Student Services, Resources and Activities

• Academic and Career Planning Services
• Assessment
• Library/Learning Commons
• Other Student Services
• Special Programs and Services
• University Transfer and Graduation Information
• Student Development

Academic and Career Planning Services

Career Development Center Services

As a part of the College’s role of helping individuals reach their full potential, career planning services are offered at the Career Development Center on each campus.

Services available in the career development centers include:

1. career related aptitude, interest and temperament testing;
2. career research (with current information on occupations, job requirements and career opportunities);
3. computerized career planning, (an easy–to–use computer system that helps students with career decisions);
4. Career Options (self–directed, step–by–step career planning);
5. career counseling, courses (SLS 1301 Career Planning and the World of Work, SLS 1401 Computerized Career Exploration and SLS 1933 Selected Topics in Student Life Skills), workshops and seminars; and
6. job search and selection.

Students who are undecided about their future career plans are encouraged to make an appointment with a counselor to begin the career planning process.

Academic Planning Services

Academic Advising

To assist you in making the best choices regarding courses needed to meet your objectives, Florida State College provides academic advisement. Pertinent information is available on:

• selection of courses,
• course prerequisites,
• transfer requirements,
• effective study methods,
• academic progress,
• availability of resource agencies and
• other such areas of concern to students.

Advising also provides you with assistance on class scheduling and graduation requirements.

Important: The State of Florida may limit the number of credits a student may take toward his or her degree. You are encouraged to choose a major early to ensure completion of your degree within the credit limit. If you need help choosing a major, make an appointment with your counselor or advisor.

Academic Planning Checklist

One of the most important things that you can do to increase your chances of success in college is to have an effective academic plan. Use this checklist to guide your progress, checking off each item as it is completed.

• Clearly state your goals.
• Relate your goals to career options.
• Determine the educational requirements of your career objective.
• Explore the educational options available to you.
• Decide on an educational option.
• Plan the completion of educational requirements such as course requirements, transfer requirements, licensing requirements, etc.
• Identify College resources that can assist you.
• Identify co–curricular activities that can help prepare you for success by enhancing your educational experience.
• Seek the mentorship of professors teaching in areas related to your career objective.
• Identify opportunities to become involved in your field of study before you graduate through cooperative education or internships.
• Periodically review your academic plan with a counselor or advisor in light of your academic experience.
• Prepare yourself for graduation with employability skills such as interviewing techniques and resume writing.

The counselors and advisors within your counseling and advising center are specially trained to assist you with these tasks. The sooner you get started, the better your chances for success. Certainly, sometime during your first term of enrollment you should get started with this process of academic planning. Make an appointment today!

Degree Audit

You have five years from your term of entry to graduate under your original catalog requirements. It is your responsibility to monitor your progress and enroll for appropriate classes. You should check the accuracy of your degree audit each term. Pay attention to the following items.

• name, student number, address and program of study
• courses required for your program of study and the required grades for those courses
• any additional general education hours required for your degree
• NOTE - THIS CATALOG IS VALID UNTIL THE END OF SUMMER TERM 2014 (A.A. degree–seeking students may, under certain circumstances, elect to change their catalog year. Contact your campus counseling and advising center if you wish to discuss this option.)
• total number of earned hours required for graduation
• currently enrolled courses
• satisfactory achievement of the CLAS requirements (for A.A. degree program)
• any messages listed under the statement: “STUDENT CANNOT GRADUATE THIS TERM BECAUSE OF THE FOLLOWING REASON(S)”
• pass the Information Literacy Assessment (ILAS) if seeking an A.A., A.S. or A.A.S. degree

Your counselor or advisor will be glad to assist you in learning to use the degree audit. Schedule an appointment by calling or stopping by your campus counseling and advising center.

Articulation Issues: Florida state universities are required to admit community college students with A.A. and some A.S. degrees; however, universities may require specific courses for acceptance to limited access programs. For the student’s benefit, the College will work with the appropriate institution to inform students of limited access program requirements, and other requirements, which might affect transfer and graduation. Upon verification, the College honors course substitutions that have been approved by other institutions.

Counseling

Academic and personal counseling services are available within each student affairs office. Students are encouraged to consult with counselors to discuss issues relating to student life, interpersonal relations, study skills or any life coping concerns which may relate to their college experience.

Classes That Can Increase Your Chances for Success (SLS)

Florida State College offers courses which can help you prepare for success. Some of these classes are:

• SLS 1103 Strategies for Success in College, Career and Life and the college prep SLS 0001 - helps you learn skills and behaviors to excel in the classroom and in your career.
• SLS 1201 Personal Development - gives you a better understanding of yourself, others and the environment in which you interact.
• SLS 1301 Career Planning and the World of Work - allows you to examine your own skills and interests as they relate to choosing a career and teaches you how to use career resources to explore different career options, and
• SLS 1401 Computerized Career Exploration - provides an opportunity for you to examine work related interests, values and abilities related to career choice through a self–paced, independent process.
• Workshops on a variety of topics are also offered by the campus counseling/advising centers.

Assessment

Assessment and Certification Centers

Each campus has a comprehensive assessment and certification center offering a full range of services during the day and evening. Limited services are available at other locations as well. One or more of the College’s centers are authorized testing sites for ACT, SAT, Lasergrade, VUE and Prometric. For complete and current assessment information visit the assessment and certification Web page.

Earn College Credits by Examination

Students may earn up to 45 semester hours credit toward an associate degree through credit–by–examination. This may be a combination of International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), DANTES subject standardized tests (DSST), Excelsior and/or transfer credit. Credit not counted within this 45–hour limit may be obtained by participation in the College Course Challenge Exam (CCCE). For more information regarding the following tests, contact the campus assessment and certification center.

Advanced Placement Test (AP) is a nationally developed program for acquiring college credit while enrolled in high school. The assessment is administered through the high schools and credit is granted by the college for scores of three, four or five on approximately 30 approved tests. Score reports may be submitted for evaluation to any campus assessment and certification center.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is a Geneva–based program of study offered through high schools throughout the world. The program consists of a comprehensive system of courses and examinations that focus on the development of a high quality liberal arts education. Florida State College may award up to a maximum of 30 semester hours of credit.

Excelsior College Examination Program (formerly known as Regents College Exams or the Proficiency Examination Program), is a nationally developed program approved by the American Council on Education. The assessments are administered locally by Sylvan/Prometric testing centers and credit is granted for grades of “B” or “C” on eight approved tests. Score reports may be submitted for evaluation to any campus assessment and certification center.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a nationally developed program for credit–by–examination. Credit is granted for scores equating to a “B” or “C” passing level on approximately 25 tests approved by the State Board of Education. This computerized assessment is administered by appointment at any campus assessment and certification center. Score reports may be submitted for evaluation to any campus assessment and certification center.

DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) is a program developed by the Department of Defense for awarding credit by examination under the auspices of Defense Activity for Non–traditional Educational Support (DANTES). Military personnel may obtain information, applications and a list of approved tests from the Navy Campus for Achievement (NCFA) offices on local Navy bases or education offices in other branches of the military service. Non–military students may contact the campus assessment and certification centers for information concerning registration, tests and fees. Students may submit credit earned through DANTES for Florida State College credit evaluation through any campus assessment and certification center. Credit is awarded for scores equating to a “B” or “C” as approved by the State Board of Education.

College Credit Entry Placement Testing

If you are entering Florida State College for the first time as a college–credit degree seeking student, you will take the Accuplacer College Placement Test (CPT), unless you have taken the ACT or SAT in the last two years or have prior college coursework in reading, English and mathematics. The following ACT scores are accepted: 18 or higher on the reading test, 17 or higher on the English test and 19 or higher on the mathematics test. The following SAT scores are accepted: 440 on the verbal or critical reading tests and 440 on the mathematics test.

The CPT was developed by the College Board, with the help of committees of college professors, to provide information about college student’s level of skill accomplishment in reading, English, and mathematics that is required for success in college. By assessing ability levels in these areas, the CPT helps to determine the English, mathematics, and reading courses most appropriate for success in college.

There are three areas of the assessment: Reading Comprehension, Sentence Skills and Elementary Algebra. Each area is untimed, multiple choice and administered on computer; some individuals will take an additional timed reading assessment on paper and/or an untimed college level mathematics test on computer.

After completing a Florida State College membership application for admission, you will participate in a “Pre–Assessment Experience” through Connections, the student portal. The “Pre–Assessment Experience” will assist you in determining the correct placement assessment based on your academic plans as well as provide tips on relaxation, test–taking strategies and test preparation opportunities. Upon completion of the “Pre–Assessment Experience,” you will schedule a placement assessment appointment at the assessment and certification center of your choice. The CPT is administered in the assessment and certification center at Downtown Campus, Kent Campus, North Campus, South Campus, Deerwood Center, the military bases in Jacksonville, and Nassau Center. Individuals may sit for the CPT once without charge. After the first sitting, students may elect to retake the CPT one more time. The retake must be done prior to the first term of enrollment in general education courses. The second sitting fee for all students is $22.

In certain Florida State College programs (allied health, law enforcement and corrections, for example), an academic skills test may be required. The Health Occupations Test (HOT), Nursing Aptitude Test (NAT) and Florida’s Criminal Justice Basic Ability Test for Law Enforcement (CJBAT) are examples of such tests. The program advisor for each program has information on these test requirements.

College–Level Academic Skills (CLAS)

The state of Florida Legislature has repealed the examination to pass the “College level communication and mathematical skills examination” (CLAST) in order to be awarded an Associate in Arts degree. Students must fulfill the CLAS competency requirements in addition to other current requirements for the Associate in Arts degree. Refer to the College Level Academic Skills section for detailed information.

The Information Literacy Assessment (ILAS) is designed to assess the set of skills needed to find, retrieve, analyze and use information. The assessment is a graduation requirement for students of Florida State College who are seeking an A.A., A.S. or A.A.S. degree. Visit the ILAS Web page for additional information.

The Information Literacy Assessment has six modules:

• Module 1: Identify the need for information
• Module 2: Select the most appropriate information retrieval system
• Module 3: Acquire pertinent information
• Module 4: Evaluate the information obtained
• Module 5: Manipulate it in a usable form
• Module 6: Communicate the information

The following guidelines apply to those students who are required to take the Information Literacy Assessment:

• Students must achieve satisfactory scores on all six modules of the Information Literacy Assessment prior to the awarding of an A.A., A.S. and/or A.A.S. degree.
• Students may retake the examination until they have received a satisfactory score on all six modules. Credit is given for receiving a satisfactory score on any given module during any attempt; i.e., once a module has been passed it will not have to be retaken.
• Several methods of test preparation are available. These include the availability of: LIS 1002 , an online course in Information Literacy which may be taken for one credit; a free, self-paced review in Blackboard (available in the “Community” tab); campus–based workshops; and printed materials. In addition, Information Literacy concepts are included in some Florida State College college credit courses.
• The Information Literacy Assessment is available online at each of the campus assessment and certification centers. It is administered on a walk–in–basis or by appointment. Students may contact any campus assessment center to register.
• Additional information on the Information Literacy Assessment is available in each of the campus assessment and certification centers, including the required passing score on each of the six modules. Students can register for the Information Literacy Assessment any semester.
• Students with a disability may request assistance to complete the Information Literacy Assessment. Assistance is obtained through the disabled student specialist on any campus. All requests must be accompanied with appropriate documentation.

Specialized Tests

Career Assessments

Career assessments are available at each campus. Aptitude, interest and personality tests are available and can provide information useful to career decision making. Contact the campus career development center for further details.

Proctored and Institutional Testing Services

Testing is provided to those individuals and companies who need secure testing conditions, such as testing for a correspondence course. Arrangements for testing services and fees may be made through the assessment and certification centers in advance of the testing date.

Specialized Tests for Professional Licensures and Certifications

American Council on Exercise (ACE) tests are administered annually for aerobics instructors, personal trainers and orthopedic technologists.

Accredited Record Technician (ART) and Medical Record Coding Specialist (CCS and CCS–P) Certifications are administered to individuals seeking professional licensure. The tests are given annually. For more information, contact Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc. at (913) 541-0400.

Automotive Service of Excellence Certification (ASE) tests are administered twice annually to automotive technicians meeting the requirements for certification or recertification.

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a standard of professional and academic excellence among investment practitioners and is administered annually.

The Optional Child Care Pre–test is an optional state–developed exemption test designed for those employed in child care settings who are required to complete the Florida Department of Children and Families 20–hour child care worker training course. The exemption test can be taken only once and covers the following four modules:

1. state and local rules and regulations which govern child care
2. health, safety and nutrition
3. child abuse and neglect - identifying and reporting
4. child growth and development - birth through 12 years old

Child care personnel can be exempt from any of the four training modules by successfully completing the module pre–test with an 80 percent or better score.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is a vocational assessment administered monthly to commercial radio operators for licensing.

Florida Food Manager Certification Examination  is administered by the Open Campus Assessment and Certification Center to persons desiring to become certified as a Florida Food Manager. For more information call (904) 632-5020.

Florida Teacher Certification Exam is administered by paper and pencil in a group setting four times a year at Downtown Campus. Computer–based FTCE assessments are made by appointment through catglobal.com. Application packets can be picked up at any campus assessment and certification center.

Information Technology (IT) Testing is provided at campus assessment and certification centers. Current offerings include, but are not limited to:

Keyboarding skill assessments of speed and precision are administered on an ongoing basis.

Nursing Certification Examinations are administered on a regular basis for enterostomal therapy nurses, wound care nurses, ostomy care nurses, continence care nurses and hospice nurses.

Sanitation and Safety Management Examination is administered by the assessment and certification center to students entering entry–level employment in the food service industry.

Library/Learning Commons

The Library/Learning Commons (LLC) is an instructional area of the College designed to offer a variety of teaching, learning and research resources to students enrolled in courses at Florida State College at Jacksonville. LLC services include individual and small group tutoring; traditional and virtual library services and materials; subject-specific instruction including orientations; free workshops; study areas; and access to tutorials, computers and multimedia technology. For more information about services, hours of operation, and access to online resources, visit the LLC Home Page.

Other Student Services

Student Health Insurance

The College makes available a student health and accident policy which may be purchased on an optional basis. Information can be obtained at any campus student success office.

Child Care Center Services

Child care centers are located at Downtown, Kent, North and South campuses. All centers are open Monday through Friday during the day. Ages generally accepted are one to five years. Voluntary Pre–Kindergarten is offered at most locations. Students are eligible for discounted fees for child care services. Child care scholarships are also available to eligible students.

Contact your campus Chappell Child Development Center to enroll your child.

Bookstore

The bookstores are operated by a commercial bookstore operator. Textbooks, supplementary material, supplies and other items are available through each campus bookstore. Requirements for courses in which the individuals are enrolled should be obtained prior to the purchase of books and supplies. Financial arrangements are matters between students and the bookstore.

Check out your campus Follett Bookstore.

Online orders – efollett.com

Student Injuries

Florida State College pays claims for student athletes on scholarship who are injured while participating in College authorized activities.

The College insurance covers defined categories of students (nurses, paramedics, cosmetology, physical therapy, dental, radiology, etc.) who are injured while participating in College authorized activities.

If an injury occurs, report it immediately to the coach, instructor, or College staff on duty at the time of the incident and/or summons emergency medical treatment.

A Notification of Injury Report must be completed and signed by the student and College staff (coach or instructor on duty at the time of the incident). Students covered under any other health/accident insurance or prepayment plan must provide policy information as requested on the Notification of Injury Report.

Special Programs and Services

Services for Students with Disabilities

Educational support services are provided through the Auxiliary Aids Program within the Office of Services for Students With Disabilities.

As appropriate, the following services can be provided upon receipt of documentation of a student’s disability.

Any student with a disability requesting assistance may contact the Office of Services for Students With Disabilities on the appropriate campus.

Independent Living for Adult Blind (ILAB)

ILAB is an instructional program for adults who have vision loss to a degree that they experience some difficulty in their daily activities. Through guidance and specialized training offered through the ILAB program, individuals learn necessary skills for work and independence in their home and community. Training is offered at no cost to individuals. Eligibility is determined by the State Division of Blind Services. Learn more about ILAB .

Rosanne R. Hartwell Women’s Center

The Rosanne R. Hartwell Women’s Center has been helping women succeed personally and professionally since 1974. The Women’s Center is located in Suite E-100 at South Campus, 11901 Beach Blvd. All programs area available to members of the community as well as Florida State College students. Most programs are free.

Women’s Center programs include:

• The Challenge Program for Displaced Homemakers
• The Mid–Life Career Review
• The Women’s Information Exchange
• Career Fairs
• Women’s Personal Growth Groups
• Scholarships
• Portfolio Newsletter
• The Rosanne R. Hartwell Women’s Center Calendar
• Free Workshops
• Wise Woman Events

For information on all Women’s Center programs, call (904) 633-8311 or view the Women’s Center website.

Programs for College Bound Middle and High School Students

College Reach Out Program (CROP) is an early intervention program, focusing on students in grades 6 thru 9. Call (904) 633-8179 or (904) 632-3175 for additional details.

Gaining Resources and Developing Skills (GRADS) is a year–round program for rising juniors and seniors. Call (904) 633-8273 or (904) 632-3175 for additional details.

Format for Affecting Minority Enrollment (FAME) is a college orientation program for 10th thru 12th grade students. Call (904) 632-3175 for additional details.

Upward Bound is a year–round program for 9th thru 12th grade students in the Nassau County schools. For information call (904) 766-4446.

University Transfer and Graduation Information

University Transfer Information (A.A.)

Any student transferring from Florida State College with an associate in arts degree is guaranteed the transfer of credits earned toward that degree and junior–level standing within the state university system by the State Articulation Agreement (SBE Rule 6A–10.024, FAC). However, a transferring student is not guaranteed admission to specific colleges or programs within the university.

The following are steps that require action on your part for transferring to be successful:

• identify a major (before accumulating 24 college credit hours);
• identify a transfer institution (as soon as possible);
• know the admission requirements to the university;
• in case of a limited–access major, identify the course and admission requirements;
• complete these requirements (items listed above) while attending Florida State College;
• complete all of the requirements for A.A. degree; and
• complete the admission and application process as required by the university.

There are many things to think about when transferring to another college or university to earn your bachelor’s degree. If you need assistance in identifying a transfer institution, please use the Transfer Planning Checklist available on the Transfer Services Web page. This checklist guides students through the process of determining goals and educational needs, as well as the type, location/course delivery, cost, value and accreditation of potential transfer institutions. Determine if Florida State College has a transfer articulation agreement with any of your selected institutions and for the specific major. Determine which of the colleges on your chart best fit your goals and educational needs and rank them in order of preference.

The Florida State College university transfer guide is an overview of the transfer process. This guide, along with the admission requirements for the 11 Florida state universities, can be found on the College website.

University Transfer (A.S.)

Students graduating from Florida State College with an associate in science degree in radiography, hospitality and tourism management, nursing, criminal justice technology, computer engineering technology, or business administration and management may articulate into the corresponding bachelor’s degree program with junior level standing at designated universities within the state university system, under the Statewide Articulation Agreement (SBE Rule 6A–10–024).

Students enrolled in degrees not identified above who intend to transfer to a state university upper division upon receipt of the associate in science degree will be guaranteed admission to a state university. Graduates of any associate in science degree program may articulate all general education courses and may articulate some technical courses from that program into the corresponding baccalaureate programs in the state university system. Students with A.S. degrees not covered under statewide articulation agreements who plan to transfer to a state university should contact a counselor or advisor to assist in identifying courses that will ensure the maximum number of course credits are transferred.

University Transfer (A.A.S.)

Students who intend to transfer to a state university upper division upon receipt of the associate in applied science degree must satisfy certain additional requirements before being accepted for transfer. These requirements do not affect the award of the associate in applied science (A.A.S.) degree by Florida State College but do affect the ability of the senior institution to accept students with the A.A.S. degree.

Students with A.A.S. degrees who plan to transfer to a state university should contact a counselor to determine the additional requirements necessary for transferring.

Articulation Agreements

State Articulation Agreement

Florida’s statewide articulation agreement provides specific guarantees for associate in arts graduates. In essence it provides a 2 + 2 agreement between the 28 Florida State Colleges and the eleven state universities. The 2 + 2 articulation agreement states that associate in arts (A.A.) degree graduates of a state–approved Florida State College must be admitted as a junior to any state university as long as the university has space, money and the curriculum to meet the students’ needs. This is a student’s “right.” However, the articulation agreement does not guarantee entrance into a specific state university or major, should that major be “limited access.” Most universities are divided into different colleges (e.g. College of Education, College of Business, College of Engineering), each of which establishes its own admission requirements. So whether students spend their first two years at a community college or the university, they still must meet specific admission requirements for that major, usually beginning with the junior year.

The state of Florida has given students certain rights and responsibilities. The following is a brief outline of the articulation agreement.

1. General Education Core
   Each state university and community college must require at least 36 semester hours in communication, mathematics, social sciences, humanities and natural sciences; these hours are collectively termed the “general education core curriculum.” Once students have been certified by the community college on an official transcript as having satisfactorily completed the prescribed core curriculum, with or without the completed associate in arts (A.A.) degree, no other state institution to which they may transfer can require further general education core curriculum. If they do not complete the general education core curriculum before transferring, the general education requirements must be satisfied according to the requirements of the new institution.
    
2. Associate in Arts Degree
   The associate in arts (A.A.) degree is awarded according to the following conditions.
   1. completion of 60 semester hours in an established program of study including the 36 semester hours of general education core curriculum, and the common program prerequisites and electives that have prior approval by the state university system, and
   2. a minimum 2.0 GPA in all attempted courses that comprise the A.A. degree and all such courses taken at the community college awarding the degree - only the final grade received is used to compute this average. A grade of “D” will transfer and count toward the associate and baccalaureate degree in the same way as “D” grades obtained by native students in the receiving state university. The receiving state university will determine whether courses with “D” grades will be accepted toward any major. The 60 hours that comprise a completed Associate in Arts degree shall be accepted in total upon transfer to an upper division program at a state university.
       
3. Accelerated Programs
   One of the goals of articulation is to allow students to advance easily, equitably and rapidly through the educational system. There are seven acceleration methods, beginning at the high school level and proceeding upward through the system: Dual Enrollment, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate Program, Early Admission, College–Level Examination Program (CLEP), Advanced International Certificate of Education Program (AICE), Defense Activity for Non–Traditional Education Support (DANTES) and the Proficiency Examination Program (PEP).
    
4. College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
   Credits awarded on the basis of scores achieved on examinations in the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) are transferable. Credits earned by general examinations and subject examinations must be accepted by the upper division institution. A total of 45 CLEP credits is the maximum that may be accepted in transfer.
    
5. Advanced Placement (AP) Credits
   Credits awarded on the basis of the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) are transferable. The credits are awarded based on College Board AP scores of three, four or five on any of the examinations in the program. College Board AP credit that duplicates CLEP credit shall not be awarded or accepted in transfer.
    
6. Advanced International Certificate of Education Program (AICE)
   Transfer of Advanced International Certificate of Education credit under terms of this rule is mandatory, provided that the award of credit is consistent with the Articulation Coordinating Committee’s recommended minimum scores and the statutory maximum amount of 30 credits.
    
7. The Defense Activity for Non–Traditional Education Support (DANTES)
   Credits awarded on the basis of scores achieved on examinations in the DANTES program are transferable.
    
8. Proficiency Examination Program (PEP) Credits
   Excelsior College Examinations, formerly known as the Regents College Examinations or the Proficiency Examination Program (PEP). Credits awarded on the basis of the Proficiency Examination Program (PEP) are transferable.
    
9. Electives for Major
   The state university that awards the baccalaureate degree will determine major course requirements, including courses taken at the community college for a specific major.
    
10. Limited Access
    Limited access program selection and enrollment criteria must be established and published by the university in catalogs, counseling manuals and other appropriate publications. Community college transfer students shall have the same opportunity to enroll in baccalaureate limited access programs as native university students. (Limited access programs must be approved by the State Board of Education and registered with the articulation coordinating committee. It is required that the university denying students admission to a limited access program inform students of other educational options.)
     
11. Catalog Year
    The catalog year (e.g., 2009–2010) in which a student initially entered the College is also the catalog that is in effect when students enter the university, provided they maintain continuous enrollment as defined in the university catalog. Because course requirements change from year to year, a university catalog should be obtained for the academic year that a student first entered the community college in order to determine the upper division prerequisites for the individual majors.
     
12. Statewide Course Numbering System
    Credits earned in the state community college system are identical to those at the state university as long as the statewide course designation has the same prefix and last three digits. Transferred credits are used on the same basis as those of native university students.
     
13. Articulated Programs
    The Articulation Coordinating Committee, appointed by the Florida State Board of Education, oversees the articulation agreement. This committee makes sure that students rights are safeguarded. The members of the committee can review individual cases of student transfer and admissions difficulties, and then recommend resolutions. Committee members also recommend policies and procedures to improve articulation systemwide.

For more information concerning student rights and the articulation agreement, contact a counselor or the university articulation officer.

Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF) Statewide Agreement

In November 1992, the signing of an articulation agreement took place between the State Board of Community Colleges and the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida. Florida has long been a leader in the articulation of students between Florida’s Community College System and the public State University System and, once again, Florida has taken the lead by the signing of a statewide agreement between the Community College System and the private colleges and universities.

The intent of the agreement was to establish “an effective and orderly transfer process for students entering a state community college, completing an associate in arts degree and transferring to an independent college or university.” Under the agreement, community college students holding an associate in arts degree are guaranteed junior standing, recognition of the general education core and the application of a minimum of 60 credit hours toward the baccalaureate degree. The ICUF manual contains admission and course prerequisite information to properly advise students planning to transfer to these institutions. This manual can be found on the FACTS.org Web site (Florida Academic Counseling and Tracking for Students).

Transcript Requests

We have many convenient ways for you to request your academic transcript (and it’s always free).

1. Request Your Transcript Online
   If you want to send an official transcript to another school, your home address, or any other address, you can log on to Connections, the College’s online student services site, and make your request online.
    
2. Mail Us a Written Request
   In requesting your transcripts, you must always include: your full name, former last names, current address, telephone number, your date of birth and dates of enrollment; as well as the name and address of the agency or person who will be receiving your transcripts, and finally, your signature. For faster processing, you may include your social security number.  Mail your request to: Florida State College, Attention: Student Records Office, P.O. Box 40515,
   Jacksonville, FL 32203-0515.
    
3. Fax a Written Request
   Fax your request to (904) 633-8304, and include all the information mentioned above for a mailed request.
    
4. Complete a Request Form on Campus
   You can complete a request form at any campus enrollment services office. At South, Downtown, Kent, North and Deerwood the transcript is printed in the business office. At all other locations, the request form is sent to the Student Records office for processing.
    
5. Just Need an Unofficial Transcript?
   You can get an unofficial transcript through Connections, the College’s online student services site.

Allow three working days for your transcript request to be processed and mailed via US postal mail or electronically. Transcripts are sent electronically to Florida public community colleges, state colleges and universities. Receipt date of the transcript at the receiving institution is dependent upon the time in which the school checks their electronic mailbox. Electronic transmission can take from one to seven days.

For your privacy and protection, we do not fax transcripts.

No transcript request will be processed until all financial obligations to the college are clear. Certain holds prevent transcript request from being processed.

Graduation Information (College Credit)

Honors Graduation (Associate Degree)

Honors graduation is determined by students’ all college cumulative grade point average at the end of the term they graduate, as follows.

Latin Honors Distinction (Baccalaureate Degree)

Latin Honors distinction is determined by students’ all college cumulative grade point average at the end of the term they graduate, as follows.

Note: Since the annual commencement program is printed prior to the recording of grades for the spring term, it is necessary to identify honors candidates for the spring term, for commencement program purposes only, based upon their all–college cumulative grade point average at the beginning of the spring term.

Graduation and Commencement

Graduation dates will be the date of the end of the term in which students complete all graduation requirements for the degree or certificate. Each term all students meeting program graduation or completion requirements will be automatically graduated. A graduation notation will be made on the student’s transcript after final grades and degree audit are verified. Diplomas will be mailed to students who have graduated six to eight weeks after the degree is awarded and reflected on the student’s transcript.

The graduation date for an Associate of Arts degree student will be either the date of completion of coursework required for degree, or successful completion of the CLAS and ILAS requirements, whichever is completed later. If the student does not meet the CLAS requirements through coursework or achieve a score that meets or exceeds a minimum score on a nationally standardized examination, the degree may not be conferred upon the student.

Florida State College holds one commencement exercise each year at the end of the second academic term, generally in May. However, students may be graduated at the end of any term in which they complete the graduation requirements.

Students graduating at the end of the spring term are strongly encouraged to attend the ceremony. Students graduating at the end of the summer or fall terms may participate in the next formal commencement exercise. Students requesting special permission to walk in the commencement exercise should request in writing to their campus dean of student success.

Refer to College’s graduation Web page for more information about commencement and graduation.

Student Development

Organizations and Club

Campus Organizations

Numerous campus student organizations are available at Florida State College. Some of the organizations include Phi Theta Kappa, an organization which recognizes academic achievement; Forensic Team; literary and art magazine; Brain Bowl Team; and the International Student Association. Campus student activities offices provide assistance and encouragement to those interested in starting new organizations and support for existing organizations.

The organization advisor, president and treasurer should contact the campus student activities office for complete information before any financial transactions are initiated or any membership dues are collected.

Campus Student Volunteer Centers

Florida State College students contribute a tremendous amount of time and effort to the northeast Florida community through the activities of the campus student volunteer centers. The student volunteer centers connect students with the types of organizations in which they would like to volunteer and keep track of students’ volunteer hours. The campus student volunteer coordinator, a student position, can be contacted through each of the student activities offices.

Student Government Association

Each campus has a Student Government Association (SGA) which is recognized as the official student organization representing students at the College. Each campus SGA is charged with the responsibility of participating in the College’s governing process through the student, faculty and administrative campus councils. Each campus SGA also participates in the SGA executive board, thus coordinating the Collegewide needs of students. Each campus SGA is a member of the statewide Florida State College Student Government Association.

Student Leadership Program

Leadership Development - Florida State College’s student leadership development program presents leadership activities and workshops on all campuses throughout the term. In addition, retreats and workshops which incorporate low ropes courses and other outdoor activities are presented at Florida State College’s Nassau Center, a 40–acre wooded site in Yulee complete with everything needed for a weekend retreat. Timely topics and fun experiential learning exercises help you develop your leadership skills.

Arts and Literary Arts

Performing Organizations

These organizations offer college credit or have emerged from college credit courses. A wide variety of quality educational offerings provide diverse activities that enrich individual students and the college at large, and contribute to the community. Included among these organizations are the Florida State College Chorale, DramaWorks, the Florida State College Jazz Band, Jubilee Singers, and the Florida State College Symphonic Band.

Student Newspaper

The Campus Voice, the Florida State College student newspaper, focuses on issues and events which involve students at the college. It is printed twice a month during the fall and spring terms. Students may serve as writers, editors, photographers, and graphic designers. No experience is necessary, and scholarships are available.

Artist Series

Broadway spectaculars that have dazzled New York audiences come to Jacksonville through the Artist Series. Professionally produced national and international touring attractions, such as “CATS,” “Rent,” “Les Miserables,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Miss Saigon,” Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” and “Always Patsy Cline” have been presented at the Times Union Center for The Arts, the Florida Theatre and the Wilson Center for the Arts.

Professional dance companies, symphonies, musical and comedy troupes known throughout the world have entertained Florida State College students. Other internationally known talents who have performed include Kenny Chesney, George Benson, the Smothers Brothers, Dionne Warwick and Wynton Marsalis.

As a student you are eligible to receive substantial discounts to many cultural events scheduled by the Artist Series.

Recreation Activities

In addition to intramural/extramural activities, Florida State College provides a complete game center and a lounge for TV viewing on each campus. The student center is a place to unwind and make friends while playing billiards, ping pong or video games. For the exercise–minded, there is a fitness room on each campus where you may work out with Nautilus or other weight–training equipment.

Campus Life

Variety is the key word in describing the many opportunities offered on campus. From singers, dancers and comedians to lectures, discussions or art displays, a long list of performers appear on the Florida State College stage or other venues. Many of these opportunities have direct connections with your classroom studies.

Sports

Intramural/Recreational Activities

Both group and individualized intramural/recreational activities are provided by the College. Activities include flag football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, bowling, table tennis, horseshoes, billiards and golf. Special discount passes to a variety of community recreational facilities, including bowling, golf, driving ranges, miniature golf and movies are also available at substantial savings from each campus student activities office.

Intercollegiate Athletics

A diverse program of intercollegiate athletics is available at the College. Basketball (men’s and women’s), tennis (women’s) and volleyball (women’s) are sports activities based at the South Campus. North Campus is the location for baseball and softball.

Students may participate in the Collegewide intercollegiate athletic program regardless of the campus where they attend classes. Students interested in participation should contact the coach or the director of athletics and physical education.

Florida State College is a member of the Mid–Florida Conference of the Florida Community College Activities Association and the National Junior College Athletic Association.