ECONOMICS
ENGL 091
Improving Reading Skills 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Provides basic strategies for reading comprehension, vocabulary
development, and textbook skills necessary for success in freshman college classes.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ENGL 092
Improving Writing Skills
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Provides instruction in skills necessary to produce clear written
Standard American English. The course emphasizes standard
grammar, sentence structure, and reviews punctuation. This
course also introduces the use of outside sources.
ENGL 108
Introduction to College Writing
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Provides practice in using different forms of paragraph development for a specific purpose and combining paragraphs into short
essays. This course includes intensive practice in formal punctuation in accordance with Standard American English for college
writing. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, while also
learning strategies for approaching writing assignments.
ENGL 111
Methods of Written Communication 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Written Communication Requirement
Instruction in composition of expository essays with emphasis
on different techniques for organization and development.
Prerequisite(s): Appropriate placement on English placement or
ENGL 108 completed with a grade of “C” or better.
ENGL 211
Intermediate Exposition with Readings in Literature 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Written Communication Requirement
Instruction in writing based on close analysis of literature. Develops a broad range of expository writing skills. Research paper
required. Prerequisite: ENGL 111 completed with a grade of “C”
or better.
ENGL 212
Technical Writing 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Written Communication Requirement
The course provides instruction in the basic communicative purposes, forms, styles, and visual elements commonly used by professionals who write and edit technical documents. It provides
experience in writing and editing in a collaborative environment
and requires a research report. Experience in a business, technical, and/or scientific field is recommended. Prerequisite: ENGL
111 completed with a grade of “C” or better.
ENGL 213
Writing in Academic Disciplines 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Written Communication Requirement
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
This course provides instruction in writing based on close analysis of reading in various disciplines, primarily the natural or social
sciences. It develops a broad range of expository writing skills,
including composition of the empirical report. Research paper
required. Prerequisite: ENGL 111 completed with a grade of “C”
or better.
Introductory course for majors and non-majors. Emphasizes understanding literature, forming critical vocabulary, and developing literary judgment. Selected masterpieces from ancient times
through Renaissance. Prerequisite: ENGL 111.
ENGL 260
Introduction to Creative Writing ENGL 201
Masterpieces of World Literature I 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
ENGL 202
Masterpieces of World Literature II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Introductory course for majors and non-majors. Emphasizes
understanding literature, forming critical vocabulary and developing literary judgment. Selected masterpieces from the Renaissance to the present. Prerequisite: ENGL 111.
ENGL 206
Nature Literature 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Instruction in writing short stories, poetry, sketches, or other
works of interest to the students. Includes regular conferences
with the instructor and close analysis of each student’s work
Note: May be repeated for credit.
ENGL 2602
Introduction to Poetry 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
An introduction to the forms and techniques used by poets, primarily in the English language. Prerequisite: ENGL 111
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
This course is a survey course of American Literature focused on
nature. Emphasis will be placed on book-length works widely
recognized as great works of nature writing, and will expose students to examples of poetry as well as prose. While the implications of the literature will be discussed, special emphasis will be
placed on enabling students to see humankind’s struggle with
the environment as protagonist, and will explore how writers express their understanding and/or observation of nature. Literary
form and literary concepts as exhibited in the literature will be
explored at length. Prerequisite: ENGL 111.
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ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
ENVI 202
Introduction to Environmental Science College Grammar I
4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Introduces sciences as a powerful but limited tool for understanding and solving environmental problems. The Earth as a
systems: weather and climate, natural cycles, energy flows, basic
ecology, food, wildlife and biodiversity, chemicals, air and water
quality, oceans, solid waste, cities and land use. Uses Alaskan
and Australian examples.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Presents elements of English grammar for improving comprehension and accuracy. Provides focused instruction in intermediate grammar of Standard American English for academic and
professional settings. Includes practice in editing. Designed for
ESL students only.
ESL 107
Oral Fluency II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For advanced students. Further instruction in pronunciation,
listening comprehension, and speaking strategies for academic
and career settings. Emphasis on self-correction. Includes special
practice in formal presentation techniques.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND
LANGUAGE
Designed for students with intermediate to advanced English language skills who wish to reach U.S. college certificate or degree
program entrance language proficiency. International students
admitted to the English Language Training program, or other
students interested in enrolling in ESL courses must meet with the
ESL Coordinator for testing and placement, which will be based
primarily on TOEFL and/or Accuplacer scores.
ESL 103
Oral Fluency I
ESL 106
3 CR
ESL 108
College & Writing II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For advanced students. Further practice in reading and composition strategies for academic and career settings. Emphasis on
the use of on-campus resources for self-improvement. Includes
additional practice in grammar.
ESL 109
Vocabulary Enhancement II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For intermediate to advanced students. Instruction in pronunciation, listening comprehension, and speaking strategies for academic and career settings. Emphasis on self-monitoring. Includes
special practice in group discussion techniques.
For advanced students. Further practice in different methods
of acquiring a larger, more precise vocabulary. Emphasis on applying knowledge of word parts from Latin and Greek. Includes
special instruction in academic vocabulary.
ESL 104
College Reading & Writing I
ESL 110
College Grammar II
3 CR
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For intermediate to advanced students. Extensive practice in
reading and composition strategies for academic and career settings. Emphasis on alternatives to translation. Includes special
practice in grammar.
Examines elements of English grammar for improving comprehension and accuracy. Provides focused instruction in high-intermediate and advanced grammar of Standard American English
for academic and professional settings. Includes practice in editing. Designed for ESL students only.
ESL 105
Vocabulary Enhancement I
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
For intermediate to advanced students. Extensive practice in different methods of acquiring a larger, more precise vocabulary.
Emphasis on using context clues and choosing words to match
the occasion/audience. Includes special instruction in idioms
used by adults.
FRENCH
FREN 101
Elementary French I 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
This course is designed to teach the prospective French speaker
the basics of the language. This beginning course will develop
listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in French for effective communication at the elementary level. These language
skills will be augmented by an introduction to the French lifestyle
and cross-cultural perspectives.
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FREN 102
Elementary French II 4 CR
FLM 292
Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking
3 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Contact Hours: 2 + 2
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Basics of hands-on documentary filmmaking techniques,
including preproduction, production, and post-production. Will
address different filmmaking directing styles and process of
distributing a documentary. Each student will produce a short
documentary as the capstone of the course. Prerequisite: FLM
172, 280 & 290 or Instructor permission
Continuing study of grammar and vocabulary. The conjugation
of the remaining verbal forms imperfect, future, conditional and
various compounds tenses studied, as well as the imperative and
subjunctive mood. Practice in reading, speaking and writing on
themes of contemporary interest will stress good accent along
with style.
FILM
3 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 2
This course will introduce students to various forms and elements of successful adventure and documentary films, with a
special emphasis in indentifying and appreciating humanistic
and artistic qualities. Students will survey the history of outdoor
adventure filmmaking and, after learning introductory skills and
perspectives in film study and critical evaluation, explorr general
techniques, stylistic approaches, best practices, and the function
and role of this specialized film genre.
Hands-on filmmaking research from direct engagement with
a film project or process. Each student will contribute a film
product or research protfolio. Prerequisite: FLM 172 or Instructor permission
GEOGRAPHY
GEOG 101
Introduction to Geography 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
FLM 172
Previsualization and Preproduction for Digital Cinema 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Previsualization is a collaborative process that generates preliminary versions of shots or sequences that will eventually create a
larger story. It enables filmmakers to explore creative ideas, plan
efficient technical solutions, and communicate a shared vision.
Laying a foundation for production, this course will explore writing, stroyboarding, and film production. This focus on developing
original stories and preparing those concepts for production.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 4
Basics of digital video production technology, composition, audio, lighting, and editing as it relates to outdoor and adventure
filmmaking. Students will conclude the course by producing their
own short videos. Special fees apply. Prerequisite: ODS 172 &
290 or Instructor permission.
FLM 290
Digital Video Editing
1-3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 2-6
FLM 167
Introduction to the Study of Adventure Film
FLM 280
Video Storytelling FLM 298
Adventure Film Research
Word regions and analysis of environment, with emphasis on
major culture regions. Designed to give the entry level geography
student a solid grasp of the world as it is today and to introduce
the forces which have created it.
GEOG 200
Alaskan Geography 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introductory geographical survey of Alaska. Emphasis on high
latitude Alaskan lands and potential for future development.
GEOLOGY
GEOL 111
Physical Geology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduction to the technical and aesthetic aspects of non-linear
digital video editing. Students will go from little or no experience in non-linear editing to being comfortable with some of
the advanced editing techniques. Address filmmaking editing
strategies that are not bound to time or specific editing technology. Prerequisite: FLM 172 or Instructor permission
Introduction to physical geology. Study of earth, its materials,
and processes affecting changes on and within. Lab includes an
introduction to identification of minerals and rocks and a discussion of their genesis followed by a study of landscapes formed
by mass wasting, rivers, glaciers, ground water, and near shore
processes. Many of these principles are observed on local field
trips. Prerequisite: Math 055 or higher or instructor permission.
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GEOL 111L
Physical Geology Lab
1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement Lab
Lab includes an introduction to identification of minerals and
rocks and a discussion of their genesis followed by a study of
landscapes formed by mass wasting, rivers, glaciers, ground water, and near shore processes.
GEOL 172
Topics in Geology 1-3 CR
Contact Hours: (3 – 9) + 0
Special topics in Geology vary by semester and topic. This course
does not meet the GER science requirement.
GUIDANCE
GUID 150
First-Year Experience
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: All new students (with fewer than 24
credits) must complete either
GUID 150 or GUID 192
This course is designed to help you create success in college.
Methods are given for selecting and developing effective
academic strategies, increasing self-awareness, and developing
self-management strategies. Elements of college resources and
relationships with others are explored in support of students’
educational experiences.
GUID 192
First-Year Seminar
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: All new students (with fewer than 24
credits) must complete either
GUID 150 or GUID 192
Designed for first-year students of all ages and backgrounds, this course examines the various ways we relate to
the places in which we find ourselves by focusing on both the
College and the Alaskan wilderness through a study of issues
in the liberal arts. In addition to examining reading in the four
course themes, the course will focus on critical thinking about
a wide range of social and personal issues that affect college
students today. Special Notes: Formerly GUID 160. Prerequisites: ENGL 111 with a grade of a “C” or higher, or may be taken
concurrently.
HEALTH SCIENCE
HS 080
Standard First Aid with CPR/AED-Adult HS 103
Certified Nurse Assistant 5 CR
Contact Hours: 5 + 0
This course provides an introduction to basic nursing assistant
skills and prepares the student to apply those skills in assisting
nurses to deliver patient care. In order pass the requirements to
apply to the State of Alaska Nurse Aid Registry for certification
by examination the student must also successfully complete and
pass HS 103L in addition to the classroom requirements of HS
103.
HS 103L
Certified Nurse Assistant Lab 3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 9
This course provides an introduction to basic nursing assistant
skills and prepares the student to apply those skills in assisting
nurses to deliver patient care. Emphasis is on applying basic skills
in the long term care setting and preparing students to function
as an effective member of the health care team. Successful
completion of this course fulfills the clinical/lab requirement to
apply to the state of Alaska Nurse Aide Registry for certification
by examination. The student must also successfully complete
and pass classroom requirements of HS 103 in addition to requirements of HS 103L.
Students may experience exposure to latex in classroom, laboratory, and clinical facilities. Those with latex allergies cannot be
guaranteed a latex-free learning environment.
HS 161
Wilderness First Responder
4 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 8
Provides knowledge and skills necessary to administer emergency and medical care in non-urban environments. Covers basic
anatomy and physiology, assessment and treatment of injuries,
appropriate short-term to multi-day patient care and evacuation
considerations. Upon successful completion of the course, certification as a Wilderness First Responder is awarded.
HISTORY
HIST 101
Western Civilization I 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
A survey of the origins of Western Civilization in the ancient Near
East and subsequent development through 1715. The major political, social, economic, and intellectual characteristics of Western society are emphasized.
0.5 CR
Contact Hours: .5 + 0
Train responders to overcome any reluctance to act in emergency situations and to recognize and care for life-threatening
respiratory or cardiac emergencies in adults. Provide the lay
responder with knowledge and skills necessary in an emergency
to help sustain life and to minimize pain and the consequences
of injury or sudden illness until professional medical help arrives.
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HIST 102
Western Civilization II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
A survey of Western Civilization from 1715 to present. The major political, social, economic, and intellectual characteristics of
Western society are emphasized.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
A survey of United States history up to 1877. Topics include discovery and exploration, colonial period, American Revolution,
constitution, federal period, Jefferson-Jacksonian democracy,
industrialism, sectionalism, slavery, abolitionism, the Civil War
and Reconstruction.
HIST 132
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
A survey of United States history after Reconstruction. Includes
the settlement of the far west, growth of industry and labor, imperialism, progressivism, World War I, “Roaring Twenties”, the
Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, civil rights movement, Vietnam War, Watergate, and modern American society.
HIST 241
Alaska History 3 CR
An integrated exploration of fundamental principles of literature,
music, philosophy and visual arts from the Renaissance to the
Twentieth Century. Prerequisites: ENGL 108 completed with “C”
or higher.
HUMS 293
Special Topics in Humanities
1-3 CR
This course periodically offers specialized of advanced disciplinespecific content related to the humanities not normally taught
in the curriculum to interested and qualified students. Special
Topics in Humanities may be repeated for credit, but only on different topics. Total contact hours vary with topic. Prerequisite(s):
HUM 211 or HUM 212, or Instructor Permission.
HUMAN SERVICES
HUMS 101
Introduction to Human Services Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
A survey of Alaskan historical topics and milestones, including
Alaska Natives, Russian discovery and occupation,
American purchase, American exploration and development,
gold rushes, Native claims, statehood, oil development, and the
disposition of Alaska lands.
HUMANITIES
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
An integrated exploration of fundamental principles of literature,
music, philosophy and the visual arts from the ancient world to the
Middle Ages. Prerequisites: ENGL 108 completed with “C” or higher.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Overview of human services. Includes traditional and contemporary helping approaches, plus characteristics, values, and professional roles of human service workers. Covers human services
consumers, their problems and functioning, helping systems and
strategies, environmental change processes, and legal and ethical issues.
HUMS 106
Introduction to Social Welfare Contact Hours: 3 + 0
HUM 211
Introduction to the Humanities I Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
History of the United States II 3 CR
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
HIST 131
History of United States I HUM 212
Introduction to the Humanities II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Analyzes social inequality and the American social welfare system. Traces historical development of government response to
social inequality. Explores historical and persisting dilemmas—
ethical, political, social, and economic—explicit and implicit in
social welfare provisioning. Assist in understanding of social
welfare problems and their solutions.
HUMS 107
Introduction to Dementia 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course provides a broad overview of dementia for students
who currently work or plan to work with persons with dementia.
Topics include types and stages of dementia, healthcare team
roles, medications, and therapeutic care.
HUMS 108
Introduction to Geriatrics 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
A broad overview of geriatrics, including the aging process and
the needs and interventions of aging individuals. This course is
appropriate for students who are currently or intend to work
with elderly individuals in various long-term care settings.
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
HUMS 109
Introduction to Long-Term Care and
Community-Based Supports & Services 2 CR
HUMS 137
Autism Fundamentals Contact Hours: 2 + 0
An overview of Community-Based Services and aspects of providing quality Long-Term Care for individuals experiencing disabilities across the lifespan.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is introduced through discussions of disability, behaviors, and role of family. Functional assessments and behavior plans used to design behavior supports
within the family unit.
HUMS 110
Techniques for Supporting Activities in Daily Living and Social Skills 2 CR
HUMS 158
Working with People Experiencing Mental Illness:
Supporting Recovery & Empowerment 3 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course provides a skill base for support in activities in Daily
Living (ADLs) and Social Skill development for individuals experiencing disabilities across the life-span.
This course examines basic core concepts and competencies required to work with people with mental illnesses. Strengths and
empowerment framework used to discuss the topics: history and
treatment of persons with mental illness, advocacy, communication, skill development, and cultural competence.
HUMS 113
Partnering with Peers: Mentoring & Recovery 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is designed for individuals experiencing mental illness who are in recovery. Introduces the use of Peer Mentoring
and their required competencies in working with people experiencing mental illness.
HUMS 119
Person-Centered Care in Home & Community Based Services 3 CR
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
HUMS 182
Community Services for People with Disabilities 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduction to the field of Disability Studies. Study of contemporary philosophy and process of providing quality support services for people who experience substantial disabilities.
HUMS 202
Preventing Abuse & Neglect of Vulnerable Adults 1 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
This course will apply elements of Person-Centered Care philosophy in interactions with elders. Appropriate communication
techniques, personal qualities, and successful activity implementation are covered.
This course introduces risk factors of vulnerable adults and individuals caring and serving them; explains and examines the
statutory definitions and mandatory reporting requirements;
and presents ethical concerns. Intervention and prevention
strategies are discussed.
HUMS 120
Instructional Techniques 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Course will present an array of instructional techniques appropriate for inclusive community and school settings. Based on a team
approach, this course encourages paraprofessionals and other
support staff to take advantage of opportunities for teaching new
skills and skill maintenance. Includes an introduction to a variety
of individualized plans and instructional strategies to implement
them. Prerequisites: (HUMS V109 or V182) or HUMS V205
HUMS 135
Introduction to Mental Illness 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course provides an overview of mental illness by addressing topics such as the stigma in today’s society, history of deinstitutionalization, and the etiologies, types, and symptoms of
mental illness. Students will be introduced to basic treatment approaches and discuss the role of family, friends, and community
in recovery and wellness.
HUMS 205
Introduction to Human Exceptionality 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduction to people experiencing developmental, emotional,
behavioral, sensory, physical, and FASD-related disabilities; and
services provided in schools and communities.
HUMS 208
Mentorship in Long-Term Care 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course will incorporate advanced communication, organizational and interpersonal skills into a mentoring model that
reflects person-centered care and staff interactions. Covers the
needs, attitudes, and developmental process of mentoring.
HUMS 215
Introduction to the Special Education System 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Survey of the historical and legal background, current instructional
practice, the role of the paraprofessional, and issues in special
education. Topics include the exceptional learner, content of the
Individualized Education Plan, the paraprofessional as educational
team member, and special education legislation and regulations.
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HUMS 223
Introduction to Paraprofessional Counseling I 3 CR
HUMS 252
Employment Support Services Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Focuses on systematic approach to effective helping and skills in
the following categories: skills for understanding, skills for comfort and crisis intervention, and skills for positive action.
HUMS 231
Managing Behaviors 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course provides an overview of behavioral techniques for
managing problematic behaviors for direct care providers who
work with populations requiring specialized interventions.
HUMS 235
Recovery & Rehabilitation in Mental Illness 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Students will explore the process of recovery as it applies to
people who experience psychiatric disabilities. They will discuss
how practitioners can help facilitate recovery through common
practices of psychiatric rehabilitation, and mental illness and the
process of recovery from the personal perspectives of those with
the illness. Prerequisite: HUMS 135 or Instructor’s Permission.
HUMS 236
Introduction to Traumatic Brian Injury 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is designed to provide a broad overview of Traumatic
Brian Injury for students who are currently or plan to work with
people with cognitive disabilities in a variety of settings. This
course may be used as part of the Direct Support Specialist Occupational Endorsement (DSSOE).
HUMS 240
Person-Centered Planning & Collaborative Teams 3
CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is an overview of person centered planning approaches, including personal futures planning, MAPS and PATHS
for people who experience disabilities. Team functions and
members roles are presented. Students who successfully complete this course are eligible for certification as PCP facilitator.
HUMS 251
Support Roles in Community Environment 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Attitudes, strategies, and issues in supporting children and
adults with disabilities as they live and learn in community settings. Design and implementation of Individual Service Plans,
person-centered planning, crisis intervention, and quality of life
issues are addressed.
89
2 CR
This course examines the support systems and strategies to create employment opportunities for adults with developmental,
psychiatric and other disabilities. Emphasis is placed on skills and
methods that have practical application in providing employment-related services.
HUMS 253
Positive Behavior Supports 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course focuses on the processes and effectiveness of Positive
Behavior Supports as an intervention for people with challenging
behaviors. Prerequisite: HUMS 231 or Instructor permission.
HUMS 260
Ethical & Legal Issues in Disability Services 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course is an introduction of legal and ethical practices for
students who work or intend to work with persons experiencing
disabilities.
HUMS 280
Selected Topics in Human Services 0.5 – 3 CR
Contact Hours: .5 - 3 + 0
Variety of topics related to human services. Subtitle varies according to the specific content taught. May be repeated for
credit with a different subtitle.
HUMS 295A
Practicum I 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 9
Arranged placement in a community human service agency.
Emphasis on observation of agency structure and functioning,
professional relationships, and interagency relationships. Application of beginning helping skills with agency clients. Weekly
in –class seminar to facilitate integration of knowledge, skills and
values. Prerequisite(s): PSY 150, HUMS 109, HUMS 120, PSY 153 or
HUMS 223, HUMS 2312, HUMS 260 with a “C” or better and advisor approval. NOTE: While the college has internship partnerships in
place and will make every effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is
ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure an internship.
HUMS 295B
Practicum II Community Support Emphasis
3CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 9
Continuation of 295A, with placement in a human service
agency. Emphasizes increasing responsibility for direct client
services. Problem assessment, case assessment, planning and
management, and preparation for entry-level professional responsibilities. Weekly in-class seminar to facilitate integration of
knowledge, skills, and values. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111, HUMS
205, HUMS 251, and HUMS 295A with a “C” or better and advisor approval. NOTE: While the college has internship partnerships
in place and will make every effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is
ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure an internship.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
HUMS 295C
Practicum II Educational Support Emphasis 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 9
Continuation of 295A, with placement in a human service
agency. Emphasizes increasing responsibility for direct client
services. Problem assessment, case assessment, planning and
management, and preparation for entry-level professional responsibilities. Weekly in-class seminar to facilitate integration of
knowledge, skills, and values. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111, HUMS
205, HUMS 215, and HUMS 295A with a “C” or better and advisor approval. NOTE: While the college has internship partnerships
in place and will make every effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is
ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure an internship.
HUMS 295D
Practicum II Speech-Language Support 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 9
Continuation of 295A, with placement in a human service agency. Emphasizes increasing responsibility for direct client services.
Problem assessment, case assessment, planning and management, and preparation for entry-level professional responsibilities. Weekly in-class seminar to facilitate integration of knowledge, skills, and values. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 111, HUMS 205,
COMM 212, COMM 215, COMM 220, COMM 258 and HUMS
295A with a “C” or better and advisor approval. NOTE: While the
college has internship partnerships in place and will make every
effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship
opportunities are not guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility
of the student to secure an internship.
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
ITEC 087
8 hour HAZWOPER Refresher 0.5 CR
Contact Hours: .5 + 0
This course is designed to provide classroom requirements of
29 CFR 1910.120 for training a hazardous waste site worker.
Prerequisite: ITEC 101 or 103, or past completion of HAZWOPER
training.
ITEC 101
24 Hour HAZWOPER 1.5 CR
Contact Hours 24 + 0
This course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the safety of personnel when responding to and
cleaning up spills of hazardous substances or materials, and to
ensure compliance with state and federal regulations applicable
to spill clean-up as described in 29 CFR 1910.120 for emergency
responders Level III. This course provides classroom instruction
and practical experience. 8 Hours of instruction is taken in the
classroom; 16 hours of instruction is taken under direction of
field supervisors in prescribed activities within an oil spill prevention and response environment.
ITEC 103
HAZWOPER 40 Hour 2 CR
Contact Hours: 40 + 0
This course is designed to provide classroom requirements of 29
CFR 1910.120 for training a hazardous waste site worker.
ITEC 105
Properties of Hazardous Materials 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course applies basic concepts of chemistry and physics fundamentals to the characterization and management of chemical
hazards. Recognition of dangers in fire fighting, storing and handling of hazardous materials is presented. Terminology used to
identify hazards in Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), labeling
and transportation will be developed.
ITEC 111
Millwright I 4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 9
The Millwright Level I course consists of six modules and the
core NCCER curriculum. The course will provide students with
knowledge in basic safety, basic math, hand tools, power tools,
blueprints, and basic rigging. The course provides hands-on and
classroom instruction to help students master the skills required
to the millwright profession. Prerequisite(s): At least one High
School Math class completed at tenth grade level, reading and
writing at high school tenth grade level.
ITEC 112
Millwright II 4 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 9
The Millwright Level II course consists of nine modules of instruction. The course provides hands-on and classroom instruction to
help students master the skills required for millwright profession. Classes will be conducted with the cooperation of industry
partnership. Skilled millwrights will participate in instruction of
modules and on-the-job training and skill development.
ITEC 123
Safety Laws and Standards 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course introduces the student to federal environmental, occupational safety, and transportation laws and standards.
ITEC 125
Confined Space Awareness 0.5 CR
Contact Hours: .5 + 0
This class is designed to give students the training that is required in the federal Confined Space Entry Regulations, 29 CFR
1910.146, for supervisors, attendants and entrants.
ITEC 132
Wildlife Capture and Recovery 1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
This course is designed to give participants necessary knowledge
and skills to capture, handle, and stabilize wildlife during oil spill
response and cleanup operation
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ITEC 133
Wildlife Hazing 0.5 CR
ITEC 211
Millwright III 5 CR
Contact Hours: 0.5 + 0
Contact Hours: 3 + 12
This course is designed to give students the skills necessary to
safely haze birds and/or marine mammals to protect them from
becoming contaminated by spills of hazardous substances
The Millwright level III course consists of Twelve modules of instruction. The course provides hands-on and classroom instruction to help students master the skills required for the millwright
profession. Classes will be conducted with the cooperation of industry partnership. Skilled millwrights will participate in instruction of modules and on-the-job training and skill development.
ITEC 144
Introduction to Craft Skills 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 6
This course is an introduction to craft skills trades. Topics covered
include basic knowledge and skills requirements foundational to
multiple trade careers and programs of study. Course contains
several modules covering industrial safety, power and hand
tools, math and construction drawing, rigging and lifting, as well
as basic communications and employability skills.
ITEC 165
Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene 5 CR
Contact Hours: 5 + 0
This course introduces the fundamentals of industrial hygiene as
they relate to occupational health and safety. Subjects covered
include the recognition, evaluation and control of hazards in the
workplace. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 103 and MATH 055
ITEC 166
Introduction to Environmental Technology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is designed to introduce the student to the potential
hazards and governing regulations of chemicals, safe practices
in the management of hazardous materials and waste, and essential skills, coupled with the basic knowledge that will help the
student who is pursuing a role as an environmental technician or
environmental health and safety professional.
ITEC 172
Introduction to Oil Spill Prevention & Response 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course provides a broad overview of the major oil spill topics and specific oil spill prevention strategies. Topics covered
include: history of oil spills and oil spill regulation, the fate and
behavior of oil released into the environment, general environmental impacts, sociological impacts and economic impacts, and
Federal and State regulations affecting oil spill prevention and
response.
ITEC 183
Sustainable Construction Practices
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
An Introductory course focused on describing the concept of
environmentally appropriate building design and construction.
The actions of workers in the construction industry affect the
environment and an understanding of these impacts will assist
students in the choices they must make everyday. This class clarifies the student’s effect on a project’s carbon footprint and how
to reduce it.
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ITEC 212
Millwright IV 5 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 12
The Millwright Level IV course consists of 12 modules of instruction. The course provides hands-on and classroom instruction to
help students master the skills required for the millwright profession. Classes will be conducted with the cooperation of industry
partnership. Skilled millwrights will participate in instruction of
modules and on-the-job training and skill development.
ITEC 213
Millwright V 5 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 12
The Millwright Level V course consists of nine modules of instruction. Students will perform written and manual proficiency
in each module. The course provides hands-on and classroom
instruction to help students master the skills required for the
millwright profession. Classes will be conducted with cooperation of industry partnerships. Skilled millwrights will participate
in instruction of modules and on-the-job training and skill development.
ITEC 221
Safety Equipment and Operations 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course will cover the operation, testing, and maintenance
of safety equipment and the implementation of safe operating
procedures in a variety of workplace situations.
ITEC 225
Contingency Plans 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is designed to teach students the requirements for
emergency contingency plans for facilities, vessels, and communities. Students will review federal and state regulations, and
develop an emergency response plan for oil and hazardous substances discharges and releases.
ITEC 227
Process Safety Management 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course presents an in-depth overview of the Process Safety
management (PSM) of Highly Hazardous Chemicals regulation
(29CFR 1910.119). There will be an increased focus on case histories of industrial accidents and how proper implementation
of PSM systems could have prevented catastrophe. Prior safety
experience or safety classes are highly recommended, but not
required.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ITEC 231
Spill Response Operations 4 CR
ITEC 280D
Selected Topics in Millwright 1 – 3 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Contact Hours: 1 - 3 + 0
This course is designed to give students and in-depth knowledge of oil spill response strategies and management principles
throughout all phases and from a variety of perspectives.
A variety of topics related to Millwright. Subtitle varies according
to the specific content taught. May be repeated for credit with a
different subtitle.
ITEC 263
Incident Investigations ITEC 295A
Oil Spill Response Internship 3 CR
4 CR
Contact Hours 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 0 + 16
This course is designed to provide the necessary processes and
tools to investigate and analyze accidents. The systems approach
teaches students how to identify the key elements of an accident
and how to analyze information about each element. The processes and tools produce valid and traceable results. After the
course, students will be able to reconstruct what happened during an incident, identify and collect information, analyze facts,
determine why it happened, develop findings and assemble a
valid report.
This internship provides an oil spill response student the practical experience needed within an oil spill response organization.
Under direction of field supervisors students will complete 180
hours performing prescribed activities or duties within an oil spill
prevention and response environment. Special Note: While the
college has internship partnerships in place and will make every
effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure an internship. Prerequisite(s):
Advisor approval required.
ITEC 274
Introduction to Agency Regulations &
Administrative Law
ITEC 295B
Safety Management Internship 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Legal guidelines used in the adoption, implementation, and adjudication of public agency regulations at all levels of government.
A summary of the legislative, executive, and judicial controls
placed on agencies.
ITEC 275
Effective Training Methods 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
This course is designed to give instructors a basic background
in fields related to training and training theory, with the focus
on meeting the specific needs of individuals in technical fields.
This class is based on a building block approach with the ultimate
goal of the students being able to present, publicly, and during a
training session.
ITEC 280A
Selected Topics in Oil Spill Response 1 – 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 – 3 + 0
A variety of topics related to oil spill response. Subtitle varies
according to the specific content taught. May be repeated for
credit with a different subtitle.
ITEC 280B
Selected Topics: Safety Management 1 – 3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 - 3 + 0
Variety of topics related to safety management. Subtitle varies
according to the specific content taught. May be repeated for
credit with a different subtitle.
4 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 16
This internship provides a safety management student the practical experience needed within a safety management organization. Under direction of field supervisors students will complete
180 hours performing prescribed activities or duties within a
safety management environment. Special Note: While the college has internship partnerships in place and will make every effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship
opportunities are not guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure an internship. Prerequisite(s): Advisor approval required.
ITEC 295D
Millwright Internship 4 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 16
This internship provides the Millwright student the practical
experience needed to apply the NCCER – accredited course
sequence to the workplace under direction of field supervisors.
Special Note: While the college has internship partnerships in
place and will make every effort to place students with a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure
an internship. Prerequisite(s): Advisor approval required.
JUSTICE
JUST 110
Introduction to Justice
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Survey of philosophies, functions and methods of social control
with emphasis on role of law and those involved in its administration--police, courts, and correction organizations. Includes
study of history, organization, processes, and problems related
to law and justice agencies in a heterogeneous, democratic society. This course is a prerequisite to most Justice courses.
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JUST 112
Criminal Investigation
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course introduces the fundamentals of criminal investigations. Topics include forensics and the collection and preservation of physical evidence, established case procedures, drug
identification, fingerprinting, and current investigation practices.
LIBERAL STUDIES IN THE
SOCIAL SCIENCES
LSSS 111
Cultural Foundation Behavior 2 CR
Course will discuss the basic operations of oil pipeline practices,
from the history of petroleum pipelines to the movement of oil from
the fields to the terminal, using the Alyeska Pipeline as an example.
3 CR
Addresses culture as a concept and phenomenon, including its
origins, variety, utility, subtlety and complexity, issues of identity,
and cultural aspects of human lives from various social science
perspectives.
2-4 CR
Contact Hours: Varies
This special topics course is designed to provide hands-on geocultural learning opportunities for students through 1-4 weeks of
either domestic or foreign group travel. It offers participants experiential learning beyond the classroom and the ability to take
advantage of first-hand study of cross-cultural materials, historic
sties, geographic locations, geologic formations and physical
environments, museums, art and architecture, cultural activities
and traditions, regional peoples and foods, language enhancement opportunities, local universities and libraries, legislatures,
etc. that are only available through travel period(s). Methods
of instruction and educational activities during travel will vary
with course topic. A valid passport is required for international
travel. A substantial course travel fee will be assessed to cover
the majority of student travel expenses, but additional costs may
be the responsibility of the student. As a special topics course,
LSSS 297 may be repeated for credit, but only on different topics.
Prerequisite(s): LSSS 111 or Instructor Permission.
MARINE TECHNOLOGY
MT 230
Boat Operator License Prep 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Covers weather, first aid, seamanship, pollution control, navigation, rules of the road, etc. The basic material necessary to pass
the USCG examination to operate a marine vessel for hire, either
6 passenger or 100 ton.
MT 282A
Marine Technology I 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This is one semester class in which students complete the requirements for Alaska Marine Safety Drill Conductors Card,
Marine Safety and Survival, and CPR/First Aid. Students will participate in many outdoor activities including onboard emergency
drill, overnight survival training, orienteering, a 12 mile hike, and
navigation exercises. Many aspects of Marine Technology are addressed including communications, safety, fire response, power
systems and career exploration.
MT 282B
Marine Technology II 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course provides students with an opportunity to expand
prior knowledge, from MT 282A - Marine Technology I, on the
study of marine vessels, marine safety and survival, navigation,
harvesting of marine resources; the identification, conservation
and management or marine resources, economics and aquatic
farming within the Alaska seafood industry.
MATH
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
This course meets training requirements for all documented fishing vessels where one person on board a vessel is required to
have drill training. This course will deal with all aspects of preserving the safety of fishing vessel personnel through the use of
procedures and equipment.
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This course will discuss the basic operations of tankers, with their
history and origins, what a tanker is and how it performs its function of transporting petroleum products, and the changes that
continue to take place.
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
MT 135
Marine Safety and Survival 2 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 0
MT 137
Pipeline Operations Contact Hours: 3 + 0
LSSS 297
Travel and Geocultural Study Experience
MT 136
Oil Tanker Operations MATH 054
Pre-Algebra 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course covers the basic concepts of Pre algebra and their applications. Topics include the various forms of number and their
arithmetic, algebraic expressions, equation solving, geometry
and measurement, and graphing.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
MATH 055
Elementary Algebra 3 CR
MATH 200
Calculus I Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
This course covers the concepts of working with Algebraic Expressions, Equations of Equality and Inequality, Graphing, Polynomials and Factoring, Rational Expressions and Equations, and
finally, Functions and their Graphs. Prerequisite: MATH 054 or
equivalent score on the placement test.
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
MATH 101
Technical Math MATH 201
Calculus II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course provides mathematical training for students enrolled
in technical programs. It covers arithmetic of whole numbers,
fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, percent, measurement,
pre-algebra, basic algebra, practical plane geometry, solid figures, triangle trigonometry, advanced algebra, and statistics.
Special Notes: This course will not satisfy the Mathematics requirement for the Associate of Arts degree, but may satisfy the
AAS degree Mathematics requirement.
MATH 105
Intermediate Algebra 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course covers solving systems of linear equations, inequalities, exponents and radicals, quadratic functions and equations,
exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, sequences, series and the binomial theorem. Prerequisite: MATH 055 or
equivalent score on the placement test.
MATH 107
College Algebra 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course reviews and deepens the material covered in Intermediate Algebra. It covers equations and inequality, graphs and
functions, polynomial and rational functions, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions, systems and matrices, analytic
geometry, and further topics in algebra. Prerequisite: MATH 105
or equivalent score on the placement test.
MATH 108
Trigonometry 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course covers angles, trigonometric functions and their
graphs, trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations, applications of trigonometry, complex numbers, polar
coordinates, and parametric equations. Prerequisite: MATH 107
or equivalent score on the placement test.
4 CR
This course covers functions, limits, derivatives, applications of
the derivative, and integration. Prerequisite(s): Math 107, 108 or
equivalent on the placement test.
4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
This course covers applications of integration, integration techniques, sequences and infinite series, power series, parametric
and polar curves. Prerequisite: MATH 200.
MEDIA
MEDIA 101
Introduction to Mass Communications 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
A survey of the mass communication media and its functions in
modern society, including books, newspapers, magazines, radio,
movies, television, internet, video games, other digital technologies, and the advertising and public relations industries.
MEDICAL ASSISTING
MA 101
Medical Terminology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course stresses general and specific medical terms associated
with the major body organ systems. Subject taught in context of
medical usage. Students learn how to build medical terms from
basic root words.
MA 120
Medical Office Procedures 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Introduces medical law and ethics for medical office personnel
and allied health professions. Includes medical and legal terminology, confidentiality of medical information, HIPAA regulations, informed consent requirements, and recommendation for
prevention of professional liability claims. This course also introduces administrative and business aspects of the medical office
and administrative duties of medical assistants. Includes general
office duties, telephone and reception procedures, appointment
scheduling, essentials of medical records, and financial record
keeping of the medical office.
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MUSEUM STUDIES
OUTDOOR STUDIES
MSM 120
Introduction to Museum Studies Individuals must be at least 18 years of age and/or a degreeseeking student to enroll in Outdoor Leadership (ODS) activitybased courses unless otherwise specified on the class schedule. All
courses fewer than 3 credits are considered activity-based courses.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This introductory course introduces students to the varied functions of a museum, and ways in which museums serve their
communities. Subjects explored include exhibit development,
critical analysis of museum exhibits, educational programming,
and collection care. Students will be expected to complete written assignments, participate in class projects and discussions,
and complete a final project. Class time may include one or more
field trips and/or guest speakers.
ODS 102
Alaskan Fly Fishing & Tying
2 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 4
MUSIC
This course introduces students to the art and science of fly casting,
fishing and tying. Also, students learn the artistic skills of fly tying
and the necessary knowledge to make educated fly tying material
selections. Scientific information on Alaskan freshwater fish, habitat, entomology, and stream ecology will be covered in the context
of tying wet flies, nymphs, streamers, dry flies, and practical fishing
advice.
MUS 121
Music Appreciation ODS 118
Avalanche Evaluation and Theory I
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Fine Arts Requirement
A course designed to introduce the student to the forms and
idioms of Western art music both from an historical perspective
as well as from the standpoint of abstract aesthetic values. The
course will attempt to link musical ideas from the year 1000 AD
to the present in search of a common humanistic thread.
MUS 221
History of Music I
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Fine Arts/Humanities Requirement
A moderately in-depth survey of the beginnings of Western Music History from ca. 1000 AD to 1750 AD. The course will include a
discussion of the European political climate which inspired each
new style period, a survey of the professional lives of several
early composers, and a detailed examination of selected literature by Hildegard, Machaut, Josquin, Palestrina, Bach, Handel
and others.
MUS 222
History of Music II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Fine Arts/Humanities Requirement
A Moderately in-depth survey of Western Art music from 1750
to the present. Just as Music 221 began with a discussion of unfamiliar music written a long time ago, then progressed to more
familiar periods, Music 222 will begin with the most famous music of all time, and then progress forward to perhaps the most
unfamiliar concert music of all- the music of our own time.
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2 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 2
Introduces avalanche study, rescue, terrain analysis, snow study and
stability evaluation, route finding, decision-making, and safe travel.
Combines both in-class and field experience as required course
components. Students must be in excellent physical condition.
ODS 120
Cross Country Skiing 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
This course teaches beginner level cross-country skiing for
groomed trails with an emphasis on proper form, technique,
equipment, and waxing systems. Both diagonal and skate strides
will be introduced. Instruction will take place in both classroom
and on the trail.
ODS 121
Introduction to Backcountry Skiing 2 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
This course teaches skier and snowboarders basic skills used
to travel safely and enjoyably in the backcountry. Students will
receive instruction on equipment, route selection, avalanche
awareness, and safety. Prerequisite: ODS 118 or Instructor Approval.
ODS 146
Beginning Rock Climbing
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the fundamentals of rock climbing in Alaska. Covers
hazard evaluation and risk assessment, selection of personal
gear, technical needs and safety equipment. Provides opportunity to practice knots, rope handling, belay, basic descending
techniques and top-rope rock climbing.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ODS 147
Beginning Ice Climbing
1 CR
ODS 163
Beginning Alpine Skiing
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the fundamentals of ice climbing in Alaska. Covers
hazard evaluation and risk assessment, selection of personal
gear, technical needs and safety equipment. Introduces knots,
rope handling, belay, basic descending techniques and top-rope
ice climbing. Special Note: Requires ability to function comfortably in extremely cold temperatures and inclement weather
This course provides an overview of the skills and techniques
required for learning the basics of alpine skiing. Focus is on safe
and efficient performance of the activity. The class takes place
outdoors and/or off campus. Special fees apply
ODS 151
Beginning Canoeing
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the most commonly used equipment, techniques,
challenges, and risks found in the sport of canoeing. Includes instruction on equipment selection, trip planning, canoeing strokes
and re-entry techniques with an emphasis on risk assessment
and risk management. Special Note: Requires good backcountry
camping skills and the ability to function comfortably in inclement weather. An overnight field outing may be included in the
course. Students may need to rent or purchase additional gear.
ODS 152
Beginning River Rafting
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the most commonly used equipment, techniques,
challenges, and risks found in the sport of river rafting. Includes
instruction on equipment selection, trip planning, preparing to
paddle/row and minimum impact practices with an emphasis on
risk assessment and risk management. Special Note: Requires
good backcountry camping skills and the ability to function comfortably in inclement weather. An overnight field outing may be
included in the course. Students may need to rent or purchase
additional gear.
ODS 153
Beginning Sea Kayaking
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the fundamentals of sea kayaking in Alaska. Includes
the most commonly used equipment, techniques, challenges,
and risks found in the sport. Provides instruction in selecting
equipment, trip planning, transporting boats, preparing to
paddle, boat handling, re-entry techniques, and sea kayaking
strokes. Emphasizes risk assessment and safety skills. Special
Note: Requires good backcountry camping skills and the ability
to function comfortably in inclement weather. An overnight field
outing may be included in the course. Students may need to rent
or purchase additional gear for this course.
ODS 162
Beginning Telemark Skiing
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the fundamentals of Telemark skiing. Covers hazard
evaluation, selection of personal ski and safety equipment, recognition and prevention of cold-weather injuries, skiing skills,
and ski hill rules. Special Note: Students may be required to rent
or purchase equipment and/or lift tickets for outings. Requires
ability to perform comfortably in extremely cold and/or inclement weather.
ODS 168
Winter Camping Alaska
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces winter camping in Alaska. Covers selection of personal, group, and safety equipment appropriate for an overnight
outing. Emphasizes snow-shelter construction and learning to
assess risk in the field. Course includes an overnight outing. Special note: Requires good physical condition and ability to perform
comfortably in extremely cold and/or inclement weather.
ODS 169 Four Seasons Backpacking 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces four-season backpacking in Alaska. Covers selection
of personal, group, and safety equipment appropriate for a
backpacking trip during any season. Presents introductory trip
planning, front country and backcountry navigation, and group
management. Emphasizes risk assessment and risk management. Overnight backpacking and camping is required.
ODS 170
Backpack Alaska
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Provides an introduction to backpacking in Alaska. Covers trip
planning and selection of personal, group, and safety equipment
appropriate for overnight trips. Presents the opportunity during
outings to practice hazard evaluation, front and backcountry
navigation, and hiking/camping/cooking skills.
ODS 171
Outdoor Adventure in Alaska
2 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 4
Provides an overview of basic outdoor skills commonly used and
enjoyed in Alaska. Covers trip preparation, equipment selection
and maintenance, introduction to map and compass, and learning to identify risk in the field. Includes season dependent activities such as day hiking, backpacking, canoeing, rock climbing,
cross-country skiing (classic) or winter camping. Special Note:
Requires good physical fitness and ability to function comfortably in inclement weather. Students may need to rent or purchase additional equipment for this course.
ODS 172
Fishing Academy 2 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 2
A practical introduction to the basics of fishing, including equipment selection, types of line, lures, and files, and techniques
geared toward Alaska lakes and streams. Includes wildlife safety,
basic biology, and caring for your catch. Special Note: Students
must be 18 or older to enroll and must abide by all University
and course safety rules. Course is NOT offered through PWSCC,
available at KPC Campus
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ODS 178
Discovering Wild Plants ties and options.
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 0
Introduces the diversity of Alaska’s flora and its myriad uses.
Addresses risk assessment and hazard evaluation, especially in
relation to learning to identify and/or use edible, poisonous and
medicinal species.
ODS 181
Intro to Recreation & Outdoor Leadership
3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 6
Introduces the history, philosophies, objectives and foundations of recreation and outdoor leadership. Surveys career and
professional development opportunities. Introduces core skills
necessary for success in a college environment. Intended as a
first semester course.
ODS 182
Alaska Winter Survival
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 9
Introduces the most common risks and challenges encountered
in winter survival situations. Emphasizes hazard evaluation,
physical and psychological factors that affect survival, and preparation tips. Provides opportunity to practice outdoor skills and
survival techniques. Special Note: Requires excellent backpacking skills, good physical condition, and the ability to function
comfortably in extremely cold and inclement weather. An overnight field outing may be included in this course.
ODS 183
Alaska Marine Survival 1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Introduces the most common risks and challenges encountered
in a marine survival situation. Emphasizes hazard evaluation,
physical and psychological factors that affect survival, and preparation tips that can help prevent worst-case scenarios. Provides
opportunity to practice field techniques. Special Note: Requires
excellent backcountry camping skills and the ability to function
comfortable in inclement weather. An overnight field outing may
be included in this course.
ODS 246
Intermediate Rock Climbing 1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Builds on the skills and knowledge gained in Beginning Rock
Climbing. Emphasizes risk management skills, learning to build/
use a variety of anchors and ascending and descending techniques. Provides opportunity to practice protection placement
and mock lead climbing. Introduces a risk/benefit analysis of
lead climbing vs. climbing. Prerequisite: ODS 146 or Instructor
approval.
ODS 262
Foundations of Adventure
& Experiential Leadership ODS 266
Introduction to Safety and Risk
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introductory course in safety and risk management for outdoor
professionals. Course will cover industry standards and best
practices in the areas of planning and decision making to minimize risk in outdoor situations. Discussions will cover accident/
incident prevention as well as organization liability for outdoor
service providers.
ODS 281
Leadership Activities for Diverse Populations 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Examines key concepts and presents a variety of recreation activities adapted to meet the needs of diverse populations. Presents
information and current research related to various disabilities.
Examines and applies strategies for promoting physical activity
experiences for individuals with special needs.
ODS 282
Leadership in Experiential Initiatives & Activities 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Examines key concepts and activities for facilitating experiential leadership, team-building and personal growth initiatives.
Presents a variety of game types including those designed as
icebreakers, de-inhibitizers and team builders for cognitive development and for character development. Introduces planning,
preparation, props, techniques, leadership and safety with an
emphasis on facilitation and debriefing.
ODS 287
Leadership in Outdoor Recreation Activities
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Examines key concepts and activities associated with outdoor
recreation. Presents a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, canoeing, orienteering, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Introduces planning, preparation, equipment, techniques,
leadership, environmental ethics and safety. Discusses group
dynamics and challenges of leading groups on personal and public outings.
ODS 288
Expedition Backpacking
1 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 3
Provides experienced backpackers with the fundamentals
of planning and participating in multi-day backpacking trips.
Emphasizes risk assessment, selection of group members, and
importance of group dynamics, route selection and logistics.
Special Note: Requires excellent physical condition and ability
to function comfortably in inclement weather. Prerequisite: ODS
169 or instructor approval.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 6
Introduces the field and profession of adventure and experiential
leadership. Examines philosophical, historical, theoretical, legal,
and ethical foundations of the field. Explores career opportuni-
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3 CR
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
ODS 293
Selected Topics in Outdoor Leadership
1-3 CR
PHIL 211
History of Philosophy I
Contact Hours: Varies
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
A topic of contemporary or continuing interest in the field of
outdoor leadership. Special fees may apply.
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
ODS 295
Outdoor Leadership Internship
1-3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + (3-9)
Individualized internship intended to provide hands on experience in the field of outdoor recreation and leadership. Internship focus will vary depending on student interest and internship
availability. Repeatable for credit, repeats of this internship can
count towards experiential electives for the Outdoor Leadership
degree. Special Notes: While the college has internship partnerships in place and will make every effort to place students with
a sponsoring organization, internship opportunities are not guaranteed; it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to secure
an internship. Prerequisite: Approval from Outdoor Leadership
Advisor. See advisor for registration instructions.
PHILOSOPHY
3 CR
Survey of primarily Western philosophy from the pre-Socratic
era through the late Middle Ages. Traces development of scientific, metaphysical, epistemological and ethical thought with
emphasis on pivotal historical figures and debates.
PHIL 212
History of Philosophy II
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Survey of philosophy from the Scientific Revolution through German Idealism (modern period). Traces the development of scientific, metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical thought with
emphasis, on historical texts. Prerequisite(s): none.
PHIL 222
Ethics
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
PHIL 101
Introduction to Logic 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
This course is designed to offer practical ideas useful in the construction and criticism of reasoning. Course content shall include
deductive and inductive arguments, categorical syllogisms, truth
functions, fallacies, elementary devices of symbolic logic, and the
analysis of public discourse in order to enhance your capacity to
participate more fully, responsibly, and intelligently in public life.
PHIL 201
Introduction to Philosophy This course is an introduction to the great moral thinkers of
Western Civilization in their historical contexts and their distinctive approaches to ethics and how they may be applied
to selected contemporary moral issues.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION &
RECREATION
PER 100
Physical Activities and Instruction 1 CR
3 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces works of influential thinkers, both ancient and modern, in the western philosophical tradition. Emphasizes central
problems of knowledge, reality, and good and evil.
PER 120A
Beginning Yoga PHIL 210
Comparative Religions Introduces yoga physical exercises, breathing, relaxation and
concentration techniques as an approach to wellness.
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
This course surveys the belief systems of major world religions,
including Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Judaism, and Islam and how they have impacted cultures.
Instruction, practice, and activity in a variety of physical activities, sports, and dance in separate sections.
1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
PER 120B
Active Yoga 1 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Introduces yoga exercises, breathing techniques, and relaxation
exercises. Presents stretching, strengthening, breathe control,
and mental conditioning exercises as an aid to improve performance and enjoyment of an active lifestyle.
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PER 121
Archery 1 CR
PHYS 104
Basic Physics II Contact Hours: 0 + 3
Contact Hours: 3 + 3
This course will introduce the history of archery, fundamental archery skills, vocabulary & Terminology, proper form, technique,
equipment and safety. This course will focus on Olympic style
target archery and will include 28 hours of actual shooting time.
Participants will be exposed to other types of arrow sports on the
range, and through video and class lectures. Students will learn
the eleven steps to archery success that can be applied across
all disciplines of archery. This is a fun, hands on experience that
promotes archery as a healthy lifetime activity. This class is for
everyone from beginner to experienced archers.
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
PER 148
Beginning Indoor Sport Climbing
1 CR
Contact Hours: .5 + 1
Introduces the fundamentals of sport climbing in an indoor
environment. Covers hazard evaluation and risk assessment
specific to climbing gyms. Also covers selection of personal gear,
technical needs, and safety equipment specific to indoor climbing. Introduces and provides opportunity to practice knots, rope
handling, belaying, descent techniques, and top-rope climbing
on an indoor climbing wall. Special Note: Course is NOT offered
through PWSCC, available at KPC Campus.
PER 210
Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician 4 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 4
Provides knowledge and skills necessary to apply emergency
medical training in non-rapid-transport settings. Emphasizes general medicine, trauma, environmental medicine and wilderness
rescue. Provides opportunity for critical thinking, application of
skills and evacuation decision-making. Special Note: Students
are required to obtain BLS Provider CPR certificate before end of
course. Students in possession of current EMT will be awarded
nationally recognized WEMT certificate upon successful completion of course. Course is NOT offered through PWSCC, available
at KPC Campus. Prerequisites: EMT 130.
Intuitively, humans understand physical cause and effect relationships. This class will inform one how humankind has standardized number to physical entities and how cause and effect
relationships are formulated into Laws. Formulas resulting by
applying these Laws will then be used to predict an effect(s)
from some given cause. In general, this class applies number to
the four (4) physical Entities which humankind has created to
understand our universe, and mathematically links Entity and
Concept by using Laws of Relationship. Prerequisite: PHYS 103 or
by Instructor Permission.
POLITICAL SCIENCE
PS 101
Introduction to American Government Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
A survey course of American Government including: The U.S.
Constitution, Federalism, Foundations of American Government
and Politics, the President, the Congress, the Court system, and
the responsibilities of government.
PS 102
Intro to Political Science Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Introduction to political science concepts, political progress,
goals, methods and levels of government.
PSYCHOLOGY
PHYS 103
Basic Physics I Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Natural Science Requirement
Intuitively, humans understand physical cause and effect relationships. This class will inform one how humankind has standardized number to physical entities and how cause and effect
relationships are formulated into Laws. Formulas resulting by
applying these Laws will then be used to predict an effect(s) from
some given cause. In general, this class applies number to the
four (4) physical entities which humankind has created to understand our universe, and mathematically links entity and concept
by using Laws of Relationship. Prerequisite(s): High school algebra, trigonometry and geometry or by instructor permission.
99
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
PSY 111
General Psychology Contact Hours: 3 + 3
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
PHYSICS
4 CR
4 CR
3 CR
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Introduces methods, theories, and research in the psychological
science. Core topics include scientific research methods. Biopsychology, learning memory, cognition, consciousness, and
sensation & perception, lifespan development, personality, psychological disorders, and social psychology.
PSY 150
Lifespan Development 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Reviews cognitive, physical, and social aspects of human development changes which occur during person’s life. Covering the
prenatal period, infancy, early and middle childhood, adolescence, and early middle and late adulthood.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
PSY 153
Human Relations 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
A survey of human relationships to include communication problem solving, interaction, relationships, choices, and change skills.
SOCIOLOGY
SOC 101
Introduction to Sociology 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
PSY 168
Human Sexuality 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Introduces topics of human sexual functioning including physiology, psychology, sociology, philosophy, and morality of human
sexual practices, love and relationships across cultures.
PSY 243
Death and Dying
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
An examination of the events of death and the process of dying
in contemporary society. Psychological aspects of loss, grieving,
and acceptance of one’s own mortality are presented along with
an exploration of helping services available in the local community. Social issues involving death are discussed.
PSY 245
Child Development 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
An introduction to the study of society, the science of humans
as social animals, emphasizing the social processes that give rise
to shape human’s language, experiences, perception, meaning
and behavior. Multiple frameworks used in understanding and
predicting human behavior are examined.
SOC 201
Social Problems and Solutions 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Survey of contemporary social problems. Focuses on the causes
and consequences of social problems and examines processes
through which social problems are identified, prioritized, and
addressed. Prerequisite: ENGL 108.
SOC 242
Introduction to Marriage, Family, & Intimate Relationships 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Study of physical, emotional, cognitive and social aspects of a
child’s development from prenatal period to beginning of adolescence. Includes theoretical view of development and effects
of genetics, environment and socialization.
Introduction to sociological study of contemporary patterns relating to marriage, family and other intimate relationships. Also
explores impact of gender roles, ethnicity and racial background
on beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors. Prerequisite: SOC 101
or PSY 111
PSY 265
Abnormal Psychology SOC 246
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Adolescence 3 CR
Introduces the psychology of abnormal behavior through research and clinical applications using a biopsychosocial model.
Psychological disorders are presented within their multicultural,
gender, and developmental contexts. Topics include history, assessment, suicide, psychopharmacology, mental institutions,
psychotherapy, and prevention as well as contemporary legal
issues. Prerequisite: PSY 111.
Introduction to the world of the adolescent. Examines various
patterns of physical, social, intellectual, and emotional development during the adolescent years. Also looks at the effects of
social class, ethnicity, race, and gender during the adolescence
years. Prerequisite: ENGL 108.
STATISTICS
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
SOC 293
Selected Topics in Sociology 1-3 CR
A topic of contemporary of continuing interest in the field of
sociology.
STAT 252
Elementary Statistics 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Quantitative Skill Requirement
This course covers the nature of statistics, descriptive statistics,
probability, random variables and sampling distributions, inferential statistics, regression, correlation and ANOVA Prerequisite:
MATH 105 Minimum “C” grade of equivalent.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
100
SPANISH
THR 121
Acting I
SPAN 101
Elementary Spanish I Contact Hours: (1-3) + 0
4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Foundation of Spanish for students with no previous knowledge
of the language. Develops listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Spanish for effective communication at the elementary level. Students gain understanding of basic cross-cultural
perspectives.
SPAN 102
Intermediate Spanish II 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Continuation of introductory courses. Further develops elementary listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Spanish for
effective communication. Enhances appreciation of cross-cultural perspectives. Thematic vocabularies and idiomatic expressions
enhances conversational fluency. Prerequisite: SPAN 101
SPAN 201
Intermediate Spanish I 4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Intermediate course for students with basic knowledge of Spanish. Enhances listening, speaking, reading and writing skills for
effective communication at the Intermediate I level. Students
critically examine diverse cultural perspectives. Prerequisite:
SPAN 102
4 CR
Contact Hours: 4 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
Continuation of first semester in Intermediate Spanish. Further
develops listening, speaking, reading and writing proficiency for
effective communication and in preparation for advanced study
of Spanish. Students interpret at diverse cultural perspectives.
Prerequisite: SPAN 201
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course will cover many basic playwriting skills including
objectives and negotiations, character journey, creating distinctive and believable characters, writing strong exposition, and the
business of playwriting.
THR 191B
Introduction to Directing
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
The course covers the fundamentals of the directing process for
staged readings, plays, and video through the use of lectures,
discussions, and directing projects.
THR 192A
Theatre Conference Seminar I
2 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
THR 192B
Theatre Conference Seminar II
2 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Participate in the performance directing, and playwriting workshops as a part of the annual Last Frontier Theatre Conference.
THR 195
Acting Practicum 2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Participation in Mainstage productions as an actor, director,
dancer, choreographer or assistant director.
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Fine Arts or Humanities Requirement
Survey of theatre with focus on artists who contribute to theatrical production viewed within the context of historical styles and
development.
101
THR 135
Introduction to Playwriting THR 215
The Art of the Short Play THEATRE
THR 111
Introduction to the Theatre Acting 1 is an introductory level course to teach fundamentals
of acting, culminating in a performance before a live audience.
Participate in the performance, directing, and playwriting workshops as a part of the annual Last Frontier Theatre Conference.
Course Attributes: GER Humanities Requirement
SPAN 202
Intermediate Spanish II
1-3 CR
Students will study the short play form. They will learn how
to write short plays through reading one-act plays, with both
examples of some of the most produced short plays of the past
twenty years and plays that do not work as one- acts. There will
be study in structure, format, dialogue, theatricality, plot, and
other related dramaturgical issues as they specifically relate to
one-act plays.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
THR 216
American Masterworks of Theatre 3 CR
VS 131
Carpentry I
3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Contact Hours: 1 + 6
Students will study some of the most influential American plays
of the twentieth century.
Consists of modules and the core NCCER curriculum. The course
will provide students with knowledge in basic safety, construction math, hand tools, power tools, blueprints, basic rigging,
building materials, fasteners, adhesives, wall ceiling, and roof
framing, and windows and exterior doors. The course provides
hands-on and classroom instruction to help students master
the skills required for a profession in carpentry. Prerequisite:
VS 125.
THR 218
Full-Length Playwriting 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Students will enter the class with an idea for a full-length
(90+minutes) play they want to write. The class will then revolve
around creating this script. Prerequisite: THR 135.
THR 219
Advanced Playwriting 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Students will study a variety of dramaturgical tools and exercises
to broaden their understanding of playwriting. There will be study
in character, structure, dialogue, theatricality, plot, metaphor, and
format. Students will have weekly writing assignments to practically
implement the concepts being learned. Prerequisite: THR 135.
THR 220
Contemporary Theatre 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Students read fifteen to twenty plays written within the last fifteen years, analyzing them for content, themes, and theatricality. The authors will also be studied, in terms of their bodies of
work, personal histories, and careers. Special attention will be
given to the plays as written from a playwrights’ perspective. The
plays read will represent a diverse collection of writers in terms
of race, gender, and style.
THR 221
Acting II 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
This course is an advanced acting course focusing specifically on
characterization and styles. Students will perform scenes from
variety of genres, culminating in a performance before live audience. Prerequisite: THR 121 or instructor approval.
THR 295
Technical Practicum WOMEN’S
STUDIES
AND
GENDER
WGS 200
Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies 3 CR
Contact Hours: 3 + 0
Course Attributes: GER Social Science Requirement
Introduces students to the fundamental concepts and these in
the interdisciplinary study of women and gender. Course focuses
on understanding institutions, social and political practices, and
cultural representations that shape women’s lives in both the
developed and developing worlds as well as examining the role
that gender plays in society.
WELDING
WELD 101
Gas and Arc Welding
4 CR
Contact Hours: 2 + 6
Introduces basic principles of welding. Covers oxyacetylene
welding (OAW), brazing, silver and soldering. This course is
equally divided between OAW and shielded metal arc welding
processes (SMAW).
2 CR
Contact Hours: 0 + 4
Participation in Mainstage productions as member of a technical
staff. Credit for scene crew, lighting crew, props, costumes crew,
make-up crew, stage management, and/or publicity.
VOCATIONAL STUDIES
VS 125
Woodworking I
3 CR
Contact Hours: 1 + 6
Basic course designed to familiarize students with the safe use of
a variety of modern hand and power tools.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
102
PWSCC REGISTER
College Administration
J. Daniel O’Connor
Vice President of Institutional
Effectiveness & Student Affairs
Ph.D. LaSalle University
M. Ed. Slippery Rock University
B.S. Slippery Rock University
Steve Shiell
Director of Administrative Services
Ryan Belnap
Institutional Development and
Advancement Officer
M.P.A. University of Alaska Southeast
B.A. Bringham Young University Idaho
B.J. Williams
Director of Workforce Development &
Training
B.S. University of Wisconsin-Stout
Susan Harding
Cordova Extension Center Director
M.A. Loma Linda University
B.A. University of California Riverside
Katrina Church-Chmielowski
Director, Copper Basin Extension Center
B.A. George Washington University
Dawson Moore
Community Relations Officer
B.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
College Advisory Council
In recognition of the importance of citizen involvement in the
planning and implementation of higher education programs
and services in the State of Alaska, Prince William Sound
Community College, in support of the Board of Regents,
has established a College Council. The council, advisory in
nature, offers guidance and support to PWSCC campus and
extension centers, and serves as a link between their local
constituencies, the college’s executive management team,
and the Board of Regents.
MEMBER NAME
Michelle Anderson, CBC
Patience Anderson-Faulkner, Cordova
Jean Cobb, Valdez
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Dennis Anderson
Marnie Graham, CB
Adjunct Instructor of Computer Information & Office Systems
Dorothy Moore, Vice Chair, Valdez
Pam Shirrell, Valdez (Chair)
Student Body President
Board of Regents University of Alaska
Patricia Jacobson, Chair (2007-2015)
Kirk Wickersham, Vice Chair (2007-2015)
FACULTY
Dr. John Cullen, Valdez
Michael Powers, Secretary (2011-2019)
Anne Applegate
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services
(CHD)
J.D. Hastings College of Law
B.A. University of California Berkeley
Elizabeth Ballou
Assistant Professor of Psychology (2013)
M.S. Central Connecticut State University
B.S. St. Joseph College
Christine Belgarde
Jyotsna Heckman, Treasurer (2011-2019)
Adjunct Instructor of Art
Fuller Cowell, Regent (2007-2015)
Bruce Bibbe
Dale Anderson, Regent (2012 - 2021)
Timothy C. Brady, Regent (2005-2015)
Adjunct Instructor of Community Education
M.T.P. Institute of Transpersonal Psychology
B.S. Charter Oaks State College
Courtney Enright, Regent (2013-2015)
Annette Blanas
Kenneth J. Fisher, Regent (2009-2017)
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.S.W. University of Alaska Anchorage
Mary K. Hughes, Regent (2002-2017)
Kristin Bayer
Gloria O’Neill, Regent (2013 - 2021)
University of Alaska Anchorage
Principal Administrative Officers
Adjunct Instructor of Accounting, Business
M.A. Northeastern University
B.A. University of Puget Sound
Jason Boerger
Patrick Gamble
President, University of Alaska
Adjunct Instructor of Economics
M.S. Emporia State University
B.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
Tom Case
Chancellor
Chris Boswell
Elisha (Bear) Baker
Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost
Renee Carter-Chapman
Senior Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
A.A.S. Prince William Sound Community College
Kathy Broome
Bruce Schultz
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
Nursing Diploma, Tacoma General Hospital School of Nursing
Megan Olson
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement
Aaron Brown
William Spindle
Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services
Adjunct Instructor of Mathematics
M.B.A. University of Utah
B.S. University of Houston
Michael Brown
Adjunct Instructor of Outdoor Studies
B.A. University of Colorado
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
104
William Bryson
Julie Fronzuto
Adjunct Instructor of Aviation Technology
M.Ed. University of Alaska Fairbanks
B.S. Benidji State University
Associate Professor, Biological Sciences (2013)
Ph.D. Washington State University
B.S. Oregon State University
Sarah Carter
Steven Garcia
Adjunct Instructor of Outdoor Studies
B.L.A. University of Alaska Southeast
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
B.A. Columbia College of Missouri
Kimberly Champney
Andrew Goldstein
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.S.W. University of Wisconsin
B.S. University of Colorado
Adjunct Instructor of Museum Studies
M.A. Trinity College
B.F.A. Rhode Island School of Design
Katrina Church-Chmielowski
Heather Gora
Adjunct Instructor of History, Business Administration
B.A. Georgetown University
Adjunct Instructor of Health Science
A.S. Broward College
Michelle Cullen
Heidi Hamilton
Adjunct Instructor of Health Science, Physical Education
M.A. Montana State University
B.A. University of California San Diego
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.N. University of Washington
B.S. University of Alaska Anchorage
Satwik Dasgupta
Susan Harding
Term Assistant Professor of English
Ph.D. Middle Tennessee State University
M.A. University of Calcutta
B.A. St. Paul’s Cathedral Missions College
Adjunct Instructor of English, Sociology
M.A. Loma Linda University
B.A. University of California
Stephanie Doyel
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.Ed. Boston University
M.S. Utah State University
B.S. Utah State University
Adjunct Instructor of Health Sciences
B.S. University of Alaska
Dennis Eastman
Hilary Hardwick
Kathryn Hawkins
Term Assistant Professor of Millwright
Adjunct Instructor of Community Education
D.M.V. Colorado State University
B.S. Colorado State University
Helen Fleming
Adjunct Instructor of Sociology
M.A. University of Denver
M.A. University of Colorado at Denver
B.A. University of South Florida
Emma Hildebrand
Adjunct Instructor of Art
B.B.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Sally Byrne Flores
Janet Hinde
Adjunct Instructor of Health Sciences
B.S.N. University of Hawaii at Hilo
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
B.S. Washington State University
Richard Freeman-Toole
Adjunct Instructor of Music
D.M.A. University of Illinois
M.A. University of California Los Angeles
B.A. California State University Dominguez
Bart Hinkle
Adjunct Instructor of Justice
M.S. University of Cincinatti
B.A. Lindenwood College
Sue Ellen Howard
Adjunct Instructor of Art
M.S. Michigan State University
B.A. Mansfield University
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PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Mary Paige Lucas
Sara Irwin Goudreau
Adjunct Instructor of Physical Education & Recreation
B.S. Central Michigan University
Brooke Johnson
Adjunct Instructor of Art
B.S. Linfield College
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
Ph.D. University of Delaware
M.A. University of Delaware
M.C. University of Delaware
M.Ed. Georgia State University
B.A. Agnes Scott College
Kimberly Mackey
Meghan Johnson
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.S. University of Oregon
B.A. Gonzaga University
Adjunct Instructor of Geology
M.S. Mississippi State University
B.S. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Melodie Mackey
Associate Professor of Humanities (1998)
M.A. California State University
B.A. Illinois Benedictine College
Shann Jones
Adjunct Instructor of Outdoor Studies
M.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
B.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Gianna McCune
Barclay Jones-Kopchak
Adjunct Instructor of French, German, Spanish
J.D. Northeastern University School of Law
B.A. Cornell University
Adjunct Instructor of Theatre, Guidance
M.A.T. University of Alaska Southeast
B.A. University of Alaska Southeast
Meg McKinney
Adjunct Instructor of Physical Education & Recreation, French
M.A. Stanford University
B.S. Georgetown University
Brie Jontry
Adjunct Instructor of English
M.A. West Chester University
B.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
Kelly Mitchell
Victoria Kildal
Adjunct Instructor of Spanish, Psychology
M.S. Alaska Pacific University
B.S. Union College
Angel Koski
Adjunct Instructor of Psychology
Ph.D. Capella University
M.S.E. University of Wisconsin Superior
B.S. University of Wisconsin Superior
A.A. Vermilion Community College
Karen Kuhnert
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
B.S.W. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Nancy Lovering
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.S. Northern Arizona University
B.S. Northern Arizona University
Leigh Lubin
Adjunct Instructor of Physical Education, Outdoor Studies
M.A.T. University of Alaska Anchorage
B.A. Prescott College
Term Instructor of Nursing and Health Sciences
M.S. Xavier University of Louisiana
B.S.N. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Hellen Miller
Adjunct Instructor of Mathematics, Statistics
M.A. Regis University
B.I.S. Arizona State University
Marlene Moffitt
Adjunct Instructor of Computer Information & Office Systems
B.Ed. University of Idaho
Dawson Moore
Adjunct Instructor of Theatre
B.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
Carla J. Oster
Professor of Computer Information and Office Systems (1992)
M.Ed. University of North Dakota
B.A. Dickinson State University, North Dakota
Derick (D.B.) Palmer
Term Assistant Professor of Outdoor Studies
Ed.D. Argosy University of Seattle
M.A. Liberty University
B.S. John Brown University
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
106
Paula Payne
Margaret Sequeira
Adjunct Instructor of Art
M.F.A. University of Montana
B.F.A. The Cooper Union for Science and Art
Adjunct Instructor of Humanities
M.T.S. Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley
M.Div. Wesley Theological Seminary
B.A. Georgetown University
Stephen Pepper
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
A.A.S. Prince William Sound Community College
Steve Shiell
Karl Pulliam
Julie Silkett
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
B.S. Warner Pacific College
Adjunct Instructor of Health Sciences
AD-NSG Registered Nurse, Lakewood Community College
Ryne (Colt) Radigan
William Simkulet
Adjunct Instructor of Computer Information & Office Systems
A.A.S. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Adjunct Instructor of Philosophy
Ph.D. University of Kansas
M.A. University of Kansas
B.A. Wichita State University
Jill Ramsey
Adjunct Instructor of Physical Education & Recreation
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.S. University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
B.A. University of North Texas
Sue Smith
Andrea Ramstad
Alan Sorum
Adjunct Instructor of Communications
M.A. North Dakota State University
B.A. Arizona State University
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
M.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
M.P.A. University of Alaska Southeast
B.S. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Adjunct Instructor of Health Science
Faith Revell
Adjunct Instructor of Art
M.F.A. Maryland Institution, College of Art
B.A. State University of New York
Lisa Sparrell
Gail L. Renardson
Todd Taylor
Professor of English, Emeritus (2013)
M.A. Florida State University
B.A. Florida State University
B.A. Dickinson State University, North Dakota
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
A.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
Adjunct Instructor of English
B.A. Pacific Lutheran University
Kara Thrasher-Livingston
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.Ed. University of Alaska Anchorage
B.A. Rutgers University
Ruth Robb
Adjunct Instructor of Mathematics
M.A. University of Ohio
B.S. Michigan State University
Victoria Throop
Adjunct Instructor of Developmental English
B.A. Hamline University
David Rosenthal
Gordon Ward
Adjunct Instructor of Art
B.A. University of Maine at Farmington
Nancy Scott-Renfroe
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
M.A. University of Maryland
B.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Jay Scrimshaw
Adjunct Instructor of Mathematics
B.S. Washington State University
107
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
E.D.D. University of Southern California – Los Angeles
M.Ed. University of Nevada – Las Vegas
B.A. Park College
Christopher Washko
Adjunct Instructor of Civic Engagement & Leadership, Guidance
M.S. Indiana State University
B.A. Alma College
B.S. Alma College
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Dennis Anderson
Adjunct Instructor of Art
IT Technician (Cordova)
Erik Westman
Adjunct Instructor of Health Science, Industrial Technology
Kristine Winter
Adjunct Instructor of Computer Information & Office Systems
B.A. University of Wisconsin
STAFF
Michael Webber
Susan Banks
Adult Basic Education Coordinator (Cordova)
Faith Barnes
Administrative Assistant (Cordova)
B.Ed. University of Alaska Anchorage
Janel Wright
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
J.D. Ohio State University College of Law
B.S. Allegheny College
Mark Young
Adjunct Instructor of Industrial Technology
M.S. University of La Vern
M.M. Auburn University
B.M. Henderson State University
Keith Youngblood
Adjunct Instructor of Disability Services (CHD)
Psy.D. Forest Institute of Professional Psychology
M.A. Forest Institute of Professional Psychology
B.S. Baker University
Don Bickley
Virtual Classroom Designer, Creativity & Innovation Coordinator
B.S. Northern Michigan University
Elizabeth Charnell
Campus Life Coordinator/Housing Manager
M.A. University of St. Thomas
Joey Eastman
Adult Basic Education Coordinator (Copper Basin)
B.S. University of Alaska Anchorage
A.A. University of Alaska Anchorage
A.S. Prince William Sound Community College
Andy Eiman
Maintenance Technician
A.A.S. College of Southern Idaho
Shannon Foster
Records & Registration Coordinator
A.A.S. Casco Bay Community College
Heidi Franke
Academic Advisor
B.A. Northern Arizona University
Wendy F Goldstein
Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum Coordinator
B.F.A. Rhode Island School of Design
Ray Gross
Maintenance Technician
D. Russel Lee Career & Technical College
Ana Hinkle
Executive Assistant to the President
M.P.A. University of Southeast
B.A. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Sarah Histand
Health & Fitness Center Coordinator
B.A. Nebraska Wesleyan University
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
108
Eric Huot
Michael B Holcombe Adult Basic Education Regional Coordinator
A.A. Prince William Sound Community College
Gayle Kidal
Administrative Assistant (Copper Basin)
Susan Love
Admissions and Financial Aid Coordinator
B.S. Univeristy of San Francisco
Monica Le
Maintenance Technician
Cody Lewis
Maintenance Lead
Shelia Mann
Administrative Specialist, Office of Academic Affairs
A.A. Prince William Sound Community College
Dennis Murphy
Server Technician
Sandra Rake
Accounts Payable Technician
Jill Yrjana
Administrative Assistant, Office of Administrative Services
STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Maintenance
109
The role of Prince William Sound Community College is to encourage people
of all backgrounds and ages to develop
their skills and talents differently, according to individual abilities and interests, so
that collectively they contribute to the
continuum of democracy. The college’s
policies, procedures, and regulations are
formulated to guarantee each student’s
freedom to learn and to protect the constitutional rights of others. The concept
of rights and freedoms, no matter how
basic or widely accepted, carries with it
corresponding responsibilities. Students,
as well as other members of the college
community, enjoy the same constitutional and civil rights guaranteed all citizens;
at the same time, they are subject to the
laws of the nation, the State of Alaska,
and the local community. All members
of the college community have a responsibility to protect and maintain an
academic climate in which the freedom
to learn can be enjoyed by all. To this
end, certain basic regulations and policies have been developed to govern the
behavior of students as members of the
college community.
The purpose of this regulation is to identify the rights and freedoms of PWSCC
community members (both students
and staff/faculty), to further define the
University of Alaska’s Student Code of
Conduct (Code), and to establish a framework for the enforcement of the Code.
These procedures, and their elaboration
in PWSCC rules and procedures, will allow
for fact finding and decision making in the
context of an educational community, encourage students to accept responsibility
for their actions, and provide procedural
safeguards to protect the rights of students and the interests of the College.
These procedures are applicable to all
students and student organizations.
Student Rights & Freedoms
Freedom of Expression
The rights of free speech and peaceable
assembly are fundamental to the democratic process. The college supports the
rights of students in the college community to express their views and opinions
on actions or ideas, to associate freely
with others, and to assemble peacefully.
Whether expressing themselves as individuals or in organized groups, members
of the college community are expected to
conduct themselves responsibly, according to law, and to respect the basic educational goals of the college. Accordingly,
the college insists that free expression not
violate the rights of others. Disruption of
the educational processes and functions
of the college or violation of law would constitute a violation.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
Freedom of Access
Access to Student Records
Within the limits of its resources, Prince William Sound
Community College shall be open to all applicants who are
qualified according to current enrollment and admission requirements. Prince William Sound Community College does
not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national
origin, sex, age, Vietnam era or disabled veteran status, physical or mental disability, changes in marital status, pregnancy
or parenthood, in any of its policies, practices or procedures.
This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment,
financial aid, and educational services, programs and activities. See the Equal Education and Employment Policy Statement at the front of this catalog.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of
1974, as amended, was designated to protect the privacy
of education records, to establish the right of students to
inspect and review their education records, and to provide
guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data
through information and formal hearings.
Freedom from Sexual Harassment
See the General Information section at the front of this catalog.
Freedom of Association
Students are free to associate to promote their common
interests. They have the right to seek through official procedures establishment of organizations, so long as they are
not in conflict with the educational purposes of the college.
Students have the right to affiliate with officially registered
campus organizations of their choice, within the membership
requirements of those organizations.
Freedom of Assembly
Students may assemble for any reason, so long assembly
does not disturb instruction or the business of the College,
impede the rights of others within the college community, or
violate the Student Code of Conduct. The College reserves
the right to designate appropriate times and locations for
students to assemble for rallies, demonstrations, or other
non-violent purposes.
Freedom From Unreasonable Search & Seizure
Students shall be free from unreasonable search and/or seizure regarding their person and their personal property.
Student Participation in Institutional Government
Students shall be free, individually and collectively, to express
their views on issues of institutional policy and on matters of
general interest to the student body. The student body shall
have clearly defined means to participate in the formulation
and application of institutional policy affecting academic and
student affairs. The Student Government body is supported
by the institution and students may provide feedback to the
college President in monthly President’s Forums.
Academic Rights of Students
The college has the responsibility of providing a program
of high quality education in keeping with its financial resources; students have protection through campus-specific
procedures against arbitrary or capricious academic evaluation. Student performance shall be evaluated solely on an
academic basis, not on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards. Students are responsible for the
proper completion of their academic program, for familiarity
with all requirements of the catalog, and for maintaining an
acceptable grade average for degree requirements. Students
have the right to be informed at the beginning of each term
of the nature of the course, course expectations, evaluation
standards, and the grading system.
Student Code of Conduct
As with all members of the college community, PWSCC requires students to conduct themselves honestly and responsibly, and to respect the rights of others. Conduct that unreasonably interferes with the learning environment or that
violates the rights of others is prohibited by the standards
and guidelines collectively described as the Student Code of
Conduct. Students and student organizations will be responsible for ensuring that they and their guests comply with the
Code while on property owned or controlled by the college or
at activities authorized by the college. For a comprehensive
list of conduct and judicial policies, refer to PWSCC Student
Handbook.
Violations of the Code, which occur on property, owned or
controlled by the college, or at activities authorized by the
college, are subject to judicial review and disciplinary action
by the college. Student behavior which, were it to occur on
property owned or controlled by the college or at activities
authorized by the college, would constitute a Code violation
is subject to disciplinary sanction when the college determines that the behavior would likely have an adverse impact
on the health or safety of members of the college community,
regardless of where the behavior occurs. Students who are
charged with violations of local, state, or federal laws may
be subject to disciplinary action by the college if the offenses
are also violations of the Code. Violations of student conduct
regulations are handled through the Judicial Affairs Office of
Student Services at the Valdez Campus or the Office of Student Affairs at the UAA campus. Each student is responsible
for knowing PWSCC policies, procedures and deadlines. The
judicial procedures and disciplinary actions are independent
of and may precede, follow, or take place simultaneously with
criminal proceedings. College actions will not be subject to
challenge on the grounds that criminal charges involving the
same incident have been dismissed or reduced.
Disciplinary action may be initiated by the College and disciplinary sanctions imposed against any student or student
organization found responsible for committing, attempting
to commit, or intentionally assisting in the commission of
any of the following categories of conduct prohibited by the
Code. A student who has been charged with a violation of the
Code and refuses to participate in the judicial process or who
fails to complete disciplinary sanctions as assigned may be
prohibited from re-enrolling in the college until the charges
or disciplinary sanctions are resolved to the satisfaction of
the college. The examples provided in this section of actions
constituting forms of conduct prohibited by the Code are not
intended to define prohibited conduct in exhaustive terms,
but rather to set forth examples to serve as guidelines for acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
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110
1. Cheating, Plagiarism, or Other Forms of Academic Dishonesty:
a. using material sources not authorized by the faculty
member during an examination or assignment;
b. utilizing devices that are not authorized by the faculty
member during an examination or assignment;
c. providing assistance to another student or receiving
assistance from another student during an examination or assignment in a manner not authorized by the
faculty member;
d. presenting as their own the ideas or works of another
person without proper acknowledgment of sources;
e. knowingly permitting their works to be submitted by
another person without the faculty member’s permission;
f. acting as a substitute or utilizing a substitute in any
examination or assignment;
g. fabricating data in support of laboratory or field work;
h. possessing, buying, selling, obtaining, or using a copy
of any material intended to be used as an instrument
of examination or in an assignment in advance of its
administration;
i. altering grade records of their own or another student’s work; or
j. offering a monetary payment or other remuneration
in exchange for a grade.
2. Forgery, Falsification, Alteration, or Misuse of Documents, Funds or Property:
a. forgery, falsification, or alteration of records or deliberate misrepresentation of facts on college forms
and documents or to any college official or before a
judicial hearing board;
b. misuse or unauthorized use of college identification
cards, keys, funds, property, equipment, supplies or
resources;
c. falsely representing oneself as an agent of the college,
incurring debts or entering into contracts on behalf of
the college; or
d. trespassing or unauthorized entry into, unauthorized
presence on, or use of property which is owned or
controlled by the college.
3. Damage or Destruction of Property:
a. damage or destruction to property owned or controlled by the college; or
b. damage or destruction of property not owned or
controlled by the college if the action constitutes a
violation of the Code, e.g. the action occurred during
an event authorized by the college; the student was a
representative of the college, and the action occurred
while traveling to or from an event authorized by the
college; or the property not owned or controlled by
the college was located on college property.
4. Theft of Property or Services:
a. theft or unauthorized possession or removal of college property or the property of any college member
or guest that is located on property owned or controlled by the college; or
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b. theft or unauthorized use of college services or unauthorized presence at college activities without appropriate payment for admission.
5. Harassment:
a. physical or verbal abuse;
b. sexual harassment; intimidation; or
c. other conduct, including hazing, which unreasonably
interferes with or creates a hostile or offensive learning, living, or working environment.
6. Endangerment, Assault, or Infliction of Physical Harm:
a. physical assault;
b. sexual misconduct and assault;
c. terrorist threats;
d. hazing or coercion or other activity that endangers or
threatens the health or safety of any person, including oneself; or
e. conduct which causes personal injury
7. Disruptive or Obstructive Actions:
a. obstructing or disrupting teaching, administration,
disciplinary proceedings, or other activities authorized by the college;
b. interfering with the freedom of movement of any
member or guest of the college to enter, use or leave
any college facility, service or activity; or
c. taunting or physically harassing wildlife or otherwise
creating an unsafe or hazardous environment involving wildlife on property owned or controlled by the
college.
8. Misuse of Firearms, Explosives, Weapons, Dangerous
Devices, or Dangerous Chemicals:
a. unauthorized use, possession, or sale of these items
on property owned or controlled by the college, except as expressly permitted by law, Regents’ Policy, or
University regulation.
9. Failure to Comply with College Directives:
a. failure to comply with the directions of law enforcement officers or college officials acting in the performance of their duties;
b. failure to identify oneself to college officials when
requested; or
c. failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions imposed
by the college.
10. Misuse of Alcohol or Other Intoxicants or Drugs:
a. use, possession, manufacture, distribution, or being
under the influence of alcoholic beverages on property owned or controlled by the college or at activities
authorized by the college, except as expressly permitted by law, Regents’ Policy, or University Regulation;
or
b. use, possession, manufacture, distribution, or being
under the influence of any narcotic, controlled substance, or intoxicant on property owned or controlled
by the college or at activities authorized by the college, except as expressly permitted by law, Regents’
Policy, or University Regulation.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
11. Violation of Regents’ Policy or University Regulation.
12. Any Other Actions That Result in Unreasonable Interference with the Learning Environment or the Rights of
Others.
Student Discipline & the Judicial Process
The primary purpose of regulations and discipline in a college
or university are to protect the well-being of the community
and to advance its mission by defining and establishing certain norms of behavior. At PWSCC, disciplinary proceedings
have a role that is subordinate to positive guidance, rational
admonition and reasonable appeal to members of its community to observe its stated norms. The disciplinary system
establishes procedures for a fair hearing — including advising
a person fully of the charges against him or her, affording him
or her ample opportunity to speak on his or her own behalf,
and requiring a clear explanation of his or her rights of appeal.
Disciplinary proceedings are instituted only for violations of
standards of conduct defined in advance and published or for
actions that can be reasonably deduced as violations in light
of those specifically defined as such.
Disciplinary or counseling procedures may be the necessary
consequence of misconduct occurring on campus. Whenever
a student’s behavior becomes disturbing to other members
of the college community or hinders the community in its
basic functions, judicial officials may be required to initiate
advising and/or disciplinary procedures.
Judicial Affairs
The steps followed by the Student Services staff to resolve
formal disciplinary matters make up the judicial process. This
system exists to assure that basic due process is granted to all
students of our community who find themselves in conflict
with the community’s standards. All such conflicts are resolved by members of PWSCC community in a system which,
though avoiding the formalities and complexities of a legal
process, nevertheless aim to respect the dignity of the individual as well as personal and community rights. With heavy
reliance on the honesty of all participants, it is assumed that
reasonable people, properly informed, can and will make
judgments in the best interest of the college community.
Decisions will be made based on the “preponderance of evidence.” The following judicial structures and procedures have
been set in place and are to be considered binding on all parties.
The formal responsibility for discipline of student conduct
infractions lay with the Vice President of Student Affairs, who
serves as the Chief Judicial Officer of the college. The Campus
Life Coordinator may adjudicate Student Housing affairs. The
Vice President of Academic Affairs may adjudicate infractions
of academic dishonesty. All possible disciplinary matters begin with an incident report submitted by a member of the
college staff or faculty, or with a formal complaint filed by any
member of the campus community. Each complaint is investigated and, if formal disciplinary action seems called for, then
the student or group alleged to have violated college policy is
notified by a Judicial Officer that the matter will be addressed
through the judicial process.
Some infractions will absolutely involve local law enforcement; it is the responsibility of the Judicial Officer or the college administration to decide whether to involve exterior par-
ties to mitigate the offense. Other offenses may be brought
from the Judicial Officer to a Campus Judicial Committee.
Every student involved in the judicial process has the right to
a due process hearing and to appeal the resultant decision.
Judicial Process
1. Definition of terms:
a. A judicial procedure is a review undertaken by the college to establish whether there is substantial information to determine whether it is more likely than not
that a student violated the Code.
b. Major sanctions are defined as suspension, expulsion,
and revocation of a degree.
c. Minor sanctions are defined as those other than ones
specified as major sanctions.
d. Days are defined as “class days” consistent with University Regulation 09.03.02.
2. After an allegation of misconduct is made, judicial procedures will commence with a preliminary investigation,
at the conclusion of which the designated judicial officer
will:
a. determine whether to dismiss the charges;
b. whether the allegations, if true, would likely result in
imposition of minor sanctions, in which case the matter continues with an administrative review; or
c. whether the allegations, if true, would likely result in
imposition of a major sanction, in which case the student is provided the opportunity to choose between
a judicial board hearing or an administrative review.
3. A judicial board hearing is only available to students
deemed subject to imposition of a major sanction. In a
judicial board hearing the matter is reviewed by a panel
of students, faculty, and staff. In a judicial board hearing
the students are afforded the opportunity to be represented by legal counsel.
4. An administrative review is conducted by a designated
judicial officer and is intended to be an expedited process
for examination of information and decision making. An
administrative review is the only review process for matters involving imposition of a minor sanction. A student
charged with infractions of the Code which would be
subject to a major sanction may choose to have the matter investigated by an administrative review, but in so doing will be required to waive certain processes otherwise
available under the judicial board hearing.
5. An imposition of a minor sanction following a judicial
board hearing or administrative review may be appealed
to the dean or designated appeal reviewer, whose decision on the matter constitutes the final decision for the
college.
6. Findings, conclusions, and recommendations from either
the judicial board or administrative review process to impose suspension, expulsion, and revocation of a degree
proceed to the president after review by the dean. Opportunity will be provided to the student to comment on
the administrative review or judicial board hearing. The
decision of the president is the final decision for the college.
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112
Rights Afforded Student in Judicial Proceedings
1. The college will afford each student subject to judicial
proceedings due process and the opportunity to appeal
appropriate to the alleged violation and the magnitude
of the potential sanction.
2. If an accused student chooses to remain silent or does
not participate in a judicial proceeding, decisions will be
based on available information.
3. A student may be accompanied by an advisor, who may
be an attorney, during judicial proceedings. The advisor’s
role will be determined by the rules governing the proceedings.
4. Students may have copies of the records of their judicial
proceedings at their own expense.
Rights Afforded Injured Parties during the Judicial Process
1. The college will consider the needs and circumstances of
injured parties, especially victims of personal injury and/
or sexual assault. The college will take such measures as
it deems reasonable to prevent the unnecessary exposure of victims of personal injury and/or sexual assault.
2. An alleged victim of personal injury or sexual assault
will be provided such information regarding the judicial
process and the college’s responses as is required by law.
Initiation of a Judicial Review
1. Any college student, faculty or staff member may initiate a disciplinary action against a student for violation of
the Code. Allegations of Code violations must be in writing, signed by the complaining party, and submitted to
PWSCC.
2. The designated judicial officer will review the allegations
and conduct an appropriate preliminary investigation to
determine:
a. whether to dismiss the matter because insufficient
information exists to support the accusation; or
b. whether sufficient information exists to warrant
further judicial proceeding, and, if so, whether the
charges, if substantiated, will subject the student to a
major or a minor sanction.
3. The designated judicial officer will send the student written notification of:
a. the allegations of misconduct and the provisions of
the Code which allegedly have been violated;
b. the designated judicial officer’s name, telephone
number, and office location; and the time period in
which to schedule a meeting to review the charges;
c. whether a major or minor sanction is likely to be imposed, should the charges be substantiated, and if a
minor sanction is likely, that the matter will be pursued with an administrative review; or if a major sanction is likely, that the student has a choice between an
administrative review or a judicial board hearing; and
d. should the student fail to schedule a meeting, the
meeting will be scheduled by the designated judicial
officer.
4. Should a student fail to schedule a meeting within the
time period specified in the notification of charges, the
designated judicial officer will schedule the meeting and
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notify the student in writing at least three class days in
advance of the scheduled meeting that, should the student fail to respond or appear, the designated judicial
officer will conduct an administrative review and that the
student will have waived the opportunity for review by a
judicial board hearing.
5. A student under review for matters which could result
in the imposition of a major sanction will be provided
a written explanation of the differences between an
administrative review and a judicial board hearing. The
student’s choice of procedure must be stated in writing.
a. If the student chooses an administrative review, the
student must also waive, in writing, rights to procedures in the judicial board hearing which are not
included in an administrative review.
b. If the student chooses a judicial board hearing, the
student will be notified in writing that:
i. The names of witnesses, copies of any witnesses’
written statements, or other documents on which
the college will rely will be made available to the
student for review at least three class days prior
to the hearing;
ii. The student must submit to the designated judicial officer at least three class days prior to the
hearing the names of witnesses, copies of any
witnesses’ written statements, or other documents on which the student will rely; and
iii. The student is to have no contact with any judicial
board members or alleged victims involved in the
matter, and, where appropriate, limited contact
with other individuals involved with the hearing.
General Rules & Procedures of Administrative Reviews &
Board Hearings
1. The college judicial system is not a court of law and is not
held to standards applied in criminal proceedings. Formal
rules of evidence will not apply. Testimony containing
hearsay may be heard, taking into account the reliability of the information. Findings and conclusions will be
based upon information presented during the review or
hearing.
2. Reviews and hearings will ordinarily be scheduled between five and fifteen class days after written notice has
been sent to the student, at times determined by the
designated judicial officer.
3. A designated judicial officer will conduct an administrative review or chair a review by the judicial board.
4. Should a student fail to appear for an administrative
review or judicial board hearing, the designated judicial
officer may determine to proceed with the review or
hearing without the student
5. Reviews or hearings may be conducted by audio conference or at an off-campus location, if directed by the designated judicial officer.
6. The designated judicial officer will establish reasonable
rules for the conduct of the review or hearing, and will
make them available to all parties.
7. Students may select an advisor for assistance during the
proceedings. Should the student choose an attorney for
an advisor, the student is responsible for the attorney’s
fees and legal costs regardless of the outcome of the re-
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
view or hearing
8. An administrative review or judicial board hearing will
result in the preparation of written findings and conclusions. Conclusions will result in one of the following:
a. charges are dismissed;
b. a minor sanction is imposed. If a minor sanction is
imposed, the designated judicial officer will send the
student written notification of the decision and appeal rights within ten class days of the conclusion of
an administrative review or judicial board hearing; or
c. a major sanction is recommended. If a major sanction
is recommended, the designated judicial officer will,
within ten class days of the conclusion of an administrative review or judicial board hearing:
i. Send the student written notification of the decision and of the right to provide comment to the
Vice President of Student Affairs or designee; and
ii. Forward the record of the administrative review
or judicial board hearing to the Vice President of
Student Affairs or designee.
Administration Review
1. At the scheduled meeting, the review officer will review
the allegations and available information regarding the
matter. The student, if present, will be given the opportunity to present information, explanations, and/or
mitigating factors for the alleged violation.
2. Administrative reviews will be closed proceedings and attendance at the review will be limited to the designated
judicial officer and the accused student, unless otherwise
authorized by the designated judicial officer.
3. An advisor for the student may also be present during
the review, but may not represent the student in the proceedings, nor speak nor ask questions on the student’s
behalf unless authorized by the designated judicial officer.
4. If, during an administrative review for a charge originally
determined to be subject to imposition of a minor sanction, new information is presented that could make the
student subject to a major sanction, the student must be
offered, in writing, the opportunity for review by a hearing board or for continuing with the administrative review. The student’s choice must be indicated in writing. If
the student chooses to continue with the administrative
review, the student must also waive, in writing, rights to
the processes in the judicial board hearing which are not
included in an administrative review.
Judicial Board Hearing
1. The Judicial Board will be composed of two currently
enrolled students in good academic and disciplinary
standing and three faculty and/or staff members. The
members of the board must be unbiased and may be
selected from another campus or site. Student appointments and alternates will be made by PWSCC president.
Faculty/staff appointments and alternates will be made
by the Vice President of Student Affairs. Cases of alleged
academic dishonesty may be referred to the Vice President of Academic Affairs to serve as judicial officer, who
will appoint faculty and staff to the judicial board.
2. The accused student will be notified, in writing, at least
five class days prior to the Judicial Board hearing of the
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
names of potential judicial board members. The student
may object to a member on the basis of bias, provided
the student notifies the designated judicial officer, in
writing, at least three class days prior to the scheduled
hearing and states reasons for believing the board member is biased. The designated judicial officer will have the
discretion to either uphold the appointment or have the
board member replaced.
The accused student may choose between an open or
closed hearing to the extent that such choices are permitted by state and federal laws. A hearing will be closed
unless the student makes a written request at least one
day in advance of the hearing to the designated judicial
officer for an open hearing. In order to protect privacy or
other rights of individuals involved in a proceeding, however, the designated judicial officer may determine that
all or portions of the hearing will be closed. Witnesses
may attend the hearing only during their testimony.
An advisor for a student may be present and may represent the student during the hearing.
The accused student will have the opportunity to question and hear all witnesses relied upon by the college.
The accused student will have the opportunity to present a defense, including introduction of relevant exhibits,
affidavits, or witnesses, in addition to any information,
explanations, and/or mitigating factors presented during
the preliminary investigation of charges. Admission of
and restrictions on exhibits and other evidence will be at
the discretion of the designated judicial officer.
The Judicial Board will deliberate in closed session and
make its determination within five class days of the conclusion of the hearing, unless an extension is provided by
the designated judicial officer.
Appeal Procedure for Minor Sanctions
An accused student may appeal a decision to impose a
minor sanction to the Vice President of Student Affairs or
designated appeal reviewer. Appeals will be forwarded to an
administrator other than that individual who served as the
initial judicial officer. Appeals to decisions made by the Vice
President of Student Affairs will be heard by the Vice President of Academic Affairs, and vice-versa.
1. Appeals may be made on the basis that:
a. a material procedural error was made during the process which would have changed the outcome of the
matter;
b. the sanction imposed was clearly excessive for the
violation committed;
c. newly discovered information exists which the student
could not reasonably have been expected to know of
or discover prior to the conclusion of the matter and
which information, if known, would clearly have affected the outcome of the matter; or
d. the decision is not supported by substantial information.
2. Appeals must be submitted, in writing, within seven class
days of the day the decision is sent to the student.
3. The Vice President of Student Affairs or designated appeal reviewer will conduct a review of the record and
will ordinarily render a decision within seven class days
of receipt of the appeal. The Vice President of Student
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114
Affairs or designated appeal reviewer may:
a. affirm a decision and / or sanction;
b. dismiss the case;
c. lessen a sanction;
d. refer the matter back for further review;
e. authorize a new administrative review or judicial
board hearing; or
f. take such other action as the Vice President of Student Affairs or designated appeal reviewer deems
appropriate.
4. The decision of the Vice President of Student Affairs or
designated appeal reviewer constitutes the college’s
final decision on the matter. Notification to the student
must be made in writing and in accordance with Regents’
Policy and college regulation.
Review Procedures for Major Sanctions
A recommendation to impose a major sanction from an administrative review or judicial board hearing is automatically
forwarded to the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee for review.
1. The accused student will be given an opportunity to
comment upon the findings, conclusions, and recommendation of the administrative review or judicial board
hearing. Comments must be submitted, in writing, to
Student Services within seven class days of the day the
findings, conclusions, and recommendation are sent to
the student.
2. The Vice President of Student Affairs or designee will
conduct a review of the record within fourteen class days
and may:
a. affirm or modify the recommendation for a major
sanction and forward the recommendation to the
President;
b. dismiss the case;
c. lessen the sanction;
d. refer the matter back for further review;
e. authorize a new administrative review or judicial
board hearing; or
f. take such other action as the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee deems appropriate
If the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee has
recommended a major sanction, the President will
review the record and, ordinarily, render a decision within
seven class days of receipt of the recommendation.
The President may dismiss the charges, impose a
major or minor sanction, or take such other action as
the president deems appropriate. The decision of the
President constitutes the college’s final decision on
the matter. Notification to the student must be made
in writing and in accordance with Regents’ Policy and
college regulations.
Mandated Physical & Mental Health Interventions
PWSCC reserves the right to make stipulations of mandatory
assessment and/or treatment for residents demonstrating
115
behavior that is a threat to their physical or mental health.
It is the goal of the institution and the department to ensure that all residents are healthy and safe. If a student is
perceived to require any clinical assessment or treatment to
remain healthy and safe while living on campus, then the Vice
President of Student Affairs may mandate the individual to
comply with requests to obtain assessment, treatment, and
provide proof of release or indication from a clinician that the
individual is safe to return to campus or the student housing
environment. Those who refuse to comply, who do not complete recommended treatment, or who a clinician feels is inadvisable to return to campus may be temporarily suspended
and/or have their Housing Agreement terminated by PWSCC.
Additionally, as permitted by FERPA stipulations, parents or
guardians of students thought to have imminent health or
safety threats may be contacted by university administrators
and notified of such concerns.
Students suspended for medical reasons in order to obtain
care, or who withdraw at the recommendation of the college, will have tuition and fees refunded. A provision may be
stipulated that the student must provide proof to the Vice
President of Student Affairs that he/she has indeed sought
care or treatment. Students who choose not to withdraw on
their own by a stipulated deadline if offered a medical withdrawal are responsible for the tuition and fees accrued on
their student account.
Disciplinary Sanctions & Reinstatement
of College/UA Benefits
Except where otherwise noted in Regents’ Policy or College
Regulation, the authority to impose sanctions or summary
restrictions may be delegated as provided by PWSCC rules
and procedures. As an independently accredited institution,
Prince William Sound Community College judicial sanctions
and outcomes will be conducted by College. However, as an
administrative unit of the University of Alaska statewide system, outcomes, sanctions, or loss of college benefits may be
applied to statewide partnering institutions of the University
of Alaska system. Likewise, sanctions, outcomes, and loss of
benefits from any other campus in the University of Alaska
system, especially the University of Alaska Anchorage administrative parent institution, will impact a student’s judicial or
legal standing at Prince William Sound Community College.
For major decisions assigned by the UA Board of Regents to
the Chancellor, the Chancellor of the University of Alaska Anchorage shall serve as the authority for such cases at PWSCC.
Summary Restriction
Summary restrictions may be issued in writing by PWSCC Vice
President of Academic Affairs, the Vice President of Student
Affairs, PWSCC President, the UAA Chancellor, or their designee.
Sanctions
In determining appropriate sanctions, a student’s present
and past disciplinary record, the nature of the offense, the
severity of any damage, injury, or harm resulting from the
prohibited behavior, and other factors relevant to the matter
will be considered. The following list of sanctions is illustrative rather than exhaustive. The College reserves the right to
create other reasonable sanctions or combine sanctions as it
deems appropriate.
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
1. Warning: A warning is notice that the student is violating
or has violated the Code, and that further misconduct
may result in more severe disciplinary action.
2. Probation: Probation is a written warning which includes
the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if
the student is found to be violating the Code during a
specified period of time (the probationary period).
3. Denial of Benefits: Specific benefits may be denied a student for a designated period of time.
4. Restitution: A student may be required to reimburse the
College or other victims related to the misconduct for
damage to or misappropriation of property, or for reasonable expenses incurred.
5. Discretionary Sanction: Discretionary sanctions include
community service work or other uncompensated labor,
educational classes, counseling, or other sanctions that
may be seen as appropriate to the circumstances of a
given matter. Costs incurred by the student in fulfilling
a discretionary sanction will be the responsibility of the
student.
6. Restricted Access: A student may be restricted from entering certain designated areas and/or facilities or from
using specific equipment for a specified period of time.
7. Suspension: Suspension is the separation of the student
from the College for a specified period of time, after
which the student may be eligible to return. Conditions
under which the suspension may be removed and for reenrollment will be included in the notification of suspension. During the period of suspension, the student may
be prohibited from participation in any activity authorized by the College and University of Alaska as a whole,
and may be barred from all property owned or controlled
by the University, except as stated on the notification.
The authority to suspend a student is, by this regulation,
delegated to the chancellors (UAA). Chancellors may not
re-delegate this authority.
8. Expulsion: Expulsion is considered to be the permanent
separation of the student from the University of Alaska
statewide higher education system. The student may be
prohibited from participation in any activity authorized
by the College/University and may be barred from property owned or controlled by the University except as
stated on the notice of expulsion. The authority to expel
a student is, by this regulation, delegated to the chancellors. Chancellors may not re-delegate this authority.
9. Revocation of a Degree: Any degree previously conferred
by the College may be revoked if the student is found to
have committed academic misconduct in pursuit of that
degree. The authority to revoke a degree is, by this regulation, delegated to the chancellors. Chancellors may not
re-delegate this authority.
Group Sanctions
Student groups or organizations found to have violated provisions of the Code may be put on probation or sanctioned,
which may include loss of College/University-related benefits and access to College/University facilities and College/
University-held funds.
Reinstatement of College/University Benefits
The conditions, if any, for re-enrollment and reinstatement
of College/University benefits lost through imposition of a
sanction will depend upon the disciplinary sanctions imposed
and will be specified in the notification of sanction. Before a
University benefit lost by sanction at one campus may be reinstated at another, the senior student services officer at the
former campus must be consulted. The authority to reinstate a
student following suspension or expulsion is hereby delegated
to the chancellors by the president of the University of Alaska
statewide system. Chancellors may not re-delegate this authority. Any student who is reinstated will be on University disciplinary probation for one year from the date of re-enrollment.
Final College or University Decision
The College will inform a student in writing when a decision
constitutes the College’s or the University of Alaska’s final
decision in any review procedure. Where applicable, the notification of final decision will also state that further redress
on the issue may be had only by filing an appeal with the
Superior Court of Alaska; that, in accordance with Alaska
Appellate Rule 602(a)(2) regarding appeals from administrative agencies, the student has thirty (30) calendar days after
the University has mailed or otherwise distributed the final
decision to file an appeal; and that failure to file an appeal
constitutes acceptance of the decision and a waiver of any
further legal rights.
Resolution of Disputes Regarding Student Employment Decisions or Actions
Issues related to student employment will be reviewed in
accordance with the grievance procedure specified in Regents’ Policy and University of Alaska Regulation on human
resources, except if specifically modified by Regents’ Policy
and University Regulation on employment of students.
Resolution of Disputes Regarding Academic Decisions or Actions
Examples of academic actions or decisions subject to this
regulation include, but are not limited to: assignment of final
course grades, denial of admission to an academic program,
and academic dismissal. Grades assigned prior to the final
grade received in a course are not subject to review under
this section.
1. Definitions Applicable to Academic Disputes
Academic Decision Review Committee: An academic
decision review committee is an ad hoc committee
composed of faculty and a non-voting student
representative, appointed by the dean/director, and a
nonvoting hearing officer, appointed according to PWSCC
rules and procedures, to formally review a contested
final grade assignment or other academic decision.
Academic Leader: The term “academic leader” is used
to denote the administrative head of the academic unit
offering the course or program from which the academic
decision or action arose. At PWSCC, the “academic
leader” is always the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Academic Unit: The term “academic unit” generally refers
to a department or other group with responsibility for
academic decisions within a school, college, institute, or
center. The term may refer to a school, college, institute
or center in instances when a smaller unit is either of
insufficient size for a given purpose or nonexistent.
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Arbitrary and Capricious Grading: Arbitrary and
capricious grading means the assignment of a final
course grade on a basis other than performance in the
course; the use of standards different from those applied
to other students in the same course; or substantial,
unreasonable and/or unannounced departure from the
course instructor’s previously articulated standards or
criteria. (See also “grading error”)
Class Day: As used in the schedule for review of
academic decisions, a class day is any day of scheduled
instruction, excluding Saturday and Sunday, included on
the academic calendar in effect at the time of a review.
Final examination periods are counted as class days.
Dean/Director: The dean/director is the administrative
head of the college or school offering the course or
program from which the academic decision or action
arises. For students at extended campuses the director
of the campus may substitute for the dean/director of
the unit offering the course or program. At PWSCC, the
“Dean” refers to the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Final Grade: The final grade is the grade assigned for a
course upon its completion.
Grading Error: A grading error is a mathematical
miscalculation of a final grade or an inaccurate recording
of the final grade. (See also “arbitrary and capricious
grading”).
Next Regular Semester: The next regular semester is
the fall or spring semester following that in which the
disputed academic decision was made. For example, it
would be the fall semester for a final grade issued for a
course completed during the previous spring semester
or summer session. The spring semester is the next
regular semester for an academic decision made during
the previous fall semester.
2. Procedure for Resolving Disputes Regarding Final Grade
Assignment
Students may challenge a final grade assignment on
the basis of alleged grading error or arbitrary and
capricious grading. Because grades can affect such
things as a student’s eligibility for continued financial
aid, PWSCC publications must advise students to learn
their final grades and initiate a review, where desired,
as soon as possible. PWSCC rules and procedures must
also stipulate other provisions that may be needed
to expedite these reviews in the manner outlined in
regulation below. The time schedule outlined below
will stipulate maximum time periods within which to
complete stages of the review. However, permission for
extensions of time may be granted, in writing, by the
dean/director of the academic unit offering the course
or other officials that may be identified in PWSCC rules
and procedures. PWSCC rules and procedures will also
outline alternative officials for those instances where
the academic leader or the dean/director is the person
who made the academic decision under review.
a. Informal Procedures
(1) Where possible, students will be expected to
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first request an informal resolution of the final grade
assignment with the course instructor or academic
leader. The process must be initiated by the 15th
class day of the next regular semester of PWSCC
offering the course. The instructor or academic
leader must respond to the request within 5 class
days of receipt.
(2) If the instructor’s decision is to change the
final grade, the instructor must promptly initiate
the process in accordance with PWSCC rules and
procedures. If the instructor does not change
the grade and the student’s concerns remain
unresolved, the student may, in accordance with
PWSCC rules and procedures, notify the academic
leader of the academic unit responsible for the
course. Within 5 class days of such notification, the
academic leader must either effect resolution of the
issue with the instructor or inform the student of
the process for formally appealing the final grade
assignment.
(3) If the course instructor is no longer an employee
of the College or is otherwise unavailable, the
student must notify the academic leader by the
15th class day of the next regular semester. Within
5 class days of notification by the student, the
academic leader must either effect resolution of
the issue through contact with the course instructor
or inform the student of the process for formally
appealing the final grade assignment.
b. Formal Procedures
(1) A student formally requesting review of a final
grade assignment must provide the dean/ director
of the academic unit offering the course a signed,
written request for a formal review, indicating the
basis for requesting a change of grade. The request
must be filed by the 20th class day of the next
regular semester or within 5 class days of receipt of
notification of the process by the academic leader.
(2) In accordance with PWSCC rules and procedures,
the dean/director will convene an academic
decision review committee and forward to it the
written request for formal review from the student.
The committee must initiate proceedings within 10
class days of receipt of the student’s request. The
committee will first consider whether the facts
submitted by the student warrant a formal hearing
and, if so, conduct the hearing. The student and
the course instructor must be notified of the time
and place the request will be considered and of the
process to be followed.
(a) If on initial review the academic decision
review committee determines that the facts
as presented would not constitute arbitrary
or capricious grading or a grading error, the
academic decision review committee will
dismiss the case without a formal hearing. This
decision will constitute the final decision of the
College/University. The committee’s decision
will be provided in writing to the student, the
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
course instructor, and the dean/director of the
academic unit offering the course.
(b) If the academic decision review committee
determines that the facts as presented might
constitute arbitrary or capricious grading or a
grading error, the academic decision review
will, in accordance with PWSCC rules and
procedures, proceed to a formal hearing. The
committee will consider information provided
by the student, the instructor if available, and
others as it sees fit.
(3) The academic decision review committee
proceedings will result in the preparation of written
findings and conclusions. Conclusions will result in
one of the following:
(a) The request for a grade change is denied.
(b) The request for a grade change is upheld;
the review committee requests the course
instructor to change the grade; and the course
instructor changes the grade in accordance
with PWSCC rules and procedures.
(c) The request for a grade change is upheld;
the course instructor is either unavailable
to change the grade or refuses to, and the
review committee directs the dean/ director to
initiate the process specified by PWSCC rules
and procedures to change the grade to that
specified by the review committee.
(4) The decision of the academic decision review
committee constitutes the final decision of the
College/University, and will be provided in writing
to the student, the course instructor, and the dean/
director. The hearing officer will be responsible
for the preparation of a record of the hearing, in
accordance with PWSCC rules and procedures.
(5) Unless an extension has been authorized by
the dean/director, disputes concerning final grades
must be completed by the end of the next regular
semester following the assignment of the grade.
3. Review Procedures for Disputes Regarding Denial of
Admission to or Dismissal from a Program of Study for
Academic Reasons
PWSCC rules and procedures, in accordance with this regulation, will designate the formal and informal process(es)
by which a student may initiate a review of an academic
decision by that PWSCC of disputes regarding denial of
admission to or dismissal from a program of study. The
formal process must include the following elements.
a. A request for a formal review must be filed in writing by the 20th class day of the next regular semester
of the campus making the decision, or within 5 class
days of receipt of notification of the process for filing
a formal review after completion of any informal review, unless written permission for extension of time
is granted.
b. Formal reviews of academic decisions will be conducted by an academic decision review committee
convened in accordance with PWSCC rules and procedures.
c. PWSCC rules and procedures will specify under
which circumstances the conclusions of the academic
decision review committee will constitute the final
decision of the College/University on the matter or
be advisory to an academic officer making the final
decision.
d. The final decision on the matter will be provided to
the student in writing. A member of the review committee will be designated as responsible for preparation of the record.
e. Unless an extension has been authorized by the dean/
director, disputes concerning academic decisions
must be completed by the end of the next regular
semester following the decision.
4. Other Academic Decisions
Review procedures for all other academic decisions are
outlined in PWSCC rules and procedures. This process is
published in PWSCC catalogs or student handbooks.
5. Students with Disabilities
Disputes regarding decisions associated with
appropriate academic adjustments and programmatic
accommodation for students with disabilities will be
reviewed according to procedures set forth in College
& University of Alaska Regulation on students with
disabilities.
Resolution of Disputes Regarding College Judicial Decisions or Disciplinary Sanctions
Disputes regarding College judicial decisions or resulting disciplinary sanctions will be reviewed according to procedures
set forth in College and University of Alaska Regulation on
student rights and responsibilities.
Eligibility for Services Pending Final Decision in
the Review Process
During the review of an action or decision by the College, the
action or decision being contested will remain in effect until
the dispute is resolved. Should an academic action or decision affect the student’s eligibility for financial aid, housing,
or other College services, the student will be informed of the
steps to be taken that may maintain or reinstate the affected
service. The student will be responsible for initiating any necessary actions or procedures.
Additional College Policies
A comprehensive list of College policies can be found in the
current PWSCC Student Handbook. Questions regarding policies and procedures should be directed to Student Services,
834-1600, or [email protected].
Policy on Academic Freedom
Academic freedom is essential to maintaining an environment that stimulates curiosity, inquiry and self-questioning
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and provides full freedom in the classroom in research and
in the publication of results, in order to foster the search for
truth. Each faculty member, when speaking, writing, selecting classroom speakers, and requesting library or film materials, is free from institutional censorship and may determine
course content and textual materials, subject only to reasonable overall statewide academic standards of the community
college or the university.
Copyright and Intellectual Property
The University of Alaska provides network and computing
infrastructure to promote the basic mission of the college in
learning, research, and service by facilitating communication,
collaboration, and access to information resources. Users of
this infrastructure must be mindful of and respect ownership
of intellectual property and copyrighted information to which
this infrastructure can provide access. Copyright and intellectual property rights may attach to files of any media type including software, texts, databases, images, video, music, and
other audio files. Abuse of computing or network technologies to copy or distribute materials in violation of copyright,
license, or intellectual property rights undermines the free
exchange of ideas and access to information resources central to the university’s mission and is expressly forbidden by
university policy and regulation.
The College and the University of Alaska aggressively investigate specific claims of such abuse including abuses using
personally owned computers connected to the college’s or
university’s networks. Verified abuses may lead to immediate
suspension of access to college/university networks and/or
computing resources, subject violators to possible university
disciplinary action, and expose them to fines, other civil penalties, and criminal prosecution by copyright owners. Refer to
the Computer Ethics section of the Student Handbook.
Dispute and Complaint Resolution
College students have a variety of procedures available to
them to process complaints or disputes about actions or inaction by members of the college community which adversely
affect them. The process used will depend on the nature of
the complaint. Refer to the specific sections in this catalog or
in the Student Handbook that address the issues in question.
For disputes about grades and other academic actions, refer
to the Academic Dispute Resolution Procedure; for complaints
about the conduct of another student or disputes regarding
college judicial decisions or resulting disciplinary sanctions,
refer to the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Judicial
Review Procedures; for complaints about sexual harassment
and sexual misconduct, refer to the Student Code of Conduct
and the Sexual Harassment policy at the front of this catalog; for challenges to the content of a student record, refer
to the Access to Student Records procedure and the Student
Educational Records (FERPA) policy. All of these topics may be
found in the catalog and/or the Student Handbook.
For complaints of unlawful discrimination based on race,
color, religion, national group, age, sex, Vietnam era or disabled veteran status, physical or mental disability, changes in
marital status, pregnancy or parenthood, consult the Equal
Education and Employment Policy Statement at the front of
this catalog, or contact the Student Services office at 907834-1631. The college strongly encourages students to make
their complaints known to the appropriate departments and
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individuals within the college. Students may also contact the
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, Washington, D.C., for Title IX (gender equity) and 504/ADA (disability)
complaints.
For other complaints not covered in this section, students are
encouraged to address the offender if it is appropriate and
the individual feels comfortable doing so in order to attempt
a resolution. Individuals may also file a written complaint
with the employee who made the determination or offense,
then utilize the administrative appeals process, as appropriate or forward the grievance to the employee’s supervisor. If
the offender is a student, a grievance should be forwarded to
the Vice President of Student Affairs or appropriate Judicial
Officer. Conflict Mediation will also be provided by Student
Services when requested or warranted. No party should fear
redress or retaliation for addressing a conflict or filing a grievance.
Campus Alcohol Policy
Alcohol, tobacco, and drugs are not permitted in office
spaces, classrooms, or corridors /common areas of PWSCC
instructional buildings at any time. For a detailed explanation
of the College’s alcohol, tobacco, and drug policies, refer to
the Student Handbook. The primary objectives of PWSCC’s
policies and procedures on alcoholic beverages are:
1. To promote responsible behavior and attitudes among all
members of the college community;
2. To educate the college community concerning the use
and effects of alcoholic beverages in order to promote
responsible decision-making; and,
3. To help individuals experiencing difficulties associated
with the use of alcohol.
The Board of Regents has the authority to approve events
where alcoholic beverages may be served to individuals of
legal age with positive identification. Approval to serve alcoholic beverages will be granted on designated premises for
private college-sanctioned events for a limited period of time.
The sale of alcoholic beverages at college-sanctioned events
on campus is not permissible and may not be approved by
the President. Personal consumption, possession, or display
of beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages is prohibited in
college public places.
Any person who exhibits offensive behavior, misconduct,
excessive noise or creates a public disturbance on property
owned or supervised by the college will be subject to disciplinary and/or legal action. Students may refer to the Student
Code of Conduct. A major goal of the learning experience is
to promote individual choice and responsible behavior. A major concern is maintaining an educational environment that is
conducive to learning. Noise and irresponsible or disturbing
behavior that distracts from the learning environment will
result in disciplinary and/or legal action.
Smoking Policy
State of Alaska law prohibits smoking in public buildings and
classrooms. This also includes residence hall space. Smokers
are asked to be considerate of the rights of others and confine
smoking to designated smoking areas at least 20 feet from
building entrances or open windows. No area inside buildings is designated for smoking. Proper receptacles should be
used to dispose of tobacco waste and cigarette butts. Special
PWSCC Academic Catalog 2014-2015
outdoor areas may be designated for smokers.
Sexual Assault
It is the policy of Prince William Sound Community College
that the sexual assault of one member of the academic community by another will not be tolerated. This policy applies
to all members of the campus community, students, faculty,
and staff. The term sexual assault, as used by Prince William
Sound Community College, encompasses the legal definitions of sexual assault contained in Alaska state statutes. It
includes, but is not limited to: Rate, acquaintance or date
rape, as well as rape by a stranger. Sexual assault is against
the law and is defined as sexual misconduct that is forced or
coerced against the will of the victim. The same definition applies regardless of whether the assailant is a stranger or an
acquaintance (date, friend, or someone known casually). This
type of threat may involve physical violence, coercion, or the
threat of harm.
A person who has been the victim of sexual assault should
report the crime to the local police. The Office of Student
Services may provide initial support services for students on
the Valdez campus. At extended campuses, the local police
should be contacted and on-campus staff may serve as resources. Staff will serve in an advocacy role and help refer
individuals for appropriate medical, police, judicial, and
counseling services. Those who report a sexual assault will
be advised of the importance of preserving evidence which
may be necessary to provide proof for prosecution. Sexual
assault is a serious crime and victims frequently experience
emotional trauma and medical consequences. Contacting
resources enables victims to receive the professional help
they may require. It does not commit the victim to further
legal action. Reported complaints of sexual assault will be
investigated and, to the extent possible, the identity of the
individuals will be kept confidential. Whether or not criminal charges are initiated, the victim’s right to file a complaint
through the student judicial system or employee grievance
process remains.
Should the alleged misconduct of a student be subject to
review through formal hearing procedures, the accused and
accuser will be afforded the opportunity to present relevant
information, be accompanied by a support person, and be
apprised of the results of the disciplinary review. Upon request, as reasonably available, assistance will be provided in
changing academic schedules and living arrangements.
of substantially interfering with an individual’s performance
at work or study by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment in which to work, live, or learn.
APPENDICES
Campus Security & Fire Safety Report
The Campus Security & Fire Safety Report is required by federal law and contains policy statements and crime statistics
for PWSCC. The policy statements address PWSCC’s policies,
procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, for
example, policies for responding to emergency situations and
sexual offenses. Three years’ worth of statistics are included
for certain types of crimes that were reported to have occurred on campus, in or on off-campus buildings or property
owned or controlled by PWSCC and on public property within
or immediately adjacent to the Valdez campus and extension
centers in Cordova and Glennallen. In addition, the report
includes fire safety information and statistics pertaining to
the residential community on the Valdez campus. This report
is available online at www.pwscc.edu/safety. You may also
request a paper copy from PWSCC Vice President of Student
Affairs located in room 133B on the Valdez campus, or by calling 907-834-1631.
Drug Free Schools Notification
The Drug Free Schools Notification contains PWSCC’s alcohol and other drug policies and behavioral expectations for
students and employees, disciplinary actions for violations
of these policies, and resources available for assistance with
alcohol and other drug issues. This notification contains
physiological effects, risks and criminal penalties associated
with alcohol and other drug use. The notification is available
online at www.pwscc.edu/students/drugfreeschoolsreport.
cfm. You may also request a paper copy from PWSCC Vice
President of Student Affairs located in room 133B on the Valdez campus, or by calling 907-834-1631.
In the event an accused person is found in violation of this
policy, the entire range of sanctions outlined in the Student
Code of Conduct may be considered including, but not limited to, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion
from the college. Should the alleged sexual assault involve
an employee, sanctions will be determined under applicable
employment contracts and agreements. Sexual assault may
also be considered a violation of the University of Alaska’s
policy against sexual harassment. According to the University
of Alaska Board of Regents Policy (4.08.02), sexual harassment involves unwelcome sexual advances or requests for
sexual favors by a member of the campus community when
the assailant uses, threatens to use, or implies that submission to or rejection of such conduct will have an impact on
employment or academic decisions affecting the victims.
Sexual harassment includes other verbal or physical conduct
related to sex when such conduct has the purpose or effect
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