College Policies

MATRICULATION AT SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

To help students pursue their educational goals and dreams, SMC has a planned educational process called “matriculation.” The matriculation process is designed to help you match your interests—as abilities, needs, and goals —with the College’s courses, programs, and services.

Matriculation status—as either a matriculant or a deferred matriculant—is established for all new students when they submit their admission applications to SMC. ALL students, however, are encouraged to go through the matriculation process, which includes orientation, educational assessment testing, and academic counseling to design a program of courses that meets your educational goals.

For detailed information regarding how your matriculation status is determined, descriptions of the matriculation components and how they apply to you, and other aspects of the matriculation process, please see the SMC catalog (available online at www.smc.edu/catalog) or—better yet!—stop by and talk to one of SMC’s academic counselors in the Welcome Center or the Transfer/Counseling Center.

PROGRAM CHANGES

1.   Enrollment in classes is done by either web or telephone. Beginning the day of the second class meeting, you will need an Instructor Approval Code to add any courses, even if there is space available.

2.   To add or drop a class by web or phone, please see instructions in the Enrollment section, and carefully follow the instructions available online or on the Touch Tone Phone Registration Worksheet.

3.   Computers for enrollment are available in the Admissions Office lobby, the Cayton Center, and the library. Enrollment can also take place by using a home computer with Internet access. Telephones dedicated to enrollment are located in the Admissions Office, the Letters and Science building, and the library.

ATTENDANCE AND WITHDRAWALS FROM SEMESTER LENGTH CLASSES

A STUDENT ENROLLED IN ANY CLASS AT SMC MUST ATTEND ALL SESSIONS OF THE CLASS THAT MEET DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF THE CLASS OR RISK BEING DROPPED FROM THE CLASS BY THE INSTRUCTOR.

Since attendance is essential for normal progress in a class, a student is expected to be in class regularly and on time. Faculty will determine the consequences of absences and late arrivals.

To withdraw from most classes, a student may use either the web or telephone registration system. PLEASE NOTE: To withdraw from online classes, a student must use the Student Self Service System. It is the student’s responsibility to withdraw from a class—informing the instructor is NOT sufficient notice. Failure to withdraw (officially drop) from a class could result in a grade of F (0.0).

The Admissions Office is not responsible for incomplete web or telephone transactions. Please make sure your withdrawals are confirmed. If withdrawing by web, print and review your revised schedule. If withdrawing by phone, be sure that you have received a confirmation number before hanging up. You must have this proof to contest any discrepancies.

First Week: A student must attend ALL class sessions of the course that meet during the first week of the course; otherwise he or she may be dropped by the instructor or may receive an F (0.0) for nonattendance.

Deadline to receive a refund: Sunday, September 7, 2008, by web or telephone.

First Three Weeks: To avoid a W on the transcript, a student may withdraw from one or all classes during the first three weeks by web or phone. Short-term and open-ended courses have their own deadlines (go to www.smc.edu and click on the Dates and Deadlines link for details).

Deadline to avoid a W: Sunday, September 14, 2008, by web or telephone.

Fourth through Eighth Week: Students will receive W grades on their transcripts, and units will be included in “enrolled units,” as defined in the progress probation policy. Students must not expect faculty to initiate withdrawal procedures for them. It is the student’s responsibility to withdraw from a class. Failure to observe this procedure can result in a grade of F (0.0).

Deadline to receive a guaranteed W: Sunday, October 19, 2008, by web or telephone.

Ninth through Twelfth Week: A student may petition for withdrawal from one or all classes by communicating with his or her instructor(s). A grade check will be made by the instructor. If the student was earning a C (2.0) or higher grade at the time of last attendance and has provided written documentation of extenuating circumstances (such as verified cases of an accident, illness, or other circumstances beyond the student’s control), the instructor may issue a withdrawal for the student through the online class roster. All other students, including those who cease to attend the class without notifying the instructor or the Admissions Office, may receive a grade of F (0.0).

Deadline: Sunday, November 16, 2008, (instructor must drop the student online).

After the Twelfth Week: Friday of the twelfth week is the last day a student may request to withdraw from one or all classes. All students who have not withdrawn by this deadline will receive a grade of A (4.0), B (3.0), C (2.0), D (1.0), F (0.0), CR (Credit), or NC (No Credit) from the instructor.

A student may petition for late withdrawal due to extenuating circumstances (such as verified cases of an accident, illness, military obligation, or other circumstances beyond the student’s control). The student must be earning a C (2.0) or better, file a Petition for Late Withdrawal in the Admissions Office, and obtain approval from the faculty members involved and the Dean of Enrollment Services or designee. Retroactive withdrawals from classes are normally not permitted, but may be granted under certain limited circumstances. Check the SMC Admissions Office for details.

POLICY ON FEES

ATTENTION: Payment Policy

•   Early Enrollment (by phone or web) for the Fall Semester is from May 5 to July 28, 2008. During this period, you may enroll on or after the date and time assigned to you.
•   Payment of enrollment and related fees for courses you enroll in during the Early Enrollment period is due no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2008. Failure to pay by this date may result in your being dropped from your classes for nonpayment of fees.
•   Payment of enrollment and related fees for courses you enroll in on or after Tuesday, July 29, 2008, is due immediately. No automatic dropping will occur during this period, so remember it is your responsibility to drop any course you do not wish to continue.
•   If you do not drop a course that you don’t wish to attend by the refund deadline, you will be responsible for paying the fees and a hold will be placed on your records, even if you do not go to class. The hold will remain in place until all fees are paid. A hold on your records prevents you from future enrollment in courses at SMC and restricts access to services offered by the Admissions Office, such as providing transcripts, enrollment verification, issuing diplomas, etc.

Enrollment Fee

This is a state-mandated student enrollment fee of $20 per unit. The fee is subject to change without notice.

Student Services and Associated Students ID Card Fee

This is an optional fee of $32 that includes the fee of $13, which funds the cost of the Student Universal Access I.D. card, and the Associated Student Membership fee of $19, which funds services (such as free “Any Line, Any Time” rides on the Big Blue Bus) and activities for the entire Santa Monica College student body.

The Student Universal Access I.D. Card fee and Associated Students Membership fee are both optional. Contact the Admissions Office at time of enrollment if you do not wish to pay these fees.

Health Services Fee

This is a mandatory fee of $14 that provides a variety of health services. Students who are exempt from paying the Health Services fee are:

•   Students who are enrolled exclusively in noncredit courses, and
•   Students who declare through a personally-signed statement that they depend exclusively on prayer for healing in accordance with the teachings of a bonafide religious sect (documentation of such an affiliation is required).

Students who are verified as eligible for financial aid through the Financial Aid Office should contact the Financial Aid Office if assistance is needed to pay this fee.

Nonresident Tuition Fee

All students enrolled in a community college are classified either as residents or as nonresidents. The mandatory fee for students who have been classified as nonresidents (including students who are both citizens of a foreign country and hold only temporary resident status in the United States) is $195 per unit, and $164 per unit for other students who do not meet the residency requirements of the State of California.

On-Campus Parking Decal Fee

This is a fee that is required only if you wish to use the on-campus parking facilities at SMC’s main campus (parking is FREE at satellite campuses and the SMC Olympic shuttle lot, but requires a decal; see www.smc.edu/parking for details). Regular parking decals—which can be purchased online through the Student Self Service System—are $85 for the Fall or Spring semester and $45 for the Winter or Summer session. The funds received from this fee are used to maintain and improve the parking facilities.

Students who qualify and receive a BOG A Fee Waiver because they or their family are currently receiving benefits under Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF/CalWORKs), or SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income), or General Assistance/General Relief are eligible for discounted rates on parking decals. BOG A recipients are eligible to purchase an on-campus parking decal for $20 for the Fall or Spring semester and $10 for the Summer or Winter session.

To apply for a BOG Fee Waiver, students need to visit the Financial Aid Office or apply online (go to www.smc.edu/financialaid).

Returned Payments/Outstanding Balances

Returned checks and rejected credit card payments are subject to a fee of up to $45 and are taken care of at the Auxiliary Services Office, located at 1738 Pearl St. An administrative hold will be placed on your records until the matter is resolved. If you leave SMC owing a balance and do not pay the amount owed, you will be responsible for paying all collection costs and/or attorney’s fees. This debt may also be reported to all three major credit bureaus.

WITHDRAWAL REFUND SCHEDULE

Enrollment Fee

No refunds of enrollment fees are available to those who withdraw after Sunday, September 7, 2008. If you withdraw prior to this date, you will receive a 100% refund of enrollment fees (minus a processing charge of $10).If you are eligible for a refund, it will be processed and mailed to you within 45 days of the start of the term. See the SMC website (www.smc.edu) for more information on withdrawal refunds.

Nonresident Tuition

Apply for your tuition refund with the nonresident specialist in the Admissions Office. If you are eligible, your refund will be processed and mailed to you within 45 days of the start of the semester. If you withdraw from Santa Monica College during the first 2 weeks of the semester, you will receive a 100% refund, minus any relevant processing fees.

Student Services, Activities and Health Fee

If you are eligible for a refund, it will be processed and mailed to you within 45 days of the start of the semester. If you withdraw from Santa Monica College during the first 2 weeks of the semester, you will receive a 100% refund for the Health Fee; however, the $13 I.D. fee and $4 of the A.S. fee are nonrefundable.

On-Campus Parking Decal Fee

The parking fee is not refundable after the first three weeks of the Fall or Spring semester or the first two weeks of the Winter or Summer session. To obtain a refund, present your parking decal and receipt at the Bursar’s Office, Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

SPECIAL STUDY LOAD REQUIREMENTS

Programs of twelve (12) units or more are considered “full time” for most purposes. Specific study load requirements include:

•   Athletics Program Eligibility:

Men: Minimum of twelve (12) units enrolled during season of competition
   Minimum of twenty-four (24) units completed prior to second season of competition

Women:   Minimum of twelve (12) units enrolled during season of competition
   Minimum of twenty-four (24) units completed prior to second season of competition

•   Veteran’s Eligibility:

   PLEASE NOTE: Taking classes of different lengths during a semester may affect your benefits, because benefits will be paid only for the length of time a class is offered. For example, if the class you enroll in is offered for 8 weeks at the end of a 16-week semester, you will receive payment for those units only for the 8-week period.

   Full Time: Twelve (12) units for a full semester
      Six (6) units for an 8-week session
      Four (4) units for a 6-week session

   Three-Fourths Time: Nine (9) to eleven (11) units for a full semester
      Four (4) to five (5) units for an 8-week session
      Three (3) units for a 6-week session

   Half Time: Six (6) to eight (8) units for a full semester
      Three (3) units for an 8-week session
      Two (2) units for a 6-week session

•   Social Security Recipients:

   All: Twelve (12) units

•   Health & Automobile Insurance Policies:

   Most Policies: Twelve (12) units

UNIT LOAD LIMIT

Students who are in good standing may take up to sixteen (16) units during the Fall or Spring semester. Exceptions to the above rule must be approved by a counselor.

PREREQUISITES AND COREQUISITES CHALLENGE PROCEDURE

Students who have not completed prerequisite or corequisite courses at Santa Monica College or other universities may submit a Prerequisite Challenge Petition to the appropriate academic department. Prerequisites may be challenged under one or more of the following grounds, and the student bears the initial burden of proof to show that grounds exist for the challenge. Every reference to prerequisites in this procedure also refers to corequisites.

1.   The prerequisite has not been established in accordance with the District’s process for establishing prerequisites.

2.   The prerequisite is in violation of Title 5 §55201.

3.   The prerequisite is either unlawfully discriminatory or is being applied in an unlawfully discriminatory manner.

4.   The student will be subject to undue delay in attaining the goal of his or her educational plan because the prerequisite course has not been made reasonably available.

5.   The student has the ability or knowledge to succeed in the course despite not meeting the prerequisite.

6.   The student seeks to enroll in a course that involves intercollegiate competition or public performance, or that limits enrollment to a group of students with specific qualifications (e.g., the qualifications required to participate in the Nursing Program); there is no equivalent course offered; and the course in question is required to complete the degree or certificate.

7.   The student seeks to enroll in a course that has a prerequisite established to protect health and safety, and the student demonstrates that he or she does not pose a threat to himself or herself or to others.

If space is available, a student will be provisionally enrolled in the course in question. Each prerequisite challenge will be investigated and resolved by a designated committee no later than five (5) working days from the day that the challenge is filed. If the designated committee fails to resolve the challenge in five (5) days, the student will be officially enrolled in the course. If no space is available, and the challenge is upheld, the student will be permitted to enroll for the course in the subsequent term.

CREDIT/NO CREDIT

Students wishing to take courses on a credit/no credit basis must apply in the Admissions Office no later than Friday of the fourth week of the Fall Semester for full semester courses, Friday of the third week for 12-week courses, Friday of the second week for 6-8-week courses, and Friday of the first week for 4- and 5-week courses. To be eligible, the student must not be on either academic or progress probation, or on disqualified status.

The decision to take a course on a CR/NC basis is irrevocable after the deadline has passed. Late requests will not be approved.

AUDITING CLASSES

Santa Monica College does not permit auditing of classes. All students attending credit or noncredit classes at Santa Monica College must be officially enrolled through SMC’s Admissions Office. Seniors attending free, noncredit classes on topics of interest to older adults must be enrolled through Emeritus College. Students attending fee-based not-for-credit classes to explore personal interests or gain professional certification, or attending free English as a Second Language (ESL) and other noncredit adult education classes offered through SMC Continuing & Community Education (CCE) must be enrolled through the CCE office.

“incomplete” grades

A grade of “Incomplete” in a course may be approved when illness, accident, emergency, or special circumstances beyond the student’s control prevent the student from taking the final examination or completing other immediate “end of semester” course requirements. The student must be passing the class with a grade of C (2.0) or better prior to the final exam or final project. An “Incomplete” may not be used to extend deadlines the student might reasonably be expected to meet for coursework.

To receive an “Incomplete” for a course, a student must request for the “Incomplete” from the instructor of the course before the instructor’s submission of final grades for that course or the College’s official deadline for submission of final grades, whichever comes first. Instructors may approve the “Incomplete” if they believe that such an approval is appropriate and that the student has justifiable reasons to warrant the “Incomplete.” Instructors may require documentation that supports the student’s request. However, instructors are not required to grant an “Incomplete” to a student, and such decisions by instructors are final and may not be appealed by the student.

The instructor will determine the date by which the student must complete the required coursework, which shall be no later than one year from the end of the term in which the original “Incomplete” was assigned. Through the online grade-submissions process, the instructor will record the conditions necessary for the removal of the “Incomplete” and the grade to be assigned—A (4.0) through F (0.0)—if those conditions are not met. An “I” will be temporarily entered on the student’s record.

Incomplete grades will be counted in “units enrolled,” but will not be included in “units attempted” or “units completed,” and no grade points will be assigned.

COURSE REPEATS

State law does not permit students to repeat courses they have completed except under special circumstances specified in California Code of Regulations Title 5 §58161, which allows a student to repeat a course if it is:

1.   A course originally completed with an unsatisfactory grade of D (1.0), F (0.0), or NC (No Credit);

2.   A refresher course needed to advance to a higher level, as long as the course was originally completed at least three (3) years prior to repeating it;

3.   A course needed to meet a legally mandated training requirement; or

4.   A course the College has designated as repeatable (note the repeat maximums stated after a course’s title in this Schedule of Classes).

In some cases, courses designated as repeatable are grouped together according to an activity. An activity-based course may include several levels, but may also have a cumulative course repeatability of three, for a total of four course completions. For example, a student repeating KIN PE 48A once (two completions) and then completing KIN PE 48B and KIN PE 48C have accumulated four completions in a group of courses. As a result, the student may not enroll in KIN PE 48D, because doing so would exceed the maximum number of course repetitions permitted.

A student who wishes to repeat a course may do so ONE TIME without counselor authorization. To repeat a course a second time (i.e., enroll in a course for a third time) requires authorization from a counselor BEFORE ENROLLING, and will most likely NOT be approved. When a student repeats a course for the first time, the grade the student earns will be used in compiling the student’s grade point average (GPA). Grades earned from any course taken three or more times will NOT replace previously earned grades. Check the Santa Monica College catalog for additional details.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

The Associate in Arts (AA) degree is granted upon successful completion of sixty (60) units (state and local requirements, major field, and electives) with at least a C (2.0) average. Students who have studied at institutions other than Santa Monica College must have on file official transcripts from all other colleges attended and must complete a minimum of twelve (12) units at Santa Monica College.

You must file a Petition for Graduation with the Admissions Office during the semester in which you plan to complete requirements for graduation.

Deadlines for filing (check the Santa Monica College catalog for details):

Spring—Start of Spring semester through April 30

Summer—Start of Summer session through July 31

Fall—Start of Fall semester through December 1

Check the Santa Monica College catalog for additional details, including requirements for graduating with honors.

IGETC and GENERAL EDUCATION CERTIFICATION

Certification of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) for the University of California and the California State University systems, and certification of general education requirements for the California State University system, may be requested by filing the appropriate petition with the Admissions Office during the following dates:

Spring—January 1 to July 31

Fall—October 1 to December 1

The petition should be filed during the last semester in which the general education or IGETC requirements necessary for certification will be completed. A minimal processing fee will be assessed (consult the Admissions Office for details).

OPEN ENROLLMENT

The policy of the Santa Monica Community College District is that, unless specifically exempted by statute or regulation, every course, course selection, or class offered and maintained by the District and reported for state aid shall be fully open to enrollment and participation by any person who has been admitted to Santa Monica College and who meets the prerequisites established according to regulations contained in Article 2.5, Subchapter 1, Chapter 6, Division 6 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations.

Statement OF NONDISCRIMINATION

Santa Monica College continuously strives to foster a work and learning environment that welcomes and supports a diverse student body and staff reflective of our pluralistic society. The College is committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, status as a Vietnam-era veteran, sexual orientation, or marital status for admission to the College, enrollment in classes, student services, financial aid, and employment, in accordance with provisions of Title VI and VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-112).

It is crucial that students, staff, and all others associated with the College understand the importance of reporting concerns about possible violations of this policy. The College’s commitment to equal opportunity demands full investigation of possible violations and an opportunity for a fair and impartial hearing on any matter relating to these laws and policies.

Any person seeking information concerning these laws and policies or claiming grievance because of alleged violations of the laws listed above should contact:

•   SMC Human Resources Office, regarding any complaint of unlawful discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual discrimination—(310) 434-4415; office located on the second floor of the SMC Administration Building, 2714 Pico Blvd.; or

•   Sandi Burnett, ADA/504 Compliance Officer, regarding disability discrimination complaints—(310) 434-4442; office located in Room 103 of the Admissions/Student Services Complex.

All grievances will be reviewed in terms of Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, and Section 504 law, and persons involved will be advised of the provisions of the law and their legal rights. If normal channels are not available or fail to meet legal requirements, the necessary action will be initiated. A record of all Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 grievances will be maintained, and the general nature of such grievances and progress toward their resolution will be reported to the Affirmative Action Committee.

De acuerdo con los provisos de los Tìtulos VI y VII de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, el Tìtulo IX de las Enmiendas Docentes de 1972 y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973 (P.L. 93-112), Santa Mónica College se compromete a la igualdad de oportunidades para ingresar en el College, para matricularse en las clases, para utilizar los servicios estudiantiles, para ayuda financiera y para empleo, sin discriminar por razones de raza, color, religión, sexo, paìs de origen, edad, impedimento fìsico, preferencia sexual, estado civil o por ser veterano de la época de Vietnam.

ENGLISH SKILLS NOT REQUIRED FOR VOCATIONAL ENROLLMENT

Lack of skills in English will not be a barrier to enrollment in vocational programs. All Certificates of Achievement offered at Santa Monica College are designed to provide students with the necessary skills to compete successfully in related job markets. Fifty percent (50%) of the coursework required for a Certificate of Achievement MUST be completed—with a grade of C (2.0) or better—at Santa Monica College.

The following Vocational Education Programs are offered at Santa Monica College: Accounting, Business-Entrepreneurship, Business-Management and Leadership, Business-Marketing, Business-Merchandising, CAD Production & Design (Interior Architectural Design), Computer Animation (AET), Computer Business Applications, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Cosmetology, Database Applications Developer, Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Intervention Assistant, Early Childhood Intervention Teacher, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, General Business, Graphic Design, Interior Architectural Design I, Interior Architectural Design II, Office Technology, Photography, Professional Accountant, Set Design & Art Direction for Film & TV (Interior Architectural Design), Web Programmer, Website Software Specialist.

LA ABILIDAD DE HABLAR INGLÉS NO ES NECESARIO PARA MATRICULARSE EN PROGRAMAS VOCACIONALES

La falta de Inglés no es barrera para matricularse en estos programas vocacionales. Todas las carreras certificadas que Santa Mónica College ofrece estan diseñadas para proveer a los estudiantes la capacidad necesaria para competir exitosamente en mercados relacionados de trabajo. Los siguientes programas de vocación estan disponibles en Santa Mónica College: Contabilidad, Producción & Diseño CAD (Arquitectura Interior), Aplicaciones de Computación para Negocios, Animación por Computadora (AET), Programación de Computadoras, Ciencia de Computación, Cosmetologìa, Educación para Niñez, Asistente en Educación para Niñez, Maestra de Niñez, Empresario, Diseñador de Moda, Comercio de Moda, Estudios de Pelìcula, Diseño Gráfico, Arquitectura Interior I, Arquitectura Interior II, Negocios Internacionales, Manejador/Dirección, Mercadotecnia, Comercialización, Tecnologìa de Oficina, Fotografìa, Contabilidad Profesional, Diseñador de Sets y Director de Arte en Cine & TV (Arquitectura Interior).

STUDENT PRIVACY AND DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 protects the privacy of a student’s education records—as print or electronic documents—by placing limits on who may have access to the records, what information may be shared or disclosed, and how that information may be used. Santa Monica College complies with FERPA and has strict policies and procedures in place governing student records.

In general, the College does not permit access to a student’s records or disclose information in them to anyone (including a student’s parents) without the student’s written consent, aside from exceptions that FERPA authorizes. Exceptions include access to selected records by official agencies, groups, or individuals specifically mentioned in FERPA, and the sharing of “directory information.”

SMC’s policy on sharing directory information limits the types of student information that may be disclosed to the following, unless written permission to share additional information is provided: names of students who participate in activities and sports officially recognized by SMC; height and weight of members of SMC athletic teams; previous dates of attendance and previously attended colleges or universities for purposes of determining athletic eligibility; and degrees and awards received. Students who do not wish to have their directory information disclosed should file a written request with the Admissions Office.

Under FERPA, students have the right to inspect and review their own student records. All requests must be made in writing and filed with the Admissions Office.

For a full explanation of FERPA and its implications for college students, please contact the Admissions Office.

STUDENT RIGHT-TO-KNOW AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT

To comply with the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-542)—also known as the Jean Clery Disclosure Act—Santa Monica College makes available the completion and transfer rates of first-time, full-time students seeking certificates, degrees, or transfer, as well as statistical information about the types and number of crimes on campus. The College provides this data to inform all current and prospective students—as “consumers” of higher education—on how well Santa Monica College compares with other colleges.

Completion & Transfer Rates

The student success rates are based on tracking a group (cohort) of first-time, full-time students seeking certificates, degrees, or transfer for a three-year period that begins with the Fall semester of the year the students first enroll in college. The completion and transfer rates presented here are derived from the most current data available at the time this Schedule of Classes went to press, and the success rates apply only to those students who entered SMC in Fall 2003.

Of the Fall 2003 cohort, 44.1% of the first-time, full-time students earned a degree or certificate at Santa Monica College or transferred from SMC to a University of California or California State University campus or to another California Community College.

Within that group, 75.9% of the students earned a degree or certificate or became transfer-prepared at SMC between Fall 2003 and Spring 2006; and 24.1% transferred to a UC or CSU campus or to another California Community College between Spring 2004 and Spring 2006 before attaining a degree, certificate, or becoming transfer-prepared at SMC.

Crime Statistics for the College Community

Campus crime statistics are compiled and reported according to the guidelines specified in the Clery Act (20 USC 1092F), as defined under the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting procedures. SMC’s crime statistics are available online at the US Department of Education website (www.ope.ed.gov/security) and at the SMC Campus Police website (www.smc.edu/college_police). The following chart reflects the types and number of crimes for the years 2004-2006, the latest statistics available:

Campus crime statistics—along with safety and crime prevention information—can be found at many locations at SMC, and are available to the public upon request. Contact the SMC Campus Police Office (434-4608) for details.

ACADEMIC ADJUSTMENTS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

SMC complies with State and Federal law with regard to modifying academic requirements and information technology as needed to ensure that they do not discriminate, or have the effect of discriminating on the basis of handicap, against qualified handicapped applicants or students. For details on adjustments, please contact the Center for Students with Disabilities, located in Room 101 of the Admissions/Student Services Complex; phone (310) 434-4265; TDD (310) 434-4273.

The procedure for seeking an adjustment is:

1.   Prior to or at the beginning of the semester, a qualified handicapped student contacts the relevant instructor(s)—or requests staff at the Center for Students with Disabilities to initiate the contact—with a request for an academic or information technology adjustment;

2.   The instructor(s) discuss the request with the student and confer with the staff at the Center for Students with Disabilities to determine an appropriate adjustment; and

3.   If the student, instructor(s), and staff at the Center for Students with Disabilities are unable to agree on an appropriate adjustment, the matter may be referred to Sandi Burnett, ADA/504 Compliance Officer. Her office is in Room 103 of the Admissions/Student Services Complex. You may also send email to burnett_sandi@smc.edu or call her at (310) 434-4442.

Probationary and Disqualified Student Policies

Santa Monica College is committed to providing a broad range of academic courses, student services, and specialized programs to help students succeed and meet their goals. Students are expected to take responsibility for meeting the SMC Student Success Standards of “Academic Achievement” (maintaining an overall GPA of 2.0 or better) and “Timely Progress” (completing the required percentage of units in which they have enrolled). Failure to meet these standards can lead to:

•   Academic probation or progress probation, either one of which will limit how many units a student may enroll in to a specified number of units, which cannot exceed a maximum of 9 units in a Spring or Fall semester, or 6 units in a Winter or Summer session;
•   Academic disqualification; or
•   Progress disqualification.

Students who are disqualified must meet with a counselor to determine whether reinstatement is possible and what they are required to do—which, in the case of multiple disqualifications, can include waiting for up to one year to re-enroll—to be reinstated at SMC. Disqualified students who are reinstated are generally limited to enrolling in a specified number of units, which cannot exceed a maximum of 6 units per term. For details, please visit www.smc.edu/counseling/faq.htm, stop by the Transfer/Counseling Center, or call (310) 434-4210. Additional information on academic and progress probation, academic and progress disqualification, and requirements for reinstatement is also available in the SMC catalog.

PLEASE NOTE:

•   F-1 VISA STUDENTS: Federal law requires students with an F-1 visa to complete 12 units during each Fall and Spring semester, regardless of academic status. If there is ANY possibility that you may be placed on academic or progress probation or be disqualified, you should IMMEDIATELY make arrangements to discuss your situation with a counselor from the International Education Center.
•   STUDENT ATHLETES IN SEASON OF COMPETITION (Spring/Fall): To compete in a given sport at SMC, you must be enrolled in and actively attending 12 units (a maximum of 3 of those units can be for KIN PE courses) during the season of competition, regardless of academic status. If there is ANY possibility that you may be placed on academic or progress probation or be disqualified, you should IMMEDIATELY make arrangements to discuss your situation with an athletic counselor by calling (310) 434-8017.

COLLEGE CONDUCT

Santa Monica College has a Code of Academic Conduct and a Student Conduct Code, and may discipline students in accordance with code provisions. The College also has the authority to remove students from a class or program if they are disruptive of the instructional process, they do not respect the rights of others, they cannot benefit from instruction, or they present health and/or safety hazards to others. To protect the interests of both the College and its students, SMC has an established “due process” through which its disciplinary and removal powers are exercised. As a further safeguard of student rights, an appeal procedure exists for these policies, as well as for appeals of grades, matriculation, and disqualification. The Student Conduct Appeals Committee will hear student appeals. Check the Santa Monica College catalog for additional information.

Code of Academic Conduct

Santa Monica College is a community-oriented, open-door educational institution whose purpose is to educate and enlighten members of the community who seek knowledge. In order to uphold the academic integrity of the institution, all members of the academic community—students and faculty alike—must assume responsibility for providing an educational environment of the highest standards, characterized by a spirit of academic honesty.

Under no circumstances will academic dishonesty be tolerated at Santa Monica College.

Academic Dishonesty Defined

Santa Monica College defines academic dishonesty as the act of or assistance in deceiving, including fraud or deception in any academic exercise. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, certain actions not authorized by the instructor or testing officer, such as using notes or testing aids, allowing someone else to assume one’s identity, falsifying records, plagiarism, changing answers on a previously scored assignment or exam, copying, inventing information to complete a lab experiment or case analysis, and talking or giving information by any means during an exam. Check the SMC catalog for additional details, including information on the consequences for academic conduct violations.

Honor Code/Honor Council

Santa Monica College is committed to the academic, social, and ethical development of our students. We strive to create a learning environment that is challenging and supportive of the community at large. We are committed to upholding fundamental values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, civility, and community.

The College has instituted an Honor Code that students are expected to uphold, and has established an Honor Council responsible for promoting, addressing, and resolving issues pertaining to academic integrity.

General principles that guide the Honor Code and Honor Council include the following:

•   Honesty: means fairness and straightforwardness of conduct, and implies a refusal to lie, steal, or deceive in any way;
•   Integrity: implies that one is true to a trust and adheres to a code of moral values;
•   Social Responsibility: demonstrated by adherence to policies of the institution, departments, labs, libraries, and individual classes; and
•   Respect and Civility: implies that one will conduct oneself in a courteous and respectful manner in communications and actions toward members of the campus community.

All students are expected to uphold the Honor Code as testament to their commitment and readiness to join the Santa Monica College academic community. At the time students enroll, they are expected to certify the following statement:

In the pursuit of the high ideals and rigorous standards of academic life, I commit myself to respect and uphold the Santa Monica College Honor Code, Code of Academic Conduct, and Student Conduct Code. I will conduct myself honorably as a responsible member of the SMC community in all endeavors I pursue.

A complete copy of “Honor Code/Honor Council” (SMC AR 4412) text—which spells out the details of the Honor Code and the structure and responsibilities of the Honor Council—is available online (see www.smc.edu/Policies/Policies/AdminRegulations.htm).

Student Conduct Code

Students enrolled in the College have an obligation to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the College’s function as an educational institution. Some examples of misconduct that are considered “good cause” for imposing disciplinary sanctions on a student are: continued disruptive behavior; habitual profanity or vulgarity; assault, battery, or threat of violence upon anyone on the College campus; sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape, forced sodomy, forced oral copulation, rape by a foreign object, sexual battery), or threat of sexual assault; conduct resulting in death or injury to a student or College personnel or visitors; theft or injury to real or personal property at the College; willful or blatant misuse of e-mail or other inappropriate forms of communication to faculty, staff, or students, including communication by written notes, phone, voicemail, or any form of electronic communication; use, sale, or being under the influence or in possession of any controlled substance; smoking in prohibited areas; dishonesty of any kind, including academic dishonesty; obstruction or disruption of any authorized College activity; unauthorized entry to or use of College facilities, supplies, or equipment ; violation of campus regulations; disorderly or lewd conduct; failure to comply with College officials performing their duties; stalking; hate crimes or hate incidents; and possession of alcoholic beverages, firearms, explosives, or any other dangerous weapons on campus property or at College-sponsored activities.

A complete copy of the “Rules for Student Conduct” (SMC AR 4410) is available online (see www.smc.edu/Policies/Policies/AdminRegulations.htm).

Disciplinary Sanctions

Disciplinary sanctions include, but are not limited to, verbal or written reprimands, probation, a disciplinary hold, removal from class, ineligibility to participate in extracurricular activities, suspension, and expulsion. If a written report is placed in the student’s disciplinary file, the student has the right to inspect and appeal the information as specified in California Education Code §76232. The College Disciplinarian is responsible for enforcement of these sanctions. A complete copy of the “Rules for Student Conduct” (SMC AR 4410) is available online (see www.smc.edu/Policies/Policies/AdminRegulations.htm).

STUDENT COMPLAINTS

Students with complaints, grievances, and personal concerns about Santa Monica College or any of its policies are encouraged to discuss them with the College Ombudsperson. The Ombudsperson provides support and encouragement to students, and attempts to present options and solutions. Complaints are handled confidentially on a case-by-case basis. Students with complaints about a grade should discuss this with the Ombudsperson as soon as possible. Deadlines for filing a formal appeal (Petition for Review of Grade) are:

•   October 30 for Spring semester grades,
•   November 30 for Summer session grades,
•   April 30 for Fall semester grades, and
•   May 30 for Winter session grades.

For more information, contact Tina Feiger or Lucy Kluckhohn Jones, who share the role of College Ombudsperson, or visit the Ombudsperson’s webpage (www.smc.edu/ombuds). The Ombudsperson’s office is located in Room 124 of the Letters and Science building. Office hours are posted on the door and on the Ombudsperson’s webpage. If the times are inconvenient, you may request a special appointment by sending e-mail to Ombuds@smc.edu or leaving a voicemail message at (310) 434-3986.

Regulation on Alcohol & Drugs

The abuse of alcohol or other drugs causes serious risks to a person’s health.

California state law prohibits the use, sale, or possession on campus of alcohol, or presence on campus of students who are under the influence of any controlled substance. (Cal. Ed. Code §§76032-76033)

The Santa Monica College Health and Psychological Services Center provides short-term psychological counseling, referral, and substance abuse/alcohol abuse information.

Students enrolling in the College assume an obligation to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the College’s function as an educational institution. SMC will impose disciplinary sanctions for the use, sale, or possession of alcohol or presence of any prohibited controlled substance, which include, but are not limited to, verbal or written reprimands, disciplinary probation, removal from classes, ineligibility to participate in extracurricular activities, suspension, expulsion, or possible referral to local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies.

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