Dec 22, 2024  
2024-2025 Student Handbook 
    
2024-2025 Student Handbook

Student Resources



Northeast Iowa Community College takes pride in the quality and variety of resources and services available to help students reach their academic and personal goals. Faculty and staff work closely to determine the needs of each individual to optimize student success. Most student resources are provided at no cost and are readily accessible to all.

Accessibility Services

Northeast Iowa Community College Accessibility Services provides access to accommodations, resources, and support to students that meet the diagnostic requirements per the American with Disabilities Act of 1990.  The goal is to ensure that students are able to access and participate in the opportunities available at NICC.  Accessibility Services staff are available to provide assistance to students and support student independence and self-advocacy.  In keeping with this objective, students are expected to utilize the resources of Accessibility Services to the degree they determine necessary.  The College reserves the right to determine which accommodations are reasonable and do not fundamentally alter course requirements or the integrity of programs.  To learn more about these services or how to request academic accommodations, contact Accessibility Services:

Calmar Campus: 844.642.2338, ext. 1258

Peosta Campus: 844.642.2338, ext. 2280

www.nicc.edu/academic-support/accessibility-services/

Cougar Clothing & Supply

Cougar Clothing & Supplies stores  are located on both the Calmar and Peosta campuses. Textbook purchases are now 100% online at www.nicc.edu/bookstore; with new, used, rental, Marketplace and e-book options available.  The campus stores offer a variety of school supplies, book bags, NICC clothing, souvenirs and gift items with many options at our ecommerce site https://cougarclothingsupplies.myresero.com/

Cafe

Cafe services are provided for the convenience of students. Breakfast, lunch and grab-and-go items are available on the Peosta and Calmar Campuses. Food can be purchased on location or via the online ordering option for dine-in or carryout. Gift cards are available for purchase to use at either location.  Financial aid can be used for purchasing meals and can be prepaid at the campus stores.

Career Services

Welcome to Career Services where we are dedicated to helping all prospective students, current students, and alumni achieve their career goals. Our dynamic range of resources is designed to empower individuals at every stage of their professional journey.

Services Offered:

  • Career Coaching: Our experienced coaches provide personalized guidance to help you explore career options, set goals, and develop strategies for success.
  • Informational Interviews/Job Shadows: Gain valuable insight into your desired field by shadowing or talking with area professionals in real-world work environments.
  • Mock Interviews: Practice and refine your interview skills with mock interviews conducted by our career experts.
  • Resume Reviews: Receive constructive feedback on your resume to ensure it effectively showcases your skills and experiences.
  • Internships: Explore hands-on learning opportunities through internships that align with your career interests.
  • Career Readiness Competencies: Develop essential skills and competencies to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
  • Job Search Tips: Access valuable tips and resources to enhance your job search strategy and maximize your opportunities.

Partnerships and Career Fairs:

Career Services collaborates with local businesses and industries, and other colleges, to offer career fairs during the college’s common hour time. Additionally, we facilitate work-based learning experiences such as informational interviews,  job shadows and internships to help you gain firsthand experience and build valuable connections within your chosen industry.

Career Hub:

www.nicc.edu/careerhub 

Explore the NICC Career Hub, your gateway to comprehensive career resources and tools.

Focus II Career Assessments: Discover more about your interests, skills, values, personality, and leisure activities through the online assessment.

Online Job Search: Access our online job search platform to explore job and internship opportunities in your program career area.

Candid Career:

Whether you’re exploring majors, careers, or preparing for job interviews, Candid Career has the videos to help. Access Candid Career directly from the left side menu of all Career Services pages for insightful videos and tips from industry professionals.

Enroll in a “Find My Path” Semester:

Get started at NICC even if you are still deciding on your college program and career!

Start with some general classes that will transfer into many programs at NICC such as: The College Experience, Public Speaking, Psychology, Math.

In addition,you will take these career development classes to help you get started on your path:  Exploring Careers and Job Shadowing.

Connect with Us:

Visit our website at www.nicc.edu/careerservices or email us at: careerservices@nicc.edu to learn more about our services and resources. Career Services is committed to empowering you to achieve your career aspirations. Explore our dynamic resources today and take the next step towards a fulfilling career path!

Child Development Center

Children between the ages of six weeks and 12 years of age may enroll in the NICC Child Development Center(s) on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrollment is open to children of NICC students, staff, faculty and members of the surrounding communities. The centers are designed to provide convenient and on-campus care of children. Application forms are available from the Child Development Centers on the Calmar and Peosta campuses. Centers follow the NICC nondiscrimination policies.

Counseling

Northeast Iowa Community College offers free and confidential counseling to currently enrolled students. Licensed counselors can assist with problem solving and developing strategies to cope with stressors and, when needed, make referrals to community and mental health resources. Areas of assistance may include: stress management, anxiety, depression, time management, grief counseling, alcohol/drug issues, academic difficulties, gambling, financial hardship, relationship concerns and student success strategies. During the initial appointment, the counselors will assess the student’s needs and may recommend follow-up counseling at the College or referral to an area service or agency.

Counseling services can be provided both in person and remotely (Zoom or phone appointments) for students who reside in the state of Iowa.

A Student Crisis Fund is available for students who experience a financial crisis that may prevent them from being able to continue the semester. Students can apply using the application found on the College website www.nicc.edu/crisisfund. For more information on counseling resources or to schedule an appointment, students may contact the counselor on their corresponding campus.

Additional information on counseling services and community resources are located at www.nicc.edu/counseling.

Calmar Campus: 844.642.2338, ext. 1378 burnsra@nicc.edu

Peosta Campus: 844.642.2338, ext. 2215 andersoner@nicc.edu

Housing

NICC is a non-resident campus; however, a listing of available rental properties in various communities within proximity of each campus is compiled annually. Housing costs vary depending upon the amenities provided. Housing information may be obtained from Student Services or online at www.nicc.edu/housing.

Learning Centers

The Learning Centers help students prepare, advance and excel while empowering them to become efficient, confident and independent learners.  Learning Center Instructors work with students individually or in small groups to provide supplemental instruction in many areas of study including but not limited to:

  • Communications
    • Public speaking
    • Reading
    • Presentations
  • Writing
    • Assist with the writing process for any class
    • Resumes
    • Scholarship applications
  • Math
    • All levels of math
    • Dosage calculations
  • Science
    • All levels of science
    • Health
    • Nursing
    • Veterinary
  • Individual conferences are recommended for assistance with:
    • Study and test-taking skills
    • Placement test preparation
    • Public speaking
    • Reading
    • Computer skills
    • Writing

Computers are also available for student use.

Additional information can be found at www.nicc.edu/learningcenter or at:

Calmar Learning Center: 844.642.2338, ext. 1394

Peosta Learning Center: 844.642.2338, ext. 2331

Dubuque Center: 844.642.2338, ext. 3100

Library

The Calmar and Peosta campus libraries provide students with carefully selected and managed resources to support the pursuit of a quality education and up-to-date training as well as leisure activities and lifelong learning. Both libraries offer inviting and connected spaces for individual or group study. Library staff are available to provide instructional or technical support in the use of these resources during all hours of library operation. The libraries are a vital partner in developing information literacy skills which are critical for success in the 21st Century.

Students may check out library materials using their NICC Student ID. They are responsible for all items checked out and will be held accountable for items which are damaged or not returned. (See Indebtedness Policy )

To learn more about the books, periodicals and audiovisual items available in the physical and digital collections, and all other library services, please visit either campus library or https://library.nicc.edu/home.

Parking

Free parking is provided for students on both main campuses in designated parking areas. A limited number of handicapped permit parking areas are available for students and visitors with disabilities. Free parking is not available at the Dubuque Center location.

NICC has adopted parking and traffic regulations in order to ensure safety and access for emergency vehicles. Vehicles parked in unauthorized spaces or parked in a manner that compromise safety for other vehicles and pedestrians may  be ticketed and subject to fine and/or towing. The college is not responsible for towing expenses.  

Student Identification Card

All students who enroll in NICC programs must secure an identification card. Identification cards are issued by the Library. Students must obtain an identification card during the first semester of enrollment, and a term sticker is required at the start of each term.

Identification cards are required in some clinical situations, for make-up testing, Learning Center check-in, to check-out library materials, to obtain academic and/or financial aid and other College processes. In the event that an identification card is lost, stolen or destroyed, a duplicate card can be purchased in the Library. The current fee is $5.00.  The card also can be used by students to secure discounts at participating area businesses. Please contact the Student Life Office for more information on memberships and discounts.

Student Health/Insurance

Should a medical emergency occur on campus which necessitates medical service, a referral will be made to a local medical facility. If a student has another choice for medical services of an emergency nature, this request will be honored. The student and/or parents will be responsible for medical expenses incurred. The Medical Emergencies policy can be found in College Information .

Students are encouraged to enroll in a student health insurance program to assure protection in the event of illness or injury if they are not covered under a current plan. If you need assistance finding health care coverage visit www.healthcare.gov.

Student Life

iMPACT: Empowering Students Discovering Leaders. iMPACT serves as the student representative body, and provides programming and extra-curricular activities for students. iMPACT is a unique and rewarding opportunity to develop skills while having fun and making a difference. Join iMPACT as a volunteer or apply for one an executive leadership position.

Get Involved

Students have the opportunity to get involved and make the most of their college experience through:

  • On-campus entertainers
  • Inspirational speakers
  • Off-campus trips
  • Intramurals
  • Campus clubs and professional organizations
  • Utilize the Fort Atkinson Community Center or the Peosta Community Center
  • Community and on-campus service opportunities
  • NICC Emerging Leaders Certificate program

Clubs, Professional Associations and Honor Societies

Northeast Iowa Community College believes student experiences on- and off-campus are important. Taking advantage of the many opportunities to get involved in campus life helps you make connections with other students, faculty and staff, make new friends, keeps you balanced and enhances your College experience. In addition to entertainment on-campus, athletics/intramurals and service trips NICC has many clubs/organizations that are sure to interest you. If you can’t find a club you are looking for, stop in the Student Life Office and learn how to start your own club!

Student Leadership

Everyone has leadership capability, but not everyone believes they can lead. Leadership is not about popularity, or personality it is about willingness. We strive to give students the confidence, training and opportunities to develop leadership abilities.

General Interest Clubs

A general interest club is a registered group formed by students, with the support of an NICC advisor, with a common interest in an activity, hobby, or sport.

Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO)

A Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) is an extracurricular group for students in career and technical education (CTE) pathways to further their knowledge and skills by participating in activities, events, and competitions. CTSOs are considered “co-curricular” organizations and are directly linked to career education coursework through a comprehensive high school, career academy or college with an organized chapter of the related CTSO.

Honor Societies

Honors organizations support student interest in academic excellence throughout their college career.

Diversity Committee

The purpose of this organization is three-fold:

  1. Raise awareness of intercultural issues at Northeast Iowa Community College,
  2. Increase sensitivity and appreciation as community strength,
  3. Support the diversity, equity and inclusion related goals outlined in the NICC strategic plan. We aspire to bring awareness and skills to students, staff, faculty and the communities served by NICC, regarding race, ethnicity, national origin, marital or family status, religious preference, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, health status, veteran status, abilities and age. Meetings are held monthly. All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate.

TRIO-Student Support Services

TRIO - Student Support Services, a federally-funded program on the Peosta campus and by appointment at the Dubuque Center, provides free support services such as tutoring, advising, FAFSA assistance, university transfer guidance, success workshops, financial literacy counseling and cultural activities to 160 eligible students. All of our services are free for our participants.  Students planning to graduate from NICC and transfer to a four-year college or university and meet one or more of the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

  • First generation college student (parent/guardian did not graduate from a four-year college)
  • Students who meet federal income guidelines (Pell eligibility)
  • Students who have a disability or are eligible for accommodations

TRIO-SSS staff has the unique opportunity to work individually with students and to get to know each student personally. Participants receive holistic support through graduation from NICC. The Peosta office in room 234 is open year-round. For more information call 844.642.2338, ext. 2408 or email trio@nicc.edu.

Athletics

As members of the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC), Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) and National Junior College Athletic Association of Esports (NJCAAE), Northeast Iowa Community College currently participates in competitive Sports Shooting and Esports (established Fall 2022).  These teams offer intercollegiate competitions with opportunities for scholarships.

Learn more about NICC Cougar athletics at https://www.nicc.edu/athletics.

Intramurals

Intramural sports are offered through the Student Life Office. No matter what campus you attend, you can have fun, meet people and show off your athletic skills. Intramurals take place at each campus, with campus teams competing against each other and with the University of Dubuque intramural teams.

Fitness Facilities

Peosta students can utilize the Peosta Community Center and Calmar students the Fort Atkinson Gym. You must present your NICC student ID to use the facilities. Peosta students also have the option of using the Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center at the University of Dubuque for a nominal fee with proof of enrollment and an NICC identification card.