Student Handbook 2011

New_Student_Handbook 2011.doc

1 | P a g e Sprott-Shaw Degree College - All Rights Reserved, Jan 2011

WELCOME FROM THE ACADEMIC COUNCIL CHAIR

It is an honour and a pleasure to welcome you as a student into the Sprott-Shaw Bachelor of Business Administration Program. This is a program which, although still in its youthful stages, has already achieved excellent standards of achievement in the work of its students. The current high quality of the Sprott-Shaw BBA program is based upon decades of proven educational performance by the College in BC, upon the scholarship and practical experience of our faculty, upon the thoughtful and up-to-date curriculum design which had the support and advice of industry leaders in its preparation and upon the quality of our students. As a new student you will benefit from all those supports in your studies. You will also play an important part in enriching our program by bringing genuine dedication, enthusiasm and diligence to your studies and to your personal preparation for your chosen career. Our specializations – Human Resource and Marketing Management – are timely in terms of today’s expanding employment opportunities. They have been approved by the Degree Quality Assessment Board – the British Columbia Government’s quality assurance agency. The flexibility of our BBA is a particular benefit to those who select Sprott-Shaw since full degree completion can take place here in less time than in most degree-granting institutions without any loss of quality. Our regular student evaluations attest to both the value of the courses taught and to the dedication of our faculty and to their willingness to assist and meet students’ needs outside the classroom. The small classes have also proven beneficial to those who may need more help as their studies advance. We hope you will choose to join us in this exciting educational journey. I look forward to meeting you early in your entry to the BBA at Sprott-Shaw. Sincerely,

Charles McCaffray Dr. Charles McCaffray FRSA

WELCOME FROM THE DEAN/CAMPUS PRINCIPAL

Congratulations on your decision to pursue your educational career with Sprott-Shaw’s Bachelor of Business Administration Program. We know that you will find an engaged, experienced, and caring faculty; committed and supportive student services staff; and an exciting, meaningful, and relevant curriculum. Sprott-Shaw’s vision is “To leave footprints in the sands of time that positively affect the social fabric of our communities.” And true to this vision, Sprott-Shaw has designed the BBA program to prepare students with the foundations of business by providing theories which are matched with the application of these theories. This approach will enable the students to create value in their workplace and in the communities they belong. By taking this step in your own personal journey, you have joined thousands of Sprott-Shaw students and alumni around the world. At Sprott-Shaw, you will have the preparation that will provide you with the opportunities to succeed. Again, on behalf of the faculty and staff of Sprott-Shaw Degree College, we would like to congratulate you on being admitted to the BBA program. In order to make the transition into your new academic career at Sprott-Shaw Degree College as smooth as possible, we would like to outline a few important policies and procedures that you should be aware of as a new BBA student. We certainly look forward to being your partner in the attainment of your educational and professional goals. Sincerely,

Teresita Ireneo-Manalo Teresita Ireneo-Manalo, Ph.D.



TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME FROM THE ACADEMIC COUNCIL CHAIR ................................................................................. 1

WELCOME FROM THE DEAN/CAMPUS PRINCIPAL .................................................................................... 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................................ 2

HISTORY OF SPROTT-SHAW ............................................................................................................................ 3

SPROTT-SHAW VISION STATEMENT ............................................................................................................. 4

MISSION STATEMENT ....................................................................................................................................... 4

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES .................................................................................................... 5

ACADEMIC STANDING .................................................................................................................................. 5

ACADEMIC HONESTY.................................................................................................................................... 5

ATTENDANCE POLICY .................................................................................................................................. 7

AUDITING COURSES ...................................................................................................................................... 7

COURSE OVERLOAD ...................................................................................................................................... 8

COURSE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................. 8

CHALLENGE EXAMS...................................................................................................................................... 8

GRADING SYSTEMS ..................................................................................................................................... 10

GRADUATION ................................................................................................................................................ 11

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................... 12

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ..................................................................................... 12

COURSE REGISTRATION ..................................................................................................................................... 12

ADDING AND WITHDRAWING FROM COURSES .................................................................................................... 12

GRADES ............................................................................................................................................................. 12

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS ...................................................................................................................... 12

TEXTBOOK ADJUSTMENTS ................................................................................................................................. 13

SCHOOL LETTERS ............................................................................................................................................... 13

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................ 13

FINANCIAL POLICIES ...................................................................................................................................... 14

PAYMENT OF FEES ....................................................................................................................................... 14

REFUNDS ........................................................................................................................................................ 15

REFUNDS IN CASES OF WITHDRAWAL OR DISMISSAL .................................................................. 15

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS ............................................................................................... 16

STUDENT RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION ....................................................................................... 16

CODE OF CONDUCT ..................................................................................................................................... 16

STUDENT APPEALS ...................................................................................................................................... 18

PLAGIARISM .................................................................................................................................................. 19

STUDENT INFORMATION AND PRIVACY ............................................................................................... 19

SUBSTANCE ABUSE ..................................................................................................................................... 20



HISTORY OF SPROTT-SHAW

Sprott-Shaw Degree College’s parent institution Sprott-Shaw Community College is a pioneer in private

education not only in British Columbia but also in Canada. The College has been in operation since 1903, and

received the written consent from the Minister of Advanced Education in the province of British Columbia to

offer a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree effective November 12th, 2004.

When Robert James (RJ) Sprott became partners with William Henry Shaw of Shaw Colleges in 1903, they

opened the first Sprott-Shaw school, called Vancouver Business Institute. The college survived economic

recessions, two World Wars and the Great Depression, all making its foundation stronger for today.

The modern campuses of Sprott-Shaw now train over 4500 students each year. The BBA program is offered

under the Sprott-Shaw Degree College at its Burnaby campus near Vancouver. Our graduates are from around

the world and take jobs in a number of countries.



SPROTT-SHAW VISION STATEMENT

“To leave footprints in the sands of time that positively affect the social fabric of our communities”

MISSION STATEMENT

To Teach To Guide To Learn

EDUCATIONAL GOALS

To Teach standardized curriculum using qualified people trained to SSCC guidelines

To Guide toward work-force expectations through role modeling

To Learn from each other as learning is a two-way process



ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES (Policy Manual, Version 4.0)

ACADEMIC STANDING

Students who register in degree courses or programs at Sprott-Shaw are expected to maintain acceptable standards of academic performance. With respect to academic performance at the end of each term, a Sprott-Shaw BBA student will fall into one of the following categories:

a) Good Standing b) Academic Warning c) Academic Probation d) Academic Suspension (Required to Withdraw)

a) Good Standing: Students who register in degree programs or courses at Sprott-Shaw are expected to maintain acceptable standards of academic performance. Students must achieve a term grade point average (TGPA) and maintain a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of C or higher to be classified as students in good standing. If, at the end of the term, their TGPA falls below 2.0, but their CGPA remains at 2.0 or higher, students will lose the status of good standing. However, students who maintain a CGPA of 2.0 or higher will not be placed on academic warning unless two or more failing grades contributed to the TGPA of less than 2.0.

Students who have enrolled in three of more courses per term for two consecutive terms, and who have earned an average of 80% (a GPA of 3.33 prior to June 2007 or 3.67 after June 2007) or higher during both terms, with no failing grades, will be placed on the Dean’s Honour List.

b) Academic Warning: Students are placed on academic warning following the term in which both their TGPA and CGPA are less than 2.0 or their TGPA alone is less than 2.0 owing to two or more failed courses during the term. At the end of the term following that in which a student had been placed on academic warning, if both the TGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.0, the student will be placed on Academic Probation. However, if the student’s TGPA only has increased to 2.0 or higher, the student will remain on academic warning until the term following that in which the CGPA has returned to 2.0 or higher.

c) Academic Probation: Students will be placed on academic probation if, in the term following that for which they received an academic warning, they obtain less than the minimum average required for the designation of “Good Standing” or a TGPA that allows them to remain on academic warning. By the end of the term on academic probation, students who have not achieved the minimum required level of academic performance, that is a TGPA of 2.0 or higher, will be placed on academic suspension and therefore be required to withdraw for a minimum of one term. Students whose TGPA and CGPA improve to at least 2.0 will be returned to the status of good standing. If only the TGPA increases to the required level of 2.0 or higher, the student will be placed on academic warning.

d) Academic Suspension (Required to Withdraw): A student will be required to discontinue studies after three terms (in succession) of academic performance below that established to be the minimum acceptable GPA. To gain readmission to the Sprott-Shaw degree program, a student must reapply and submit either proof of accomplishing better grades at another institution while on Academic Suspension, submit a study plan for measures to be taken to improve the level of performance, explain why previous studies were unsuccessful or provide evidence of remedial studies that have increased the probability of success.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Sprott-Shaw expects integrity, ethical conduct, and intellectual and academic honesty from its students. This policy defines the relevant terms, outlines the procedures for addressing academic honesty, and identifies consequences of dishonesty.



Academic dishonesty is treated as a serious offence and is not tolerated at Sprott-Shaw. Academic dishonesty includes plagiarism, cheating, giving or receiving aid in an examination or where otherwise prohibited, having in an examination room any materials or devices other than those permitted by the instructor, submitting essays or other works more than once or any other deceptive act in connection with work submitted to meet course or graduation requirements.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Plagiarism: The formal presentation by whatever form or submission of another person’s work, research, words, ideas, illustrations, or diagrams as one's own without explicit citation or credit.

Cheating: The use or provision of unauthorized aids, assistance, or materials during examinations, in the preparation of assignments, or in the completion of practical work (in clinical, practicum, or lab settings). This includes, but is not limited to;

copying from another person’s work in an examination;

communicating answers by whatever means to others during an examination;

submitting one's own work for more than one course without instructor permission; or

resubmitting work, in whole or in part, for which credit has already been granted.

ENCOURAGING ACADEMIC HONESTY

The instructor will clearly define expectations associated with academic honesty and will refer students to this policy. The expectation of academic honesty does not mean that students must work, study and learn in isolation. Students are encouraged, both in and out of class, to work, study and learn together and to incorporate into their own explorations, views, and analyses the work of others as may be found in books, journal articles, electronic media, interviews, private conversations.

Incorporating the knowledge of others with one's own work is integral to learning. Quotations, references, citations, and other acknowledgements of the work of others, as well as acknowledgement of collaboration and citing of collaborators, ensure that all research is appropriately credited.

The instructor will evaluate each piece of work in the context of the course and the instructions given to students. These instructions might include, but are not limited to, specification of a particular style for documenting primary or secondary sources, guidelines for using peer evaluators and tutors, citation of group work, and guidelines surrounding the use of the Internet.

Evidence of academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to,

a) student admission of plagiarism;

b) instructor discovery of plagiarism;

c) student admission of cheating; or

d) instructor or student observation of cheating.

PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO AN ACT OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

1. Upon the discovery of a potential issue of Academic Dishonesty, the instructor will approach the student, hear the student's account in private, and discuss the incident in relation to the Academic Honesty policy. A resolution may be achieved at this point.

2. If, after the assessment of the incident with the student, the instructor remains concerned about or confirms a deliberate act of dishonesty, or believes the breach of academic honesty warrants further action, she/he will document and report the incident in writing to the Dean (or Designate).



3. The Dean (or Designate) will review the written documentation and will notify or meet with the student. The student may elect to bring an advocate to this or to subsequent meetings related to the alleged act of academic dishonesty.

4. The Dean (or Designate) will contact the Registrar to determine whether a previous act of dishonesty is documented in the student's file which may affect the disposition of this case.

5. The Dean (or Designate) will document the confirmed incident, the process of resolution, and the consequences, in writing. One copy of this documentation will be forwarded to the Registrar for placement in the student's file for a time period specified by the Dean (or Designate). A second copy will be sent to the student. When it is a second confirmed offence, the Dean will formally notify the student that he or she is required to discontinue studies for the duration specified.

6. Students who wish to appeal the decision of a first or second confirmed act of academic dishonesty reached under this policy may do so in accordance with the Student Appeals policy.

Note: Discovery of a breach of academic honesty after a grade or credential has been awarded will be dealt with according to the procedure outlined below, and may result in the repeal of a grade or credential.

CONSEQUENCES OF AN ACT OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

The Consequences of a confirmed act of academic dishonesty may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Requiring the student to rewrite the assignment

A letter of reprimand.

A notation on a student's academic transcript.

Requiring the student to complete another assignment or take another exam.

A zero percent grade assigned to the relevant evaluation component.

A failing grade on the course as a whole.

Suspension from the program and/or College.

Permanent expulsion from Sprott-Shaw Community College.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Sprott-Shaw maintains strict policies regarding attendance and punctuality in keeping with the objective of training students for entry into the work force. Unless otherwise instructed, students are expected to attend all meetings of courses in which they are enrolled. Regular class attendance is important in achieving learning outcomes in the course. When 20% or more of a course is missed consecutively and there has been no contact with the instructor, students may be withdrawn from the course. Attendance is documented using an Official Enrolment Roster and Attendance Form. A record of class attendance is important for students who receive financial aid; student loans; and for international students on “Study Permits.”

AUDITING COURSES

Sprott-Shaw subscribes to a philosophy of life-long learning and is committed to enhancing the skills, knowledge and values of life-long learners in meeting their goals, whether these include college credits or measurable assessment of other learning.

Students who wish to learn without the requirement of course credit or the obligation of assigned work and examinations are invited to audit courses at the discretion of the department or course instructor and the Dean. The student who audits a course is not formally evaluated, but is expected to adhere to the specified standards of the class regarding attendance and participation and to pay the same fee as if the course were for credit.



PROCEDURE

An applicant or student who wishes to audit one or more courses must apply and register according to current registration procedures. Written permission of the course instructor and approval of the Dean are required. Applicants for auditing a course are the last to be considered and are admitted only if space is available in the course after all other categories of student applicants have been enrolled. A change in credit or audit status is permitted only during the official course change period.

NOTATION ON PERMANENT RECORD

The notation AD (Audit) will appear on the permanent transcript of academic record beside each course successfully audited. If the instructor notifies the Registrar's Office of inadequate attendance (as stipulated in the instructor's Course Outline or where not so stipulated, absence from 20% or more of classes), the student will be withdrawn from the course and will be assigned a course standing of W (Withdrawn).

COURSE OVERLOAD

Sprott-Shaw recognizes 12 credits a term as a standard full time course load. Requests by students to exceed this workload may be approved by the Dean or Registrar on a per term and a case by case basis. Undergraduate students may qualify for credit overload if, while enrolled at Sprott-Shaw, they have maintained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 for 15 credits. Students must also be in good financial and academic standing, and have good attendance. Overload approval will be granted in writing. Permission to exceed the maximum credit load is extended to a student for one term only and is subject to review as the student’s circumstances change.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Within the total of 120 credits required for earning a Sprott-Shaw BBA, 48 credits must be at the upper (3rd & 4th year) level.

MINIMUM BBA COURSES REQUIRED TO GRADUATE

The required courses are those offered by Sprott-Shaw and are considered essential to graduating with a Sprott-Shaw BBA. Students who have transferred to the BBA program from another accredited institution will receive transfer credit for those courses, for which acceptable grades have been earned. This does not preclude the rules governing residency requirements. A student must also complete a further seven courses in the student’s area of concentration.

CHALLENGE EXAMS

Challenge exams provide an alternate means of acquiring credit for individual courses or for demonstrating competencies in individual courses in the Prior Learning and Assessment Process at Sprott-Shaw. Challenge exams provide a means of third party verification in the PLAR process.

Challenge exams are used in the PLAR process to either acquire credit for an entire course or to satisfy part of the PLAR process to demonstrate competency for a particular learning outcome(s) of a course. A student may normally challenge a maximum of four (4) courses.

TIMING OF CHALLENGE EXAMS A student must have applied and qualify for acceptance before they may undertake the PLAR process. Like the PLAR process, challenge exams can be taken at any time during a student’s residency at Sprott-Shaw.



CHALLENGE EXAM CONTENT AND FORMAT Challenge exams that are used to acquire credit for an entire course must be as rigorous as a final exam for a particular course and such an exam must not only cover the material of the entire course but shall not repeat any questions contained in the previous examination.

EXCLUSIONS FROM CHALLENGE EXAM Challenge exams may not be taken for courses already completed at Sprott-Shaw or that have been transferred in from other recognized institutions.

CHALLENGE EXAM GRADES Challenge exams are graded “Pass/No Pass”. If the challenge exam receives a passing grade, the course is considered to have been completed successfully, is recorded on the transcript. If the challenge results in a “No Pass”, the student must enrol in the course and pay all required school fees. Students are not permitted to repeat a challenge exam.



GRADING SYSTEMS

Sprott Shaw recognizes the need for a system of grading that is commonly used and respected among Canadian and international educational institutions and businesses. As a result, learning experiences are measured by academic performance and reported as standard letter grades and grade-point equivalents that reflect percentage ranges shown in the following tables. To be comparable in the reporting of grades to the majority of post-secondary institutions in British Columbia, in June, 2007 Sprott Shaw adopted the 4.33-point grading system to replace the previously adopted 4.0-point equivalent system. Both grading systems are presented below.

LETTER GRADE SYSTEM AND PERCENT RANGE EQUIVALENTS (COMMENCING JUNE 2007)

Letter Grade

Grade Point Equivalent

Percentage Range

Assessment

A+ 4.33 90% to 100% Outstanding Achievement

A 4.00 85% to 89%

A- 3.67 80% to 84%

B+ 3.33 76% to 79% Good Achievement

B 3.00 72% to 75%

B- 2.67 68% to 71%

C+ 2.33 64% to 67% Satisfactory Achievement

C 2.00 60% to 63%

C- 1.67 55% to 59% Marginal Achievement

D 1.00 50% to 54%

P Credit with no weighting in GPA

F 0.00 <50% Unsatisfactory Achievement

Repeating Failed and Other Courses for Higher Standing: Excluding English I and English II, a student may repeat, for higher standing, a maximum of five courses including those with failing grades (grades of less than 50%). However, each course may be repeated only once. Should a course be repeated, both grades will appear on the student’s academic record, but only the grade from the second enrolment will be used in calculating the Cumulative GPA. In addition to the provision of a single repeat in each of five different courses, a student may repeat, if necessary, English I and/or English II at least twice and possibly a third time at the discretion of the Dean.

Prerequisite Standing: Any course that must be taken successfully, prior to enrolling in a specified course at a higher level is referred to as a prerequisite. However, to be accepted as sufficient to serve as a prerequisite, it must be passed with a grade of 60% or higher. Grades from 50% to 59% will be used for credit, but normally not as a prerequisite standing. Special consideration may be given to grades between 55% and 59% for those students who are in Good Standing, especially for those who maintain a CGPA of 60% or higher.

Higher-Level Standing: Students are expected to achieve a letter grade of C or better in all courses at the higher (Third and Fourth-year) level. Although credit will be granted for grades from 50% to 59%, students obtaining such grades in upper-level courses may be advised to repeat the courses in question. This is particularly true if their overall academic performance places them on Academic Warning or Academic Probation. Students unable to achieve at least 60%, for courses in their area of concentration, will be required

to review their academic goals and may be required to change their area of concentration.



Other Standings and Credits: The following designations are used by the Sprott-Shaw BBA program where a standard letter grade or grade-point equivalent does not apply.

IN (Incomplete): The level of academic performance at the time of posting grades is insufficient to serve as a predictor of success. The student must complete the requirement of the course that is missing, e.g. essay, examination or project, within a specified period of time.

DF (Deferred Grade): A student has been granted permission to postpone the writing of the final examination to some specified date, or a final examination has been postponed owing to circumstances that are not the

responsibility of the student.

IP (In Progress): This is normally assigned as a mid-term grade or is assigned to a course, such as directed studies, that is longer in duration than all other courses reported at the end of a term. WD (Withdraw): Indicates that the student withdrew voluntarily after the prescribed date for adding or dropping a course without a notation entered on the academic record. A course assigned a “WD” standing is excluded

from all GPA calculations.

AG (Aegrotat): This designation is a standing for which full credit is given but which may not be included in the calculation of the GPA. This assignment occurs when medical afflictions or other disabling circumstances prevent students from either completing some single aspect of the course or from writing the final examination where the grade on the final examination is not the major assessment of the course. AG standing can only be assigned to those whose academic performance or level of achievement predicts unquestionable success in the course and the instructor feels confident in assigning a grade of good standing, that is a grade of C or higher. Where there is doubt about the ability of students to obtain a minimum “good standing” or where academic assessments equal to or greater than 50% of the available grades are missing, a standing of “Incomplete” will be assigned.

AD (Audit): Students who wish to advance their knowledge in a subject without the obligation of submitting major assignments for grading or writing final examinations are referred to as auditors and will receive the standing of AD on their final academic report. Students enrolled in the BBA program at Sprott Shaw who receive permission to audit a course will have their audited course entered on their report of grades and official transcript but the audited course will not be included in the calculation for the GPA. Other than being excused from writing final examinations and submitting major assignments, auditors are expected to attend all classes and fully participate in the course. Auditing students are admitted only after all other classifications of applicants have been accommodated.

GRADUATION

Candidates who have completed all academic requirements for a degree must make formal application for graduation. Applications for graduation are made through the Office of the Registrar. Applications for graduation must be submitted to the Registrar even by those candidates who do not wish to participate in the graduation ceremony. Although applications for graduation are normally submitted prior to the completion of the final term of studies, final notification is dependent on the approval of the Dean following final degree auditing procedures.

Potential candidates for graduation will be informed, prior to their final term of studies, about any outstanding academic requirements. If any of those degree requirements are taken, with the approval of the Dean, at another institution, the final degree audit requires receipt of official transcripts.

Additionally, Graduation Diplomas and official transcripts will be withheld from students placed on financial hold until all academic fees and other financial indebtedness has been discharged.



RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

Sprott-Shaw Community College requires that a student successfully complete at least 30 course credits – the equivalent of one full academic year - at Sprott-Shaw before it will confer a BBA. Students must also ensure that they have 18-21 credits in their area of concentration to qualify for such graduation.

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

COURSE REGISTRATION

Registration for each quarter begins 45 days before the start of classes. Enrolment contracts are signed each quarter and students must register for their courses on or before the deadline, usually the 20th of the month before the start of classes. Students who register after the deadline will be charged a late registration fee of

$75.00.

ADDING AND WITHDRAWING FROM COURSES

You are required to fill out a Course Add/Drop Form in order to add or withdraw from any course. A legitimate reason must be provided when withdrawing from a course. Please be advised that the Dean must authorize all course status changes before the change will take effect. It is the student’s responsibility to make an appointment with the Dean to discuss any course status changes. In order to avoid any financial penalties for late changes to course statuses, please plan accordingly.

GRADES

All grades are maintained by the Office of the Registrar. If you wish to see posted grades, or receive a copy of your unofficial transcript, please email the Registrar’s Office to make an appointment. Please be advised that no grades shall be released over the phone or via email in accordance with Sprott-Shaw Degree College’s privacy policy.

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS

To receive an official transcript of your academic record, you must fill out an Official Transcript Request Form. There is a transcript fee of $10 per transcript that must be paid in advance before any transcript requests will be processed. Please allow one week for a request to be processed. Only courses for which the student has paid for and completed (or are currently in progress) will appear on the transcript. Only the grades achieved at



Sprott-Shaw Degree College will be reflected on the transcript. All transcript fees should be paid to the Financial Administrator.

TEXTBOOK ADJUSTMENTS

If you are purchasing your own textbook and would like to return a course textbook, you are required to fill out a Textbook Waiver Form no later than two weeks before the start of classes in order to receive a full credit on your account. All requests must be approved by the Dean before any change will be made to your account. Proof of book ownership should be demonstrated for any textbook adjustment. Please be advised that once the textbook has been issued to the student, the textbooks can not be returned.

SCHOOL LETTERS

To receive a school letter, you must fill out and submit to the Dean a School Letter Request Form. The fee for school letters is $10 for the first and second copy, and $1 for each additional copy. Urgent requests carry a fee of $20 per copy. If you are requiring a school letter, please submit your request two weeks in advance in order to provide adequate processing time.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

FIRE PREPAREDNESS:

If you smell smoke or see a fire please inform a staff member immediately.

EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

In the case of an unexpected earthquake, you should attempt to distance yourself from any bookshelves (or other heavy unsecured objects) and move away from any glass windows or doors. Should you be near a desk or table, take cover under the desk, on your knees with you head down. If you are not near a desk or table, take cover in a corner or doorway.

For more information on earthquake preparedness, please visit: www.pep.bc.ca/hazard_preparedness/earthquake_preparedness.html

FIRST AID

A first aid kit is located behind in the Administration Office. If you are in need of First Aid, please speak with any staff member.

http://www.pep.bc.ca/hazard_preparedness/earthquake_preparedness.html



FINANCIAL POLICIES

SCHEDULE OF FEES (Effective 2010)

Application Fee (one time) CAD $100

Tuition Fee (per course) CAD $1,299 (International)

CAD $620 (Domestic)

Student Fee (per term) CAD $40

Library Fee (per term) CAD $50

Contract Fee (per registration) CAD $50

Photocopy Fee (per course) CAD $25 + GST

Student ID (annual) CAD $20

Environmental Fee (one time) CAD $42 (includes tax)

Note: Textbook fees may vary from course to course but the average price is CAD $150 per course.

PAYMENT OF FEES

Students pay for their courses as they register for them. A clearance form signed by the Financial Administrator and counter-signed by the Dean should be shown to the instructors before students are allowed to continue attending classes after the third week of classes. Students with unpaid accounts and without clearance forms will not be allowed to sit in class and will be required to meet with the Dean to settle their obligations. All outstanding account balances must be paid before students are allowed to register for any future courses.



REFUNDS

REFUNDS IN CASES OF WITHDRAWAL OR DISMISSAL

1. Written Notice

a) To initiate a refund, written notice must be provided:

1. By a student to the institution when the student withdraws, or

2. By the institution to the student where the institution dismisses a student.

2. Refund Entitlement

a) Refund entitlement is calculated on the total fees due under the contract, less the applicable non-refundable application or registration fee. Where total fees have not yet been collected, the institution is not responsible for refunding more than has been collected to date and a student may be required to make up for monies due under the contract.

3. Refund policy for students:

a) Refunds before the program of study begins:

1. If written notice of withdrawal is received by the institution less than seven (7) calendar days after the contract is made, and before the commencement of the period of instruction specified in the contract, the institution may retain the lesser of 10% of the total fees due under the contract or $100.

2. Subject to subsection (a) (i), if written notice of withdrawal is received by the institution thirty (30) calendar days or more before the commencement of the period of instruction specified in the contract, the institution may retain the lesser of 10% of the total fees due under the contract, or $500.

3. Subject to subsection (a) (i), if written notice of withdrawal is received by the institution less than thirty (30) calendar days before the commencement of the period of instruction specified in the contract, the institution may retain the lesser of 20% of the total fees due under the contract, or $1000.

b) Refunds after the program of study starts:

1. If written notice of withdrawal is received by the institution, or a student is dismissed, within 10% of the period of instruction specified in the contract, the institution may retain 30% of the total fees due under the contract.

2. If written notice of withdrawal is received by the institution, or a student is dismissed, after 10% and before 30% of the period of instruction specified in the contract, the institution may retain 50% of the total fees due under the contract.

3. If a student withdraws or is dismissed after 30% of the period of instruction specified in the contract, no refund is required.

4. Other Refund Policy Requirements

a) Where a student is deemed not to have met the institutional and/or program specific minimum requirements for admission, the institution must refund all fees paid under the contract, less the applicable non-refundable application or registration fee.

b) Where an institution provides technical equipment to a student, without cost to the student, and the student withdraws or is dismissed, the institution may charge the student for the equipment or use of the equipment on a cost recovery basis, unless the student returns the equipment unopened or as issued within fourteen (14) calendar days.

c) Refunds owing to students must be paid within thirty (30) calendar days of the institution receiving written notification of withdrawal and all required supporting documentation, or within thirty (30) calendar days of an institution’s written notice of dismissal.

Where the delivery of the program of study is through home study or distance education, refunds must be based on the percent of the program of study completed at the rates specific to Part IV I. 4(b) of the PCTIA Bylaws



STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS

STUDENT RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION

All students should provide updated contact information (Mailing Address, telephone numbers, and e-mail address). For all international students it is important that each student’s file contains up to date immigration documentation (i.e. a valid study permit and student visa). It is the student’s responsibility to renew his or her study permit as needed and provide up to date documentation to both the Dean and the Office of the Registrar.

CODE OF CONDUCT

College students are entitled to engage in the educational process, or the provision of educational services, free from disruptive or inappropriate behaviours.

The Dean is assigned administrative responsibility for disciplinary action regarding student misconduct. This process is separate and distinct from cases involving academic honesty which is a separate policy. The Dean is responsible for convening a discipline committee when necessary, notifying students and others concerned, developing and maintaining confidential files and reports on cases, and ensuring the timely resolution of discipline cases until closed.

GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT CONDUCT

Students enrolling in the College assume a responsibility to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with an institution of higher learning in addition to observing provincial and federal laws. Incompatible actions and grounds for disciplinary action shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

Theft or damage to property of the college as well as property of another student, faculty, or visitor to the college.

Verbal or physical abuse of another student, faculty or employee of the college.

Obstruction or disruption of the teaching of a class or other college activity, including, but not limited to, meetings, seminars, and other legitimate activities of the college.

Forgery, alteration or misuse of college documents, records or identification.

Unauthorized entry or occupancy of college facilities or blocking access to or egress from such areas.

Unauthorized use of college supplies or equipment.

Use, possession or distribution of illegal drugs on any college property.

Failure to comply with directions of college employees or administrators acting in the performance of their duties. Students are required to provide proof of identification when requested by any college representative.

Possession or use of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals or weapons.

Disorderly or indecent conduct or expression, breach of the peace, or procuring another to breach the peace.

COMMITTEE ON STUDENT CONDUCT

A committee will be formed to conduct hearings when requested to make recommendations for action by the Dean in response to reported student misconduct. The committee will include three administrators, three faculty members and a student (if available). Administrators and faculty will be appointed to overlapping two year terms to ensure committee continuity. A quorum will consist of a minimum of four members, with at least one member representing each group. All committee members will have a vote. The committee will select a chairperson.

DISCIPLINARY AND HEARING PROCEDURES

Allegations of misconduct must be submitted to the Dean in writing within one week of the incident and may originate from any member of the college community. Student’s charged with misconduct shall be notified in writing of the allegations made and will be requested to be available (on-line or in person) to the Committee on



Student Conduct. The student will have the opportunity to present any appropriate defence or explanations of his/her conduct to the committee. Failure to participate will indicate that the student, if properly notified, does

not contest the allegations made.

The committee will recommend appropriate disciplinary action, if any, to be taken by the Dean. The Dean may require additional evidence to be gathered, and can remand the matter to the committee for further timely evaluation. The Dean will review the evidence and findings of the committee and confirm or modify the action pro-posed. The student will be notified in writing of the decision of the Committee or the Dean and actions, if any, to be taken. The student may accept the decision or appeal to the Vice President of the College. The Vice President can confirm or modify the findings of the Committee and/or Dean at his/her discretion.

SANCTIONS

a.) Reprimand: Official notice to the offender that his/her conduct does not meet the standards of the college. A reprimand is considered a warning that further incidents of misconduct may result in further disciplinary action. The action does not become part of the student’s academic record.

b.) Disciplinary Probation: Restriction or exclusion of college related activities of a student or group of students as deemed appropriate by the Dean. Disciplinary probation can be imposed for a period not to exceed two years, and further misconduct of any kind during the probation period can result in further disciplinary action. The action becomes part of the student’s academic record.

c.) Restitution: Reimbursement must be made for damages to or misappropriation of college property by a student. Reimbursement can take the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages. The action becomes part of the student’s academic record.

d.) Disciplinary Suspension: Students may be excluded from taking classes or other privileges for the time set forth in the notification to the student. The action becomes part of the student’s academic record.

e.) Expulsion: Indefinite termination of student status. This action requires approval by the President, as does any possible subsequent re-admission. The action becomes part of the student’s academic record.

SUMMARY SUSPENSION

In order to protect the college, other students, faculty and administrators from the immediate possibility of disorder, misconduct or threat, the Dean of the College can impose a summary suspension upon a student. The student is required to immediately leave college property and all privileges are suspended. The student must contact the Dean within 24 hours of the incident to present any defence or explanations of why the Summary Suspension should not be continued until the Committee on Student Conduct can be convened.

APPEALS

If the Complainant or the Respondent feels that he/she was not provided with due process or appropriate process was not followed, he/she may appeal the decision(s) to the Vice President Academic. Where the decision is made by the Vice President Academic, the appeal would be directed to the College President. The appeal must be submitted in writing within ten days of the decision being received by the Complainant/Respondent and must provide specific grounds for the appeal, describing how the policy was incorrectly applied and/or due process did not take place was not followed. The Vice President Academic or



President will determine if additional actions or formal investigation is required and, where appropriate, appoint an Investigator.

STUDENT APPEALS

Sprott-Shaw students have the right to appeal educational decisions and practices where the student feels he or she may have been treated unjustly in the application of Sprott-Shaw educational policies/procedures.

GRADE GRIEVANCES AND RULES ON APPEALS

It is the responsibility of faculty to evaluate the academic performance of students and to assign grades for that work. Once recorded in the student’s academic records, a grade may be changed only:

a) Upon faculty certification that an error in determining the student’s grade has occurred; or

b) As a result of a grade grievance appeal.

Generally, the faculty assessment of student work is not subject to review. However, if students believe that they have a compelling case supporting their argument that a grade is unjust, or has been assigned arbitrarily, or that crucial factors have not been taken into account, they may appeal the grade by following the procedures set forth below.

a) Students are first required to discuss the disputed grade with the faculty member in charge of the course in an effort to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution. The grade grievance procedure cannot go forward without an initial review between the student and the faculty member.

b) If the issue is not resolved in this way, students are required to complete an official “Grade Grievance Form” that must be submitted not later than the fourth week from the date of reporting grades for the course in which the disputed grade was given. All pertinent exhibits should be attached and the submission must then be sent to the Registrar who will send a “Review of Assigned Standing” request form accompanied by all required materials and documents to the Academic Dean who in turn will review the case.

c) Upon completion of the review, which includes the right of rebuttal by the faculty member, the Academic Dean will direct the Registrar to:

1. Uphold the grade as initially given;

2. Ratify an agreement whereby the faculty member agrees to change the grade; or,

3. Change the grade.

If either party to the grievance dissents from the decision of the Academic Dean, he or she has 10 calendar days from the date of the decision within which to direct an appeal in writing to the President of the College, whose decision will be final and not subject to further appeal.

SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY

Students, who have been found in violation of the policy on Academic Dishonesty, have the right to appeal the decision of the Faculty, Program Chair, or Dean to the Registrar who will present the appeal to the Academic Council’s Committee on academic standards. If students wish to appeal the committee’s decision, they must submit their letter of appeal to the President of the College within five (5) working days of their receipt of the committee’s decision. The decision of the President in such an appeal is final.

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND DISMISSAL

The student who has been placed on academic probation or dismissed from the institution for poor academic performance has the right to appeal. If the student wishes to appeal, he or she must submit a letter of appeal with supporting documentation to the Registrar for review. The Registrar will present the appeal to Academic Council. The decision of the Academic Council in such an appeal is final.



CODE OF CONDUCT

See Appeals section of Code of Conduct Policy.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Where applicable, school policy, as outlined above, will be used in settling disagreements. In circumstances not covered above, the student should approach the staff person with whom he/she has a disagreement. If the

issue cannot be resolved, the student will follow the steps as outlined below.

In the event of a dispute between the College and a student, the student shall provide a written statement to the Dean of the BBA Program detailing the student’s interpretations of the situation and his/her suggested remedy. The Dean will then meet with the student to try and resolve any outstanding issues.

If the student wishes to appeal the decision of the Dean, both the student and the Dean of the College will submit a written statement within ten days to the Registrar who will review all documents and meet with the student and the Dean of the BBA Program within twenty days.

If the issue is still unresolved, the Academic Council of Sprott-Shaw Community College will review all documents and set up an appeal hearing involving all parties within twenty days.

PLAGIARISM

Sprott-Shaw Community College prides itself in maintaining the highest standard of academic honesty. Academic dishonesty such as plagiarism will not be tolerated. Violations of Sprott-Shaw’s Academic Honesty and Plagiarism policies will be dealt with by the Dean and consequences may include dismissal from the college. Should you have any questions about what does and does not constitute plagiarism, please consult your instructor or request more information on a publication that is available to all students.

STUDENT INFORMATION AND PRIVACY

Sprott-Shaw respects the rights to privacy of its employees and students. As stewards of student information, Sprott-Shaw does not release any student information other than what is available in its student directory unless there is a job-related or provincial or Canadian legal requirement. Sprott-Shaw does not release student performance information to third parties unless the student provides written permission to release it.

STUDENT INFORMATION

The following information is considered student information and cannot be released unless required by law: 1. Legal Name 2. Permanent / Local address and phone 3. Degree program registration 4. Class level 5. Dates of attendance 6. Degree(s) received 7. Dates awarded 8. Honours and awards received 9. Participation in recognized activities 10. Previous schools attended 11. Birth Date 12. Gender 13. National ID (e.g. SIN) 14. Country of citizenship 15. Citizenship status 16. Grievance information



17. Discipline information 18. Visa / Permit data 19. Driver’s license 20. Ethnicity 21. Marital Status

STUDENT RIGHTS AND EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION

Any information record (written or stored in any medium) in which the student is personally identified which is maintained by Sprott-Shaw (other than that for student registry purposes) is considered to be an educational

record.

Students have a right to: 1. Inspect and review their educational records

2. Seek to amend their education records

The student must be allowed to review his or her record(s) no later than 21 days from the time the request was made.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION LEGISLATION

Sprott-Shaw is not a public institution and, as such, “Freedom of Information” legislation applies in only very restricted circumstances.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Sprott-Shaw Community College is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment, in compliance with local, Provincial and National laws. The illegal use of controlled substances can seriously impair the health and well-being of the individual, and endanger the safety and well-being of other members of the College’s learning community. The unlawful possession, use, manufacture or distribution of controlled substances by students, faculty or staff of SSCC is prohibited on College premises.

PRINCIPLES

SSCC will establish and maintain a drug-free awareness program.

SSCC will assist students, faculty and staff in the problems associated with alcohol and/or drug use.

Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Faculty and staff who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.



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Student Handbook 2011

Documents

Transcript of Student Handbook 2011