Academics

General Education Philosophy

General education (the learning experiences common to all students regardless of a specific program of study) is designed to prepare learners to assume a productive role in society, to understand and function successfully in the modern world, and to prepare for lifelong learning. General education will provide breadth to the college learning experience and assists students in acquiring general knowledge, skills, insights and sensitivity needed to function as an educated person in the contemporary world. It is our philosophy to promote student success that helps students be better prepared for college and beyond.

To accomplish this, the faculty have identified four “common learning outcomes” (CLO) that serve as a priority to every student: CLO define the expectations of a Northeast Iowa Community College education and provide the benchmarks against which the College holds itself accountable. The following four (4) areas and corresponding performance indicators have been established through faculty input and leadership. For each CLO a definition is provided to establish a common understanding. Additionally, performance indicators are provided that serve to provide greater specificity (and context) for student performance. These indicators are often parallel (if not the same as) the criteria used on a rubric to assessment learning progress.

1.  CRITICAL THINKING

Definition: Critical thinking is a process of actively and skillfully reviewing, analyzing, synthesizing, comparing, and interpreting information. Conclusions are drawn from relevant and/or missing information and connections are identified between issues. With these skills, multiple problems can be solved simultaneously. Inductive and deductive reasoning are required to perform skills sufficiently.

Performance indicator one: Locate, interpret, and use information effectively.

Performance indicator two: Use intellectually disciplined processes (conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing and evaluating) to solve problems.

2. COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY

Definition: Effective communication is the process of using appropriate techniques to facilitate the clearest possible understanding between the communicator and a target audience.

Performance indicator one: Organization/Structure: The student will employ appropriate organizational/structural techniques throughout a message.

Performance indicator two: Support: The student will be able to support a message.

Performance indicator three: Technique: The student will construct a message free of technical/conventional errors.

Performance indicator four: Purpose/Effect: The student will be able to communicate a message with a clear purpose.

3.  LIFELONG LEARNING

Definition: The lifelong learner identifies, plans, self-evaluates and works toward achieving growth in knowledge, skills and attitudes.

Performance indicator one: Demonstrates initiative

Performance indicator two: Demonstrates adaptability

Performance indicator three: Demonstrates awareness

4.  DIVERSITY

Definition: Respecting and embracing others and their differences

Performance indicator one: Work cooperatively as a member of a team.

Performance indicator two: Appreciate difference and its benefits.

Performance indicator three: Make ethical decisions that respect the rights, values, and beliefs of others.

The College Experience Course Policy

NICC requires first time degree seeking students to take SDV:179 The College Experience during their first semester. This course is required for graduation. Exceptions to this requirement include:

1. Transfer students with an official transcript from previous institutions (excluding high school concurrent enrollment) who have earned a minimum of 12 credits with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
2. Transfer students with an official transcript from a previous institution who have taken a similar course with a grade of C-or better.
3. Students who were previously enrolled at NICC (excluding high school concurrent enrollment) who have earned a minimum of 12 credits with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Degree and Diploma Requirements

Students are responsible for knowing the requirements for the degree they plan to obtain and to work with an academic advisor to plan a course schedule to meet those requirements.  Every student in a degree program (AA, AS, AAS, AGS) must take at least one course with a primary common learning outcome (CLO). In diploma programs, students also must evidence completion of work in all four CLOs, but that work may be embedded and evidenced on the syllabus.

Associate of Arts (AA)

 The Associate of Arts degree provides a course of study which, if satisfactorily completed, will readily transfer to most colleges and universities. College parallel-transfer curricula permit completion of the equivalent of the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program in numerous institutions.

The Associate of Arts degree is a useful beginning if you want to get a professional degree in business, education, engineering, social work and other areas.

General Degree Requirements

• The Associate of Arts degree will include a minimum of 60 semester hours of courses designed and acceptable for transfer, and may include up to 16 semester hours of career-technical courses.
• Students transferring an Associate of Arts degree to a public university must have maintained a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 2.0 on all graded arts and sciences courses acceptable for transfer.
• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses.
• Earn a minimum of 15 credit hours at NICC that meet degree requirements.
• SDV 179     - The College Experience course.

Associate of Science Degree (AS)

 The Associate of Science Degree is primarily designed to enable students to transfer coursework to a four-year college or university for the purpose of earning a baccalaureate degree. This degree program provides a foundation in mathematics and science designed for transfer in a prescribed area of specialization.

General Degree Requirements

• The Associate of Science degree will include a minimum of 60 semester hours of courses designed and acceptable for transfer, and may include up to 16 semester hours of career-technical courses.
• Students transferring an Associate of Science degree to a public university must have maintained a minimum cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 2.0 on all graded arts and sciences courses acceptable for transfer.
• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses.
• Earn a minimum of 15 credit hours at NICC that meet degree requirements.
• SDV 179     - The College Experience course. 

Associate of General Studies (AGS)

 This non-transfer degree is awarded upon completion of an individualized course of study that is primarily designed for the acquisition of a broad educational background rather than the pursuit of a specific emphasis in an associate’s degree or professional/technical program. Intended as a flexible course of study, this degree includes curriculum in lower-division transfer, occupational education and professional/ technical education.

General Degree Requirements

• A minimum of 60 credit hours.
• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses
• Earn a minimum of 15 credit hours at NICC that meet degree requirements.
• SDV 179     The College Experience course. 

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

 Associate of Applied Science programs are designed to prepare students for employment in a career field while maintaining the opportunity for further education. Each AAS program consists of both high quality technical courses and required general education coursework. While AAS programs stress technical preparation, general education courses complement the technical focus.

General Degree Requirements:

• A minimum of 60 credit hours.
• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses.
• Earn a minimum of 15 credit hours at NICC that meet program requirements.
• SDV 179     - The College Experience course. (Note: 15 general education credits are required for AAS degree seeking students. For students who transfer in a College Experience course for less than three credits, or in cases where students are not required to take the College Experience course, students will be required to make up the omitted general education credits.)

Specific Degree Requirements:

Meet minimum general education course requirements in each of the following areas:

• Communication: COM 723  or transfer-level COM, ENG, SPC 3 Credit(s)
• Math or Science: MAT 102    , MAT 744    , MAT 773    , PHY 710  or transfer-level BIO, CHM, ENV, MAT, PHS, PHY 3 Credit(s)
• Social Science: transfer-level ECN, GEO, POL, PSY, SOC or Humanities: transfer-level ART, ASL, CLS, DRA, FLS, HIS, HUM, LIT, MUA, MUS, PHI, REL 3 Credit(s)
• College Experience: SDV 179: 3 Credit(s)
• Electives (transfer-level): The remaining credit hours must be taken from arts and sciences electives designed and acceptable for transfer. (General Education Courses   ): 3 Credit(s)
• Complete a minimum of 48 credit hours in a variety of majors.

Diploma Programs

 Career and technical diploma programs prepare you for entry into employment. While preparation to enter the workforce is a major objective, several programs provide students with the opportunity to complete an associate’s degree with one year of additional study.

General Degree Requirements:

• A minimum of 24 credit hours (developmental courses excluded.)
• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses.
• Earn a minimum of 9 credit hours at NICC that meet program requirements.
• SDV 179     The College Experience course. (Note: Six (6) general education credits are required for diploma seeking students. For students who transfer in a College Experience course of less than three credits,  or in cases where students are not required to take the College Experience course, students will be required to make up the omitted general education credits.

Specific Degree Requirements:

• Complete a general education course from one of the following areas (excluding developmental courses):  ART, ASL, BIO, CHM, CLS, COM, DRA, ECN, ENG, ENV, FLS, GEO, HIS, HUM, LIT, MAT, MUS, PHI, PHS, PHY, POL, PSY, REL, SOC, SPC. 3 Credit(s)  
• SDV 179   The College Experience 3 Credit(s)
• Complete a minimum of 18 career and technical credit hours in specific programs. 

Certificate Programs

A certificate is an organized, sharply-focused array of courses that provides training in a specific occupational field. The number of credits required varies between programs. Certificates are designed to serve individuals who:

• Want to develop, renew or enhance occupational competencies to meet their current employment needs;
• Need to complete a condensed version of a degree curriculum that focuses on specialized knowledge and skills because of a demanding work schedule;
• Seek new occupational skills to enhance their employment marketability.

General Degree Requirements:

• A 2.0 cumulative GPA and a passing grade in all required courses.

• Earn at least 50 percent of credit hours at NICC that meet program requirements.

Program Length

Program length varies based on the educational preparation of the student, enrollment status, successful completion of coursework and course availability. The identified course sequence of a program guarantees a full-time student who receives a passing grade for the specific courses within each semester will be eligible to graduate within the specified program time frame.

Students not ready to begin college/transfer-level writing and math courses may need additional prerequisite coursework that requires them to exceed the normal program length.

Part-time students are not guaranteed that all courses will be offered each semester. It is recommended that students work closely with their academic advisor to ensure successful progression and timely graduation from their program of study.

Course Delivery Formats

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) courses are delivered in one of the following formats:

• Face-to-Face: Classroom-based course sections. Face-to-face instruction often utilizes the NICC learning management system to communicate with class information, provide grades,  and to share course-related resources. The face-to-face venue includes one or more components of lecture, lab, clinical, and/or internship.
• Online: NICC offers a broad range of online courses and degree programs. The academic expectations are the same as face-to-face courses. Online courses utilize the NICC learning management system to deliver instruction. The difference is that the assignments and activities can be performed from a distance, from a computer or mobile device. Online courses deliver quality instruction using multimedia tools, including interactive discussion boards, audio-video recordings, bookmarks, chat rooms, announcements and webcasts. Tuition, registration, financial aid eligibility and credit transferability are the same for online courses as they are for traditional on-campus courses.
• Online Asynchronous: Courses that are completed according to the schedule of the student with due dates of assignments/projects/tests being set by the instructor.
• Online Synchronous: Courses that are broadcast live, online at a specific date/time.
• Video Conference: Taught from one origination site, the instructor delivers the course at one time to students who may be located in various classrooms throughout the district. The classrooms are two-way audio and video classrooms where students can see and hear the instructor and the instructor can see and hear the students. Classrooms are very similar to traditional on-campus classrooms with remote control cameras, TV screen projection and microphones that relay voices and images between locations. (e.g., Zoom)
• Hybrid: Hybrid courses combine face-to-face, video conference or clinical instruction with a portion of the course online. A majority (51 percent or more) of the course content is delivered using the online environment which reduces the time typically required in the traditional on-site classroom. Most hybrid courses meet a maximum of one day per week in the classroom and conduct the remainder of the learning online using the NICC learning management system. This creates a blend of both learning environments for students.
• Competency-Based: In competency-based courses students engage in course materials and can accelerate faster through the course based on prior knowledge and experience. This model is based on two key components: learning for competency and flexible pacing. CBE focuses on helping students achieve competence or mastery of the skills and knowledge covered in courses while allowing the flexibility to move more quickly or slowly through the courses within a semester.
• Web Enhanced: Web-enhanced courses combine campus-based face-to-face, video conference or clinical instruction with online learning. A smaller percentage (less than 50 percent) of the course content is delivered online in the learning management system, with the remainder of the course delivery occurring in a face-to-face environment.

For any given program’s curriculum, some required courses may be offered only as online or hybrid options and will require computer and internet access.

The College reserves the right to change the manner of delivery of instruction and/or course content for any College course offering, and as necessitated by health and safety considerations, public health directives or guidance, or other causes outside the control of the College, in the College’s sole discretion, and without reducing the value or cost of the course offering. The College will not provide whole or partial refunds of tuition for any course which changes in the manner of delivery of instruction or content during the course, as stated above.

Online and Blended Learning

Online and blended learning provides learning environments utilizing modern media and technology to replace the traditional commute to campus for classes. Online and blended learning students experience the same academic rigor, content and curriculum as on-campus students with the additional flexibility in class schedules which can be balanced with personal and work obligations. Online and blended learning courses include online (synchronous and asynchronous), video conference and hybrid formats. Students enrolled in courses with an online component should expect a variety of instructional methods including, but not limited to, discussion boards, bookmarks, chat rooms, web resources and content and video. In addition to a variety of instructional and communication methods, students should expect more reading and required discussions, as well as consistent use of technology. NICC uses an online Learning Management System (LMS) called Brightspace to deliver synchronous and asynchronous online courses. 

NICC enrolls all students, regardless of course format, in a dedicated online course called the Brightspace Toolbox. This is a place where students can familiarize themselves with Brightspace and practice using its tools and features like quizzes, discussions, assignments, the Video Note tool, and using Zoom outside of a “live” class environment.

To determine what course modalities are right for you, contact an NICC advisor and visit https://www.nicc.edu/academics/online/right-for-you/ to learn more.  

To participate in online course components, students are expected to be familiar with computers and the Internet. Students are responsible for their own software and computer equipment maintenance and setup.

Basic System Requirements

• Access to a computer system with an up-to-date operating system (OS) installed (e.g. Windows, Mac OSX, Chrome OS). Mobile devices running iOS and Android are also compatible but not the recommended experience for completing all coursework. 
• An ISP (Internet Service Provider) and a modem or other device capable of connecting to the internet.
• If your download speed is greater than 256 kbps, your internet connection should be sufficient for taking courses at NICC; however, faster connections (greater than 5 Mbps) are recommended for the best experience.
• If your download speed is less than 256 kbps, you may want to consider upgrading your internet connection or finding a faster internet connection elsewhere (possibly on campus, at a public library, etc). If a faster internet connection is unavailable to you, online Brightspace coursework may be frustrating to navigate.
• An internet browser installed on your computer. We recommend that you download one of these recommended browsers and ensure it is up-to-date with the latest features and security patches:
  • Google Chrome (Works best with Brightspace LMS)
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Microsoft Edge
  • Apple Safari

Other Software Requirements

• Word processing software, such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word. Microsoft 365 (online versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel and OneNote) is available to students free of charge. Contact the CIS Helpdesk helpdesk@nicc.edu for more information. 
• Current anti-virus software must be installed and updated.

Course Specific Requirements

• Third-party plug-ins may be required to allow your browser to access interactive features in the LMS (e.g., ReadSpeaker and Honorlock).  You may need access to Administrative rights to add these to your computer. 
• Your course may have other computer equipment or software requirements, such as interactive textbook materials, speakers, a webcam or headset. Please check the syllabus to see if your course has other requirements.

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements

Northeast Iowa Community College has been approved by the state of Iowa to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).. NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of post secondary distance education.

NICC is registered as a private institution with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, sections 136A.61 to 136A.71. Registration is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions.

Standards of Academic Progress

A student who has attempted nine or more credit hours is expected to maintain a 2.0 cumulative minimum GPA (grade point average). Any student failing to maintain a 2.0 GPA will be considered on academic probation status. The student may return to good academic standing when the cumulative GPA is raised to 2.0 or higher.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an academic advisor or counselor and utilize support resources when experiencing academic difficulty.

Minimum Grade Requirements for Health Occupations

Students enrolled in health occupations programs must pass all required coursework with a minimum of a C- grade. However, a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA (C grade average) is required to graduate from the program and the College. Students should work with their academic advisor to ensure grade requirement compliance.

Attendance

There is a strong relationship between success in college and class attendance. Any absence interferes with the learning process and may contribute to academic failure. Because Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) is dedicated to helping students succeed, the College is committed to the importance of regular attendance in all classes. NICC instructors are required by federal student financial aid regulations to maintain accurate attendance records and submit those records periodically to the Financial Aid Office. Instructor notification of non-attendance could interfere with Veterans Administration or other financial aid benefits. The Department of Education defines academic attendance and attendance at an academically related activity as being academically engaged in the course. Some examples include:

• Physically attending a class where there is an opportunity for direct interaction with the instructor
• Submitting an academic assignment
• Taking an exam or an interactive tutorial
• Participating in a study group that is assigned by the instructor
• Participating in an online discussion or message board assignment

Instructors individually determine their attendance policies. It is each student’s responsibility to learn their instructors’ attendance policies. Students are expected to confer with instructors immediately regarding potential or past absences.

In cases of advance knowledge of an absence, students should confer with the instructor prior to the absence.

Career and Technical Programs Mandatory Attendance

Regular and punctual attendance is mandatory in selected Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Career and Technical program core courses. Students are required to review and sign a Mandatory Attendance Policy on the first day of classes

Students missing the designated number of scheduled class meetings without excuse will be subject to being administratively withdrawn from the course(s). This withdrawal may have academic or financial consequences. Students who miss class because of a college-sanctioned event will be excused from attendance but not excused from completing necessary coursework. Students should contact their instructor for further guidance.

Change in Enrollment Status

Course Change/Course Section Change

Students requesting a change in their course schedule prior to the start of the semester should contact their advisor or can make the change themselves online, provided they were given access to do so by their advisor. Once the semester begins, changes to schedules can only be completed in the Student Services Office.

• 15-16-week course additions or section changes will be allowed in courses in the first five days of the semester, and thereafter (sixth through tenth day), will need instructor permission.
• 9-14 week course additions or section changes will be allowed through the fifth day of the course section start date.
• 8-week or less course additions or section changes are not permitted after the third day of the course section start date.

Students are informed by advisors that tuition charges, program length, and financial aid may be affected by course section changes. No additional tuition and fee charges occur for course section changes during the 100 percent refund period when the course credits remain the same.

If a student wishes to transfer to a section with a later start date within the semester, a grade of ‘W’ (withdrawal) will be assigned to the original section, and the student will be charged for the new section.  A refund may be received for the original section if the change is made during the refund time period stated in the NICC Refund policy.

Course Withdrawal/Withdrawal from the College

Students may officially withdraw from a course prior to completing three-fourths of the course by completing a Withdrawal Form available in the Student Services Office. Course withdrawals will be listed on the student’s permanent records with a grade of ‘W’ (withdrew) and are not computed into the student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA). Students can also submit a written request to withdraw by fax or email. Students who do not complete the official withdrawal process may expect to receive a failing grade. Charges for withdrawal during summer, special sessions or condensed sessions will be prorated accordingly. (See Tuition Refund Policy.)

If a student wishes to transfer to a section that begins at a later date within the semester, a grade of “W” will be assigned to the original section and the student will be charged for the new section. A refund may be received for the original section if the change is made during the refund time period stated in the NICC Refund Policy.

Students who officially withdraw from all courses within a semester and receive financial aid are subject to Return of Title IV Federal Funding and Satisfactory Academic Progress policies. Refer to the Financial Aid    section of the catalog for further details.

Administrative Withdrawal

Under most conditions, the responsibility for withdrawal from a class or from the College rests with the student. However, in certain situations, it may be in the best interest of the student and/or the College community to implement an administrative withdrawal from course(s), a program, or from the College.

Students may be withdrawn at any time during the semester, with written notice, due to (but not limited to):

• Incarceration;
• Inability to comply with student visa regulations;
• Extenuating circumstances due to medical or mental health conditions;
• Behavioral/academic misconduct violations as defined in the Student Conduct Code policy and processes;
• A failed drug test, background check and/or health requirement as mandated by individual programs;
• Failure to adhere to the terms of the CTE Mandatory Attendance Policy;
• Other situations as deemed appropriate by College administration.

If administratively withdrawn, students will receive a letter from the College Registrar indicating the rationale and any re-enrollment procedures. Any adjustments in tuition and fees due to an administrative withdrawal will be based on the College’s published tuition refund policy. All circumstances leading to an administrative withdrawal will be documented and a record of action maintained in the student’s academic record.

Medical Withdrawal from the College

A student who documents medical reasons for withdrawing from classes due to a physical illness or injury or for mental health conditions will be permitted to withdraw from classes beyond the official withdrawal date with a “W” recorded on the transcript. It is the student’s responsibility to provide a signed document from an appropriate medical provider, licensed mental health professional, social worker, certified counselor or College counselor, citing the reason for the required withdrawal. The document must list the date of the onset of the medical condition preventing the student’s completion of classes, and the date the student will be permitted to return to regular classes, if at all. The request for withdrawal must be presented by the last day of the semester for which the withdrawal is requested. The student must have been regularly attending classes up until the date the medical condition occurred. Based on the documentation received, the student may be allowed to withdraw from certain classes or may withdraw from all classes scheduled in the semester of the request. No adjustments in tuition and fees will be given in the case of a medical withdrawal.

Military Absence

NICC provides reasonable accommodations for students who must be absent from class due to military obligations or required medical treatment for service-connected conditions.

In the case of military training or drill periods, the student will disclose the leave schedule and a copy of unit training/activation/deployment orders issued by the Unit Commander to the Military and Veteran Services Coordinator as soon as the unit provides such documentation.

In the case of medical treatment, documentation of a VA appointment may be requested to validate the reason for the absence. Documentation should be provided directly to the Military and Veteran Services Coordinator who will notify the instructors of the legitimacy of these absences.

A copy of the full policy and procedure may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office.

Students Called to Active Duty

NICC provides reasonable options for students called to active duty who are members of the Iowa National Guard or reserve forces of the United States and the spouses of such members if the members have dependent children when they are ordered into active duty. Students will be required to meet with the Military and Veteran Services Coordinator and submit a copy of their assignment orders or letters from their commanding officers. A copy of the full policy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office.

Tuition and Course Fee Refund/Adjustment

Students who wish to cancel their registration or drop a course must notify the Student Services Office before the first day of the semester or class to avoid tuition/fees assessment.  Students who withdraw from NICC or drop a course may be eligible for a refund/adjustment of their tuition and fees.  Refunds/adjustments of tuition and fees will not be issued to students based on non-attendance.  Refunds/adjustments of tuition and fees are calculated based on the start date of the course.  Calendar days, less holidays and weekends, are used for calculations regardless of the number of class meetings.

Indebtedness Policy

Students may not register for any new term while they have prior unsettled indebtedness to NICC, unless an approved payment arrangement has been made with the Finance Office.  During the period in which the indebtedness remains unsettled, no transcripts or other official credentials can be obtained from the College. Diplomas or degrees will not be granted nor will credits be transferred to another college until all accounts are settled.

Course Credit and Load

Unit of Credit

Each course carries term hours of credit based on the total contact hours and the method of instruction. Term hours are used to determine a student’s GPA (grade point average).

Course Load

Enrollment status is based on the number of enrolled credit hours each semester. Full-time status is a minimum of 12 credit hours. Unless prescribed otherwise by the student’s program, the recommended course load for fall and spring may not exceed 19 credit hours and 12 credit hours for summer.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Assessment

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) has made a commitment to student learning and assessment and supports the granting of credit for prior learning in accordance with the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) Standards of Assessment. CAEL supports a thorough assessment of each student’s formal and informal prior training and experience and awards academic credit for college-level knowledge and skills a student has gained outside of the classroom, including employment/work experience, professional certification, non-credit courses, military training/service, volunteer and civic activities, travel and hobbies.

General Guidelines

1. Students may apply for CPL at any time after their application to NICC, and one semester prior to program completion, with the exception of single-semester programs. Student must be in good standing at NICC.
2. Students may apply for CPL only for those courses required for their program of study; this may include general education and elective courses.
3. Students may not use financial aid to pay for charges related to Credit for Prior Learning.
4. CPL credit may be awarded to students who show a level of learning comparable to the objectives and outcomes required for course completion. Students must meet and document a minimum of 80 percent of course outcomes in order to be awarded credit for any given courses.
5. Credit for prior learning may be awarded for courses with prerequisites at the discretion of the faculty and academic dean. Credit allowances for incomplete prerequisite courses will be satisfied with elective credits.
6. A maximum of 45 credits of transferable degree requirements (eg. Associate of Arts, Associate of Science) can be satisfied by receiving academic credit through PLA. For non-transferable degree programs (eg. Associate of Applied Science and Diploma), the maximum credits that may be satisfied through PLA may vary.
7. Credit residency requirement: At least nine credits must be earned at NICC for a Diploma, and 15 credits for an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science degree or an Associate of General Studies degree. Credits earned through CPL (with the exception of NICC non-credit to credit transfer) will not be considered for this requirement in the award of diplomas or degrees.
8. NICC will allow the transfer in of credits earned at another post secondary institution as long as those credits correlate to a specific course that is required for the student’s program major and given that the course in question is equivalent to a required NICC course.
9. Students may not receive CPL for courses already successfully completed at NICC or another post-secondary institution.
10. NICC does not guarantee that another post-secondary institution will accept CPL credit in transfer. Students interested in transferring to another college should verify CPL transfer policies with that institution.
11. Application for Credit for Prior Learning does NOT guarantee an award of credit.

Course Transfers

1. The College accepts credits from other accredited colleges and universities in which a minimum grade of C- has been earned.
2. Students who desire to transfer credit to NICC are required to provide the Admissions Office with an official transcript.
3. Courses which correspond to an equivalent NICC course are transferred at face value and may be used to fulfill program requirements.
4. Higher level coursework may be transferred in and substituted for program requirements upon recommendation of the Registrar’s Office and approval of the academic dean.
5. The student is required to provide the Registrar with a copy of the transferring course guide if a question exists regarding the equivalency of the course.
6. Courses completed more than five years ago may be transferred in upon approval of the academic dean.
7. Grades for courses transferred to NICC are not computed in the students GPA
8. If a student changes his/her program, an evaluation will be completed for the new program.
9. There is no fee to award credit for transferred coursework.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Articulation of High School Courses

1. Students enrolled in high school courses with mutually agreed upon competencies between the high school and NICC program faculty and dean may receive articulated credit for NICC non-transfer level career and technical courses.
2. Students must attend NICC within 15 months of high school graduation to be eligible for articulated credit.
3. Articulated credit is entered on the NICC transcript after the student has accumulated 12 NICC credits post-high school.
4. Articulated courses are recorded on the student’s transcript without a grade and are not included in the calculation of the student’s credit grade point average (GPA).
5. There is no fee to award credit for articulated coursework.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Credit for Learning from Business, Industry & Training Entities

1. Learning experiences offered by a post secondary institution, business entity or professional industry training entity may include credit bearing courses, certifications, non-credit bearing classes, workshops and planned experiential learning events.
2. The review of credentials is done on an individualized basis by the academic dean and program faculty who will determine applicability to program requirements.
3. Guidelines established by the American Council on Education (ACE) assist the College in PLA; ACE is an organization that works with companies and labor unions to evaluate internal training courses for college credit”.
4. There is no fee for credit for sponsored learning.
5. These courses are not computer in the students GPA.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

National Recognized Proficiency Examinations

Standardized examinations are a means of recognizing subject area knowledge and mastery of established content. Credit is awarded through the successful completion of these examinations.

1. There is no fee to award credit for proficiency examinations.

Standardized examinations recognized by the College include:

1. Advanced Placement (AP) Exams: Exams taken in high school to evidence superior student achievement.
2. College Level Examination Program (CLEP): The CLEP program is a means of recognizing informal education experience through successful examination on post-secondary content area. Two forms of the CLEP exams are available: the General examination, which measures college-level achievement in general education areas usually covered in the first two years of college, and the Subject Examination, which measures achievement in specific college courses.
3. Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support “DDST” or “DANTES Subject Standardized Tests”: These tests, originally created for military personnel to evidence learning, are now also open to the general public.
4. Excelsior Examinations, New York Foreign Language Proficiency “UExcel Exams” or “NYUFLP”:
5. Other exams: Student scores on other nationally recognized examinations will be reviewed on an individual basis.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Course Examinations Designed by NICC Faculty

College faculty, following guidelines established by the vice president of learning and student success, may offer cumulative examinations for students to pass out of program courses. Opportunities for these examinations are at the discretion of the academic dean.

1. The minimum performance level for earned credit will be equal to a “C-” grade or higher.
2. Students seeking credit by examination must do so prior to or during the first week of the semester in which they request to have the credit transcripted.
3. Credit by examination will be recorded on the NICC academic transcript with the grading symbol “T”. The course information will also be noted on the transcript.
4. Students are required to pay 50 percent course tuition and full fees for credit granted by course examination.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Credit for Military Experience

Credit may be granted to veterans for educational experiences completed in the Armed Forces of the United States or for college work completed through the United States Armed Forces Institute. Credit may also be accepted from other institutions participating in the Servicemen’s Opportunity College “SOC”. Credit may be awarded for successful completion of technical or specialized training attended while on active duty to the extent that it is applicable to program content. Students are required to provide an official military transcript (AARTS or SMART) to the College. The College considers the recommendations for Credit in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services of the Office of Education Credit of the American Council on Education.

1. There is no fee to award credit for military experience.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Credit for Life Experience (Portfolio/Skills Assessment)

Students who are able to demonstrate skills and achievements through their life experience (e.g. employment, volunteerism) prior to enrollment in a given course may be eligible for credit for life experience. Through the development of a portfolio, students must demonstrate they have met a minimum of 80 percent of the course objectives and units of instruction for which they are seeking credit. The portfolio must evidence knowledge that can be supported through the demonstration of competence, written or oral examination and documentation from a current or past employer. The review and evaluation of student achievement will be conducted by a faculty member familiar with the discipline in which the student is seeking credit.

1. Credit for life experience is at the discretion of each individual department and limited to the courses within that department.
2. Students must submit a separate portfolio for each course he/she is seeking credit. Before submitting your portfolio, it is recommended that you make a copy for your files in the unlikely event that it may be lost during shipment. Include the evaluation fee of $50 (nonrefundable) with your packet and mail or deliver to the Dean of your program.
3. General education courses and any course in which a CLEP exam is offered are not eligible for credit for life experience.
4. Portfolio credits are not accepted from another post secondary institution.
5. There is a limit of 18 credits for portfolio completion.
6. When credit is granted, an invoice will be sent minus the portfolio review fee for the amount due. Students receiving four to six CLE credits will have an additional fee of $25. Student receiving seven or more credits of CLE will be charged an additional fee of $50. The maximum fee a student will be charged is $125 for up to 18 CLE credits.
7. Credit for Life Experience will be recorded on the NICC academic transcript with the grading symbol “L”. And the grade will not be computed in the students GPA.

For further information, refer to www.nicc.edu/admissions/credit-for-prior-learning/.

Placement and Course Prerequisites

The College is committed to ensuring students are prepared to enroll in their coursework. Placement into courses is determined using multiple measures: placement assessment test scores, high school GPA and coursework, and past college credits earned.

Where assessment testing is needed, ACCUPLACER® Next Generation Reading and ACT Reading are used to assess skills in reading, and ACCUPLACER Writeplacer, ACT English, and SAT ERW are used to assess writing skills.  ALEKS® Math, ACT Math, and SAT Math are used to assess skills in math. Reading and writing placement scores are valid for three years, and math placement scores are valid for two years prior to the date of course registration.

Assessment scores, high school GPA, and previous college coursework can also be used to fulfill prerequisites for certain courses or meet requirements for acceptance into certain programs of study.

Students will be dropped from a course if they have not met the prerequisite. The student will be notified of this action as it may impact his or her financial aid, tuition and program length. Course prerequisites and co requisites are listed in the College Catalog under Course Descriptions, on Educational Plans or online when searching for courses. Questions regarding a course prerequisite should be directed to an advisor or the appropriate department dean.

Change of Academic Program

Students may request a change in their academic program at any time by completing a Program Intent form.  The Program Intent form allows for the following:

1. New students who wish to change their admission program;
2. Continuing students who wish to change their academic program;
3. Continuing students who wish to declare a second academic program;
4. Graduating students who wish to be readmitted to NICC into a new academic program.

Students can initiate the Program Intent form in the Student Services Office. Changes made after the first two weeks of the semester become effective at the beginning of the following semester.  Students should recognize that a change in their academic program may affect length of enrollment and financial aid.

When the program change requires an assignment of a new advisor, the Student Services Office will make the change.  An advisor in the Student Services Office will register the student in the new program for the next semester, and then the student may be assigned to a new permanent advisor for future semesters.

Grading System

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) uses the four point grading system. Letter grades are assigned to represent levels of accomplishment: Credit for graduation is granted for the following grades: A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D, D-, L, P and T. In programs that have a minimum C- policy for all courses, credit for a D grade is not given. Instructors have the option of assigning plus/minus grades.

Grade and Cumulative Grade Point Average

The grade point average is determined in the following manner:

1. Allow four points for an A, three points for a B, two points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F. Multiply the number of points equivalent to the letter grade received in each course by the number of credit hours for the course to arrive at the quality points earned in each course.
2. Divide the sum of quality points by the total number of credit hours. The quotient represents the grade point average for the semester.

The cumulative GPA is determined in the same manner as the GPA except that all of the student’s work at NICC is used in the compilation.

Instructors will specify the grading standards used for each course which may include plus/ minus grading. A “C-” grade satisfies minimum academic requirements for courses that currently fall under the minimum “C” policy. However, a minimum 2.0 cumulative program GPA is required for graduation.

Dean’s List

Students who have completed nine or more credit hours and achieved a 3.5 or better GPA in any semester are honored by being named to the Dean’s List. This list is submitted to area newspapers for publication each semester.

Grading Policies

Grades

Grades will be available online at the end of each semester. Students can access their grades at selfserv.nicc.edu/Student. Grades will not be given out over the phone. Questions regarding specific grades should be directed to the course instructor.

Incomplete Grading Policy

A temporary grade of “I” (incomplete) may be given for work that is not completed when the student is passing at the time of request, but special circumstances beyond the students’ control prevent completion of the course. It is not used to give a failing student an opportunity to re-do unsatisfactory work or to allow more time to complete the work when the reasons for the delay have been within the student’s control. In general, failing the final exam or project or not submitting coursework as a result of inadequate preparation or learning are not valid excuses.

To qualify for an “I” grade, the student will need to sign an Incomplete Contract agreement with the instructor which documents the reason for the “I,” the requirements remaining for resolving it and the date by which it must be completed, not to exceed midterm of the following semester. The instructor then enters an “I” as the final grade and submits the Incomplete Contract Agreement to the appropriate department dean who will then submit it to the Registrar.  If an “I” grade is not recorded as the final grade, and the Incomplete Contract Agreement is not submitted, a grade of “F” will be recorded for that students.

If the student is not available at the end of the course to sign the Incomplete Contract Agreement because of ill health or other reasons, the instructor may assign an incomplete grade and submit the form without the student’s signature. The Registrar’s Office will mail a copy of the form to the student. The student has until the date designated on the contract or no later than midterm of the following semester to complete the remaining requirements. If the student has not contacted the instructor by the designated date to resolve the incomplete mark as set forth in the Incomplete Contract Agreement, the mark of “I” will automatically change to a grade of “F.”

When a student completes the requirements specified on the Incomplete Contract Agreement, the instructor submits the appropriate grade on a Grade Change Form to the appropriate dean who will then submit it to the Registrar’s Office. A final course grade, once submitted to the Registrar, may not be changed to an incomplete (I) except to correct an error at the request of the instructor and with the approval of the instructor’s department dean. The instructor should send a Grade Change Form reporting the change to the appropriate dean who will forward them to the Registrar if the change is approved.

If a student completes an Incomplete Contract Agreement for a course that serves as a prerequisite for an advanced level course, they will not be allowed to enroll in the advanced course until the incomplete grade is resolved.

Noncredit (Audit) Policy

The audit option provides students the opportunity to attend a class as a non-credit participant, usually as a listener-observer. This alternative may have value for students who want an introduction to a subject outside their major field, a review or refresher in a subject or for other purposes where credit and grade are not needed or would pose an unnecessary academic threat. Students will have the option of completing assignments and taking examinations.  Some programs may have additional criteria in place for how students can audit courses.

Audit enrollment carries no credit or grade point value, and said status will be recorded on the student’s transcript as an “N.” No inference is made about the quality of a student’s mastery of the course subject matter.

A 50 percent reduction in the standard tuition rate is available to students who elect noncredit (audit) status prior to the beginning of the course.  Students wishing to change to noncredit (audit) status after the beginning of the course will pay full tuition.  The change to an audit must be made by completing a Withdrawal/Audit Form by three-fourths of the way through the course.  Refunds for audited courses will be subject to the standard college refund policy.

Caution is advised in the use of an audit as the course must be repeated for a letter grade if credit is desired at a later date. An audited course cannot be changed to a graded course once the semester has started.

The reduced audit rate will not apply to course fees, practicum/internship courses or courses within health programs that have a clinical component.

Course Final Grade Appeal Process

The assessment of the quality of a student’s academic performance is one of the major professional responsibilities of College faculty members and is solely and properly their responsibility. It is essential for the standards of the academic programs at NICC and the integrity of the certificates, diplomas and degrees conferred that the professional judgments of faculty members not be subject to pressures or other interference from any source.

It is necessary, however, that any semester grade be based on evidence of the student’s performance in a course, that the student have access to the evidence, that the faculty be willing to explain and interpret the evidence to the student and that a grade be determined in accordance with announced guidelines.

Capricious grading is limited to one or more of the following:

• The assignment of a grade to a particular student on some basis other than performance.
• The assignment of a grade to a particular student by more exacting or demanding standards than were applied to other students.
• The assignment of a grade which represents a substantial departure from the instructor’s written standards outlined in the course syllabus.

During the semester, grading concerns will be dealt with according to departmental guidelines. Student appeals for a course final grade change must be initiated within ten (10) business days of the official final grade due date as established by the Registrar’s Office. A copy of the Final Grade Appeal Policy and form can be obtained from the Dean’s Office.

Repeating Courses

Students may wish to repeat a previously taken course. A student who wishes to repeat an NICC course to improve the grade will need to repeat the same course at NICC. Both courses will be shown on the permanent transcript. The original grade will have

New Start Policy

The New Start Policy is intended for students who change to a new program of study after receiving unsatisfactory grades in a previous program (cumulative GPA below 2.0) at NICC. To be eligible for a New Start consideration, these requirements must be met:

1. Student must not have been enrolled at NICC for three consecutive semesters;
2. Student must be enrolled in a new program of study, regardless of whether it is arts and sciences or career and technical;
3. Student must currently be enrolled and have successfully completed 12 semester hours (that impact GPA) in the new academic program with a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or better;
4. Student must not have graduated from any program at NICC; and
5. Student must not have successfully completed any high school/dual credit coursework.

Students should begin the process by discussing their option to apply for a New Start with their advisor. If a student determines they would like to proceed to petition for a New Start, they will need to request a New Start Petition through the Registrar’s Office.

If a student is granted a New Start, the following six conditions will apply:

1. The New Start policy is a one-time-only option, and once granted, the New Start may not be rescinded.
2. A New Start may only be applied to academic semesters completed prior to the student’s extended absence.
3. All academic work taken prior to the student’s enrollment in the new program will be removed from the student’s GPA calculation and degree requirements.
4. Courses are not removed from the transcript by a New Start. If a New Start is approved, all courses in the approved semester(s) will receive a grade symbol “O.” The approved semester(s) will be any courses taken during semesters prior to the student enrolling in a new program. Grades earned for the semester(s) specified in the request will not be included in the calculation of the student’s cumulative grade point average.
5. Students will not be able to use any course with a grade symbol of “O” to meet graduation requirements.
6. This is an NICC policy only. Students will need to check with their transfer institution regarding cumulative GPA computation policies for incoming students. Please note that courses with an “O” grade may not be transferable to another institution.

Student Concerns

The College’s stance is that it is efficient to have issues resolved at the lowest level possible. Students are encouraged to make an informal inquiry to an instructor, advisor or assigned dean/director as soon as possible following the event that gave rise to the complaint. Staff, visitors, community members or other individuals are encouraged to make informal inquiries to the designated staff person with assigned responsibility in the area of concern as soon as possible to reach a resolution.

When resolution is not reached or not practical though informal inquiry, the steps of the formal complaint process are followed. Complaints can be completed online and forms are available on the college website at www.nicc.edu/complaint. Complaints are routed to the Director of Risk Managements office. The office will route the complaint to the appropriate college representative for resolution.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is based on honesty.  The College requires that work produced by students represents their personal effort , and that the intellectual contributions of others are properly documented.  Academic integrity applies to all academic activities and includes but is not limited to, classwork, including ethical conduct in all labs, clinical field, practicum or co-op assignments.  Any suspected violation of academic integrity standards will be investigated and subject to possible sanctions as outlined in course syllabi and the NICC Student Code of Conduct.

For additional information see the Student Rights and Responsibilities  as outlined in the College catalog.

Classroom Visits and Field Trips

Any student or visitor not registered in a college class may not attend a scheduled class, lab, or clinical location without the advanced, expressed permission of a college official. Requests for visits are routed to the department dean or to the associate vice president for operations office.  Requests to visit classes for recruiting or transfer purposes will be denied.

Field trips are scheduled in an effort to provide educational experiences unavailable in the program setting. Travel costs and responsibility for payment are determined on a trip by trip basis by the supervisors in related areas. Students participating in a field trip are required to abide by the Student Conduct Code and College requirements for documentation.

Transcripts

A permanent academic record is prepared for every registered student. The record is maintained in the Registrar’s Office and administered in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Records are confidential, and transcripts will be issued only upon written request by the student or former student. Transcript requests may be made at www.nicc.edu/transcript. There is a $5 charge for each transcript ordered.

Transcripts will not be issued until all financial and other obligations with the College have been met. Transcripts from high schools and other colleges or universities that have been sent to NICC for student files cannot be copied.

Student Record Retention Policy

NICC retains the official academic record (transcript) of enrollment and credits earned in perpetuity after a student’s last enrollment.

The official academic transcript is regarded as the final record of academic accomplishment.  Students who believe an inaccuracy exists in their official academic record (transcript) must notify the Registrar’s Office within 10 business days of the official final grade due. (See Final Course Grade Appeal policy).

Policy on Student Names

The name on a student record should be the student’s complete and legal name. Students may change their name or other demographic information on record at NICC (address, phone number, email address, emergency contact) by submitting a Personal Information Change Form or via a written request to the college.

In the case of a first name change or first and last name change request, NICC reserves the right to require appropriate documentation, as warranted. Documentation must include a court approved name change document in addition to one of the following; social security card, driver’s license, birth certificate, adoption papers, marriage certificate, citizenship papers or other appropriate records.

Graduation Requirements

The requirements for graduation at NICC are those specified in the College catalog at the time a student declares a program at the College. However, any student may elect to meet the requirements stated in any later catalog. Students who do not complete requirements within four years from the semester they declare their program will be subject to the current catalog or any preceding catalog. Students not enrolled for two consecutive semesters or more will be subject to the current catalog requirements. Students changing or adding programs will be subject to the catalog in effect at the time of change.

Full requirements of the chosen program must be met.  Adjustments will be made in instances where requirements have changed and courses are no longer available. When a student has completed higher level coursework than required for their program, those courses may be used at the discretion of the Registrar to fulfill program requirements. Students may consult an advisor with questions about how courses they have completed fulfill degree requirements or how courses they plan to take will apply to their degree requirements.

Students should be aware that course prerequisites and/or the need for developmental work in English, mathematics or reading may extend the time necessary for completion of NICC degrees, diplomas or certificates.

Students Are Eligible to Graduate When They Have Fulfilled These Requirements:

1. Completed all of the program requirements.
2. Maintained a 2.0 or better cumulative GPA within that program.
3. Completed all required courses with a passing grade. (Certain programs require a minimum grade of C- in some or all courses.)
4. Paid all fees and other financial obligations to NICC.
5. Returned all library materials.

Application for Graduation

Students who plan to receive a degree, diploma or certificate must file a Graduation Application with the Registrar by the posted deadline of the semester in which they plan to complete their program.

Final grade checks will be made after the end of the semester, and awards will be sent to all successful graduates by mail to the address listed on the graduation application. If graduation requirements are not met, the student will be notified and required to reapply for graduation.

It is the responsibility of the student to know and to observe the requirements of his/her curriculum and the rules governing academic work. Although the advisor will attempt to help the student make wise decisions, the final responsibility for meeting the requirements for graduation rests with the student.

Commencement

Commencement ceremonies are held in May each year. Participation in commencement is voluntary for students who have filed a Graduation Application with the Registrar. Participation does not guarantee that the student will officially graduate. Students eligible for participation in commencement are those within eight credit hours of earning their degree or who are registered in their last semester of a program sequence. Students who are more than eight credit hours away from completion of their program or who are not in the last semester of a program sequence must petition the Registrar’s Office for permission to participate in commencement. Students who wish to have their names listed in the commencement program must submit their graduation application by the posted deadline. The commencement program will include the student’s name, program of study, degree earned and honors designations based on a 3.50 cumulative GPA at the end of the previous semester.

Reissue of Diploma

Graduates may request a diploma be reissued when a sufficient reason is shown. The Request for Reissue of Diploma form must be completed and submitted to the Registrar’s Office with the required $25 fee. The replacement diploma will bear the signatures of current College officials with a “Reissued” notation.

Transfer of Credits

Transfer of NICC Credit to Other Colleges and Universities

Students considering transfer to another college or university should contact that institution’s Registrar early in his/her course of study at NICC. Transferability of credit earned in any course at NICC is determined by the college to which the student is transferring.

Transfer preparation should include the following:

1. Decide on a major field of study. For assistance, contact an academic advisor, NICC counselor, dean or faculty member.
2. Identify colleges that offer your major field, study their catalogs, log onto their websites and visit with their college representatives (some college representatives visit NICC campuses throughout the year). Discuss transferability of courses and programs from NICC.
3. Narrow your choice to three or four colleges and visit their campuses. If you have not already done so, visit with their admissions personnel and major department deans. If possible, a written document setting a plan of study should be secured.
4. Work with your NICC advisor to select the coursework needed to meet the institution’s requirements.
5. Changes in your educational plans should be discussed with your NICC advisor.
6. If you have CLEP or military credits you wish to transfer, you will need to review those credits with the college or university to which you are transferring.
7. Scholarships specifically for transfer students may be available at the college or university to which you are transferring. Check with the Financial Aid Office at NICC and the transfer institution for additional information.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights belong to any student who is or has been in attendance at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC). Attendance is defined as physically attending and/or participating in any NICC course. These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access. Students should submit written requests to the Registrar that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the Registrar, the Registrar will advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the College registrar, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his/her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
4. 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 College also advises students that:

1. The College may deny access to the following classes of records: financial information submitted by parents; confidential letters or recommendations to which the student has waived rights of inspection; private records of instructors, counselors or administrators kept in their own use; alumni records which contain only directory information and information collected after the student has left the college; and medical, psychiatric, psychological or similar records.
2. The College may disclose educational records without consent of students to the following:
   • Personnel within the College who maintain educational records and those with a legitimate educational interest, including faculty or staff who deal with the student and carry out education studies and employees designated by them to assist in these tasks. NICC defines “legitimate educational interest” as “needs the record(s) to carry out employment responsibilities.” Therefore, any College employee or person acting on behalf of the College may have access to student records without the student’s written consent if that person needs the access to carry out his/her employment responsibilities;
   • Officials of other colleges or universities in which the student seeks to enroll, with a notice of the disclosure being sent to the student’s last known address;
   • Organizations conducting studies approved by the college having educational value or concerning financial aid;
   • Accrediting organizations approved by the college carrying out their accrediting functions;
   • Persons in compliance with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena within a reasonable period of time after the notice of the disclosure has been sent to the last known address of the student, unless the terms of the subpoena forbid advance notification;
   • Persons in an emergency if, in the judgment of an official in charge of the records, knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other person.
3. The College may disclose, without the written consent of the student, “directory” type information unless the student specifies to the contrary as described below. Directory information includes: student name, address, email address, phone number, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status (e.g. full-time or part-time, number of credits), participation in officially recognized activities and sports with height and/or weight of team members, current membership in clubs, degrees, honors and awards received, academic honor roll, high school and other colleges attended, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended.
4. Students may refuse of disclosure directory information by filling out the appropriate form in the Registrar’s Office within ten calendar days of the beginning of the semester in which enrollment occurs. If the Order to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information is filled out any time after this ten-day period, the College cannot guarantee that information was not released prior to the non-disclosure request. Students may either choose individual categories or have everything withheld. The request for withholding will remain in effect until the student rescinds it in writing.
5. When personally identifiable information other than directory information is released, a notice will be given that the recipients are not permitted to disclose the information to unauthorized persons without written consent of the student. College personnel will be informed annually of this restriction and their responsibilities under this Act so that individual notices will not be required.

FERPA rights cease upon death. However, it is the policy of Northeast Iowa Community College that no records of deceased students be released for a period of 25 years after the date of death unless specifically authorized by the executor of the estate of the deceased or by the next of kin.