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1 University College

2 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog University College Mary Lou DeRosa, MBA, Dean University College brings Sacred Heart University s resources and programs to adults, part-time students and to the community. It is also the college that develops and implements innovations in pedagogy, delivery and content. University College administers Weekend University, Summer Intersessions, Winter Intersession, English as a Second Language, and the Center for Financial Education (CFE). The campus in Stamford is home to the CFE, the Sacred Heart English Language Institute (SHELI), part-time undergraduate studies, education courses and graduate-level business certificates. A major objective for the college is to maintain and expand its position as the regional leader in providing learning opportunities to adult students. This is accomplished by stressing teaching, student service and access, responsiveness to emerging educational needs and Sacred Heart University s mission and values. University College develops, markets and delivers certificate and degree programs designed for adult learners. It is responsive to the education needs of business, social service, professional and governmental organizations. ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR PART-TIME STUDY All part-time undergraduate day, evening, weekend, visiting, and summer school students are admitted through University College. Students seeking admission to University College do not need prior college experience to begin their studies and standardized tests are not required. All applicants for admission to University College must submit a high school transcript or equivalent. Students who have an Associate s degree must provide an official transcript with notation of degree. An official transcript must be received and evaluated before acceptance can be complete. After receiving acceptance into a degree program, the student will review the individualized plan of study worksheet with an advisor, and use this worksheet when registering for future classes. All admissions requirements must be fulfilled prior to eligibility for financial assistance. A prospective student may be issued an in-process status and may register for classes. New students should follow these steps: International Students For all non-native English speakers, an official English language proficiency examination is required. The following minimum scores are accepted: TOEFL PBT: 570 TOEFL ibtl: 92 IELTS: 6.5 MELAB: 80 (proctored on-site at SHU) PTE: 62 itep: 5 Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): 5.5 Cambridge Certificate in Proficiency in English (CPE): 5.5 Correspondence should be directed to: University College Sacred Heart University 5151 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT Phone: Fax: ucadmissions@sacredheart.edu 280 University College

3 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog First-Time Students Schedule an appointment to meet with an academic advisor. Complete an application form and submit with the non-refundable application fee. The application form is available online at Submit a copy of your high school transcript or GED Connecticut law requires students born after December 31, 1956, to provide proof of two doses of measles vaccine administered at least one month apart. The first dose of vaccine must have been given after the student s first birthday and after January 1, 1969; the second dose must have been given after January 1, The student is also required to provide proof of one dose of rubella vaccine administered after the student s first birthday. Laboratory evidence (blood tests) of immunity is acceptable in lieu of administration of vaccine. All students must be in compliance with this state law before registering. For further information regarding immunization requirements, contact the University s Health Services Office at You may register with an advisor s signature as an in-process student prior to our receipt of your application requirements. Transfer Students Fax an unofficial copy of your college transcript(s) to University College at The advisor will do a preliminary evaluation of all transfer credits prior to your appointment if possible. Schedule an appointment with a University College advisor. Complete an application form and submit with a non-refundable application fee. The application form is available online at Connecticut law requires students born after December 31, 1956, to provide proof of two doses of measles vaccine administered at least one month apart. The first dose of vaccine must have been given after the student s first birthday and after January 1, 1969; the second dose must have been given after January 1, The student is also required to provide proof of one dose of rubella vaccine administered after the student s first birthday. Laboratory evidence (blood tests) of immunity is acceptable in lieu of administration of vaccine. All students must be in compliance with this state law before registering. For further information regarding immunization requirements, contact the University s Health Services Office at You may register with an advisor s signature as an in-process student prior to receipt of your application requirements. An official transcript must be received and evaluated before acceptance can be complete. RN/BSN Students Student must have an AD or Diploma in Nursing Schedule an appointment with a SHU Online Admissions representative Student must participate with a structured interview process involving nursing faculty Student must have RN license in state of practice and provide a copy University College 281

4 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog Complete a RN/BSN application form online and submit with the non-refundable application fee. Submit official transcripts of all prior nursing and academic work Submit a resume, two letters of reference (one from colleague and the other from supervisor) and a goals statement Provide evidence of malpractice insurance Following the completion of the admissions requirements an acceptance determination is made. A letter stating this determination is sent by SHU Online Program to the applicant. Visiting Students Confirm with your college that they will accept Sacred Heart University credits. Visiting students are required to have completed all prerequisites. Contact University College regarding class availability. Complete a registration form and have it signed by a University College advisor. Bring your registration form to University College or fax it to There is a non-refundable registration fee per semester. Connecticut law requires students born after December 31, 1956, to provide proof of two doses of measles vaccine administered at least one month apart. The first dose of vaccine must have been given after the student s first birthday and after January 1, 1969; the second dose must have been given after January 1, The student is also required to provide proof of one dose of rubella vaccine administered after the student s first birthday. Laboratory evidence (blood tests) of immunity is acceptable in lieu of administration of vaccine. All students must be in compliance with this state law before registering. For further information regarding immunization requirements, contact the University s Health Services Office at Registration is ongoing. Although not required, it is recommended that students meet with an advisor from their major periodically to ensure completion of the program in a timely manner. SPECIALIZED SERVICES AND PROGRAMS OF UNIVERSITY COLLEGE Academic Services Academic Services are designed to assist adult students in establishing and achieving educational goals. Services include pre-admission and new student advisement, degree planning information, academic support and referral. Academic support assistance is available in the areas of academic advisement, major options and declaration, early and mid-term assessment indicators, course selection and registration. Academic Skills Assessment University College ensures that students in the program are well prepared to handle any and all situations connected with the college experience. Through the Jandrisevits Learning Center, assistance is provided in the areas of critical thinking, memory skills, problem solving, reading comprehension, test taking, time management and public speaking. 282 University College

5 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog Assessment of Prior Learning Recognizing that higher education also occurs outside the classroom, the University awards academic credit to students for what they have learned through life and/or work experience in very exceptional circumstances. This experience can be the result of selfeducation, professional certification, in-service training programs, volunteer work or management work. To apply for credit, the student must be enrolled at the University in the semester in which the portfolio is submitted. Credit is awarded only for experience that parallels the University s courses and programs. This credit can be used in the core curriculum, in the major or as free electives, as long as the student completes at least 30 credit hours in the classroom, with one-half of the major taken in the classroom at Sacred Heart University. No more than 60 credits can be awarded for prior learning and CLEP, DANTES and EXCELSIOR combined. This credit is not awarded in areas where National Testing Programs are applicable. The portfolio should include a brief work resume, a detailed description of the individual s experience tailored to particular courses offered by the University and supporting documentation. Supporting documentation may include certificates, awards, letters of recommendation, job descriptions and samples of work. As the portfolio is being composed, the student should be reflecting on the learning that has been derived from his/her experience. The portfolio and application form are submitted to University College, along with the application fee. The portfolio is referred to the appropriate faculty for a determination of any credit award. Some academic departments review the portfolio as a committee, while other departments prefer to test the student in the particular subject matter. After the faculty committee has evaluated the portfolio, it is then reviewed by the department chairperson. A letter of award is prepared. For additional information on the Assessment of Prior Learning program, contact University College at COLLEGE CREDIT BY EXAMINATION NATIONAL TESTING PROGRAMS EXCELSIOR, CLEP and DANTES These are national programs awarding college credit by examination. The University awards credit for CLEP, DANTES, and certain EXCELSIOR exams. CLEP exams are administered at the Stamford campus. College credit is awarded when a student successfully passes an exam with a score of at least 50. Credit is awarded only in areas where the student does not have prior credit applied toward a degree. Students may not take exams in a graduating semester. Sacred Heart University offers the Nursing student the opportunity to take EXCELSIOR exams in Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and the National League for Nursing (NLN) challenge exam in Microbiology. For additional information concerning these exams, contact the Nursing Programs Office at Adult learners have accumulated a wealth of experience throughout life. Sacred Heart University recognizes that knowledge and expertise are not exclusively delivered in a college classroom. University College can provide mechanisms for adult students to convert life s education to college credit. Through CLEP, DANTES and EXCELSIOR national testing, portfolio presentation, University College 283

6 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog and American Council on Education and New York Regents -sanctioned noncollegiate sponsored learning, students can earn as many as 60 credits. CAREER COUNSELING SERVICES Professional staff members work with students to assess abilities and interests in order to formulate a potential study plan. Emphasis is on planning for life. Services are offered to identify and establish career goals, address current career issues and research new options. In-depth career consultation, testing, résumé writing and employment search assistance are available on an appointment basis. ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL) The English Language Institute offers high quality English Language instruction to non-native speakers of English. The Institute is an integral part of Sacred Heart University, where our students can participate in campus activities and events as well as meeting other students. The ESL professors for all programs have earned their Masters Degree and have many years of quality experience in the field of Adult ESL instruction for academic purposes. These programs are designed for students who are 17 and older. All new students are required to take a placement test. We offer six 7-week semesters per year with flexible enrollment schedules. International students can apply for their student visa when enrolled in the intensive or semi-intensive programs. The attendance policy is enforced. Students are expected to submit homework assignments, attend language lab and participate fully in class. Classes are small in size (5 to 12 students) in order to ensure a successful educative experience for all students. Individual tutoring and conversation partners are available to all full time students. Students will receive a conditional acceptance to our undergraduate and graduate programs while attending the English Language Institute. The ESL program is designed for students whose native language is not English and who wish to study English either full or parttime (in compliance with their visa as applicable). The program is designed to help students improve their oral and written communication skills in English, preparing them for successful study in an American academic institution. Full-time ESL students take a cluster of oral communication, written communication, pronunciation, and service learning. Placement in both the noncredit and credit ESL Programs is determined by the University College English Placement Test, SAT scores, TOEFL, an oral interview, and the student s language profile. For more information regarding the program, contact the Director at For further support, tutoring is also available at the Jandrisevits Learning Center. ESL classes are offered on the Fairfield and the Stamford campuses. SHU offers full-time ESL courses all year round, including summer. Courses are offered morning, evening and weekends. Please see our website for further information: Students who successfully complete their ESL classes at the Sacred Heart English Language Institute are not required to take another proficiency test to enroll in other degree programs at Sacred Heart University. Admission to SHELI does not guarantee admission to the University. Our academic advisers will assist you in working toward a university degree. 284 University College

7 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog Non-Credit and Credit ES Intensive ESL Oral Communication I, II Non-credit These beginning courses are designed for students to improve basic listening and speaking skills. Through a variety of materials and activities, students are encouraged to share their ideas and practice their English. Upon completion of these courses, students should be able to understand and engage in everyday conversations, communicate basic needs, and give a short report. Placement by the ESL program staff. ES Intensive ESL Oral Communication III, IV Non-credit These low to high-intermediate courses are designed for students to improve their listening and speaking skills necessary to study at a university. Students listen to lectures and engage in debates and discussions. In addition, students may observe academic classes at the University. Upon completion of these courses, students should be able to understand and take notes on lectures, participate in group discussions, and give oral presentations. Placement by the ESL program staff. ES Intensive ESL Written Communication I, II Non-credit These beginning courses are designed for students to improve basic reading and writing skills. Students read a variety of short, multicultural reading selections to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. The focus of these courses is the structure of reading and writing. Students take a closeup view of their reading and writing and work on the fundamentals. They discuss readings, develop vocabulary, and learn to write well-structured, welldeveloped paragraphs and summaries, as well as reactions to readings. Placement by the ESL program staff. ES /EF Intensive ESL Written Communication III, IV Non-credit These low to high-intermediate courses are designed to help students improve their reading and writing skills to the level required for academic study. Students read articles, essays and short stories from a variety of textbooks, magazines, and Internet sources. Student writing focuses on ideas that are generated from these readings and from personal experiences, including those of service-learning activities. Placement by the ESL program staff. EF English as a Second Language V, VI 3 CR The intermediate and advanced levels in English as a Second Language, these university bridge courses are designed to strengthen students academic reading and writing skills as they begin academic study. Focus is on writing the welldeveloped essay with stress placed on the appropriate elements of grammar, syntax, vocabulary development, and strategies for reading college-level texts. Placement by the ESL program staff. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES The Office of Student Financial Assistance counsels part-time students regarding all of the options available to meet the cost of education. To be considered for financial aid, part-time students must be officially accepted and matriculated into a degree granting program. By combining grant money, government guaranteed loans, low fixed-interest loans, deferred payment plans, employer reimbursement opportunities, Veterans Administration eligibility programs, a plan will be designed for the specific requirements of each student. University College 285

8 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog CURRICULAR FORMATS IN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE University College allows students to pursue undergraduate study in a variety of formats. Classes are offered at Sacred Heart University campuses in Fairfield and Stamford. Students can elect from the following choices: Accelerated Classes Traditional collegiate study terms run anywhere from 15 to 18 weeks. Depending on the course, students can choose 51/2- or 71/2-week terms, with class meetings either once or twice per week, intensive sessions of varying lengths or a weekend schedule. AHEAD Classes (Adults in Higher Education working for Accelerated Degrees) AHEAD is an accelerated scheduling format. The core curriculum is the same for all University majors; therefore AHEAD core courses are available to all part-time students. AHEAD provides working adults 23 years or older the unique opportunity to complete an Associate or Baccalaureate degree program of study in less time than a traditional part-time program. It consists of five terms per year. Each term is seven and one-half weeks in duration. Classes meet two nights per week for 2 hours and 15 minutes per night, or one night per week for 4 hours and 15 minutes. Online Learning Sacred Heart University offers on-line and blended courses. through Blackboard. Blackboard is the standard university Web-based courseware that enables faculty to deliver courses totally or partially online and to supplement a course with on-line material. Students must activate their Sacred Heart University network account and be registered for the course to have access to Blackboard course material and on-line applications. Courses require that students work independently and interdependently with their instructor and with fellow students. A commitment to do this is required of the students in order to sustain their participation. Participants must maintain their own access to the Internet, with capability and have Microsoft Word or compatible word processing software. Guided Independent Learning University College provides qualified students the option to engage in advanced or specialized independent study in a given academic area. Faculty members guide students through all phases. Traditional Semester Study Adults who prefer standard course presentation and time intervals can elect to tailor their programs in the traditional format, both during the day and in the evening. Many students take courses in a variety of formats, depending on subject, content and degree of difficulty. Weekend University The Weekend University offers University core curriculum courses that facilitate the pursuit of a degree. There are two consecutive sessions available during each semester. Winter Intersession and Summer Sessions Students may take only one course during the Late Spring session and up to two courses during the Winter Intersession with permission from University College at Sacred Heart University. 286 University College

9 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog Students may take 2 courses during each of the summer sessions (Summer session 1 and Summer session 2). Taste of College Lifelong Learner Adults 62 years of age or older interested in lifelong learning may take college courses on a seat-available basis. Adults may take college courses at a reduced tuition per course. Selected course offerings vary each semester. Interested adults should contact for more information. THE CENTER FOR FINANCIAL EDUCATION The Center for Financial Education was established on the Stamford Campus of Sacred Heart University to offer greater Fairfield County opportunities for continuing education in the financial services area. The center assists the university in carrying out the mission of being able to respond to an everchanging world and combining education for life with preparation for professional excellence. Admission to the Financial Planning Certificate program is open to individuals with a baccalaureate degree in any discipline. Transfers from other boardapproved programs are also welcome. Offerings include: The Financial Planning Certificate Program Series 7 Prep Paralegal Certificate Course PROFESSIONAL STUDIES The Professional Studies Degree serves as a career advancement step for professionals looking to obtain a Bachelor s degree. Building on the University s core curriculum and the required Professional Studies major core, students will have the opportunity to pursue individual interests through a constellation of electives and a choice of three designated tracks. This degree serves to support student s interest in assuming leadership roles within their organizations. Leadership Track Geriatric Health and Wellness Track Eco-Awareness and Sustainability Track The degree is designed for current University undergraduate students who are seeking an interdisciplinary education, transfer students who wish to pursue degree completion, professionals holding an Associate s degree and seeking career advancement and community college graduates who are interested in furthering their careers by expanding their knowledge in the interdisciplinary areas of communication, technology and management. Program Structure In addition to core requirements, students are required to fulfill 9 credits in each of three disciplines, Computer Science, Communications and Business for a total of 27 credits. A minimum of 15 credits is required in one of the tracks. There are a minimum of 120 credits required for the Bachelor Degree with no more than 27 credits in total from the John F. Welch College of Business University College 287

10 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog GENERAL STUDIES The General Studies program was developed specifically for adult students interested in custom-designing their own multidisciplinary curriculum. It allows students to investigate areas of study that best serve their life and/or work situation. Students select courses from either one or two broad areas of study. With the help of a faculty advisor, a cohesive plan of study, which culminates in a project to synthesize the learning experience, is designed. Classes may be taken in any number of formats. Program Structure Students select 36 major credits from either one or two broad areas of study plus a capstone project (3 credits). The broad areas of study are: Arts and Humanities Natural Science, Numerical and Symbolic Reasoning Professional Studies Social Science A capstone project course is required at the end of the program to synthesize learning. In developing the General Studies major, students, with the help of a faculty advisor, formulate a comprehensive plan of study thus ensuring the pursuit of a meaningful program. Course Scheduling Students may select courses from the University s regular day and evening offerings in the Fall, Winter Intersession, Spring and Summer terms. Students can also take courses in an accelerated format, as well as on weekends. The program is available at the main campus in Fairfield, with selected courses offered at the Stamford campus. Qualifications for Admission Admission to the General Studies program is open to individuals with a high school diploma or its equivalent. Students who already have transfer credits are also welcome. Credit through CLEP, DANTES and EXCELSIOR exams and through the Assessment of Prior Learning Program is also available. ASSOCIATE OF ARTS AND ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAMS Associate Degrees are offered for students whose needs are best met by this degree or for students who may seek to further their education at a later time with a baccalaureate degree. The Associate degree programs fall in two general categories: Associate of Arts (AA) in General Studies degree, with specialties in 19 different fields, and career-based Associate of Science (AS) degrees in one field. In addition to the specialty courses, each program has its foundation within a liberal arts base. Associate of Arts Degree - General Studies Program All Associate of Arts degrees are offered by University College. The candidate for the AA degree in General Studies must complete 60 credits, which include the AA Core Curriculum as well as an emphasis of not less than 15 credit hours and elective courses chosen in consultation with the student s advisor. A minimum of 30 of these credits must be taken at Sacred Heart University, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required. Core Curriculum The Core Curriculum for the AA degree provides the student with the opportunity to experience other disciplines, obtain a 288 University College

11 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog background for further study, and gain the knowledge to become a knowledgeable and educated human being. Foundational Core *EN 110; *EN 111; *Effective 7/1/08, MA 006 will no longer count toward any degree, MA 101 or above unless otherwise specified; Many Business College programs require MA 133 (Statistics) *A grade of C or better is required. Common Core: The Human Journey Sacred Heart University s academic signature centerpiece, The Human Journey, is a coherent, integrated, and multidisciplinary study of the liberal arts and sciences and the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. See description of the Common Core: The Human Journey courses listed previously in this chapter. Elective Core To accomplish the elective core, students will complete the following: Humanities (3 credits), Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 credits), Natural Sciences (3 credits), Religious Studies/Philosophy (3 credits). Emphasis Credits range from 15-32, depending on the emphasis. Note: The required courses for each emphasis are listed under each college and department section. A grade of C or better is required in all emphasis courses. Area discipline courses cannot be used in above core areas. Areas of emphasis with required courses are: Associate of Arts Degree College of Arts and Sciences Biology Chemistry Communication and Media Studies English French Graphic Design and Visual Arts History Italian Mathematics Music Philosophy Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Spanish Associate of Science Degree College of Arts and Sciences Computer Science and Information Technology John F. Welch College of Business Accounting Business Business Economics CREDIT CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Sacred Heart University offers credit certificate programs as a short-term goal and as a way to enhance students knowledge and skills in a particular area, by providing specialized indepth instruction. Credits earned can be later applied to an associate or baccalaureate degree program. Programs in Arts and Sciences include: Catholic Studies Catholic Theological Studies Computer Science and Information Technology Computer Gaming, Design, and Development Interdisciplinary Certificate Program in Interactive Design University College 289

12 Sacred Heart University Undergraduate Catalog Programs in the John F. Welch College of Business include: Accounting Programs in the College of Health Professions include: Geriatric Health and Wellness 290 University College