Professional Careers Institute 6666 Harwin, Suite 160 Houston, Texas

Transcription

1 Professional Careers Institute 6666 Harwin, Suite 160 Houston, Texas Volume X First Edition Published and effective on February 01,

2 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Student, The faculty and staff of Professional Careers Institute would like to take the opportunity to extend a warm welcome to you. We are pleased that you have selected us to be your partner in reaching your educational and career goals. We realize that your education is very important; therefore, if you should encounter any problems, please feel free to contact any member of the staff or faculty including myself. We will be more than happy to remedy any situation that may need our assistance. If during your studies at PCI, there are any issues or procedures you do not fully understand, please feel free to contact me personally and we will work together to clarify these issues. Again, congratulations on your decision to attend Professional Careers Institute. It is our ultimate goal to assist and guide you throughout your path to a successful and fulfilling career. W. Kevin Keller W. Kevin Keller President/CEO 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS History 5 Mission/Philosophy and Objectives 5 Approvals and Accreditation 5 Statement of Control and Corporate Structure 6 Advisory Committee 6 Admissions Requirements and Procedures 6 TB Skin Test 8 Change of Personal Data 8 Previous Education & Training and Transfer of Credits 8 Student Parking 9 Orientation 9 Student Advising 9 Placement Assistance & Career Services 9 Student Housing 9 Facilities and Equipment 9 Classroom and Student Ratio 9 Institution Regulations & Student Conduct 10 Attendance Policy 11 Make-up Policy 12 Grading System 13 Failing / Incomplete Grades 13 Repeating a Course 13 Early Advising 14 Academic Measurements 14 Academic Status Review Policy 14 Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (SAP) 15 Leave Of Absence Policy 16 Withdrawal Policy 16 Re-Enrollment Policy 16 Student Records and Release of Transcript 17 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Policy 17 Drug and Alcohol Prevention / Awareness Policy 18 Student Disability Services and Accommodations 18 Requirement For Graduation Policy 19 Refresher Courses 19 Tuition Text Books and Fees 19 Tuition Collections Procedures 20 Financial Assistance 20 Student Verification Policy 21 Definition of Academic Year 22 Notice To Financial Aid Recipients 22 Cancellation Policy 22 Termination Policy 22 Refund Policies, both Institutional and State 22 Refund Policy, ACCET 24 Federal Return of Title IV Funds 24 Post Withdraw Disbursement 25 3

4 4 Grievance Policy 25 Medical Assistant Program Outline and fees 27 Medical Assistant Course Description/Synopses 28 Administrative Medical Assistant Program Outline and fees 30 Administrative Medical Assistant Course Description/Synopses 31 Administrative Assistant Program Outline and Fees 33 Administrative Assistant Course Description/Synopses 34 Nurse Aide Program Outline and Fees 37 Nurse Aide Course Description/Synopses 38 Classroom Schedules 39 Cancellation of Classes 41 School Office Hours 41 Faculty and Staff Roster 41 School Calendar 42 School Holidays 43 Director s Statement 43

5 HISTORY Professional Careers Institute, Inc. was founded in 1994 to address the growing shortage of health care workers lacking proper academic training. The school relocated on August 1, 2000 to, 3000 Bering Drive, Suite 200, to provide larger classrooms to accommodate the demand in our training programs. On February 1 st, 2002, Professional Careers Institute relocated to 6666 Harwin, Suite #160, Houston, Texas In November 2009, PCI submitted an application for approval to the Texas Workforce Commission to operate another campus in the north side of Houston, and to offer the same training programs offered at the southwest location. Application was approved and the North Campus Opened for operation in March In August 2011, Pathway Career Education Group, Inc. a privately held and locally owned corporation purchased Professional Careers Institute, Inc. Concurrently, Kevin Keller became President and CEO of Professional Careers Institute, Inc. MISSION / PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVE Professional Careers Institute is an educational training institution whose mission is to prepare its graduates for employment in their field of study. We provide training programs that equip students with fundamental knowledge of their field of study, which relates to the current work environment. Programs are a blend of theoretical and practical instruction; all have laboratory and most have externship components, which stress hands-on aspects of the subjects taught. Graduates of these programs should possess knowledge and flexibility that enables them to utilize their skills, talents, and abilities as they pursue their career. It is our philosophy to provide each individual with the opportunity and endow them with the privilege to prepare for employment, regardless of sex, race, religion, disability or ethnic origin. Professional Careers Institute has established the following objectives in order to fulfill the institution's mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and admissions standards based on statistical analysis of projected needs, making participation in our various programs desirable for prospective students. To offer an education which will enrich a person's personal life and prepare him/her to become a contributing citizen, as well as assist in increasing his/her employment potential. To provide an opportunity for a student to achieve a skill level limited only by his/her ability and desire. To offer a superior level of instruction by employing competent instructors and administrators who are specialists in their fields. To utilize quality equipment and instruments in order to equip the graduates with a quality level of training. To offer a highly qualified student services department to fully prepare and assist our graduates in their job search efforts. APPROVALS AND ACCREDITATION Professional Careers Institute is approved and regulated by: The Texas Workforce Commission, Career Schools and Colleges The Department of Veterans Affairs The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), Nurse Aide Training Program Department of Assistive and Rehabilitation Services (DARS) Houston Galveston Area Council, (HGAC/W.I.A.) Professional Careers Institute is nationally accredited by - 5

6 The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET). STATEMENT OF CORPORATE STRUCTURE Professional Careers Institute, Inc. is incorporated under Texas Law. Pathway Career Education Group, Inc. owns 100% of the stock of the school. The Board of Directors is as follows: W. Kevin Keller President/CEO Donald W. Keller..Chairman ADVISORY COMMITTEE An advisory committee meeting is held annually each year. The following are advisory members: Marcus Yi Golden Billing Administrative Medical Assistant Norman Mitchell Bee Busy Wellness Center Medical Assistant Felisha Ivory Select Specialty Hospital Nurse Aide Maecella Jackson WeldFit Energy Group Administrative Medical Assistant ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES The school admits applicants who meet the institution s designated admissions requirements and possess a certificate of graduation from a school providing a secondary education or the recognized equivalent of such a certificate (GED) as regular students, including individuals with mental or physical handicaps. The minimum age requirement to enroll at the institution is 17 years old. A parent or legal guardian s consent will be required from all prospective students under the age of 18. Individuals interested in applying for admission into any programs, besides the Nurse Aide program, must: (1) have a High School diploma or GED and (2) successfully complete the Wonderlic Entrance exam (SLE) and score a minimum of 14 in order to establish their ability to benefit from the program. Students who have not received a high school diploma or a GED, and have previously attended a postsecondary institution under the Ability to Benefit (ATB) provisions may be eligible for admission and federal financial aid on this basis, Please contact the PCI Financial Aid Office for more information on this option. Individuals interested in applying for admission into the Nurse Aide program must: (1) be beyond the age of compulsory school attendance, and (2) must successfully complete the Wonderlic Entrance exam (SLE) and score a minimum of 12 in order to establish their ability to benefit from the program. Additionally, students must possess the physical strength and mobility to perform Nurse Aide duties. Students concerned about their physical ability to perform such duties should notify their admissions representative. 6

7 Wonderlic Testing Procedures Admissions Representatives are not allowed to administer the entrance exam. The exam can be administered by any other faculty or staff member. 1. Exams with passing scores will remain valid for 1 year (consistent with the transfer of credit policy.) Students applying for admissions more than 1 year from the date of their original Entrance exam must retake the exam and obtain the minimum passing score noted above. 2. Students that do not pass the Wonderlic exam on the first attempt may immediately retake a different Wonderlic exam. 3. Students that do not pass either Wonderlic exam must wait 24 hour before returning to re-take the exam. 4. Students that do not pass the exam after three (3) attempts must wait a minimum of 30 days before they will be allowed to re-test. High School Diploma evaluation: PCI reserves the right to evaluate high school diplomas presented by the student. We may, at any time, request a copy of a high school transcript to validate the high school diploma. Additional satisfactory documentation includes: 1. A copy of a student s military DD214 indicating the student has a HS diploma or GED. 2. An academic transcript indicating successful completion of at least two-years of study that is acceptable for full credit toward a bachelor s degree will be considered equivalent to a high school diploma. (Please Note: PCI will accept a notarized letter stating the student has a high school diploma from the school they graduated from in the event that we cannot make contact with the school as provided in the Federal Register (Section [p]). Please Note: Employment in any occupational field that PCI trains students for could be affected by an individual s personal history and background. In particular, employment is barred for the Nurse Aide program, if a person has been convicted of certain criminal offences. A list of convictions barring employment is available by contacting the Department of Aging and Disability Services DADS. Nurse Aide Students cannot be listed as unemployable on the Employee Misconduct Registry (EMR) and cannot have been convicted of a criminal offense as listed in Texas Health and Safety Code If you are interested in applying for one of our training programs, call or write to Professional Careers Institute (PCI). Our admissions department representatives will contact you to schedule a pre-admissions interview. When you attend the interview, we will explain the program and procedure during an in-depth discussion at the school. Our admissions representative will cover all requirements, tuition and fees, refund policy, books and supplies, student conduct rules, and regulations and job search. You will be informed of the current completion rates, job placement rates, and employment rates for the desired programs. All employment and placement rates are based on availability and sources from the past twelve (12) months. Our representative will also answer all additional questions you may have about the institution. You will be given a tour of the facility and when you feel that you are ready to enroll, we will provide you with an enrollment agreement to complete. You will be approved for training at PCI when you sign your enrollment agreement, satisfy the admission requirements, and fulfill your financial obligations regarding tuition and fees. The role of Financial Aid in the Admissions process is to assist student with processing Federal Financial Aid applications. After a student has completed the admissions process, our admissions representative will pass copies of their ID & SS Card, to the Financial Aid Officer. At that time they will assist the student in completing and processing the required Financial Aid documentation. The PCI Campus Director will approve final acceptance of your enrollment at the institution. Professional Careers Institute accepts all qualified students, regardless of sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, race, age or ethnic origin. 7

8 TB SKIN TEST Nurse Aide students are required to have a TB skin test. Students may get a TB skin test at any licensed medical facility. Documentation must be submitted by the fifth (5 th ) class day. If the results of the test are positive, a follow up TB test or chest x-ray with negative results must be provided by the tenth (10th) class day. Delay in providing this documentation will prevent a student's progression in the program. All fees associated with these required tests must be paid for by the student. The institution does not require any additional vaccinations be obtained; however, some extern sites or employers may require students to comply with a vaccination policy specific to their organization. CHANGE OF PERSONAL DATA Enrolled students must notify the Admissions Office of any changes in their marital status, address, phone number, etc. PREVIOUS EDUCATION & TRAINING AND TRANSFER OF CREDITS The institution accepts transfer students from other State Certified institutions. Official transcripts are required either presented by the student in an envelope stamped and sealed by their previous educational institution or posted directly from the educational institution in order to evaluate and grant credit for subjects successfully completed. In some cases, it may be necessary for the student to provide a course catalog from the previous educational institution to properly evaluate such credits. Our Previous Education and Training Policy complies with requirements from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The authority for data collection comes from the Texas Education Code and Texas Administrative Code (c). Only academic subjects with a minimum C average, completed within one year prior to the date of the evaluation, will be granted credits. A maximum of 200 clock hours will be accepted for transfer of credit. These courses must be comparable in content and length with those offered at PCI. If, as a result of this evaluation the course length is shortened, the course cost will also be reduced accordingly. To apply for transfer of prior credit, a completed TWC Record of Previous Education and Training Form PS-010 must be submitted to the Admissions Office for processing. There is no charge for this request. To appeal a transfer of credit decision, a written letter documenting the justification for the appeal must be submitted to the Campus Director. Credit for previous training, as well as any appeal of decisions made concerning transfer of credit, is subject to the Campus Director s discretion. PCI students are allowed to return to classes within one year of prior attendance and retain any credits for all completed classes that meet a minimum C average. When a student is requesting a transfer of credits when enrolling at PCI, a calculation of hours and weeks to complete the course will determine how much financial aid is available for the student. LIMITATIONS ON TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS TO NON-AFFILIATED EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS The decision of whether an educational institution will accept transfer credits is made at the sole discretion of the accepting institution. The Campus has no ability to influence whether a non-affiliated educational institution will accept transfer credits from PCI therefore, the Campus does not make any representation that credits will be transferable to any non-affiliated educational institution, nor is any representative of the Campus authorized to make any such representation or promise of transferability. STUDENT PARKING 8

9 Parking space is available for students in designated parking areas. Parking in unauthorized spaces is not allowed. Student cars parked in unauthorized parking spaces are subject to towing at the student's expense. Professional Careers Institute is not liable for any fees, damages or stolen property in the parking area. Handicap parking is also available for handicapped students. Handicap permits must be visible from outside the car. ORIENTATION Staff and faculty members conduct one or more orientation sessions for new students. Orientation sessions generally provide information on program schedules, Campus policies and procedures, overview of student s financial aid responsibilities, services offered by the Career Services Department, the Code of Student Conduct, and other issues which may be of interest to students. STUDENT ADVISING Instructors are always available during school hours to assist students with any academic problem they may encounter. The Campus Director will share the responsibility for advising and assisting the students with any other problems they may encounter. PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE AND CAREER SERVICES Job search and placement assistance will be available to all students who successfully complete all required hours in the program. The Career Services Department communicates with local employers on a regular basis. Information obtained from the employers regarding appropriate job openings is made available to graduates who have satisfied their academic and financial obligations and who appear to meet the employer's needs and specifications. Our Career Services Department will continually communicate with our graduates, offering assistance and support in their job search. It is the goal of PCI that our graduates be competitive and well prepared in the eyes of the employer. However, the institution cannot and does not guarantee employment to students. STUDENT HOUSING The institution does not own or maintain any housing facilities but can help students in finding housing arrangements. It is each student's responsibility to provide any deposits and all monthly fees or rent. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT PCI, Southwest location (Main Campus) is located in a modern six-story facility and occupies approximately 7,700 square feet of offices and classroom. Additional space is available to accommodate growth. Equipment is sufficient for the subject areas covered. Facilities and parking are equipped to accommodate students with physical handicaps; however students with physical or mental handicap wishing to enroll in any of the medical programs may have to meet with the Campus Director to determine if program is suitable for their vocational needs. CLASSROOMS AND STUDENT RATIO In all programs with the exception of Nurse Aide, the institution maintains a 1:30 instructor/student ratio for lecture, 1:30 instructor/student ration for business lab, & a 1:20 instructor/student ratio in a vocational laboratory situation. 9

10 INSTITUTION REGULATIONS AND STUDENT CONDUCT At Professional Careers Institute, we do everything in our power to provide the student with the best instruction, training, and ability to become a productive member of our society. In return, we expect our students to be serious about their education, pay attention to our instruction, and demonstrate intelligence and good judgment. Therefore, the student is expected to abide by the following regulations: 1. Students are to conduct themselves in a manner which will avoid bringing unfavorable criticism or disrepute upon fellow students or the institution. 2. Students are to conduct themselves in a manner which will avoid any interference with the learning process of any other student, the presentation of the instructors, or classroom progress, in general. To help ensure this policy, Cell phones and beepers are to be kept on silent or vibrate mode at all times while in class. 3. As the institution is providing training in a professional field, we expect students to dress in proper attire and maintain a professional appearance. Nurse Aides and Medical Assistants are required to have the appropriate assigned attire & equipment at all times. Students are not allowed to wear shorts, short skirts or open toe shoes. Scarves, dew rags, and hats are not permitted at school or the externship site. Jewelry should be removed, with the exception of one pair of small earrings and a minimum amount of small rings, if necessary. Facial piercing, tongue rings, or mouth jewelry is not permitted. Tattoos must not be exposed, and nails must be kept short and neat, in accordance with work place requirements. Cosmetics must be tastefully applied. Hair should be worn in a modest fashion, with no extreme color or style. Once the student receives their name tags, they should be worn at all times. 4. The student is never to enter or attempt to enter the institution while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or narcotics. 5. The student is to hold the institution harmless for damage done to clothing, rings, watches, or any other such items, as well as any personal injury that may be caused by furniture, equipment, or machines used in the course of their study. 6. Gambling in any form is prohibited. 7. The student will attend scheduled class periods or have an acceptable excuse for any absence (excessive absences for any reason may result in student dismissal). 8. The student must call the institution in order to make up missed work if he/she is absent. 9. Students are not to remove any supplies, textbooks, or equipment that is the property of Professional Careers Institute without written permission. 10. Cheating of any kind will not be tolerated, including but not limited to: a. Consulting text-books or notes b. Discussing or reviewing any items on the exam with anyone else during the exam c. Texting students during the exam for any reason Expulsion could result if a student is caught cheating. 11. Students must adhere to the following copyright and software license infringement standards: Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement. 10 Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or statutory damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For willful infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.

11 Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. Internet use, on school time, is authorized to conduct research for educational purposes only. Internet use also creates the possibility of contamination to our system via viruses or spyware. Spyware allows unauthorized people, outside the institution, potential access to Student and Staff passwords and other confidential information. The downloading of copyrighted software or Peer to Peer ( P2P ) sharing programs to the computers is strictly prohibited. The institution utilizes software specifically designed to protect against the illegal downloading of software, and it is maintained by the IT department. For legal alternatives for downloading files, please refer to this link Additionally, under no circumstances may Company computers or other electronic equipment be used to obtain, view, or reach any pornographic, or otherwise immoral, unethical, or non-business-related Internet sites. Doing so can lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination. 12. Students are not to use abusive, vulgar, or profane language. 13. Drinking, eating or smoking must be kept to designated areas. 14. The Institution maintains affiliation agreements with a variety of facilities to provide students with externship/clinical opportunities. Students should be aware that some extern facilities may have additional requirements that must be met prior to placement and the student may inquire additional transportation costs. If a student has a particular interest in a facility with which the Institution is not affiliated, the student may bring this to the attention of Campus Officials so the site may be evaluated. 15. If a student is absent from his or her extern site, both the site and the Institution must be informed by the student. Students who violate any of the above rules and regulations may be terminated. (Students terminated for any of the above rules and regulations may be allowed to re-enroll at the discretion of the campus director.) ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR ALL PROGRAMS OTHER THAN THE NURSE AIDE PROGRAM Attendance is considered important to the student s academic success and the acquisition of good work habits. Many prospective employers are interested not only in a student s academic performance, but also in his/her attendance and punctuality as an indicator of whether the student will be a capable, dependable and committed employee. Students are expected to attend the classes for which they are scheduled. METHOD OF RECORDING ATTENDANCE Attendance is recorded by the instructor at the beginning of each class period. The student must be present during the entire class period to receive a full credit for that period. A student is tardy or considered as leaving early if he/she misses five (5) minutes or more of class time. When the student misses a scheduled day, he/she will be charged for a full day of absence. Scheduled school holidays are not considered as an absence. Time missed resulting from school closures due to weather or other emergencies will be rescheduled for make-up prior to the end of the grading period. Program externship hours are recorded on a weekly timesheet. The student is required to have their externship supervisor validate and sign the weekly timesheet. The weekly timesheet must be faxed or ed to the campus by close of business each Friday. Failure to submit timesheets on a timely basis may result in disciplinary action. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS 11

12 A student must attend a minimum of 90% of their scheduled classroom/lab hours, and must attend 100% of their scheduled program externship hours. A student that is absent in excess of 20 scheduled hours in the first 50% of their program will receive notification of excessive absenteeism and will be placed on attendance probation. Any student not meeting the 90% attendance requirement during the remainder of the program will also receive notification of excessive absenteeism and be placed on attendance probation. Students placed on attendance probation will be required to make-up all hours required to meet the 90% attendance requirement. (Refer to Make up Policy). During the probation period, the student must abide by the specific terms outlined in the attendance probation notification. Failure to abide by the terms may result in the student falling below the required attendance percentage and/or being terminated from the program. Any student absent without notification to the school for fourteen (14) consecutive calendar days will be withdrawn from their program. Any student accumulating gross absences in excess of 20% of their total program hours will be withdrawn from their program. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS (Nurse Aide Program) Professional Careers Institute attendance policy states that students must attend all scheduled classes on a daily basis. 1. When a student misses a total of 5.5 clock hours from class: The student will receive a written warning, advising from the instructor, and agree on a plan to makeup the missed subject matter. 2. When a student misses a total of 11 clock hours from class: The student will be placed on attendance probation and will be required to make-up all missed subject matter. Make-up work cannot be used to remove an absence. A student that is absent in excess of 20% of the program length (excluding clinical extern) will be withdrawn from the program. ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR VA STUDENTS Students using veterans benefits will have attendance monitored until the time the student drops, graduates, or completes the program. Unsatisfactory attendance will be reported to the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), including violations of the attendance policy and/or being absent five (5) consecutive class days. All violations will be reported to DVA on VA Form b within 30 days of the attendance violation. TARDINESS A student is considered tardy to class if he/she arrives to class after 8:05 a.m. for the day shift and after 6:05 p.m. for the evening shift. In order to be admitted to class, a student must obtain a tardy slip issued from a school official and present it to the instructor. MAKE-UP POLICY The institution will coordinate make-up assignments / attendance with the student, in order to remove an academic or attendance deficiency, but the assignments must be completed during the student's own time. Therefore, makeup assignments must be scheduled from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Fridays.. The minimum allowed time is 30 minutes per make up session. Please see ACADEMIC STATUS REVIEW Policy for additional information on academic probation and its effects on student s status. Students who do not make-up their assignments or exams will receive a grade of 0 (zero). Make-up work cannot be used to remove an absence. 12 GRADING SYSTEM

13 The institution uses the following rating system: Grade Quality Score Points Included in GPA A Excellent 90% to 100% 4.00 Yes B Good 80% to 89% 3.00 Yes C Average 70% to 79% 2.00 Yes D Below Average 60% to 69% 1.00 Yes F Failing 0% to 59% 0.00 Yes I Incomplete 0.00 No W* Withdrawn 0.00 No TC** Transfer Credit 0.00 No R Repeated Course 0.00 No P Pass 0.00 No *W designates classes from which students withdraw **TC designates credits/clock hours transferred from other colleges Grades of I (Incomplete), W (Withdrawn), and R (Repeated Course) have no value for the CGPA and are not considered to be completed hours, but do count as attempted hours. Grades of P (Pass) have no value for the CGPA but are considered to be completed hours. I (Incomplete) grades are temporary, and if not satisfactorily resolved within four (4) days of issue become F (Failing) grades. W (Withdrawn) grades are assigned to any course from which a student withdraws. TC (Transfer Credit) is subtracted from the program length and from the maximum timeframe for completion. FAILING / INCOMPLETE GRADES Students with an incomplete grade of I will be permitted a period of four (4) class days to complete the course requirements. During this time, the student must take a make-up test or complete make-up work and pass with a 70% or better, in order to remove the incomplete grade. If the student does not complete the course requirements within the four (4) class days the incomplete grade will be replaced with a grade of F. Students who fail any give course (score less than 60% ) must meet with their instructor to discuss the procedure required to remove the deficiency. The student will be permitted a period of four (4) class days, during which time he/she must make-up all assignments or examinations on the same subject and score a passing grade. If the student passes course requirements and/or submits the missed assignments, he/she will be granted a maximum grade of 70%. Students who fail or do not meet the course requirements will be subject to the Academic Status Review and Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress policy (SAP). REPEATING A COURSE Students will only be allowed to repeat courses as required by the Institution due to academic problems or attendance violations, and only as scheduling permits. When a course is repeated after failure or withdrawal, the later grade will replace the first grade in calculating the CGPA. The clock hours of the course repetition are counted toward the maximum timeframe. Students who repeat courses may be charged to repeat the course at the cost per clock hour as set forth in the Enrollment Agreement. EARLY ADVISING 13

14 At the end of each course, students grades and attendance will be reviewed by the PCI registrar and/or faculty in order to identify students who may be having difficulty or are not on track to meet the academic status requirements. A Student grade report will be issued at the end of each course. These students will be advise by the campus director or his/her designee and advised as to corrective action. ACADEMIC MEASUREMENTS Academic progress is measured qualitatively, by review of the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA); quantitatively, by review of the cumulative attendance rate; and overall against a maximum timeframe of 150% of the program length, measured in weeks. Satisfactory progress is defined as a minimum of a 2.00 CGPA ( C ) and an attendance rate of at least 90% of the scheduled clock hours. These measurements apply to initial and re-enrolled students. To successfully complete a program the student must complete all program requirements within 150% of the program length, measured in weeks. For example: The 30 week programs must be completed within 45 weeks, not including any time spent on an approved leave of absence. The 5 week programs must be completed within 7.5 weeks, not including any time spent on an approved leave of absence. If a student changes programs, his or her maximum timeframe will be adjusted to reflect the necessary additional hours. If, at any time, it is determined that it is impossible for a student to successfully complete the program in the maximum timeframe or CGPA, the student will be dismissed and will not be permitted to reapply in the same program. ACADEMIC STATUS REVIEW A student is considered to be making acceptable academic progress when he/she successfully completes each course of his/her program and maintains at least a "C" average (2.0) throughout the training period. All students are evaluated for academic progress at the end of each grading period. A grading period consists of four (4) weeks for all programs with the exception of Nurse Aide whose grading period is defined as one (1) week. If the student does not meet the Academic Status requirement, he/she will be placed on Academic Probation for the next grading period and an Academic Plan will be developed. Generally, the Academic Plan will require students to meet or exceed the attendance requirements, pass all courses with a C (2.0) or better, and may include additional required elements, such as tutoring. Students will remain eligible for financial aid while on Academic Probation. If the student achieves satisfactory academic status for the probationary period, but does not achieve the required grades and or attendance requirements to meet overall satisfactory academic status for the program, the student may be continued on academic probation for one additional grading period four (4) weeks / one (1) week for Nurse Aide. If a student on academic probation fails to achieve satisfactory academic status for the first probationary period, the student's enrollment shall be terminated. The student will be advised of this action, and the student's file documented accordingly. The enrollment of a student who fails to achieve overall satisfactory progress for the program at the end of two successive probationary periods shall be terminated. A student terminated for unsatisfactory progress may be allowed to reenroll after a minimum of one grading period. A student who returns after their enrollment was 14

15 terminated for unsatisfactory progress will be placed on Academic Probation Status for their next grading period. The student will be advised of this action, and the student's file documented accordingly. If the student does not demonstrate satisfactory progress at the end of this probationary period, that student's enrollment will be terminated. REGAINING ACADEMIC STATUS A student will regain Academic Status when they: 1. Have a minimum 2.00 CGPA ( C ) 2. Have an attendance rate of at least 90% of the scheduled clock hours. 3. Can complete all program requirements within 150% of the program length, measured in weeks. FINANCIAL AID SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS POLICY (SAP) Students receiving federal financial aid will have satisfactory academic progress (SAP) reviewed at the scheduled end of the first payment period (the midpoint of the program in clock hours and weeks) and at the scheduled end date of the program. Program Midpoints: Day programs hours and 15.5 weeks Eve programs hours and 24 weeks Students failing to meet the Academic Status Requirements (as defined above) at the scheduled mid-point and scheduled end date of the program will be placed on Financial Aid Warning. Students on Financial Aid Warning will remain eligible for Title IV Federal Financial Aid. Students on Financial Aid Warning will receive academic advisement to assist them in improving their academic progress. Students may only remain on Financial Aid Warning for one payment period. Students who achieve the required SAP minimums at the end of the payment period will be placed back in good standing. Students who do not achieve the required SAP minimums at the end of the payment period will lose federal student aid eligibility. APPEAL PROCESS A student may appeal academic dismissal or loss of federal student aid due to failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress. To do so, the student must submit a written appeal within five (5) calendar days of receiving the notice. This appeal should be addressed to the Campus Director. The appeal must be accompanied by documentation of the situation, events, or circumstances that prevented the student from attaining satisfactory academic progress or otherwise explains the student s deficient performance. Generally, only extraordinary circumstances are considered, such as the severe illness of the student or an immediate family member. The student s appeal must address the following: 1) The reason why the student failed to meet the SAP standard(s) AND 2) What has changed in the student s situation so that he or she will now be able meet the SAP standards. The student may be asked to meet with the Campus Director as part of the appeal review process. The Campus Director will discuss the appeal with the appropriate Academic and or Financial Aid personnel to reach a decision. The student will be notified in writing of the decision within five (5) days of the school s receipt of the appeal. The decision of the Director or his/her designee will be final. A student whose appeal is granted will be placed on Financial Aid Probation and will be required to meet terms of an Academic Plan outlined in an Academic Probation notice. Students may only remain in Financial 15

16 Aid Probation for one payment period. Student who achieves the required SAP minimums at the end of the payment period that he or she is in Financial Aid Probation will be placed back into good standing. Students who do not achieve the required SAP minimums at the end of the payment period that he or she is in Financial Aid Probation will be dismissed. LEAVE OF ABSENCE A student may be granted a leave of absence from a program for specific reasons, including but not limited to, medical, extreme hardship, and personal conditions. Except for medical emergencies, students must sign a written request for a leave of absence and meet with a financial aid administrator to be considered and approved by a school official. In a 12-month calendar period, a student may have up to two leaves of absence ( LOA ) for a total of 60 calendar days. Students not returning from a leave of absence as scheduled and who have not requested or been granted an extension of the leave will be automatically terminated from their enrolled program. Students in an LOA status may not receive further financial aid disbursements until returning to active status. Contact the financial aid representative for more information about the impact of an LOA on financial aid Failure to return from an approved leave of absence may have an impact on aid, loan repayment and exhaustion of the loan grace period. Leave of Absence for the Nurse Aide program will not be granted due to the short program length WITHDRAWAL POLICY The Institution expects that most students who begin classes will successfully complete their education. However, sometimes conditions or circumstances beyond the control of students and the Institution require that students withdraw. Students who determine the need to withdraw prior to completion must follow the steps below for an official withdrawal: 1. Notify an institutional official of their intent to officially withdraw, in person, via telephone or in writing. PCI will make a reasonable effort to assist students in continuing their education. 2. Once students have officially notified an institutional official of their intent to withdraw, a Change of Status will be processed and signed by the student (for in-person withdrawals only). When possible, the student should meet with Financial Aid to discuss student loan repayment obligations and the Business Office regarding other financial obligations. RE-ENROLLMENT POLICY Any student terminated from Professional Careers Institute for any reason will not be allowed to re-enroll until the start of the next grading period. To re-enroll, the following requirements must be met: 1. Students re-enrolling after an absence of 180 calendar days or more must meet the current admission requirements at the time of re-entry, including validation of high school graduation. 2. Unpaid tuition and fees from prior attendance must be paid in full prior to enrollment or satisfactory payment arrangements made. 3. Credit will be granted for courses successfully completed during prior attendance and the tuition will be calculated on the cost per clock hour for the remaining hours of the program. 4. Financial Aid for re-enrolled students will be calculated for the remaining period, however, eligibility may be reduced. 16

17 5. Students that re-enroll after being terminated for unsatisfactory pprogress will be re-enrolled under Academic Probation status. (See Academic Status Review Policy) 6. Student re-enrolling in a new program, will have their SAP and Academic Status calculated based only on the new program coursework. Students who terminate from school twice for any reason must obtain approval from the Campus Director for re-enrollment STUDENTS RECORDS AND RELEASE OF TRANSCRIPTS Student records are maintained for a minimum of five years from the date the student was last enrolled with the exception of student transcripts and account cards which will be maintained indefinitely.. Should a student wish to receive a copy of his/her student file, he/she may make a written request to the institution and a copy will be forwarded in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The institution will not release educational records to un-authorized persons without prior written consent from the student, parent, or legal guardian. Student transcripts will be available to students and prospective employers upon request. There will be no charge, provided the student has fulfilled his/her financial obligations toward the institution. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) offer students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student s education records within 45 days of the day the Institution receives a request for access. Student should submit a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect to an Institution official. The official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the Institution to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the Institution official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the institution decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the campus will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or 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. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is the disclosure to institution officials with legitimate educational interests. An institution official is a person employed by the Institution in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the Institution has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another institution official in performing his or her tasks. An institution official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the Institution discloses education records without consent to officials of another institution in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. 17

18 4. Directory information is information that may be unconditionally released to third parties by the Institution without the consent of the student unless the student specifically requests that the information not be released. The Institution requires students to present such requests in writing within 10 days of the date of enrollment. Directory information includes the student s name, address (es), telephone number(s), Birth date and place, program undertaken, dates of attendance, and certificate or diploma awarded. It is your right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Institution to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office Department of Education 600 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC DRUG AND ALCOHOL PREVENTION/AWARENESS POLICY It is the policy of the institution to provide students with an environment that maximizes each student s chance for academic success. It is our belief that this environment must be totally drug and alcohol free. Therefore, the school has instituted the following measures to ensure a positive and drug & alcohol free environment for its students and staff: As our first concern is always the student, it is the institution s desire that any student having substance abuse problems should contact a school official for assistance in obtaining qualified treatment. All consultations with the school official will be held in the strictest confidence, for the protection of the student. It is the policy of the institution that anyone found distributing or selling controlled substances of any kind on campus including the parking lots shall be subject to immediate termination and any other actions considered appropriate by the Campus Director. Any student found in possession of any controlled substance shall be dealt with in a manner considered appropriate by the Campus Director. It is our sincere desire to assist students enrolled at the institution to achieve their goals, both academically and personally. In order for students to accomplish these goals, we strictly enforce a drug and alcohol free environment. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act requires the Campus to provide information on its security policies and procedures and specific statistics for criminal incidents and arrests on Campus to students and employees, and to make such information and statistics available to prospective students and employees upon request. Students or prospective students may obtain this information from the Campus Director, or from the consumer information tab of the school s website located at STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICES/ACCOMODATION PCI has an institutional commitment to provide equal educational opportunities for qualified students with disabilities in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, including the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of To provide equality of access for students with disabilities, the institute will provide accommodations and some auxiliary aids and services to the extent necessary to comply with state and federal laws. For each student, these accommodations and services will specifically address the functional limitations of the disability that adversely affect equal educational opportunity. Applicants or students who would like to request disability services / accommodations must make a request to the campus director. 18

19 REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION A student is eligible for graduation when they meet the following requirements: Complete all required courses with a passing grade. Achieved a cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.0 or greater. Completely fulfill all financial obligations to the institution. Successfully complete a minimum of 90% of all scheduled classroom/lab hours and 100% of all scheduled externship hours. The institution will not issue a transcript or diploma to any graduate with an unpaid balance. A diploma will be awarded to students who have met all stated requirements. REFRESHER COURSES Students who graduated within the past year and feel the need to take a refresher course in any of the subjects previously attended may be eligible to audit up to two subjects with no tuition charge with approval from the campus director. Fees for any tools, books, and supplies needed to successfully benefit from the refresher course will be the responsibility of the student. Students in need of more than two subjects for a refresher course are welcome to re-enroll, but will be charged tuition according to the number of hours needed. Nurse Aide students with a certification expired more than two years must take the complete course and retake the state board exam, both the practical and written portions. All tuition and fees are applicable. Returning students will be required to attend the desired subjects at the time of availability. TUITION, TEXTBOOKS AND FEES The tuition is all inclusive and covers books, supplies, and other items. If the institution finances the program, there will be no interest rate charged to the student. Payments may be collected on a weekly basis or any other arrangement agreed to by the student and the institution. Students can pay tuition and fees using cash, money orders, personal checks, or credit card. Students who do not meet their financial obligations are subject to termination. Visit the Financial Aid Office for financial assistance. All textbooks, equipment and necessary supplies are provided during the first two days of class. A listing of textbooks with ISBN will be made available upon request. 19

20 TUITION COLLECTION PROCEDURES The institution will collect all tuition and fees due from students under the terms agreed to by the student and the school. It is the student s legal obligation to pay for all tuition and fees earned by the institution during his/her enrollment. Students terminated for any reason are legally liable for all tuition and fees charged by the institution during their enrollment. Collection letters will be mailed out to remind students of their financial responsibilities and to inform students of their legal rights. If a student does not satisfy his/her financial obligations, the school will be forced to use its legal department in an attempt to collect any and all debts. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PCI offers students several options for payment of tuition. The campus participates in several types of federal, state and institutional financial aid programs, most of which are based on financial need. Those able to pay tuition are given a plan outlining any payment arrangements agreed to by the student and the school. Students seeking financial assistance must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The Institution s financial aid representative uses this form to determine students needs and assists them in deciding what resources are best suited to their circumstances. If the student withdraws from institution, an adjustment in the amount they owe may be made, subject to the refund policy of the Institution. If they received financial aid in excess of what they owe the institution, these funds will be returned to the appropriate federal fund source as outlined in the Refund Policy. The following are descriptions of the financial aid programs available at PCI. Additional information can be obtained through the Financial Aid Office. Information regarding benefits available from the Bureau of Indian Affairs or the Vocational Rehabilitation Program ( DARS ) can be obtained through those agencies. Texas State Grant Assistance Currently no state grants are available. Federal Pell Grant The Federal Pell Grant Program is the largest federal student aid program. For many students, these grants provide a foundation of financial assistance that may be supplemented by other resources. Eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant Program is determined by a standard formula that is revised and approved every year by the federal government. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back. William D. Ford Direct Loan Program (Direct Loans) Direct Loans are low interest loans for students and parents to help pay for the cost of post-secondary education. The Direct Loan Program is the largest student loan program available to students enrolled at least half-time Students who receive loans to pay for their program are responsible for repaying the full amount of the loan, plus interest, less the amount of any refund. A fee that is a percentage of the principal amount of the loan is deducted from the loan; therefore the loan amount actually received will be less than the amount that has to be repaid. Defaulting on loans guaranteed or reinsured by the state or federal government could result in damage to credit ratings, loss of eligibility for future student loans and other forms of financial aid, loss of deferment and monthly payment options, withholding of state and federal income tax refunds, initiation of court action, and garnishment of wages. Entrance and Exit counseling regarding student s rights and responsibilities is required for all student loan borrowers. In addition, student and parent loan data will be submitted to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), and will be accessible by guaranty agencies, lenders, and schools determined to be authorized 20