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Hagerstown Community College / HCC

Academic Catalog

2013-2014 Catalog 
    
    Dec 10, 2024  
2013-2014 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Admission/Registration Policies and Procedures



Admission Policies

Philosophy

Hagerstown Community College is an open door institution which admits students 16 years or older who can benefit from the learning experience at the college. Students are admitted without regard to race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability.

A student may be admitted to the College in general without being admitted to specific credit, non-credit, or oversubscribed programs. Credit degree, certificate, and letter of recognition programs may have additional eligibility requirements. Oversubscribed programs that have more eligible applicants than available capacity admit students based on uniformly applied admissions standards.

Gifted and Talented Students

Applicants under age 16 may be eligible to take credit courses if they have been identified as having exceptional academic ability. Most students admitted to HCC under this category have participated in The Johns Hopkins University Talent Search Program. For information about the talent search program call 410-735-4100 or go to www.jhu.edu/gifted. In order to apply to HCC, students must have completed seventh grade or the equivalent education.

Send an admissions application, official secondary school transcripts, ACT or SAT test scores, and any other documentation of outstanding abilities and maturity. An SAT score of 1800 or an equivalent score on a nationally accepted college entrance examination is required. A pre-admission interview with the student and parent or guardian and skills assessment are required also.

College Entry Assessment and Course Placement Policy

Hagerstown Community College is committed to providing access to postsecondary education through an open door admission policy while maintaining high academic standards. Initial basic skills assessment and appropriate course placement are critical factors in student success.

First-Time College Students

First-time HCC applicants for admission into degree programs are required to be assessed for reading, writing, computer literacy, and mathematics proficiency prior to initial registration. Students will take the appropriate placement and assessment test as determined by the faculty and academic officers. Based on assessment scores, students will be placed in the appropriate level of developmental or college-level mathematics and English courses(s). See exemptions below.

Transfer Students

Transfer students with no current placement test scores or official transcripts will take the standard entry assessments test(s). See exemptions below.

Readmit Students

Readmit students and students who change from certificate to degree programs with no current placement test scores will take the standard entry assessment test(s). See exemptions below.

Entry assessment test scores are valid for two years. Developmental courses at the 100 level or below do not apply toward graduation requirements and are not calculated in students’ grade point averages. Skills assessments are administered in the Academic Testing Center on the third floor of the Learning Resource Center. Call 240-500-2398, or email testing_center@hagerstowncc.edu. Information is available online at www.hagerstowncc.edu/testing.

Math Assessment Exemptions

  • Students with an SAT math score of 550 or above
  • Students with an ACT math score of 21 or above
  • Test scores older than five years are not valid.

Reading/Writing Assessment Exemptions

  • Student with an SAT critical reading score of 550 or above
  • Students with an ACT English score of 21 or above
  • Students who have passed a college-level English course
  • Test scores older than five years are not valid.

Waivers from the Entry Assessment Requirement

  1. Students who have already earned a college degree from a regionally accredited higher education institution are exempt; however, students enrolling in programs with specific requirements may be required to take the mathematics assessment.
  2. Students enrolled at another college or university who have written approval from their home institution to take a course at HCC may be exempt. Some prerequisites may apply.
  3. Students not pursuing a degree, taking courses without prerequisites, are exempt.
  4. Students with special circumstances may petition for approval by faculty and division chairs and directors.

*Note: Students who are required to take the Human Anatomy and Physiology (BIO 103 ) Placement Test, contact the Learning Support Center at 240-500-2251 for information on when the test is available and for study materials.

Computer Access

In order to succeed with the programs of study at HCC, all students must have computer/Internet access and basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word. In order to assist those students who don’t have computers and Internet access at home, all students are given free access to these programs on campus, within the library, and in various open labs on the main campus.

Admission Procedures

All New Students

Students must submit an application for admission. Proof of residency may be required. The application and all supporting documents should be sent to the Office of Admissions and Registration. Applicants should send transcripts if they are enrolled in high school, graduated from high school or earned a GED within the last five years, want credits from another college or university transferred to HCC, or have prerequisite courses at another institution. ACT, SAT or college transcripts also must be sent if test scores or previous college courses provide exemption from all or portions of the skills assessment.

High School Students

The ESSENCE Program (early college)

The ESSENCE Program is designed to give high academic achievers who are 16 years of age or older the opportunity to take college-level coursework at a tuition reduction while still in high school or home school. Developmental courses do not qualify for the tuition reduction. In most cases, students will be responsible for all fees and the cost of books and other materials required in a particular course.

All students applying for the ESSENCE Program must:

  • have the permission of a parent and their high school counselor and principal
  • have a minimum GPA of 2.5
  • take college placement tests
  • have all necessary forms completed and submitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration
  • be able to comply with the scheduling and transportation (for on-campus courses) requirements
  • contact their high school counselor for dual-enrollment classes

Selected courses provide a dual-enrollment option, where students receive both high school and college credits for a course taken at the high school. In addition to the above ESSENCE requirements, all dual-enrollment students must:

  • have a high school career plan to be a University of Maryland Completer and/or a Career Technology Education Completer if you are a WCPS student
  • have completed all required Maryland State High School Assessments in the core and specialized area of study
  • have written assurance from the high school principal that the course(s) taken at HCC will be accepted for high school credit
  • have a signed ESSENCE form to send grade reports to WCPS

HCC will provide additional assistance through the ESSENCE Early College Opportunity Fund Scholarship for WCPS students who have filled out the ESSENCE Application form and have taken 12 credits or fewer while still in high school. Homeschool and private school students who reside in Washington County may also apply for the ESSENCE Early College Opportunity Fund Scholarship for up to and including 12 college level credits while still in high school. Out-of-county or out-of-state residents will also receive a tuition discount up to and including 12 college level credits while still in high school.

Students in need of financial assistance or who are enrolled in more than 12 college level credits can apply for the Supplemental ESSENCE Early College Opportunity Fund Scholarship. The Supplemental Application is available from the Financial Aid office.

For more information about the ESSENCE program, please call 240-500-2238 or email admissions@hagerstowncc.edu. Information is available online at www.hagerstowncc.edu/admissions/essence.

Advanced Placement (AP) Program

High school students who take AP courses available in their high schools may confirm that they have learned the equivalent of college level work by taking the appropriate advanced placement exam administered by the Educational Testing Service. Scores of 3, 4, and 5 are generally recognized for the granting of 3–8 credits depending on the course. HCC awards credits using the same criteria as many other colleges across the nation.

See here for more information.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

HCC will award incoming students, who have scores consistent with the list that faculty and academic officers deem appropriate, credits for International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations in the subject areas offered at HCC. See here for more information.

Articulated Credits

Students may be eligible to receive articulated college credit for having completed advanced coursework in certain area public schools, including those in Washington County, MD. Such course credit is posted to an HCC transcript once a 3-4 credit HCC course is successfully completed with the grade specified in the articulation agreement. No articulated credit can be awarded unless the student complies with the specific terms of the articulation agreement.

  1. Successfully complete the high school articulated course(s), per the articulation agreement.
  2. Complete the required HCC course(s) with the minimum grade designated in the articulation agreement.
  3. Apply for articulated credit within one year of high school graduation.

Articulation agreements are on file at the high schools and HCC.

While HCC maintains transfer agreements with many baccalaureate institutions, students should be aware that some institutions and programs might not accept college credits granted for high school work. Student should consult with an HCC advisor prior to transfer.

Readmit Students

Students who were previously enrolled at the College in good academic standing, and have not attended for two or more years, must reapply to the college and meet all current admission requirements. Readmitted students are subject to the program requirements of the current catalog and academic year in which they re-enter.

Additional criteria for readmission to a health sciences program exist. Please check with an academic advisor for specific information.

Transfer Students

Applicants may be admitted with advanced standing from other regionally accredited institutions. Official transcripts from the applicants’ prior institutions should be sent directly to the Office of Admissions and Registration at HCC. After transcripts are submitted, the student must meet with an academic advisor and complete a Transcript Evaluation Request form. Upon completion of a three-credit course at HCC, transfer credits become part of the student’s official transcript at HCC. Credits accepted from other institutions satisfy graduation requirements at HCC. The course grades, however, are not calculated in the grade point average at HCC.

HCC adheres to the general education and transfer policies of the Maryland Higher Education Commission. (See Appendix , for General Education and Transfer Policy.)

Additional criteria for transfer into a health sciences program exist. Please check with academic advising for specific information.

Requirements for International Students Who Need Form I-20

Prior to the issuance of an I-20 and admission to Hagerstown Community College, applicants who are nonresidents of the U.S. must submit the following documents:

  1. An HCC application with a local sponsor’s address and the student’s address from his/her home country.
  2. A certified copy of high school and college transcripts in both the native language and an English translation if necessary. A course-by-course evaluation by World Education Services (WES) or AACRAO International Education Services (IES) is required.
  3. A statement of financial resources including the amount and source of funds to cover the student’s college expenses (Form I-134 Affidavit of Support). The approximate cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses is $16,000 per year. All F-1 students are classified as out-of-state residents for tuition purposes while an HCC student. Students must have a local sponsor who will agree to provide housing, meals, and transportation. Hagerstown Community College has no on-campus housing, therefore, students must secure housing with a local sponsor. The local sponsor should be a close relative or other responsible individual.
  4. Students must obtain health insurance through a company of their choice. Student Secure and Compass are two options to meet the needs of international students. (www.internationalstudentinsurance.com and www.isoa.org)
  5. An official score report from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Students must attain a minimum score of 500 on the paper-based test, 173 on the computerbased test, or 65 on the Internet test.
  6. The College’s placement assessments are required once the student has been approved for an F-1 visa and arrives on campus.

The application and all supporting documents must be completed and submitted by May 15 for the fall semester, October 15 for the spring semester, and February 15 for the summer sessions.

Military Personnel

In addition to meeting the admissions policies and procedures for all new students, military personnel should submit either a Joint Services transcript or Community College of the Air Force transcript, if applicable. HCC uses the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services to determine the award of transfer credit.

Servicemembers Opportunity College

The College is a member of the consortium of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges. As such, HCC agrees to implement military friendly policies regarding the admission and transfer requirements of servicemembers.

Veterans

In addition to meeting all admission requirements, veterans should submit military form DD 214 and contact the Records Office at 240-500-2519 for information related to benefits.

Maryland National Guard

In addition to meeting all admission requirements, active members of the Maryland National Guard need to have certification from the Maryland Adjutant General of active duty. This certification is presented when the student registers for classes and entitles the Guard member to special tuition provisions provided the student has two years of active duty remaining.

Oversubscribed Programs

Oversubscribed programs are those that have more eligible applicants than available capacity. Currently, these include nursing, practical nursing, and radiography. The policy for admission to these programs is based on a point system. Eligibility requirements for these programs must be met before applications can be submitted for consideration.

The program chair/director and the director of admissions, records, and registration determine admissions procedures based on these guidelines in order to maximize student success.

Appeal Process

A student may appeal an admissions decision by submitting a written rationale to the director of admissions, records and registration within fifteen work days after receiving notification of non-acceptance. Within ten work days, the director will render a decision.

A student may submit an additional written appeal to the dean of student affairs within five business days. The dean shall render a decision within five work days after the appeal is submitted. The decision of the dean shall be final.

Credit for Prior Learning and Experience

General Transfer Criteria

Transfer credit is posted to an HCC transcript after a student has completed one three-credit course at HCC and if one of the following criteria is met:

  1. The institution is regionally accredited by a commission on higher education. The college uses Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions published by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.
  2. HCC has an articulation agreement with a business, school or industry. Articulation agreements specify award of credit for meeting certain criteria and presenting certain documents.
  3. The American Council on Education (ACE) has reviewed and recommended the course for credit. The following books are used to evaluate nontraditional credit:
    The Directory of the National Program on Noncollegiate Sponsored Instruction, The Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services or the National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs.

College and University Transfer Credit

Credit is granted for course work completed at regionally accredited colleges and universities and that apply to the student’s program at HCC. Faculty and the admissions specialist for prior learning may review courses taken more than ten years ago. Credit for courses accepted from other institutions satisfy HCC’s graduation requirements. The course grades, however, are not calculated in the grade point average at HCC. For students transferring from any University of Maryland system institution, all applicable general education coursework with a grade of “D” or above will be accepted in transfer. For program requirements, grades of “D” will be accepted only if the grade point average for the block of courses is 2.0 or higher. HCC will convert courses taken at institutions that operate on the quarter system to semester hours. Quarter hours are multiplied by 2/3 to equal semester hours.

Students may transfer up to 75 percent of their degree or certificate requirements. All transfer students working for a degree or certificate must take at least 25 percent of their credits at HCC.

Nontraditional Credit

Students may be awarded up to 30 credits for nontraditional coursework. Credit will not be awarded for equivalent courses completed at HCC or other institutions. After completing a three-credit course at HCC, the nontraditional credit is posted to the student’s HCC transcript.

Military Education and Training

Credit may be granted for a variety of formal military, technical and educational programs based on the student’s program at HCC. Official Joint Services transcripts or Community College of the Air Force transcripts, if applicable, should be sent to the Office of Admissions and Registration.

Industry Certifications

Students with nationally recognized certifications, or those who have recieved specialized training through non-collegiate organizations can be awarded credits for prior learning.

Advanced Placement Examinations

These subject exams sponsored by the Educational Testing Service are usually administered through high schools at the completion of AP course offerings. HCC awards credits based on the AP exams and minimum scores listed below. Applicants for admission who have taken AP examinations should have an official copy of their scores sent to the Office of Admissions and Registration. To request an official AP score report, write to:

Advanced Placement Exams
P.O. Box 6671
Princeton, NJ 08541-6671

Visit the website at www.collegeboard.com/student

International Baccalaureate (IB) Examinations

These exams, sponsored by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, are administered by IB teachers. HCC awards credits based on IB exams and scores listed below. For more information, visit www.ibo.org, or write to:

Americas/Global Centre
7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 200 West
Bethesda, MD 20814

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP is a national credit by examination program that provides individuals with the opportunity to receive credit for college level achievement acquired in a variety of ways. (DANTES will pay the CLEP fee for military personnel.) HCC awards credit for passing the CLEP tests that are listed below. CLEP exams are administered at HCC in the Academic Testing Center. For more information, call 240-500-2398.

Applicants for admission who have taken CLEP examinations should have an official copy of their scores sent to the Office of Admissions and Registration. Go to the website to obtain a Transcript Request Form or write to:

CLEP Transcript Service
P.O. Box 6600
Princeton, NJ 08541-6600.

Visit the website at www.collegeboard.com/clep.

Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)

DSST is a testing program available to anyone who wants to receive credit for college-level competencies gained through life-long learning. (DANTES will pay the DSST fee for military personnel.)

Further information regarding DSST is available in the Academic Testing Center at HCC as well as from the assistant admissions specialist for prior learning. Official scores must be sent to the Office of Admissions and Registration. Visit the DSST website at www.getcollegecredit.com.

Excelsior College Examinations

ECEs have been evaluated and found worthy of credit by the American Council on Education. As such, HCC can award credit based on satisfactory scores on these exams. For more information about the offered exams, visit www.excelsior.edu/ecapps/exams/creditByExam.jsf

Credit by Validation

Students may be awarded up to 15 credits for work and life experience as validated by HCC via Portfolios, Advanced Standing and/or Institutional (or Challenge) examinations. These credits cannot be used to fulfill the required minimum credits in residence for graduation and may not be eligible for transfer.

Institutional Examinations

Institutional examinations (practical or written) are offered at HCC in selected subjects for which CLEP and DSST exams are not available. Students must be admitted to the college before taking an institutional exam. An examination fee is charged. An institutional exam per subject area may be taken only once and is arranged through the faculty and division chair or director.

Advanced Standing

By completing upper-level courses, students can demonstrate their prior knowledge and receive corresponding lower-level credits retroactively.  Students must first meet with an appropriate faculty member and complete all paperwork before beginning the upper-level course.  For more information, contact the Admissions Specialist for Prior Learning.

Credit by Portfolio

Students can present portfolios of their work history to appropriate faculty members to receive college credit.  Portfolios can include writing/work samples, job descriptions, etc.  Some certifications have already been evaluated and deemed appropriate for credit.  For more information on these, please refer to “Industry Certifications” in the catalog.

Standardized Exams

Advanced Placement Test Title Score Placement Credits Minimum Replaces
Art History 3 3 ART 101 
  4 or 5 6 ART 231  & ART 232 

Art–Studio: 2D Design 3 3 ART 102 

Art–Studio: 3D Design 3 3 ART 108 

Art–Studio: Drawing 3 3 ART 103 

Biology 3 4 BIO 101  or BIO 106 
  4 or 5 8 BIO 101  & BIO 102  or BIO 113  & BIO 114 

Chemistry 3 4 CHM 101  or CHM 103 
  4 or 5 8 CHM 103  & CHM 104 

Chinese Language and Culture 3 or above 3 HUM General Education

Computer Science A 3 or above 3 IST 134 /CSC 134 

Computer Science AB 4 or 5 6 IST 134 /CSC 134  & one lower level IST/CSC elective

English (Language and Composition) 3 or above 3 ENG 101 

English (Literature and Composition) 3 3 ENG 101 
  4 or 5 6 ENG 101  & ENG 102 

Environmental Science 3 3 BIO 111 

European History 3 or above 3 HIS elective

French (Language) 3 3 FRN 101 
  4 or 5 6 FRN 101  & FRN 102 

German (Language) 3 3 GER 101 
  4 or 5 6 GER 101  & GER 102 

Government and Politics/Comp. 3 3 POL elective

Government and Politics/US 3 or above 3 POL 101 

Human Geography 3 or above 3 GEO 102 

Japanese Language and Culture 3 or above 3 HUM General Education

Latin: Vergil 3 or above 3 HUM General Education

Macroeconomics 3 or above 3 ECO 201 

Math (Calculus AB) 3 4 MAT 161 
  4 or 5 4 MAT 203 

Math (Calculus BC) 3 or above 4 MAT 203 
  4 or 5 8 MAT 203  & MAT 204 

Microeconomics 3 or above 3 ECO 202 

Music (Theory) 3 or above 3 MUS 101 

Physics (B) 3 4 PHY 201 
  4 or 5 8 PHY 201  & PHY 202 

Physics (C) Part I 3 or above 5 PHY 203 

Physics (C) Part II 3 or above 5 PHY 204 

Psychology 3 or above 3 PSY 101 

Spanish (Language) 3 3 SPN 101 
  4 or 5 6 SPN 101  & SPN 102 

Spanish Literature 3 3 SPN elective

Statistics 3 or above 3 MAT 109 

United States History 3 3 HIS 201    
  4 or 5 6 HIS 201  & HIS 202 

World History 3 3 HIS 101 
   4 or 5  6 HIS 101  & HIS 102 
       
CLEP Exam Passing Score Credits Replaces
American Government 50 3 POL 101 

American Literature 50 3 ENG elective

Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 50 3 ENG elective

Biology (General) 50 8 BIO 101  & BIO 102 

Business Law: Introduction 50 3 BUS 104 

Calculus 50 4 MAT 203 

Chemistry (General) 50 8 CHM 103 -CHM 104 

College Algebra 50 3 MAT 101 

College Mathematics 50 3 MAT 108 

College Composition 50 3 ENG 101 

Educational Psychology: Introduction 50 3 PSY 203 

English Literature 50 3 ENG elective

Financial Accounting 50 3 ACC 101 

French, Level 1 50 6 FRN 101  & FRN 102 

French, Level 2 62 12 FRN 101 FRN 202 

German, Level 1 50 6 GER 101  & GER 102 

German, Level 2 63 12 GER 101 GER 202 

History of the US 1 50 3 HIS 201  

History of the US 2 50 3 HIS 202 

Human Growth and Development 50 3 PSY 204 

Humanities 50 3 HUM elective

Information Systems and Computer Applications 50 3 IST 102 

Macroeconomics, Principles of 50 3 ECO 201 

Management, Principles of 50 3 MGT 103  

Marketing, Principles 50 3 MGT 104 

Microeconomics, Principles of 50 3 ECO 202 

Natural Sciences 50 6 BIO/PHS elective

Precalculus 50 4 MAT 161 

Psychology, Introduction 50 3 PSY 101 

Social Sciences and History 50 6 SSC elective

Sociology, Introductory 50 3 SOC 101 

Spanish, Level 1 50 6 SPN 101  & SPN 102 

Spanish, Level 2 63 12 SPN 101 SPN 102 

Western Civilization 1 50 3 HIS 101 

 Western Civilization 2  50 3 HIS 102 
       
IB Exam Level Minimum Score HCC Course Equivalent Credits
Anthropology SL 5 ANT 201 - Cultural Anthropology  3
  HL 4 ANT 201 - Cultural Anthropology  3

Biology SL 5 BIO 101 - General Biology I  4
  HL 4 BIO 101 - General Biology I  4

Business & Mgt. SL 5 MGT 103 - Principles of Management  3
  HL 4 MGT 103 - Principles of Management  3

Chemistry SL 5 CHM 103 - General Chemistry I  4
  HL 5 CHM 103 - General Chemistry I  4

Economics SL 5 ECO 201 - Macroeconomic Principles -ECO 202 - Microeconomic Principles   6
  HL 4 ECO 201 - Macroeconomic Principles -ECO 202 - Microeconomic Principles  6

English A1 SL 5 ENG 101 - English Composition  3
  HL 4 ENG 101 - English Composition  3

French SL 5 FRN 101 - Elementary French I -FRN 102 - Elementary French II  6
  HL 4 FRN 101 - Elementary French I -FRN 102 - Elementary French II  6

Geography SL 5 GEO 101 - Physical Geography  3
  HL 4 GEO 101 - Physical Geography  3

German SL 5 GER 101 - Elementary German I -GER 102 - Elementary German II  6
  HL 4 GER 101 - Elementary German I -GER 102 - Elementary German II  6

History        
  America SL 5 HIS 201 - United States History I  3
  HL 4 HIS 201 - United States History I  3
  Europe SL 5 HIS 101 - World History I  3
  HL 4 HIS 101 - World History I  3

Info Tech Global Soc SL 5 IST 102 - Introduction to Information Technology   
  HL 4 IST 102 - Introduction to Information Technology  3

Mathematics SL 5 MAT 203 - Calculus I  4
  HL 5 MAT 203 - Calculus I  4

Music SL 5 MUS 101 - Music Appreciation  3
  HL 4 MUS 101 - Music Appreciation  3

Philosophy SL 5 PHL 101 - Introduction to Philosophy  3
  HL 4 PHL 101 - Introduction to Philosophy  3

Physics SL 5 PHY 201 - General Physics I  4
  HL 5 PHY 201 - General Physics I  4

Psychology SL 5 PSY 101 - General Psychology  3
  HL 4 PSY 101 - General Psychology  3

Spanish SL 5 SPN 101 - Elementary Spanish I -SPN 102 - Elementary Spanish II  6
  HL 4 SPN 101 - Elementary Spanish I -SPN 102 - Elementary Spanish II  6

Visual Arts SL 5 ART 101 - Introduction to Visual Arts  3
  HL 4 ART 101 - Introduction to Visual Arts  3

Industry Certifications

HCC students who have passed nationally recognized certifications may be awarded credit for a related course. To receive credit for a course, the applicant must present an official certificate, license, or transcript indicating the course completed. The certificate, license, or transcript must specify date of completion.

IT Industry Certification Acronym Exam Related HCC Course
Adobe Certified Associate ACA Visual Communication Using Photoshop CS3, CS4, CS5, CS6 or CC GDT 116 
Adobe Certified Associate ACA Web Communication Using Dreamweaver CS3, CS4, CS5, CS6, or CC  
National Center for Construction Education Research NCCER Documented completion of NCCER Plumbing Level One coursework and exam or Plumber Journeyman license or Master Plumber license INT 105 
American Welding Society AWS AWS Certified Welder Certification INT 106 
North American Technician Excellence
National Center for Construction Education Research
NATE
NCCER
NATE Core HVAC Installation Exam or documented completion of NCCER HVAC
Level One coursework and exam or HVAC Journeyman license or Master HVAC license
INT 107 
National Center for Construction Education Research NCCER Documented completion of NCCER Electrician Level One coursework and exam or Electrical Journeyman license or Master Electrician license  
Internet and Computer Core Certification IC3

Students must pass all three exams to earn the certification.

  1. Computing Fundamentals
  2. Key Applications
  3. Living Online
IST 102          
CompTIA Linux+ Linux+ Exam IST 109 
Certified Wireless Network Administrator CWNA Pass the current CWNA exam IST 140 
CompTIA A+
A+
Net+
Security +
CompTIA A+ Essentials*
CompTIA A+ Practical Application*
Network + Exam
Security + Exam
IST 150 
IST 151 
IST 154 
IST 160 
Cisco Networking Academy:
Cisco Certified Network Associate
CCNA CCNA certification must be less than three years old. IST 155 
IST 156 
IST 255 
IST 256 
Microsoft Certified Professional MCSA
MCSE
MCITP
Specific exams are required to obtain certification that relates to each course.
Exams must be less than three years old. **
IST 260 
IST 261 
IST 262 
IST 264 
Certified Ethical Hacker CEH CEH certification must be current standing with EC-Council  
 
Certified Information Systems Security Professional CISSP Exam is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 IST 267 
Commercial Driver’s License CDL Current Class A license and current DOT certification TRK 115 
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners NABCEP NABCEP PV Entry Level Exam AET 106 
International Maintenance Institute IMI Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) INT 101 
Occupational and Safety Health Administration OSHA OSHA 10 and 30 hour training certificate INT 104 
International Society of Automation CCST ISA Certified Control Systems Technician Exam INT 213 
Microsoft Certified Application Specialist MOS
MOS
MOS
MOS
Using Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2010
Using Microsoft Office Word Expert 2010
Using Microsoft Office Excel Expert 2010
Using Microsoft Office Access 2010
IST 103 
IST 105 
IST 106 
IST 107 

 

Instructions for students wishing to obtain Microsoft, IC3, CompTIA, or Cisco certifications

  1. Obtain voucher either from Prometric/VUE or purchase a discount voucher from the Business and Technology Testing Center, ATC 207 (240-500-2553).
  2. Visit the Prometric Web site at www.2test.com to schedule an exam appointment at HCC or any Prometric testing center. Contact www.pearsonvue.com for Cisco testing information.
  3. Two forms of identification including a picture ID are required before taking the exam(s).

    Students wishing to obtain the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist credentials can contact extension 413 or visit www.certiport.com to begin the process.

    * A+ exams taken prior to January 1, 2011 do not have an expiration date. A+ exams taken after Jan. 1, 2011 must be renewed in three years in compliance with CompTIA’s Continuing Education Program.

    ** Applies to currently supported operating systems only.

Articulation Agreements

The college maintains special articulation arrangements with various schools, colleges and universities that address course-to-course articulation for non-regionally accredited institutions. For more information, contact the office of the vice president of academic affairs at 240-500-2231.

HCC/WCPS

Hagerstown Community College and Washington County Public Schools have an articulation agreement that awards college credit for selected WCPS coursework.

To receive credit for these courses, students must have earned a specific grade as designated in the various agreements and in some cases be enrolled in a specific program. Students must submit an articulation agreement form signed by the appropriate high school instructor within 12 months of their high school graduation and after completing one three-credit course or the specified course(s) in the articulation agreement at HCC. Forms and additional information are available from the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration at HCC and from the Washington County high school guidance offices.

Tech-Prep

HCC and the WCPS have jointly developed an educational plan for several career program options. These plans and course articulation agreements are available from the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration and from the Washington County high school guidance offices.

Out-of-State High Schools

HCC has articulation agreements with selected out-of-state high schools. Out-of-state students should contact the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration to determine if they are eligible. Students need to do this within one year of their high school graduation.

Transfer from Hagerstown Community College

Students need to plan early for transfer to a four-year college or university. The academic advisement staff offers transfer advising and can help students make a smooth transition from HCC to another institution.

Maryland Colleges and Universities

The Code of Maryland (Title 13B) stipulates that students graduating from HCC with an A.A., A.A.S., or A.S. or who have completed 56 or more credit hours will not be denied admission to another public institution in Maryland if they have obtained a 2.0 cumulative grade point average. Students have the option of attending any of the 13 schools. Space restrictions, academic major requirements, and other restrictions may apply. Contact an academic advisor for more information. Students can also attend the University of Maryland System campus at Hagerstown to complete their bachelor’s degree and/or master’s degree in specified majors. For more information, contact USM Hagerstown at 240-527-2060.

ARTSYS is a computerized articulation system for Maryland’s public colleges and universities. Many private Maryland colleges and universities have also joined ARTSYS. Students can determine what courses to take at HCC to transfer to a Maryland college or university of their choice. ARTSYS can be accessed by going to http://artweb.usmd.edu.

Out-of-State Colleges and Universities

HCC has articulation agreements with a number of West Virginia and Pennsylvania institutions to make transfer planning easy for HCC students. Additionally, with proper planning students can have their HCC credits transferred to any college or university in the United States.

Dual Admissions

HCC participates in several special transfer agreements called dual admission programs in which students can be concurrently admitted to HCC and a four-year institution if certain conditions have been met. This facilitates a seamless transition from HCC to the four-year institution. Some agreements are with HCC and the following institutions:

  • Drexel University
  • Frostburg State University
  • Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg
  • Shepherd University
  • Shippensburg University
  • University of Maryland, University College

Registration

Course Guides

HCC offers three full semesters each year, allowing students more options in reaching their educational goals. During each fall and spring semester, courses are offered in the traditional 15-week session and select courses are offered in 5, 7.5,10, and 12-week sessions. During the summer term, the College also offers multiple sessions of different duration to accommodate student needs. Students should be aware that not all classes are offered every semester. Credit course guides are mailed several times throughout the year to all residents of Washington County, as well as residents in parts of Franklin County, PA, and Berkeley County, WV.

Registration

New Students

All new students must meet with an academic advisor prior to registration. Advisors review assessment results, give you information on program requirements and help you select courses that are appropriate for your educational goals. After completing the advising appointment, new students will register online via WebAdvisor. In addition, new students should attend a new student orientation just before the start of the fall or spring semester. Additional information about this orientation can be obtained by calling 240-500-2225.

Returning Students/Web Registration

Returning students are required to register via WebAdvisor. In the event a student does not remember his or her user ID and password, he or she must call 240-500-2891. In order to receive confirmation of registration, students must open an email account via the College’s website: www.hagerstowncc.edu/current-students/email.

Instructions on how to register online are available at www.hagerstowncc.edu/registration/online. Personal assistance is also available at the Welcome Center in the ASA Building.

Returning Students

Returning students need an advisor’s signature only if they have been placed on academic probation or have been academically dismissed.

Enrollment Status

Students who are registered for 12 or more credits are considered full-time. Students who are registered for fewer than 12 credits are part-time.

A student who has successfully completed 30 semester hours of work in an approved curriculum is eligible for sophomore standing.

Prerequisites

Many courses have prerequisites listed. The prerequisite course listed is to ensure that students have the appropriate knowledge before beginning the next course.

Auditing Courses

Courses taken for audit do not receive a grade or credit. Students audit a course by checking the appropriate box on the registration form. Regular tuition and fees are charged. Courses can be changed from audit to credit within the first 20 percent of the term. Courses can be changed from credit to audit until the last day to withdraw and students will receive an “AU” grade. Students who have audited a course may repeat it for credit.

Adding/Dropping Courses

The HCC website should be consulted for all add/drop deadlines. Important dates and deadline are available at www.hagerstowncc.edu/admissions/dates-deadlines. Failure to officially drop/withdraw from a course results in a grade of “F” and forfeiture of tuition and fees. This may be done via WebAdvisor or by submitting the appropriate forms to the Office of Admissions and Registration. Students receiving financial aid who drop/withdraw from a course need to notify the Financial Aid Office.

Full and Cancelled Courses

Students should register early to have the courses and sections of their choice. Seats in classes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Courses may be cancelled due to insufficient enrollment. In the event that a course is cancelled, students will be notified. Students may elect to enroll in another course or request a refund, following set procedures.

Change of Program

Students who change their academic program, change their status from non-degree to degree or certificate-seeking, or who interrupted their studies and have not attended HCC in the last two years, are subject to the program requirements of the current catalog and academic year when the change is made. Students must complete a change of program of study form on WebAdvisor.

Change of Address

To officially change a name, address, or telephone number, students should go to WebAdvisor. Proof of residency is required for address changes into Maryland.

Student Identification

All students are required to have photo ID cards to use the computer labs, library, and many other facilities on the campus. Students must bring a copy of their class schedule with them to obtain their identification cards. Students get their ID cards in the Student Center.

Student Email Accounts

New students receive access to an email account via the HCC website: www.hagerstowncc.edu/current-students/email. Once an account has been established, students can access their accounts at HCC, home, work, or public libraries.

Files and email messages created or stored on equipment or media owned by HCC are the property of the College. Users are cautioned that files or email messages stored on College equipment are not private. The College may monitor, audit, and review files, directories, and communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that equipment and systems are used in accordance with College policies and applicable federal and state laws.

Distance Learning

HCC understands that due to busy schedules students find it difficult to attend classes on campus or may need to take a course that may not be offered at a convenient time. Distance learning courses may provide an option for selected courses.

Online Courses

Online courses allow students the flexibility of deciding the time and place of course delivery. When taking an online course there are many factors involved to ensure a successful experience. Students must have basic computer skills, access to a computer with an Internet connection and an e-mail address. Each course will also have a list of system and software requirements. Students may need to come to campus for scheduled meetings and/or exams. Online courses demand that students be able to learn and work independently and be able to meet deadlines. Check the current credit course guide or WebAdvisor for course offerings.

Hybrid Courses

A hybrid course is a blend of face-to-face instruction with online learning. In a hybrid course, a significant part of the course learning is online and as a result, the amount of classroom seat-time is reduced.

Off-Campus Studies

The College provides alternative locations to earning credit on campus. Courses are regularly offered each semester at the College’s Valley Mall Center and periodically at Chambersburg Hospital (Pa.), Waynesboro Hospital (Pa.), Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Greencastle-Antrim High School (Pa.), and in Hancock, Md. Please check the current class schedule for availability. HCC’s Commercial Vehicle Transportation Program is offered at a training facility and driving range located at the Hagerstown Volvo plant. The Valley Mall Center is staffed Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and occasional Saturday hours. For more information, call HCC’s Valley Mall Center at 240-500-2565.