ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Academic Affairs Mission Statement

Our mission is to prepare students for successful employment, transfer, and life-long learning. We equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to succeed in their professional endeavors, and to lead in service to their communities.

Enduring Values

To achieve our mission, we pursue goals and activities within a framework of shared values which serve as a touchstone for our decision-making, and which form the foundation for assessment of our effectiveness in achieving our goals. We value:

• Excellence in all endeavors.

• Evidence-based assessment of progress towards goals.

• Continuous improvement.

• Personal responsibility for one’s roles in the learning environment.

• Recognition and reward for outstanding accomplishments.

• Partnerships of varying types which advance goal achievement.

• Effective use of technology to support learning.

Policies

The academic policies and regulations adopted by JCC are designed to maximize each student’s opportunity for success and to provide students with a fair and realistic assessment of their progress. Essentially, JCC’s approach is a positive one, based on reward for achievement rather than penalty for failure.

Attendance

Every student is expected to attend all lecture and laboratory sessions for which he or she is registered. Absences will be recorded by instructors, and the student will be held responsible for making up all work missed. Attendance requirements for each course will be established by the instructor and announced, published, and distributed with the course outline at the first class meeting.

Course Withdrawal

A student can withdraw from a single, full-term course through the last day of final exams for the fall and spring semesters and receive a “W” grade. During a summer session, a student can withdraw through the last day of instruction and receive a “W” grade.
A student who wishes to withdraw from a single course must discuss the withdrawal with their instructor and obtain the instructor’s signature (via email is acceptable for online students). The student should also obtain a signature (email is acceptable for online students) from their academic advisor to indicate they have discussed potential ramifications of the withdrawal. On-campus students can obtain a withdrawal card online at www.sunyjcc.edu, from the registrar’s office, the Student Services Center in Olean, or from the North County Center main office.
If the instructor is unavailable, the student should see a full-time faculty member from that academic area or a dean for approval. A counselor, dean, or full-time faculty member from the academic area may also sign as the advisor when the advisor is unavailable. If time prohibits a student from obtaining both signatures, one of these signatures will suffice.
Signed withdrawal cards must be submitted to the registrar’s office in Jamestown, Student Services Center in Olean, or the North County Center main office. Failure to withdraw properly from a course will result in the student receiving the grade they earned in the course.

Military Withdrawal Policy

There shall be no tuition or fee liability established for a student who withdraws to enter military service or is called into active duty prior to the end of an academic term for those courses in which the student does not receive academic credit. A grade of “W” shall be recorded on the student’s transcript for each class in the affected semester. If a student is forced to relocate due to the orders of an active duty family member, the same conditions will hold true.
Note: The term “military service” means full-time active duty in the Army, Navy (including Marine Corps), Air Force, Coast Guard of the United States, or qualifying National Guard duty during a war, other military operation, or national emergency as defined in Section 5 of the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students (HEROES) Act (Public Law 108-76).
Enlistment under a delayed enlistment plan does not constitute “full-time duty” until the student is required to leave school on the effective date of active duty as stated in the student’s or family member’s orders.
A student who is a member of a National Guard, Army, Navy, or Air Force Reserve unit who is not called up for duty as defined above, is entitled to a refund only if in the judgment of the college’s business office the student is unable to attend classes due to hardship beyond the student’s control and the student has made bona fide efforts to permit continued class attendance. Documentation of membership on active duty in the military service shall be provided to and retained by the business office as part of the appeal process. In the event that a refund is granted to a student in National Guard or reserve status, documentation of the reasons for such action shall be in writing and retained by the campus.
Military personnel withdrawing from any program or term because of changes of assignment beyond their control and upon proper certification of such change from a base education service officer or other appropriate military official shall be deemed to have incurred no liability for tuition and fees due from the student, as opposed to tuition and fees paid by the federal government on the student’s behalf (to which federal regulations on return of such funds apply).
A student who is called for short-term deployment should discuss how course work will be completed with instructors before leaving for duty. The option of an I (incomplete) grade, which is given at the end of the semester, can be discussed at this time. The student must not be forced to withdraw from the course or be given a failing grade because of the time missed. The student has the option to withdraw from the course without financial penalties.

Credit/Fail

Students may elect to take one course per semester graded on a credit/fail basis (in addition to those courses normally graded on a credit/fail basis). No more than 16 credit hours taken on a CR/F basis may be applied toward an associate degree. Students should avoid using the CR/F option in their major field of study. The F grade is reflected in the computed grade point average while the “CR” grade is not. Please note: many colleges and universities do not accept a grade of CR as transfer credit. The decision to pursue a CR/F grade is made by the student with guidance from their advisor or a member of the Counseling Center.

Credit Hour Policy

JCC has a policy for the assignment of course credit hours. This policy is located in the Academic Resources section of the JCC website (sunyjcc.edu/academics/academic-resources/assignmentcourses-credit-hours-policy).

General Policies

Courses and programs listed in this catalog are offered when-ever there is evidence of sufficient student enrollment. Since some courses require highly specialized faculty and facilities, scheduling may be limited by their availability.
Students are considered to be full-time when they are registered for 12 or more credit hours per semester. Students will be permitted to register for more than 19 credit hours only with special permission of the vice president of academic affairs, the vice president of student affairs, the vice president of the Cattaraugus County Campus, or the appropriate academic dean.
A credit hour is normally equivalent to one hour per week of lecture or two hours or three hours per week of laboratory/studio work taken during a 16-week semester (inclusive of final exam work). Students are advised to plan an average of two hours of preparation per week for each credit hour of course work. Students registered for 12 or more credit hours are strongly urged not to consider outside employment requiring more than 15 hours per week.
Sophomore status has been achieved when the student has accrued 26 college level credits.

Issuance of Official Transcripts

Students can obtain an official paper or electronic transcript of their record or send transcripts directly to other colleges or prospective employers using the Credentials online service. Students will be charged a fee, based on the method of order and delivery. Refer to website for the current rate. To order official JCC transcripts or for more information, visit www.sunyjcc.edu/transcripts. Students may view or print an unofficial transcript through self-service Banner by selecting the Student tab.

Repeating a Course

When a student wishes to raise his/her grade and average by repeating a course, their highest grade will be used in the computation of their grade point average. Only the number of credit hours offered in that course for one particular semester will be used in the computation of total hours and GPA for graduation. Repeating coursework may impact financial aid eligibility. Students who anticipate repeating a course should check with the financial aid office.

Special Audit Tuition Waivers

The State University of New York chancellor has delegated to the campus president authority to determine who may attend courses as auditors and to establish rules and regulations concerning such course auditors.
JCC’s tuition waiver procedure is consistent with the established SUNY rules and regulations concerning course auditors. Protocol for special audits is as follows:

• Special auditors must be 60 years old or older.

• They may begin registering the day the class begins.

• Special audits are accomplished on a space available basis. In some cases, instructor permission cards may be used.

• The instructor sets the expectations for the audit grade.

• No tuition is charged, but the special auditor pays technology fees, Open SUNY fees (if applicable), and any course-related fees.

While students 60 years old or older are permitted to take a course as a special auditor on a space available basis, persons taking the course for credit will receive priority. Special auditors will not receive college credit or formal recognition. Upon successful completion of the course, a grade of SA will be recorded on the student’s transcript. A grade of SX can be assigned if the student fails to meet the instructor’s expectations. A grade of SW is assigned if the student withdraws from the course.

Grading

Grading System

The following grading system is in effect at the time of publication of this catalog:

Other historic grades may appear on a student’s transcript. Contact the registrar’s office for an explanation of any grade that does not appear in this catalog or on the transcript legend.
AU - Audit - No Quality Points (Q.P.) A student wishing to audit a course must obtain permission from the instructor to do so. Students may enroll to audit a course at the time of registration or change from regular grading system to audit by the last day of the fifth week (33% of individual class meetings) of the semester with permission of the instructor. The instructor sets the expectations for the audit grade. Generally, the student is expected to attend all classes, but is not required to complete examinations, papers, and other class projects. No credit is awarded for the audit grade and the grade of AU will be recorded on the student’s transcript. An “X” grade can be assigned if the student fails to meet the instructor’s expectations. Audit forms are available at the registrar’s office on the Jamestown Campus, the Student Services Center on the Cattaraugus County Campus, and at JCC’s extension sites. Students auditing courses will pay full tuition and fees other than those associated with matriculation and graduation.
CR- Credit (see Credit/Fail Policy) - No Q.P.
I - Incomplete - The “I” grade is a student initiated grade subject to the approval of the instructor, taking into account the circumstances under which the incomplete is requested. Arrangements to make up incompletes will be contracted between students and faculty, and the student must complete course requirements within a mutually agreed upon time, which may not exceed one calendar year. Failure to do so will result in the student receiving the grade indicated on the incomplete form. The registrar’s office must receive the completed student/ faculty agreement prior to the final grade entry deadline as listed on the academic calendar.
Students are not granted an incomplete grade in lieu of an “F” grade. The intention of the “I” grade is to allow for students to complete course requirements after the conclusion of a semester without attending subsequent offerings of the same course.
SA - Special Audit - No Q.P. (See Special Audit Tuition Waivers)
W - Official Withdrawal - No Q.P. - A student can withdraw from a single, full-term course through the last day of final exams for the fall and spring semesters and receive a “W” grade. During a summer session, a student can withdraw through the last day of instruction and receive a “W” grade. All students have the privilege, through appropriate procedure* (see below), of totally withdrawing from the college through the last day of instruction of the current semester and receiving a grade of “W.” A student may not withdraw from a course which has already ended.
X - Administrative Withdrawal - No Q.P. - The administrative “X” grade will be used for lack of attendance or maintaining enrollment requirements, including but not limited to: financial dismissals, non-compliance health dismissals, and failure to complete an “AU” course. If an administratively withdrawn student is allowed to return to class before the end of the semester, faculty will have the option of changing the “X” to a standard grade. A full-time student who receives all “Xs” must reapply for admission to JCC.
Total Withdrawal - *A student desiring to withdraw totally from JCC may officially begin this process at the Success Center (without seeing each faculty member separately). A “W” grade will be recorded on the transcript. Full-time students who officially withdraw are withdrawing from JCC and must reapply for admission should they desire to return.

Grade Appeal

Students who believe that they have been graded unjustly or who wish to present evidence of extenuating circumstances that influenced a grade should first appeal their grade at the instructor and division level. If the appeal is not approved at the division level, it can be taken to the Academic Standings Committee. To be considered, appeals need to be received by the Academic Standings Committee within one year of the grade assignment. Following a thorough review of all written documentation, it is at the committee’s discretion to request a meeting that includes the student and applicable members of the faculty and college.
A student who, due to extraordinary circumstances, wishes to appeal to change one or more failed courses to withdrawals must submit the appeal directly to the academic standings committee, and must provide ample documentation to corroborate reasons for such a change. If the student wishes to appeal grades for an entire semester to a total withdrawal, then the conversion of past semesters’ grades to total withdrawal will include all courses in the designated semester, not just those the student failed.

Grade Point Average

Each student’s academic standing is based on the average of all grades earned, as determined by grade point average (GPA). The GPA is determined by dividing the total number of quality points by the number of credit hours undertaken in courses for which a letter grade has been assigned. No quality points are given for courses in which a grade of CR is received, although credit hours for such courses will be included in the compilation of hours needed for completion of degree or certificate requirements. Neither credit hours nor quality points are earned for courses in which the grade “I” is recorded. Grades of “I” (incomplete) must be removed by the end of one calendar year, or earlier if specified by the instructor, or they will be replaced by either the grade provided by the instructor, an “F,” or an “IF.”
Neither credit hours nor quality points are earned for courses in which grades of I, CR, AU, W, X, SA, SW, or SX are recorded.

Academic Standing

The academic policies of the college are carried out by the Academic Standings Committee which meets regularly to review student progress, recommend policy changes, and review student records for satisfactory academic progress or suspension.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Because graduation from JCC requires 60 semester hours with a cumulative grade point average of 2.00, the academic standings committee directs the registrar to identify at the end of each semester students who have attempted six credit hours or more and have a cumulative grade point average or number of hours completed which is less than those shown on Academic Progress Chart A. Any student identified as not meeting these minimal standards will be considered as not making satisfactory progress and will be placed on Academic Recovery status or progress probation.

Academic Recovery

Academic Recovery status means students have not achieved a satisfactory cumulative grade point average. Students in Academic Recovery will have a semester to improve their cumulative grade point average. During this time, students will have access to additional support measures to assist in recovering their grades. If either the semester GPA or the cumulative GPA remains below the required standards in subsequent semesters, students will be placed in Academic Jeopardy status and may face Academic Suspension.

Academic Jeopardy

Academic Jeopardy means a student’s cumulative grade point average has remained below satisfactory level beyond one semester. Students in Academic Jeopardy may be considered for Academic Suspension. A student who is not suspended will have an additional semester to improve their cumulative grade point average or face possible suspension in subsequent semesters. During this time, students will be required to access support measures to assist in recovering their grades.

Academic Suspension

Students in Academic Jeopardy will be considered for Academic Suspension. Academic Suspension is at the discretion of the Academic Standings Committee, which will consider the status of each student based upon current grades and academic history. Students who are suspended from the college can reapply after one full semester. Students who are readmitted to the college will be in Academic Jeopardy until their cumulative grade point average reaches a satisfactory level.

Academic Standing and Financial Aid

If a student is placed in Academic Recovery or is placed on Progress Probation for the first time, the student retains federal financial aid eligibility. However, if the student does not meet satisfactory quality point average standards or hours earned standards a second time, eligibility for federal financial aid is lost until the student can again demonstrate satisfactory academic progress in both areas. Students who lose financial aid eligibility may, under special circumstances, receive a waiver in order to receive federal aid. Information about the waiver process can be obtained in the financial aid office.

Warning Status

Warning status is defined as:

Students will be warned if their semester or cumulative grade point averages fall in the above range for a given semester.
Warning status denotes students who are above but close to the college’s minimum standards for satisfactory academic progress (see Satisfactory Academic Progress/Probation chart).

Progress probation

Progress Probation is a deficiency in hours earned only. A student on Progress Probation will continue to be on Progress Probation as long as hours earned remain below the required standards in subsequent semesters.

Appeals

Students have the right to appeal any academic standings decision. Students will receive correspondence indicating the decision, and they may appeal in writing to the Academic Standings Committee within the period of time specified. Following a thorough review of all written documentation, it is at the committee’s discretion to request a meeting that includes the student and applicable members of the faculty and college. After the committee decides on the appeal, students have the right to further appeal to the vice president of academic affairs.

Imputed Credit

The faculty and administration have determined that some courses listed in this catalog may not be counted toward degree programs offered by JCC. These are developmental courses for students who need to prepare themselves for college level work. Courses in this category carry imputed credit and are designated as “IC”. Courses carrying imputed credit will count toward financial aid requirements.
The following imputed grade designations were in place at the time of the publication of this catalog:

Other historic grades may appear on a student’s transcript. Contact the registrar’s office for an explanation of any grade that does not appear in this catalog or on the transcript legend.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate with an associate degree from JCC all students must have earned a cumulative average of 2.0 or better in at least 60 credit hours of appropriate coursework as described by the Board of Regents of the State of New York and must have met the specific requirements of a degree program in place at the time of their first enrollment or any subsequent set of requirements. Requirements for subsequent degree/requirements are based on matriculation date. If a student transfers in appropriate credits toward an associate degree, a minimum of 30 JCC credits is required to complete a degree. Students graduating in a certificate program must complete all courses listed in the certificate with a minimum 2.0 cumulative average.
If a student transfers in appropriate credits toward a certificate, a minimum of 15 JCC credits is required to complete a certificate.
A student who is nearing completion of degree or certificate requirements must make formal application for the degree or certificate by completing the appropriate form at the registrar’s office on the Jamestown Campus, the student services center on the Cattaraugus County Campus, the main office at the North County Center or visit www.sunyjcc.edu. Students should apply to graduate once they are registered for their final semester coursework. Failure to do so may result in not being included in the final review of candidates and in the awarding of degrees and certificates at commencement exercises.

Earning Additional Degrees and/or Certificates

A student interested in earning a second or subsequent degree must complete the admissions reapplication online at www.sunyjcc. edu. Students pursuing additional degrees will follow the degree requirements for the new degree program as listed in this catalog at the time of matriculation into the new program. For each additional degree, students must complete the minimum number of credit hours listed in the table below with an overall GPA of 2.0 or better. Additional certificates are earned upon the completion of the certificate requirements. For each additional degree or certificate, a $20 fee is charged to cover the cost of additional diplomas and diploma covers.

JCC Essentials

Learning leads each of us on a unique journey. But wherever your journey leads, you will need certain essential skills and experiences to get where you want to go. Like a compass pointing the way north, the JCC Essentials point the way toward your future.
The Essentials are those fundamentals of learning that prepare you to think and act effectively in the complex modern world. After all, knowledge is only as powerful as our ability to apply it to the real world, and today’s world is one of great challenges and opportunities. The changing technologies, global reach, and abundant information of the 21st century require the ability to adapt to new situations, collaborate with people of different backgrounds, and evaluate evidence with a critical eye.
JCC can’t teach you everything you will need to know, but it will give you what you need to continue to grow as you navigate life’s twists and turns. The JCC Essentials forge a path for lifelong learning that promotes innovative connections across fields of study and prepares students to make a positive difference in our diverse and changing world.

Three Levels of Learning

The Essentials are spread across three levels of learning. These same levels form the basis for every degree program at JCC. As you advance along your path, you will:
Level I: Inquire into complex questions with a critical eye for evidence and differing perspectives. Learning begins with a question. Completed during the first year of study, Level 1 courses examine multi-faceted questions through a critical lens, giving students the opportunity to explore different perspectives and types of sources. As students engage their inner detectives they develop the cognitive skills needed for hands-on, college-level inquiry. In the process they learn to navigate the culture of higher education at JCC.
Level 2: Grow the versatile toolkit of skills and knowledge essential to success in the twenty-first century. Courses in this level expand students’ knowledge and skills across a range of different disciplines. Students are drawn into new intellectual experiences as they build college-level proficiency in the following areas:
A number of Level 2 courses also fulfill SUNY general education requirements, allowing students to complete SUNY and JCC requirements simultaneously. Other Level 2 courses develop knowledge and skills that are specific to students’ programs and career interests.

• Written composition

• Oral Communication

• Mathematical reasoning

• Scientific reasoning

• Cultural understanding

Level 3: Connect your learning to the real world and recognize the impact of your actions. Level 3 coursework challenges students to put their learning to use and make thoughtful connections between the classroom and real world. Students effectively apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world experience, creative project, or independent intellectual investigation. Other coursework broadens students’ worldview to consider the potential significance of their own and others’ actions in a diverse, global community.

Course requirements

All graduates of JCC must complete appropriate liberal arts and sciences courses for the degree sought. In addition, all degree holders must meet the following collegewide requirements. Except where otherwise indicated, these requirements apply to all JCC degree recipients who matriculate in a program for the first time beginning fall 2019 and thereafter:
Level I: Inquire

• Completion of INT 1555 Inquire or an approved inquiry-based course. Completion of this course is recommended within a year of matriculation in a degree program (for students matriculating in Fall 2020 and after).

• Completion of ENG 1510 English Composition I

Level 2: Grow*

• Completion of ENG 1530 English Composition II

• Completion of one approved SUNY Mathematics course (for students matriculating in Fall 2023 and after).

• Completion of two approved courses incorporating the study of scientific reasoning, to include one course in the SUNY Natural Sciences and one course in the SUNY Social Sciences

• Completion of one course incorporating the study of cultural understanding, to be selected from an approved list of SUNY courses

*To ensure a sufficient breadth of study, no individual course may be used to fulfill more than one Level 2 requirement. However, courses within Level 2 may be used to fulfill requirements in other levels if approved accordingly.

Level 3: Connect*

• Completion of one applied learning course or experience, to be selected from an approved list of options

• Completion of one course incorporating the study of global perspectives, to be selected from an approved list of options

• Completion of one approved SUNY Diversity course incorporating the study of diversity, equity, and social justice (for students matriculating in Fall 2023 and after).

* To ensure a sufficient breadth of study, no individual course may be used to fulfill more than two Level 3 requirements. However, courses within level 3 may be used to fulfill requirements in other levels if approved accordingly.

Additional Competencies

In addition to the requirements listed above which are incorporated into specific courses, the college also requires each degree holder to demonstrate several other competencies which are infused across the curriculum. These competencies are not necessarily associated with any one course but are included in each degree program, as determined by program faculty.
Information literacy - This competency ensures that all JCC students learn to find, understand, evaluate, and use information in various forms. Being information literate also requires an awareness of the authority, validity, and bias of different sources. Students are expected to weigh the ethical implications of using and disseminating information in the modern world.
Critical thinking reasoning - This competency ensures all JCC students learn to analyze different forms of evidence and weigh differing perspectives as they work to develop well-reasoned conclusions. Students also improve their problem-solving skills by learning to identify the various aspects of multi-faceted, interdisciplinary issues.
Technological competency - This competency ensures all JCC students possess the knowledge and skills to successfully and efficiently use computer and other appropriate technologies as individuals, students, employees, and citizens. Some elements of technological competency are infused across all courses; in addition, each program of study determines what additional technological skills are essential for graduates of its program area, and incorporates those skills into required coursework.
Values and ethical reasoning - This competency challenges all JCC students to consider the significance of their own and others’ actions within a larger community. Ethical awareness begins within the college classroom and extends to students’ lives beyond JCC. Program-specific coursework reinforces the importance of ethical behavior in students’ future professional lives.

SUNY General Education Requirements

SUNY General Education (GE) is a system-wide framework applicable to all SUNY undergraduate degree programs that addresses the fundamental goals of higher education. It promotes proficiency with essential skills and familiarizes students with different ways of knowing, both within and across subjects. It also enhances the values and disposition of an engaged 21st-century global citizenry.
Please consult the webpage for more details: https://www.sunyjcc.edu/programs/essentials/suny-general-education.

Writing Across the Curriculum

JCC’s faculty have long understood the mutual relationship between knowing and writing. This relationship is the basis for JCC’s Writing Across the Curriculum policy, which calls for instructors to use writing as a teaching tool in courses from all disciplines, including those in nursing, psychology, Spanish, criminal justice, economics, and occupational therapy assistant, as well as in such traditional writing courses as literature and philosophy.
Teachers respond to a student’s writing in many ways: face-to-face conferences, referrals to the tutoring center, creation of peer-editing sessions or discussions in class, and marginal notes. Revision is taught as a way to reexamine the subject or to deepen and enrich one’s understanding and expression.
JCC’s Writing Across the Curriculum policy commits students and faculty to the most authentic and valuable kind of higher education.

Awards & Honors

Dean’s List, Other Honors

In February and June of each year, the dean’s lists are issued to recognize full- and part-time students who have achieved outstanding academic success. The names of all full-time students who have earned a GPA of 3.5 or better in 12 or more credit hours (not counting imputed credits) of work completed during the preceding semester are included on the dean’s list. The names of all part-time students who have earned a GPA of 3.5 or better in 6-11 credit hours of work completed during the preceding semester are included on the parttime student dean’s list. CR and imputed credits are excluded.
At commencement, the JCC board of trustees honors outstanding graduates who have been full- or part-time students and who have achieved the highest scholastic standings in each of the three associate degree areas with 60 or more credits earned at JCC. Students who have earned highest honors (4.0 GPA), high honors (3.5 to 3.99 GPA) and honors (3.25 to 3.49 GPA) in all courses at JCC have this noted on their transcripts.
JCC also recognizes special achievements in scholarship, athletics, service, and leadership at annual awards ceremonies.

Phi Theta Kappa

Each year a number of students are nominated for membership in Phi Theta Kappa, a national honor society for two-year colleges. For many years Phi Theta Kappa has been the most prestigious national honors group to which a community college student can belong. Nominated students must have a GPA of at least 3.5, completed at least 12 credit hours which are applicable toward a degree and contribute to a student’s GPA.

Transfer Information

A majority of JCC graduates transfer as juniors to four-year colleges and universities throughout the United States. The Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees are designed for transfer and represent the first half of a baccalaureate education. While Associate in Science degrees were not originally intended for transfer, some are now transferable.
Students interested in transferring to another college or university after completing a degree program at JCC are urged to engage early in a planning process with a JCC counselor or advisor. Most four-year schools require a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C), and some schools and degree programs require a higher average. Students should check the requirements of transfer institution(s) prior to application.

Transfer & Other Special Agreements

JCC has signed specific transfer articulation agreements with numerous four-year colleges and universities for many of its degree programs. The purpose of these agreements is to identify JCC courses that meet degree requirements at the transfer institution, and to facilitate the transfer process.
Most of the agreements guarantee acceptance of JCC students who meet requirements specified by the various four-year schools. Most also guarantee junior status and the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree with four semesters at a transfer school, and several are dual admission agreements that simultaneously admit a student to JCC and to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program at the transfer school.
The transfer agreements are too numerous and detailed to include in this catalog, and new agreements are negotiated each year. All transfer agreements are on file in the office of the vice president of academic affairs. Divisional offices maintain files of transfer agreements appropriate to their disciplines, and all transfer agreements are available online at www.sunyjcc.edu/transfer.
Students are encouraged to examine those agreements in which they have a specific interest. Transfer agreements are updated on a regular basis to reflect changes made in the curriculum at JCC or the transfer institutions. Transfer counselors at all JCC sites are knowledgeable about these agreements and are fully prepared to assist students in the transfer process.
JCC also has “one-plus-one” arrangements for transfer to several two-year degree programs at the SUNY Alfred State and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. In addition, JCC continually works to develop special agreements that meet the needs of students and the community in other areas such as radiologic technology and pharmacy.

Academic Statistics

Adjunct Faculty

Of the total credit hours taken by students at JCC in fall 2021, 51% were taught by full-time faculty. The other 49% were taught by adjunct faculty.

Graduate Job Placement

A total of 69% of 2020-21 JCC graduates with Associate in Applied Science degrees responding to a survey indicated they were employed full-time. Of those responding, 75% said their current occupation is highly related to their JCC degree area and 83% said JCC prepared them for their positions in the workforce (64% indicated “very well,” 19% noted “adequately”).
In the same survey, 100% of full-time transfer students responded that JCC prepared them for continuing their education. Of the respondents, 59% indicated JCC had prepared them “very well” and 41% said “adequately.” Also, 77% of the full-time transfer students are studying in a program highly related to their JCC program.

Retention and Graduation Rates

Current retention and graduation rates are updated and published in the credit course schedule each semester.

Special Academic Programs

Developmental Studies Program

Full-time students who place into the Developmental Studies Program will find a learning community to meet their unique needs. Selected English, mathematics, and human development faculty work closely with Developmental Studies students to help them attain the skills they need to succeed in college. Students will also find support in the connections they make with other students in the program.

College Connections: Concurrent Enrollment Programs

As part of its College Connections program, JCC offers courses in nearly 40 area high schools. Students who qualify for the program are able to choose from several courses that are completed for both high school and college credit. To date, thousands of students have received college credits prior to high school graduation. College Connections credits may be used at JCC or easily transferred to most other colleges and universities.
Courses are taught by high school teachers who meet JCC’s adjunct instructor qualifications. Courses are offered in high schools throughout Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties, and some are available over the BOCES network as distance learning (DL) courses. JCC faculty oversee course development and ensure that a quality, college-level educational experience is provided. The program is accredited by the National Alliance of Current Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP).
For details, visit www.sunyjcc.edu/collegeconnections.

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP is a national program of credit-by-examination sponsored by the College Entrance Examination Board. CLEP exams allow a person to receive college credits for knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects.
CLEP exams cover material that is taught in introductory level courses and specific subject areas at many colleges and universities across the country. Each institution determines the CLEP exams for which credit will be awarded. A list of the exams for which JCC awards credit is available in the Jamestown Campus admissions office and the Student Services Center on the Cattaraugus County Campus. The list is also available online at https://clep.collegeboard.org. Information on the exact number of credits that may be earned under CLEP and their transferability is also available from these offices.

Honors Program

JCC’s Honors Program provides challenging curriculum, supportive services, and special enrichment opportunities for highly motivated students who have demonstrated their academic ability. Honors students enroll in special honors-designated courses, engage in co-curricular activities, and complete projects that synthesize academic and real-world experiences. Students who complete the honors program requirements receive an honors citation on their transcripts along with other special graduation recognition and student privileges.
Honors courses are developed by faculty who are dedicated to providing additional rigor and support for honor students. The courses must have the following attributes: a focus on greater depth and breadth of subject matter; an interdisciplinary approach; strong attention to writing and critical thinking; and a strong focus on values and ethics.
New students with a 90% high school average who are eligible for MAT 1540 are eligible for the Honors Program. Returning students who are eligible to take a college-level English course without supports and MAT 1540 and have a GPA of 3.5 or better after 12 credit hours are honors eligible. To remain in the program, a student must earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better.
To earn JCC’s honors citation, students must successfully complete a three-credit hour honors symposium course as well as two one-credit hour honors project courses. The symposium courses allow students to approach a global topic from diverse perspectives. Continuing and prospective honors students are encouraged to visit sunyjcc.edu/academics/ honors-program for current course offerings.

Online Courses and Degree Opportunities

JCC is a member of a statewide consortium of campuses that offers graduate and undergraduate online courses called SUNY Online, a student-centered approach to teaching and learning that eliminates the constraints of time and location for students. It utilizes an asynchronous learning model.
Class activities are the same: students read course materials, write papers, do research, and communicate with their instructor and fellow students. What is unique is that courses are designed so that you can do everything online. The learning is both interactive with faculty and collaborative with other students. Even more, a wealth of resources is readily available online.
Refer to the academic program listings page to determine which programs are available fully online.
Online courses are available in over 25 discipline areas. Students do not need to be enrolled in a degree program to take online courses. For more information regarding online courses, visit sunyjcc.edu/online.

Cooperative Education

Students who wish to be paid for work experience while attending JCC may earn one credit hour per semester for a total of no more than four credits. A student works with the coordinator of cooperative education who meets with him or her regularly and supervises a paper the student submits each semester.

Independent Study Courses

Students who wants to participate in an independent study project must make arrangements directly with a faculty member who agrees to serve as their project advisor. With the assistance of the advisor, the student establishes a proposal covering the work and goals to be accomplished. The number of credits to be earned for completion of the project is determined and the appropriate dean approves the project. The final grade is determined by the advisor. Credit for a single project is limited to 1-3 credit hours, and no more than six credit hours in independent study earned at JCC may be applied toward an associate degree.

Interdisciplinary Studies Courses

Courses which cross the normal boundary lines between disciplines are listed under the common heading of Interdisciplinary Studies (INT).

Global Learning and Study Abroad

JCC students have the opportunity to study abroad in 27 countries for a full semester or summer sessions through the college’s membership in the College Consortium of International Studies (www.ccisabroad.org).
The International Education and Study Abroad Program is open to sophomore students with a minimum GPA of between 2.5 and 3 (depending on the program) and to freshmen with exceptional academic credentials. Students may earn 15 credits while studying abroad, which are counted toward their degrees at JCC. Programs consist of courses taken at a college or university in the host country. Credit hours earned vary by program and sessions.
Each year, JCC also offers credit-bearing courses that include short-term, faculty-led study abroad experiences. Recent offerings have provided students with opportunities to travel to Belgium, England, Guatemala, Italy, Japan, and Spain. Students can also enroll in credit-bearing, semester-long or summer internships in China, Ireland, Guatemala, Japan, and Spain.
For additional information, visit the global learning office or explore opportunities at www.sunyjcc.edu/studyabroad.

Applied Learning

Many applied learning opportunities are available to students who wish to acquire work experience related to a particular field of study while attending JCC. These experiences allow students to apply learning from previous coursework in real world settings while pursuing learning objectives through both work and reflection.
Students who have completed at least 12 college-level credits with a GPA of 2.0 or better are eligible to apply for credit-bearing internships. Some internships have additional requirements. While some certificate and degree programs require internships, students in other programs may opt to complete an internship to gain valuable work experience or explore career options. A student must fulfill 45 hours of work for each credit awarded.
Each internship is based on learning objectives defined within a learning contract created jointly by the student, a faculty supervisor, and a host business or agency representative. Internships with nonprofit organizations are often described as service learning and are most often unpaid. Placements with for-profit organizations may be paid or unpaid.
Students should select applied learning experiences based on their transfer and career plans and discussion with their JCC academic advisors. Students who wish to arrange an applied learning experience should speak to a member of JCC’s applied learning staff or a dean and/or designated faculty of the specific academic field.
JCC also offers non-credit applied learning experiences through career mentoring, job shadowing, and workplace tours.
For additional information, including listings of available internships, visit www.sunyjcc.edu/careerservices.

Life Experience Credit Assessment

JCC believes that valuable and meaningful learning takes place for individuals in their personal worlds. Through work, training, and other experiences, learning occurs which can be complementary to short- or long-term educational goals. It is the desire of the college to help the individual focus on his/her life experiences and translate them into college credit if appropriate.
The assessment process is one of deciding on an educational objective, determining how the life experience to be evaluated supports this goal, and developing a portfolio to substantiate the involvement and learning from the experiences. The portfolio is then evaluated by JCC faculty to determine if and what credit can be awarded.
Additional information is available at the Success Center on the Jamestown and Cattaraugus County campuses and at www.sunyjcc.edu