FINANCIAL AID

The MSCD financial aid program provides assistance and advice to students who would be unable to pursue their education at the college without such help. Scholarships, grants, loans and part-time employment are available singly or in various combinations to meet the difference between what the student and the student's family could reasonably be expected to provide and the expected cost of attending MSCD.

Estimated Expenses

The 1998-99 academic year expenses were as follows:

Tuition and fees are set by The State Colleges in Colorado and are subject to change without notice. All students are placed on a single-person budget. Additional allowances may be made for students with day-care costs for dependent children and for expenses related to disabilities not paid by another agency (P.L. 99-498).

Eligibility and Need

To qualify for financial aid, a student must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen; be registered with Selective Service (if required); have financial need; be degree-, licensure-, or certificate-seeking; be making satisfactory academic progress; and not be in default on a federal education loan or owe a repayment on a federal grant.

Application Procedures

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to determine financial aid eligibility. Entering college freshmen should obtain application forms from their high schools or from MSCD's Office of Financial Aid. Some returning students will receive a Renewal FAFSA directly from the federal government and that should be completed and mailed in place of the new FAFSA. For quicker processing, we strongly recommend that returning, transferring and entering students complete their FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA on the Web at: www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Students should complete and submit the FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA to the federal processor as early as possible (after January 1st), preferable no later than mid-February, and submit all requested documents to the MSCD Office of Financial Aid by April 12th.

Detailed information concerning application procedures is provided in the Financial Aid Handbook and Scholarship Guide available in the MSCD Office of Financial Aid.

Financial Aid Programs

The amount of funds made available to students depends on the maximum award allowed by regulation of each program, the student's established financial need, duration of the student's enrollment, and funds allocated to the college by the state and federal governments.

Grants

Grants are gift money from the federal or state government and do not have to be repaid.

Federal Pell Grants are federal funds and awarded to undergraduate students who have not yet received a bachelor's degree and who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. The amount of the award is based on each student's financial eligibility and the number of hours for which the student is enrolled. The amount of Federal Pell grant awards for the 1999-00 academic year will range from $400 to $3,125 for those students who qualify. Full-time, half-time, or less than half-time students may qualify for a Federal Pell Grant.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are federal funds awarded to undergraduate students who have not yet received a bachelor's degree and are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. This grant is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional need. The amount of FSEOG awards range from $100 to $600 per fall and spring semesters.

Colorado State Grants (CSG) are state funds awarded to Colorado residents with demonstrated financial need. Eligible students have no prior bachelor's degree, are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens, and are enrolled full- or part-time (at least six credit hours for the fall and spring semesters) at MSCD. The amount of the CSG award ranges from $50 to $600 per fall and spring semesters.

Colorado Student Incentive Grants (CSIG) are a combination of federal and state funds awarded by the same criteria as CSG.

Scholarships

Students must be enrolled at least half-time, be degree-, certificate- or licensure-seeking, be making satisfactory academic progress, and not be in default on a federal education loan or owe a repayment on a federal grant to receive a scholarship.

Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships include four-year scholarships for entering high school students and two-year scholarships for transfer students. This scholarship covers up to the cost of tuition and mandatory fees per semester for up to 15 credits.

Colorado Scholars Awards: Scholarships of up to $500 per semester, not exceeding the cost of resident tuition and mandatory fees per academic year, are available through the academic departments. Recipients must be Colorado residents. Interested students should contact their departments for applications.

Athletic Scholarships: MSCD has a limited number of athletic scholarships. Applications and additional information are available from the MSCD Intercollegiate Athletics Office.

Private Scholarships: Students should refer to the MSCD Financial Aid Handbook and Scholarship Guide for information regarding scholarships and the free online scholarship search.

Receipt of a scholarship may affect a student's financial aid award because students receiving federal and/or state aid are limited in the maximum amount of aid which can be received. A student whose full need has been met by other types of financial aid prior to receipt of a scholarship will have that aid reduced by the amount of the scholarship. If the student's full eligibility has not been met, the scholarship will be allowed to satisfy the unmet need. Each student's situation is treated individually. All scholarships are based on the student's continued eligibility and available funding.

Loans

Federal Perkins Loans are long-term federal loans that are awarded based on the student's need and MSCD's available funds. Federal Perkins Loan can range from $100 to $1,000 per semester. Repayment of the loan begins nine months after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester. The interest rate is 5 percent and interest begins to accrue at repayment. All first-time borrowers at MSCD are required to attend a Perkins Loan Entrance Interview before loan funds can be released to them.

Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL) include Federal Stafford Loans, unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans, and Federal PLUS Loans, which help students and/or their parents to borrow funds to help meet educational expenses. To borrow these funds, students and/or their parents must complete and submit, in addition to the FAFSA, a separate lender application to the MSCD Office of Financial Aid. Loan applications may be obtained from the Office of Financial Aid or the lender of the student's choice. Students must be enrolled at least six credit hours each semester and be degree-, certificate- or licensure-seeking. Interest rates vary depending on the type of loan and the date the student borrows the first Federal Family Education Loan. For further information on interest rates, check with the MSCD Office of Financial Aid or the lender. First time borrowers at MSCD are required to attend a Loan Entrance Interview before loans funds can be released to them.

Federal Stafford Loans: Eligibility for the Federal Stafford Loan is based on the student's need as determined by the MSCD Office of Financial Aid. The annual loan limits are $2,625 for freshmen, $3,500 for sophomores and $5,500 for all other undergraduates. Interest does not begin to accrue until six months after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled in school at least half-time (six credit hours per semester).

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans: These loans have many of the same terms and conditions as the Federal Stafford Loan. The main difference is that the students are responsible for the interest that accrues while they are in school and during the six-month grace period after they graduate or cease to be enrolled in at least six credit hours. Students who do not qualify for a Federal Stafford Loan, based on need, may qualify for the unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan. Contact the MSCD Office of Financial Aid concerning annual loan limits.

Federal PLUS Loans: These loans are available to parents of dependent students. Applications are available from the MSCD Office of Financial Aid or from lenders that participate in the program. Applications must first be submitted to the Office of Financial Aid for processing. At MSCD, parents of dependent students may borrow up to the cost of education minus the amount of financial aid received by the student from other sources each year.

Please refer to the MSCD Financial Aid Handbook and Scholarship Guide for more detailed information regarding loans.

College Work-Study

The State of Colorado, the federal government and MSCD provide part-time employment programs for students. The maximum work-study award is $2,000 per semester. The maximum hours a student may work is 30 hours per week while classes are in session and 40 hours per week between semesters. Students must be enrolled in at least six credit hours per semester to receive a work-study award. The majority of all work-study awards are need-based, however, there are a limited number of positions offered directly through various departments/offices on campus that are no-need awards.

The Financial Aid Package

Once student eligibility is determined, an aid package is developed based on the availability of funds and the eligibility of the applicant. To facilitate financial aid packaging requirements, applicants must obtain all requested information and forms from designated sources and submit them to the MSCD Office of Financial Aid before the established deadline.

Award Notification

After the Office of Financial Aid has determined the type and amount of aid for which a student qualifies (aid package), the student is mailed an Award Notification. The Award Notification and enclosed information stipulate the conditions of each award.

Disbursement Procedures:

Please refer to the MSCD Financial Aid Handbook and Scholarship Guide for information regarding pro-ration of aid disbursements.

Repayment Policy

Students who receive financial aid and withdraw from MSCD prior to completion of a term may be required to repay a portion of financial aid and scholarships. All required financial aid repayments must be made to MSCD before the end of the current academic year or before additional Title IV funds can be disbursed to the student, whichever occurs first. Repayment is made to the MSCD Business Office. Please refer to the Class Schedule for more specific information.

Financial Aid as a Form of Payment

Please refer to the current Class Schedule for information regarding payment of tuition and fees with awarded aid.

SERVICES AND PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS

Academic Advising

All first-time-to-college students, initial transfer students and students undecided about their majors are required to seek academic advising in the Academic Advising Center in order to register for classes. All students are encouraged to take advantage of MSCD's advising services which include: course scheduling; assistance in choosing a major; and ongoing developmental advising. Students who have decided on a major should meet with an advisor in their major department to plan their academic program and receive current materials. For additional information call 303-556-3680.

Academic Success Program

The mission of the Academic Success Program, managed by the Student Development Center, is to significantly improve the academic achievements of alternative admission students by providing comprehensive and individualized services that will lead to improved student retention and increased graduation rates. Services include: peer, personal, transitional, social and professional academic counseling; forums; discussion groups; and advocacy and referral services. The office is located in the St. Francis Center on the second floor, 303-556-4737.

Auraria Campus Police and Security

The Campus Police and Security Division is fully certified and authorized to provide police services to the Auraria campus and is proud to maintain its reputation as one of the safest in the state.

In addition to a police chief and 15-20 full time officers, the Campus Police and Security Division employs student hourly workers as guards. Officers patrol the campus 24 hours per day, seven days per week, on foot, bicycles or golf carts, and in patrol cars.

The Campus Police and Security Division also provides additional services to the campus community such as vehicle unlocks, crime prevention programs, emergency responses, and environmental health and safety.

The Campus Police and Security Division is located at 1200 Seventh Street. Routine calls - 303-556-3271; EMERGENCY CALLS - 911 (or use one of the many emergency phones located around campus).

Auraria Child Care Center

The center provides high quality early childhood care and education to the children of students, staff and faculty. A discovery, child-oriented approach is provided by a professional teaching staff to children ages 12 months to 6 years. These programs typically have a waiting list; therefore, preregistration is recommended. Please call 303-556-3188 for information.

Auraria Parking and Transportation Services
Parking Services Department

Daily Fee Parking: (in-and-out privileges in Lot E only): daily fees range from $.75 to $5.00. Several lots are unattended and require quarters to purchase a receipt from the vending machine. Change is available from the Parking Office, a parking attendant in the attended lot or the Tivoli Student Union. Make sure the parking receipt is placed face-up on the driver's side of the dashboard. Receipts are valid only on the day and in the lot where purchased and are not transferable from one vehicle to another. For easy entrance/exit to the Parking and Transportation Centre and lots D and K, a reusable debit card can be purchased for $1.00 and a cash value can be encoded on its magnetic strip. Debit cards are available on the second floor next to the ATM machine in the Tivoli Student Union and on the first floor of the Parking and Transportation Centre.

Permit Parking: Parking permits are available on a semester basis. Contact the Parking Office at 303-556-2000 for more information.

Motorist Assistance Program: Personnel will help jump-start dead batteries and assist in changing tires. Jumper cables, bumper jacks, tire tools and gasoline cans are also available at no cost to campus parkers. Call 303-556-2000 for assistance. The Parking Services Department is located at 777 Lawrence Way (first floor of the parking garage). Hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Community Services Department Handivan: The wheelchair-accessible handivan provides free on-campus transportation for students, faculty and staff from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday -Thursday and from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday.

Nightrider: The Nightrider is a free security escort service for any campus parking lot. Service is available from dusk to 10:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday during fall and spring semesters.

Career Services

The Office of Career Services helps students and alumni in developing, evaluating and implementing career plans. Specific services include Career Assessment Workshops; Employer Forums addressing resume writing, job search strategies and interviewing skills; and Career Connections, which offers candidates and employers a high tech resource to connect MSCD seniors and alumni candidates to jobs.

Career fairs and seminars are sponsored jointly during the fall and spring terms with employers, student groups, faculty and a consortia of colleges and universities.

The Career Library houses print and electronic resources including directories and employer profiles, job vacancies, salary surveys, job profiles and graduate school information. The Colorado Career Information System (COCIS) offers occupational information based on employment characteristics of Colorado and the nation. A touch screen computer kiosk provides a direct link to federal job opportunities as identified by the United States Department of Personnel Management.

For assistance, call 303-556-3664 or access the Website http://www.mscd.edu/~career

Child Development Center

The Child Development Center provides exemplary, on-campus children's programs. During the fall and spring semesters, the center offers pre-school programs; in the summer it provides a Summer Enrichment Program for elementary age children. Available to the Auraria campus and to the Denver community, these programs are part of the college's teacher education program.

The classrooms are under the direction of master teachers who are trained and experienced in either early childhood or elementary education. The master teachers plan an age-appropriate program to provide quality learning experiences that meet the developmental needs of the children. MSCD teacher education students also work in the classroom providing a high adult/child ratio with opportunities for small groups and individual attention.

The preschool program is accredited by the National Academy for Early Childhood Education. There are two preschool classes available: 8:30-11:30 a.m. for children 2 1/2 to 4 years old and 12:30-3:30 p.m. for children 4 to 6 years old. There is also one hour of child care available before and after each preschool class.

The Summer Enrichment Program is academic in content, but recognizes children's needs for fun and different learning experiences in summer. There are two classrooms: one for children entering first or second grade in the fall and one for children entering third or fourth grade in the fall. There is a Day Program from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and an Extended Program from 7 to 9 a.m. and from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Call 303-556-2759 for more information.

Combined Computer Access Center

The Combined Computer Access Center (CCAC) assists and trains students with disabilities to minimize the impact of their disabilities, while accessing the computer keyboard and monitor. The goal of the CCAC is to help students with disabilities achieve academic goals, attain vocational goals and improve employability through the use of adaptive technology. The CCAC serves students with all types of disabilities, including, but not limited to: blindness, low vision, hearing impairments, learning disabilities, neurologial disabilities and orthopedic disabilities. The Combined Computer Access Center is located in the Auraria Library, room 115, 303-556-6252. (See Disability Support Services.)

Counseling Center

The Counseling Center is a full service, accredited center staffed by professionals who offer a wide array of services at no charge to the MSCD campus community. The center is fully accredited by the International Association of Counseling Services. All records are strictly confidential. Services include:

The Counseling Center is located in the Tivoli, Suite 651, and is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additional information can be obtained by calling 303-556-3132.

Disability Support Services

Advocacy and support services are provided through the Office of Disability Support Services located in room 177 of the Arts Building. Services include but are not limited to: priority registration, assistance in identifying notetakers, alternative testing, access to assistive technology, referrals to outside service agencies, sign language interpreters and assistance with any general needs or concerns. Students with special needs are encouraged to utilize these services. For assistance or information, please call 303- 556-8387 (voice) or 303-556-8484 (TDD). (See Combined Computer Access Center.)

Extended Campus

Degree programs and fully accredited courses, as well as orientation and assessment testing, are offered at two convenient locations in the Denver metro area: Metro South, 5660 Greenwood Plaza Boulevard, Englewood, 303-721-1313 and Metro North, 11990 Grant Street, Northglenn, 303-450-5111. Extended Campus offers evening, weekend and accelerated classes. In additional, it offers a variety of formats including telecourses, online courses and correspondence courses. Extended Campus schedules are available each semester.

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trans Student Services

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans (GLBT) Student Services is open to all Auraria students as a resource for exploring sexual orientation issues. This program offers a variety of support, education and advocacy services for the entire campus community:

The GLBT Student Services office is located in the Tivoli Student Union, room 311, and is staffed by a director with the support of student employees and volunteers. Input and involvement from the entire campus community is welcomed. For additional information call 303-556-6333.

Health Careers Science Program

The Health Careers Science Program is designed to encourage women and ethnic minority groups who have traditionally been excluded from careers in science and technology. Students are provided with tutoring and other support to ensure their success in the science and technology areas. For more information call 303-556-3215.

High School Upward Bound

This program is designed to generate the skills and motivation necessary for success in and beyond high school for youths who are low-income and first-generation college-bound students. The program provides intensive academic instruction during the school year, as well as a six-week summer session. Basic academic skill preparation in reading, writing and mathematics is part of a comprehensive counseling and enrichment program. This program develops creative thinking, effective expression and positive attitudes toward learning. The students are recruited at the beginning of their sophomore year in high school from five target-area high schools located in Denver County (East, Lincoln, Manual, North and West High Schools).

Immigrant Services/English as a Second Language Program

The English as a Second Language program provides assistance to students for whom English is a second language. The program provides assessment, tutoring, intensive academic and personal advising, and assistance with financial aid forms. The program also refers students with limited English proficiency to the appropriate curricula and monitors student progress. For more information call 303-556-4048.

Institute for International and Intercultural Education

The college provides assistance to visiting faculty and international students. Important information and counseling is offered on visas, school transfers, work permission, housing, banking, and cultural and academic adaptation. The office also provides assistance to students who wish to arrange individualized study-abroad opportunities. The institute organizes numerous conferences and lectures on international issues throughout the year.

The institute also provides information on cross-disciplinary individualized degree major and minor programs in international studies, international courses offered by various departments, and intercultural courses. For information, contact the director of International and Intercultural Education at 303-556-4004.

Student Development Center

The mission of the Student Development Center is to significantly improve the academic achievements of students by providing comprehensive and individualized services that will lead to improved student retention and increased graduation rates. The center manages the following programs: Academic Success Program, Summer Bridge Program and the Tutoring Program. The office is located in the St. Francis Center, second floor, 303-556-4737.

Student Finance Resource Center (SFRC)

The Student Finance Resource Center offers the following:

The SFRC is committed to providing students with the means to solve temporary and long-term financial problems by guiding and educating them in the area of college financing (i.e., budgeting, financial planning, emergency funding and travel). The Student Travel Program offers financial and planning assistance for clubs, student organizations, and individual students presenting papers at conferences and events within the domestic United States.

Health Center at Auraria

All MSCD students are entitled to medical services at the Health Center. Student health insurance is NOT required to use the Health Center. Physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and medical assistants staff the facility. Students will be asked to complete a sign-in sheet and show a current semester ID card each time they check in.

Services include treatment of illness and injuries, lab testing, medications, physicals, annual GYN exams, sexually transmitted disease information/testing, birth control information/services, minor surgery, cholesterol screening, immunizations, HIV testing, blood pressure checks, casting, suturing and X-ray. All services listed above are low cost. Payment is required at the time of service except for students who participate in the Student Health Insurance Program.

Walk-in services begin at 8 a.m., Monday - Friday. Access is on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-in access varies daily, contingent upon when all patient slots have been filled; thus, the daily closure time for walk-in care is variable. Patients are encouraged to check in as early as possible. The Health Center at Auraria is located in the Plaza Building, room 150, on the lower level. Brochures with additional information are available at the Health Center. For further details call 303-556-2525.

Student Intervention Services

Student Intervention Services (SIS) monitors all students whose cumulative GPA is below a 2.0 for one, two or three semesters. Students are notified by mail of their status, and encumbrances are placed on their registration. SIS also coordinates the Early Warning System, providing mid-term grade assessments, support and referral services to students. For those students who are in academic difficulty, SIS provides an in-depth strategy for success including assistance with graduation plans, scheduling and advising. The office is located in Central Classroom Building, Room 102, 303-556-4048.

Student Legal Services at Auraria

Student Legal Services at Auraria is a student-fee funded program that serves registered students from The Metropolitan State College of Denver, the University of Colorado at Denver and the Community College of Denver. The program is staffed by licensed attorneys who assist students with landlord-tenant problems, criminal prosecutions, traffic/DUI cases and family/domestic issues. Specifically, the attorneys engage in a problem-solving process with the student to develop and explore various legal strategies and options. If a case requires legal representation and/or is beyond the expertise of the program's attorneys, the office will provide to the student information about community resources that may provide legal representation either on a no-cost or low-cost basis, depending upon the substantive area and the availability of attorneys. Because the program's budget only allows for 30 hours per week of the attorneys' time, the office should be contacted to ensure an office visit or phone interview. Please note: this office is unable to advise on issues arising between students or involving any of the three institutions as this creates a conflict of interest. The attorneys can neither represent the student nor make a court appearance on the student's behalf. The office is not staffed to respond to emergencies. More information is available at the Tivoli Student Union, room 311, or call 303-556-6061.

Student Support Services Program

The Student Support Services program is a retention and student development program designed to help students succeed in college. The program strives to improve the retention and graduation rates of first-generation, low-income students and students with disabilities by fostering a supportive institutional climate. The program's services include academic advising, academic assessment, tutoring, financial aid application assistance, career guidance, personal counseling, peer mentoring, computer-assisted instruction and graduate school counseling. The program also offers special activities and social events and two scholarships each year. The Student Support Services office is located in the Arts Building, room 177. For information call 303-556-4722.

Summer Bridge Program

The Summer Bridge Program, managed by the Student Development Center, facilitates the transition and prepares first-time college students for their freshman year at The Metropolitan State College of Denver. The program provides an opportunity for students to get a head start on their college education and become familiar with the college experience on the Auraria Campus. Students receive a scholarship for tuition and fees for two college-level courses. Additionally, students have an opportunity to participate in enrichment workshops and activities that further encourage their connection to MSCD. The goal of the Summer Bridge Program is to provide students with the tools and strategies that will maximize their chances for academic success and personal growth and development. The office is located in the St. Francis Center on the second floor, 303-556-4023.

Metro North and Metro South

Please see Extended Campus on page 32 of this Catalog.

The Spring International Language Center at Auraria

Intensive English classes at the Spring International Center focus on all language skills: grammar, reading, writing and listening/speaking, in addition to special electives that students can choose each term, such as TOEFL preparation, vocabulary building and pronunciation. Five nine-week terms are offered throughout the year to enable students to complete their English study quickly. Students are placed at one of the six levels, with standardized evaluation tests at the completion of each level. Spring International Language Center is located on the fourth floor of the Tivoli Student Union, Room 454. For more information call 303-534-1616.

Tivoli Student Union

The Tivoli Student Union is housed in the historic Tivoli Building located at Ninth Street and Auraria Parkway. This is the focal point for many cultural, social and recreational activities of the college community. The Tivoli Student Union houses student services such as the Auraria Book Center, student activities and government offices, I.D. Program, Campus Information, Commuter Lounge and Housing Referral, Club Hub, student publications, legal services, copy center, computer store and a variety of lounges for study and relaxation. A number of specialty shops, movie theatres, atrium food court, restaurants and Sigi's Pool Hall and Arcade can be found inside the Tivoli. To learn more about services available, please call Tivoli Administration at 303-556-6330.

Tivoli Conference Services, located in room 325, is the place to go to find out about renting meeting space within the Tivoli as well as the surrounding outdoor area. For information or to reserve a room, call 303-556-2755.

Tutoring Program

The Tutoring Program, managed by the Student Development Center, provides free tutoring assistance to all students enrolled at the Metropolitan State College of Denver in an effort to promote academic success. The program is structured to accommodate the needs of culturally diverse students. Students may be referred to the Tutoring Program by an instructor or can seek assistance on their own. Trained peer tutors will help students reach their educational goals. Group, individualized and walk-in tutoring is available. The office is located in the St. Francis Center on the second floor, 303-556-8472.

Veterans Services

The Veterans Services Office is designed to provide student veterans and veterans in the community with a variety of outreach, recruitment and retention services. These include assistance with problems involving checks, tutorial, counseling, and referrals to on-campus offices and services. The office also certifies student veterans and dependents for their VA educational benefits.

Veterans Upward Bound

Veterans Upward Bound is a federally funded program designed to identify, recruit and motivate veterans to pursue their personal career goals through higher education.

Veterans Upward Bound provides refresher courses and tutorial help so that survival in academic or vocational/technical programs is maximized. This is accomplished during a 12-week semester. Ancillary services such as career counseling, financial aid advisement, college counseling and job placement are also provided for participants.

Women's Services

The Institute for Women's Studies and Services is committed to the empowerment of women through education. To help students have a positive college experience, women's services provides referrals to campus and community resources, information about scholarships, assistance with the process of entering MSCD, advocacy services for students dealing with harassment or discrimination, and programs and events that focus on issues of particular concern to women. The institute houses a small library with a variety of books and other resource materials on women's experiences, histories and contributions to society. Students who need assistance should make an appointment with the associate director of the Institute for Women's Studies and Services.

Writing Center

The Writing Center staff of composition instructors and trained writing tutors is committed to working with students in developing their writing abilities. Tutors help students identify problem areas and provide instruction on how to eliminate them. Through one-on-one instruction, tutors teach students to generate, organize and develop ideas; to revise and edit with confidence; and to handle issues of format and documentation. For more information contact the Writing Center at 303-556-6070.

STUDENT LIFE

The Office of Student Life offers students a wide range of services and programs designed to enhance classroom experiences and encourage campus involvement. Services include Judicial Affairs, Student Problem Action Network (SPAN); Student Activities; student clubs and organizations; Student Publications; Counseling Center; Campus Recreation; Health Center at Auraria; Student Legal Services at Auraria; Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trans Student Services; Student Government Assembly (SGA) and the Student Finance Resource Center. These student-fee-funded programs exist to provide a diverse range of experiences in leadership development and programs that encourage cultural, recreational, educational, and social interaction. The Office of Student Life is located in the Tivoli Student Union, room 311.

Student Affairs Board (SAB) - The Student Affairs Board enables students to have a continuous voice in the use and allocation of their student fees. The SAB is comprised of student, faculty and administrative representatives.

Student Problem Action Network (SPAN) - The SPAN Program helps students resolve problems on campus. This program involves trained mediators and advocates who can assist students in defining their problem, formulate a strategy of reaching a solution, and inform them about the institutional process for resolving the issue. This program is part of the judicial affairs area and is staffed by volunteer faculty, staff and students. For additional information, please refer to the Student Handbook or come to the Tivoli, room 311.

Student Activities

The Office of Student Activities provides opportunities for student development and growth through a variety of programs that link students' academic lives with their lives outside the classroom. Student Activities' programs are educational, cultural, social and recreational, and give students an opportunity to enhance their social responsibility and leadership skills.

Student Activities has four distinct functions to help students get connected and involved in campus life: programs, events and co-curricular opportunities; student organization services; Metro Cool (service learning); and leadership education. These functions are designed to:

The office is located in the Tivoli Student Union, room 305, 303-556-2595. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Student Government Assembly

Through channels of advocacy and outreach with faculty and administration, the Student Government Assembly (SGA) members work with and on behalf of individual students and the MSCD student population as a whole to ensure that students' voices are heard and that the best interest of all students is considered. SGA members are committed to enhancing opportunities for student involvement and success in their campus life. The SGA office is located in the Tivoli Student Union, suite 307, 303-556-3312.

Student Publications

The student newspaper, The Metropolitan, is published by the Office of Student Publications, Tivoli Student Union, room 313, 303-556-8361. The newspaper offers students the opportunity to explore fields such as journalism, advertising sales, marketing, graphic arts, publishing, photography, business and accounting through work experiences. The Metropolitan is written and produced by and for MSCD students. It is published weekly during the fall and spring semesters and monthly during the summer semester. Students interested in working on the paper should contact the student editor at 303-556-2507.

Metrosphere is the annual student literary and arts publication. It contains poetry, fiction, nonfiction, art, photography and graphics. It is written, composed and produced entirely by students. Submissions are accepted during the fall semester. Copies are distributed free to students in the spring semester. For more information, contact the student editor at 303-556-3940.

The office also produces the Student Handbook and provides graphic art services at reduced costs to on-campus offices, departments, organizations and individuals.

MSCD's Board of Publications is the advisory board to the editors of Metrosphere and The Metropolitan. The board appoints the editors from applicants each spring for the following academic year and deals with complaints or questions regarding content. The board is composed of five students, three administrators, and three faculty members and meets monthly during the fall and spring semesters.

Campus Recreation

The Campus Recreation at Auraria program is among the most affordable ways that students have found to enjoy themselves, and it is among the best recreation programs offered in Colorado. The program is composed of the Drop-In Program (informal recreation), Intramurals, Club Sports, Outdoor Adventure and the Physically Challenged Program. Student membership is free with a current, validated student ID.

The Drop-in Program provides group and individual activities for students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests. Facilities include four basketball courts, 12 tennis courts, volleyball courts, a 25-yard indoor pool, eight handball/racquetball courts, two squash courts, a weightroom, a fitness center, a dance studio, a baseball field, softball fields and a track. In addition, Campus Recreation offers high- and low-impact aerobics, step aerobics and aqua aerobics daily. The Drop-in Program also offers a new instructional component, Healthy Lifestyles, which consists of a variety of noncredit instructional workshops, clinics and seminars. Check the Drop-in Program schedule in room 108 of the Physical Education Building or call 303-556-3210 for a listing of available times.

The Intramural Program consists of individual and team activities open to all students, faculty and staff members. The emphasis of the program is on participation, sportsmanship and social interaction. Whenever possible, competitive and recreational divisions are offered to ensure participation for all ability levels. Activities include flag football, basketball, floor hockey, volleyball, racquetball and squash leagues, as well as tennis and golf tournaments.

Club Sports provides students, faculty and staff members the opportunity to develop their individual athletic abilities in an organized group setting. The present clubs, which are all student initiated, include aikido, fencing, men's lacrosse, men and women's rugby, men's volleyball, coed waterpolo, badminton, ski/snowbashers and tai chi.

Outdoor Adventure provides the opportunity to experience the beauty and challenge of nature through organized trips. The program provides outdoor recreational experiences emphasizing skill acquisition, social interaction, environmental awareness and safety. Some of the many adventures offered are biking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, family-fun outings, hiking, ice climbing, kayaking/rafting, naturalist outings, rock climbing and sailing. The program also provides rental equipment, including camping and hiking gear, canoes, cross-country skis, mountain bikes and roller blades. The office is located in the basement of the Events Center.

The Physically Challenged Program offers a variety of sporting, recreational, and fitness opportunities for students with physical or learning limitations. The adaptive programs/services encompass one-on-one or group sessions that assist in using the recreational facility. Information on planned group activities or individual help sessions is available in the Events Center, room 108, 303-556-3210.

Intercollegiate Athletics

The intercollegiate athletics program plays an integral role in campus life at The Metropolitan State College of Denver. MSCD offers 10 intercollegiate sports programs: baseball, men's basketball, women's basketball, men's soccer, women's soccer, men's swimming and diving, women's swimming and diving, men's tennis, women's tennis and women's volleyball.

The teams, nicknamed the Roadrunners, compete at the Division II level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The Roadrunners are members of the 14-member Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), which was founded in 1909 and features modest-sized schools with limited athletic budgets.

Scholarships are available for each of the 10 intercollegiate sports. They are disbursed by individual coaches on the basis of merit, athletic ability and team needs. Scholarships are awarded on a yearly basis.

The Intercollegiate Athletics Office is located in the Tivoli Student Union, room 355, 303-556-8300.

ALTERNATIVE CREDIT OPTIONS

Credit for Prior Learning Options

Successful completion of special examinations, completion of a prior learning portfolio, or assessment of nonaccredited training programs through published guides, may be used to award credit or may permit placement in advanced courses. A student may earn up to 60 semester hours of credit toward degree requirements using prior learning credit options. This type of approved credit will be posted to the student's record after the completion of 8 semester hours of residency credit. Prior learning credit may not be used toward the last 12 semester hours of a degree program, does not substitute for residency requirements, and cannot be used to challenge prerequisite courses for courses already completed. Students are advised that letter grades are not assigned for such credit, and some institutions may not accept transfer credits that do not include letter grades. Additional information is available from the offices indicated in each section below and from the Center for Individualized Learning, Central Classroom 106, 303-556-8342.

Advanced Placement Examinations

Students who have performed satisfactorily in special college-level courses while in high school, and who have passed appropriate advanced placement examinations conducted by the College Entrance Examination Board, may have official AP scores submitted directly to the Office of Admissions for consideration for college credit. This office, in consultation with the appropriate department chair, determines the amount and nature of the credit and/or advanced placement granted. (See following chart.)

Course Credit Awards For Advanced Placement Exams

International Baccalaureate

MSCD recognizes the greater potential for success of international baccalaureate students. Accordingly, academic departments may award credit for demonstrated proficiency on a case-by-case basis. Students who have international baccalaureate results at the higher level may have an official transcript sent directly to the Office of Admissions for consideration for college credit.

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP consists of two series of examinations: the general examinations and the subject examinations. They are designed to evaluate nonaccredited college-level learning in order to award credit for successful demonstration of this knowledge.

The general examination series includes five separate examinations covering the areas of English composition, humanities, natural sciences, mathematics and social science/history. Based on the results of these examinations, the college may award up to a maximum of 24 semester hours of credit in the freshman General Studies requirement areas. Thus, the successful student may test out of many of the traditional courses required during the freshman year. MSCD does not allow CLEP credit for ENG 1020, the Freshman Composition: Analysis, Research and Documentation course.

The subject examination series consists of more than 45 examinations that apply to specific college courses. MSCD allows credit for some of these examinations. Thirty (30) semester hours of credit also may be awarded under this series, making a total of 54 semester hours of credit obtainable under a combination of the two series of examinations.

Credit obtained under CLEP at another institution will be re-evaluated according to MSCD CLEP policies.

Contact the coordinator at 303-556-3677 for complete information about this program before registering to take any of these exams.

Departmental Course Examinations

In special cases, a department may grant students credit toward graduation for college courses in which they request and pass special college examinations. Under this provision, a maximum of 30 semester hours of credit may be awarded by the college. A fee of $15 per semester credit hour will be charged.

Examinations for credit must be based on work equivalent to a regular course offered by the college (omnibus-numbered courses are excluded). The credit granted will be for the corresponding course, provided the student has no previous collegiate enrollment for a similar course and the credit is applicable toward the student's graduation requirements. Evidence of work justifying an examination for credit must be presented to the department chair no later than the third week of classes in a semester. Permission for such examination must be secured in advance from the appropriate dean upon recommendation of the department chair.

No application for credit by examination will be approved for a student who is not currently enrolled in good standing in a degree-seeking curriculum in the college. Credit by examination will not be approved for a student who is within 12 classroom semester hours of completing degree requirements. No credit by examination can be obtained for a course in which a student has been officially enrolled at MSCD or at another institution, whether or not the course has been completed and a grade awarded. Credit by examination cannot be obtained for college courses attended as a listener, visitor or auditor.

If a student has completed a more advanced course than the course for which examination credit is desired, permission to take the exam will be granted if approved by the appropriate department chair and dean. If a student has already completed a sequence of courses, no examination credit can be given for courses lower in number than the highest-numbered course taken by the student. If a student has registered for a higher-numbered course in a sequence, the exam for the lower-numbered course must be completed within the first three weeks of the semester. Exceptions must be appealed to the Board of Academic Standards Exceptions following endorsement of the department chair or dean. Examinations cannot be taken to raise grades, to remove failures or to remove "NC," "SP" or "I" notations. Credit by examination is not applicable toward academic residence requirements.

Examination for credit will be taken at a time specified by the department after the special examination fee has been paid. No examination for credit in a college course may be repeated. A grade equivalent to "A" or "B" must be attained on the examination in order to receive credit, but credit so earned for the course will be recorded without grade reference on the student's permanent record. Credits in courses for which credit is earned by examination are not considered in computing college grade point averages. Credit by examination will be posted after a student has completed 8 semester hours of credit at MSCD and after an evaluation of all possible transfer credits has been completed.

Portfolio Assessment

Students may apply for credit for college-level learning gained through experience by preparing and submitting a prior learning portfolio. Credit is awarded on the basis of a careful assessment of the prior learning portfolio by faculty in the department from which credit is sought. Portfolio assessment is available in many, but not all, academic departments.

The portfolio is developed with the assistance of the Center for Individualized Learning, Central Classroom 106, 303-556-8342. Portfolio assessment may be used to apply for credit for specific courses listed in the Catalog; credit is not available for courses which are considered omnibus courses. Applicants for credit through portfolio assessment will generally be required to take EDS 2680-1, The Portfolio Development Workshop.

A fee of one-half the part-time student tuition is charged for credit awarded through portfolio assessment; $40 of the total fee is due prior to the assessment of the portfolio by faculty. The remainder of the fee is due if and when credit is awarded. Policies which govern credit for prior learning options apply to credit awarded through the portfolio process.

Contact the Center for Individualized Learning for assistance and further information at 303-556-8342, Central Classroom 106. Information sessions about portfolio assessment and other credit for prior learning options are held on a regular basis by the Center for Individualized Learning.

Credit for Military Training and Other Training Programs

Military training and other training programs that have been assessed for college credit by the American Council on Education will be evaluated by the Office of Admissions for transfer credit at MSCD. For formal military training, copies of training certificates and a copy of the DD-214 should be submitted to the Office of Admissions. For other training, official ACE transcripts should be submitted. Credit limit is 30 semester hours.

Cooperative Education

The Cooperative Education Internship Center places students in work experiences related to their academic major. The purpose of the internships is to integrate academic training with actual work experience. This combination allows students to make realistic career decisions, gain valuable work experience, obtain recommendations for graduate school and earn money to help defray college expenses.

Students work in large corporations, small businesses, government and nonprofit agencies throughout the metropolitan area. Most co-op students are paid by their employers, but in those professional fields where co-op salaries are not available, volunteer internship placements are offered to help students gain essential work experience.

Co-op internship placements are available in most academic majors and minors. Students must complete 30 semester hours of college coursework with a minimum 2.50 GPA and have a declared major to be eligible for registration with co-op. No fees are charged to the student or employer for participation in the program, and each student's interests and job requirements are discussed individually with a professional coordinator.

Students may choose from three different work schedules based on the academic calendar. The alternating plan provides full-time periods of work every other semester with intervening semesters spent in full-time study. The parallel schedule places students in a job while they simultaneously attend school. These positions are usually part-time. The short term/summer plan allows students to elect a work experience that lasts for no more than one semester.

The college awards academic credit for supervised cooperative education placements. Students must complete a credit application, available from the co-op office, and this application must be approved by a faculty member from the department in which credit is to be granted. No more than 15 semester hours of cooperative education credit will be applied toward MSCD degree requirements. Credit earned for the co-op education work experiences are not applicable toward General Studies requirements. Additional departmental restrictions may apply to certain majors.

Service-Learning

The Service-Learning Program combines classroom experience with service to the metropolitan community. Participating students receive credit for appropriate public service, which is beneficial to the community and expands student horizons in intellectually and personally meaningful ways.

Emerging from a wide variety of disciplines, service-learning courses are structured by faculty to weave service into community-based and government agencies, with classroom reflection and analysis of the learning offered through these experiences. The courses are also designed to address real needs in our multicultural world, such as homelessness, at-risk youth, domestic violence, the environment, culture and the arts, and mental illness. Agencies that have provided service opportunities include Fort Logan Mental Health Center, the Denver Commission on Aging, Big Sisters, the Colorado Historical Society, the Rape Assistance and Awareness Program, and numerous elementary and high schools, senior centers, and nursing homes.

Service-learning credit is available in most academic majors and minors. Prerequisites and other requirements vary with each department. To learn how to participate in this program, including discussions of placement options, students should contact or visit the Service-Learning Program office to schedule an interview.

SPECIAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The First Year Program

The First-Year Program is designed to unify and coordinate college efforts to help entering students achieve a successful first year. The program provides intensive advising, course selection guidance and academic monitoring throughout the first year, as well as coordinating academic support services for first year students. Additionally, the program offers a First-Year Seminar course, XXX 1190, which provides appropriate readings and written work enabling students to discuss and write about current issues including the value of higher education. All first-time MSCD students may enroll in the First-Year Seminar course and other appropriate courses as determined by assessment at entry. The program furnishes an environment where problem solving, creativity and peer interaction are encouraged. For additional information call 303-556-8447.

The Honors Program

The Honors Program provides an intense, interdisciplinary academic program for highly motivated students whose capabilities suggest a broader spectrum of needs and interests. The program encourages individuality by responding to the diverse educational needs of students. Its integrated approach strengthens the program's foundation and provides a cross section of thought-provoking perspectives. Honors students realize their learning potential through creative inquiry, independent thought and critical examination. Honors professors serve as mentors to guide students in fulfilling their intellectual pursuits and dreams. Finally, while the Honors Program encourages independent thought and individuality, it also inspires students to work together, forming a community of scholars who learn from one another. Classes are generally small to ensure the exchange of knowledge and philosophies.

Students who complete 27 semester hours of honors courses including a thesis will receive an honor designation on their transcript.

An Honors application form may be obtained from the Honors Program director. In addition to the application form, an interview by the Honors Council is required of prospective honors students. It is highly recommended that all Honors Program applications be completed by mid-July. Furthermore, there are a number of Colorado scholarships available. Additional information on the Honors Program is available by calling 303-556-4865, or by inquiring in Central Classroom Building, room 101B. The Honors Program director reports to the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs for Curriculum and Programs.

*Approved General Studies courses.

Individualized Studies Program

The Individualized Degree Program (IDP) offers students the opportunity to design and propose a major, extended major or minor to meet specific educational goals when other majors or minors listed in the Catalog cannot meet the student's educational objectives. Either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree may be sought.
Students must have a GPA of 2.5 before an IDP program may be approved. Each student will work with an advisor in the Center for Individualized Learning and with a faculty mentor to develop a proposal for an Individualized Degree Program. A practicing professional in the student's field of study may also be invited to serve as a community consultant to assist the student and the faculty in the development of the program of study. Because careful and thoughtful planning is essential to designing a coherent and congruent program of study, students are encouraged to begin developing their IDP proposals early in their enrollment at MSCD.

Interested students should contact the Center for Individualized Learning, Central Classroom 106, 303-556-8342, for assistance and for complete information regarding the policies and procedures for the development and approval of an Individualized Degree Program. Information sessions are held throughout the year.

Each Individualized Degree Program will be approved by the department chair from the academic department from which the majority of credit is drawn, the appropriate dean and the director of the Center for Individualized Learning.

Institute for International and Intercultural Education

The Metropolitan State College of Denver is committed to providing all students with a strong educational foundation that enhances their understanding of the total human experience and enables them to maximize their potential for growth and development in a rapidly changing world. Through the programs of the Institute for International and Intercultural Education, students and faculty have opportunities to develop and participate in activities designed to promote a greater understanding and expertise in global issues. The Institute also seeks to maintain a positive environment that enhances the learning experiences of international students attending MSCD. The Institute is located in the Rectory Building, room 204, and can be reached at 303-556-4004. The following programs reflect the mission of the Institute.

Individualized Degree Program

Students interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary major or a minor in international studies may do so under the Individualized Degree Program (IDP). The IDP allows students, in close consultation with and approval of a faculty mentor, to design a course of study that best meets their needs. Students may choose from a wide range of courses dealing with international topics that are regularly offered to complete a major or minor. Contact the Institute for International and Intercultural Education at 303-556-4004 or the Center for Individualized Learning at 303-556-8342, Central Classroom 106.

Study-Abroad Courses

The Institute coordinates a variety of short-term and semester-long study abroad courses each year. During the past several years, these courses have been held in Mexico, England, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Central America, Russia and Egypt. These courses are generally directed by full-time MSCD faculty, are two to five weeks in duration and are available to eligible students. Assistance is provided to students who choose to participate in study abroad courses offered by other U.S. or foreign universities.

The college operates two semester abroad programs in Guadalajara, Mexico and London, England. These are offered in cooperation with the University of Guadalajara and the American Institute for Foreign Study/Richmond College partnership.

Contact the Institute for information regarding the latest offerings.

Resource Center

The Institute maintains a resource bank of information on:

International Student Services

The Institute provides a variety of services to international students attending MSCD. These include counseling on visas, school transfers, work permission and housing; conducting academic and cultural orientation sessions; assisting with immigration issues; providing information to embassies and sponsors; advising on academic issues; and organizing social and cultural events.

Faculty Services

The Institute places a high priority on enabling interested faculty to enhance their international experiences and, consequently, enrich their curricula. The faculty are regularly informed of professional development seminars, international conferences, exchange opportunities and fellowships. International faculty teaching at MSCD are given assistance with immigration and related matters in accordance with college policies.

Special Events

The Institute regularly organizes conferences, seminars and lecture series to promote intellectual discourses on issues affecting the contemporary world.

Community Connections

The Institute maintains links with numerous local and national organizations and professional associations dealing with international, educational, economic, social and cultural activities with a view to strengthen college-community partnerships and to remain current with the latest developments in the area of international education.

Language and Culture Institute

The Language and Culture Institute was established in 1976 to organize study and travel abroad. The institute currently operates a summer program in Mexico, a summer intensive language institute in Germany, and a winter study and travel program in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and in Central America. The institute offers credit through the Modern Languages Department.