Admissions

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Admission Procedures

NOTE: Certain programs have additional requirements for admission. See specific outlines for each program of study and career course description. Requirements for admission to certain health related programs may be found under the Admission for Nursing and Allied Health Programs section. Veterans should see “Veterans Affairs .”

General Admission Information

Hinds Community College does not discriminate in its admission of students on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.

Hinds Community College subscribes to an “open door” policy in that all applicants having fulfilled admission requirements will be considered for acceptance to the College. Requirements for admission are not restrictive but may vary for individual programs. Therefore, admission to Hinds Community College does not necessarily mean admission to the program desired by the student. Although applicants for admission must satisfy the general admission requirements, the College reserves the right to accept or reject an applicant to a particular educational program.

The District Office of Admissions and Records is responsible for administering admission policies. All applicants are notified of their admission status as required documents are received in the District Office of Admissions and Records.

District Admissions and Records Office
Hinds Community College
PO Box 1100
Raymond, MS 39154-1100

Admission Requirements and Notes

• All new and returning students who did not attend Hinds Community College (HCC) during the last regular semester must submit a completed HCC Admission Application. Online application may be found at www.hindscc.edu/forms/admissions/admissionsapp.aspx

• Official Transcripts are those transcripts that come directly from the high school, college, or GED office to the Admissions Office. These transcripts should be mailed or hand delivered in a sealed envelope and must not be stamped on the transcript “issued to student.” Official transcripts must bear the signature of the appropriate school official, the institution’s seal, and a graduation date if applicable. The District Admissions and Records Office staff will assist you with obtaining Mississippi GED transcripts.

Note: All Transcripts from high schools, colleges or universities outside of the United States must be submitted to a United States evaluation service for evaluation and translation. If the student would like to have some of this credit applied to the degree at Hinds then the evaluation service will also need to provide course comparisons for the appropriate courses. The final decision on acceptance of credit is made by the Registrar and is not guaranteed. The evaluation service is at the expense of the student and the evaluation service should mail the results directly to the District Admissions and Records Office at Hinds Community College. Prospective international students requesting an I-20 for study should have their evaluated transcripts sent to the attention of the International Student Office. See College website for evaluation service contact information.

• Official ACT/SAT Scores are those scores that are supplied on the official transcript, supplied electronically by the testing company, or the original score results may be brought to the Admissions Office for copying by Admissions staff.

• Admission note concerning: Completion of Admissions File
  All admission requirements must be completed by the first day of regular classes. If this requirement is not met, the student may be removed from all classes for that semester and may not receive a refund of fees or tuition.

• Admission note concerning: Housing and Financial Aid
  In order to live in a residence hall or receive financial aid a student must have completed all admissions requirements.

• Admission note concerning: Orientation Courses
  Any student who begins at Hinds Fall 2007 or later must successfully complete LLS, RST or RSV 1312, Orientation, in order to meet graduation requirements. The course is designed to help students succeed in college life and to be financially responsible citizens. Course cost is $75 per term enrolled. Students who stop attending class or do not properly withdraw are subject to receiving a grade of “F” for non-attendance.

• Admission note concerning: Developmental Courses
  As an open-door college, Hinds Community College admits some students who are not prepared for typical college work. Such students are required to complete the developmental courses to correct background deficiencies before advancing to college level work and will require additional time to complete an associate degree.

Admission for Academic and Technical Students

(Career program students see ADMISSION FOR CAREER PROGRAM STUDENTS.)

1. Beginning Freshman Students*

Beginning freshman students may be admitted on one of the following bases:

1. Graduated high school with a regular diploma.
2. Graduated high school with an Occupational diploma.
3. Earned a GED diploma.
4. Did not graduate high school but has one (1) unit less than the number of units required for high school graduation with their class. An official signed high school transcript must be submitted.

The following are required for beginning freshman students:

1. Submit an official high school transcript or submit an official GED transcript with passing scores.
2. Submit official ACT scores (typically on the high school transcript). Students who have no ACT on file at the time of his/her initial enrollment may substitute the Compass placement tests (English, mathematics, and reading) to satisfy the general admissions requirements of the College. (See Mandatory Placement Policy) This must be done prior to registering for classes. No specific ACT or Compass placement test score is required for admittance into the college, however, certain programs of study (majors) do have specific score requirements on the ACT for admission. High school students are highly encouraged to take the ACT while in high school. The College will offer residual ACT test to those students who wish to register with ACT scores, but who have not taken the National ACT.

NOTE: Residual ACT scores are not transferable to other colleges, and Residual ACT scores from another college cannot be accepted at Hinds. Both the National and Residual ACT may be used to make application for HCC ACT scholarships. Contact the Counseling Office at the location you plan to attend for further information on taking the test.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

2. Early Admission Students*

Early admission students may be admitted on the following basis:

1. Must have completed a minimum of fourteen (14) core high school units and have a minimum composite ACT score of twenty-six (26).
2. Must have at least a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale on all high school courses as documented by an official high school transcript.
3. Must have an unconditional written recommendation from their high school principal and/or guidance counselor. The recommendation must declare that early admission to college is in the best educational interest of the student and that the student’s age will not keep him/her from being a successful full time college student.

The following are required for early admission students:

1. Submit an official high school transcript.
2. Submit official ACT scores (typically on the high school transcript).
3. Letter of recommendation from their high school principal and/or guidance counselor.

Important: See Compass scores required to receive Federal Financial Aid in Financial Aid section entitled Ability to Benefit .

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

3. Dual Enrolled Students*

(Students who will be enrolled in high school and taking college level courses simultaneously)

Dual enrolled students may be admitted on the following basis:

1. Must have completed at least ten (10) core high school units and must have taken the ACT, but no specific score is required. Students with less than ten (10) core high school units may be considered for dual enrollment admission if they have at least a thirty (30) composite ACT score. ACT sub scores are used to place students in the appropriate courses.
2. Must have an unconditional written recommendation from their high school principal or guidance counselor.
3. Must complete a new HCC admissions application once they have graduated high school if they plan to attend Hinds that following summer or fall semesters. They should then follow all the admissions requirements of a beginning freshman.

The following are required for dual enrolled students:

1. Submit an official high school transcript.
2. Submit official ACT scores (typically on the high school transcript).
3. Letter of recommendation from their high school principal and/or guidance counselor.

Dual enrolled students may also be eligible to receive dual credit from their respective high schools and earn credit toward high school graduation. Dual credit is available at Hinds Community College for high school students, but it is at the high school’s discretion as to whether it will allow a student to receive dual credit toward high school graduation. Students interested in participating in this program need to contact their respective high school counselor prior to enrollment at Hinds.

NOTE: No financial aid is available for dual enrolled students.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

4. Home Schooled Students*

Home schooled graduates will be considered for admission if they have completed the required number of high school units to graduate in their state of residence at the time of graduation. If there are specific courses required for high school graduation, the student must have satisfactorily completed these courses. An official transcript with a graduation date is required from a recognized home school agency and signed by an official of that agency or an official transcript signed by a parent must be submitted with a notarized sworn affidavit stating that the student’s record is accurate and complete. Home schooled students must satisfy all other admission requirements pertaining to Academic, Technical, or Career programs of study.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

5. Returning Students*

Former Hinds Community College students who did not attend HCC during the last regular semester (not including summer terms) must submit a new application for admission.

NOTE: Students who were enrolled under the Dual Enrollment Admissions Status must complete a new HCC admissions application once they have graduated high school if they plan to attend Hinds that following summer or fall semesters. They should then follow all the admissions requirements of a beginning freshman.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

6. Transfer Students*

The following are required for transfer students:

1. 1. Submit an official transcript from the last college attended that is NOT stamped “issued to student.” The transcript must be from a state or regionally accredited college. Courses and credit up to 48 semester hours (or the equivalent thereof) will be accepted as they correspond to the curriculum of Hinds Community College, provided they are earned at a state-and regionally-accredited institution. Courses from institutions that are not state-and regionally-accredited may be accepted after a review by the registrar with the appropriate department chairperson. In order for the courses to be accepted, the review must find the following: The course syllabus identifies precisely associated content and is aligned with content contained in a very closely associated course at Hinds Community College, and the Faculty credentials associated with the course meet the standard set for Hinds Community College faculty. For transfer work from institutions that are not state-and-regionally accredited, the student bears the responsibility to provide from the transferring institution to the registrar’s office the following before a review of the course(s) will be conducted:
   • The course syllabus
   • The appropriate catalog page which describes the course, and
   • The official faculty credentials for the instructor of the course to be transferred. Hinds Community College reserves the right to verify faculty credentials from other institutions prior to accepting transfer work.

A student must complete at least 25 percent of their semester hours at Hinds in order to graduate. Developmental
courses cannot be transferred into Hinds Community College, but may be used for placement purposes.

2. Submit official ACT scores if not on college transcript or if the transcript does not show successful completion of college level courses in English and Mathematics. Students who have not successfully completed college level courses in English and Mathematics are subject to mandatory placement and will be required to take placement tests if their ACT scores are not on file at HCC. Residual ACT test scores taken at another institution will not be accepted at Hinds.

Transfer students who were placed on suspension and are not eligible for immediate readmission to the last school they attended are not eligible for admission to HCC. Transfer students who were academically dismissed from the last school they attended, have sat out the required number of semesters and are eligible for immediate readmission, may be admitted to HCC on academic probation. Transfer students who were placed on academic probation after their last semester will be admitted to HCC on academic probation. Developmental courses cannot be transferred into Hinds Community College to meet graduation requirements but may be used for placement purposes.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

7. Transient Students*

Transient students are defined as students who wish to attend a summer session at Hinds Community College and then re-enter the college last attended the next regular session.

The following are required for transient students:

1. Submit an official transcript from a state or regionally accredited college.
2. Submit official ACT scores if not on college transcript or if the transcript does not show successful completion of college level courses in English and Mathematics. Students who have not successfully completed college level courses in English and Mathematics are subject to mandatory placement and will be required to take placement tests if their ACT scores are not on file at HCC. Residual ACT test scores taken at another institution will not be accepted at Hinds.

NOTE: Students should also secure permission from the dean of the school to which they will return to ensure that the earned credit from Hinds Community College will be accepted.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

Admission for Career Program Students

Career Program Students may be admitted on one of the following bases:

1. High School Diploma, Occupational Diploma or GED Graduates*

The following are required of high school diploma, occupational diploma or GED graduates for Career Programs:

1. Submit an official high school transcript or submit an official GED transcript with passing scores.
2. Interview with an advisor in their major field of study.

Students should refer to their specific Career program in this catalog for requirements.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

2. Non-High School Graduates and Non-GED Completers*

The following are required of non-high school diploma and non-GED graduates for Career Programs:

1. Take the Compass Placement Test and meet the Federal Ability to Benefit Laws before registering for class. These scores are: 32 in Writing Skills, 62 or higher in Reading, and 25 or higher in Pre-algebra/Number Skills. Some programs may require a higher Compass placement test score. Non-high school graduates and non-GED completers who do not score at the Ability to Benefit level are not eligible to enroll in career programs.  These students are encouraged to enroll in free ABE/GED classes in order to improve their skills.♠
   
   Students should refer to their specific Career program in this catalog for requirements.
    
2. Be at least 17 years of age.
3. Interview with an advisor in their major field of study.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

3. Students Holding an Associate’s Degree or Higher*

The following are required of students holding an Associate’s degree or higher for Career Programs:

1. May be admitted without the minimum Compass placement test scores. Career programs requiring higher TABE or Compass placement test scores than the general admissions requirements must be met.
2. Submit an official transcript.
3. Interview with an advisor in their major field of study.

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

4. Applicants for Barbering

The following are required of students applying for  Barbering  Programs, in addition to the other admission items for Career program students:

1. Barbering students must make a specific score on the Compass placement test. Applicants should refer to the Barbering program requirements in this catalog for minimum scores for admission.

Important: See Compass placement test scores required to receive Federal Financial Aid in Financial Aid section entitled Ability to Benefit .

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

Senior Citizen Admission*

Hinds offers free tuition to students sixty-five years of age or older. These students must complete an application, pay the registration fee, and purchase a parking decal. Senior citizen students must clear admission requirements if classes are taken for credit. If classes are audited, senior citizen students are not required to meet admission requirements. (See “Auditing a Course ” section of this catalog.)

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

International Student Admission*

Prospective international students with acceptable scholastic records and proven English proficiency will be considered for admission as freshmen or as transfer students. Freshman applicants must be graduates of recognized secondary schools comparable in level to the American high school. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of secondary school records and records of post-secondary study (college, technical school). Factors considered in making the admission decision are grades earned, subjects to be taken, ability to carry a full course of studies, scores on the Compass placement test or ACT, and proof of financial responsibility.

Applicants, both freshman and transfer, whose native language is not English are required to submit an acceptable score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (500 paper, 173 computer or 61 internet). TOEFL scores must be no more than two (2) years old and must be verified by TOEFL. Information regarding this test may be obtained by writing to TOEFL, Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey 08540 or by visiting the website at toefl.org. A personal interview with the Foreign Student Advisor and satisfactory scores on Compass placement test may be substituted for TOEFL scores.

The following materials must be in the International Student Office AT LEAST 60 DAYS prior to the beginning of the semester in which admission is desired:

1. A completed and signed application for admission.
2. Official transcripts of all high school and/or college work. Transcripts from high schools, colleges or universities outside of the United States must be submitted to a United States evaluation service for evaluation and translation. If the college/university student will be requesting that academic work completed outside the U.S. be credited toward a degree from Hinds Community College, then the evaluation service will also need to provide course comparisons for the appropriate courses. The final decision regarding acceptance of credit is made by the Registrar and is not guaranteed. The evaluation service is at the expense of the student and should be mailed from the evaluation service directly to the International Student Office at Hinds Community College. See College website for evaluation service contact information. No credit will be given for English Courses taken outside of the United States.
3. Official ACT, SAT, or scores on Compass placement test taken after arrival at the college.
4. Affidavit of support.
5. TOEFL scores or personal interview.

International Student Office
PMB 10457 HCC
P.O. Box 1100
Raymond, MS 39154-1100

* Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

Admission for Non-Credit Students

In addition to the customary degree or certificate-seeking routes, persons may take courses at Hinds Community College for personal enrichment, as students sponsored by employers or governmental groups, or for other such purposes. These courses are not for college credit and are known as Non-Credit Courses. Those seeking to enroll in non-credit courses must complete a non-credit enrollment form during the first class meeting so that a record can be established. No other admission requirements are necessary.

Scholastic Restart Policy

“Scholastic Restart” is a way for a student to have previously earned grades removed from consideration when computing the quality point average (except for federally funded financial aid eligibility) or when assessing graduation status at Hinds Community College. Before the student decides to participate in this program, he/she should be aware of the following requirements:

1. A completed Declaration of Scholastic Restart Form must be submitted to the Director of Admissions.
2. A student may not have enrolled in college for a minimum of two academic years (academic year includes fall semester, spring semester and summer terms) preceding the petition for re-enrollment under Scholastic Restart.
3. Scholastic Restart may be declared only one time.
4. All hours attempted during the student’s entire enrollment in the college will be considered when determining federally funded financial aid eligibility. This includes grades of “W.”
5. Scholastic Restart is honored at Hinds Community College and may not be recognized by other colleges/universities or employers. Students should check with their chosen transfer college/university or employer to determine their academic status upon completion of their studies at Hinds.
6. A re-entering student requesting Scholastic Restart may be provisionally approved but must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours with a quality point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) before being officially accepted into the program.
7.   No grades will be removed from a student’s official transcript; however, notation will be made on the transcript as to the date that the student began attending under the Scholastic Restart policy. No scholastic work completed before the noted date will be considered when computing quality point average (except for federally funded financial aid eligibility) or determining graduation status at Hinds Community College.
8. The Director of Admissions is responsible for providing the necessary interpretations on questions not expressly answered in this policy.

Admission for Nursing and Allied Health Programs

General Admission Information

Applicants for Nursing and Allied Health Programs must meet all General Admission Requirements of the College. In addition to the general admission requirements, each program has health care related requirements and special program admission and progression requirements as listed below. All admission documents for nursing and allied health programs should be submitted to the Nursing Allied Health Center, except for Pharmacy Technology which is submitted to the Jackson-ATC Campus. Submitting information to other Hinds Community College locations will delay the processing of the applicant’s file.

Computer Access

All students in nursing and allied health programs are required to have computer and internet access.

Core Performance Standards

Students in nursing and allied health programs must meet core performance standards which have been identified as essential for progression and completion of the programs. The standards include critical thinking, interpersonal skills, communication skills, mobility, motor skills, hearing, visual, tactile, accountability and responsibility performance areas. Specific standards with essential activities/tasks for each program are provided on the program web sites (www.hindscc.edu). Students with a diagnosed disability who are unable to meet the standards are advised to contact the ADA counselor (601.376.4803).

Health Care Related Requirements

Nursing and Allied Health students are required to adhere to the rules and regulations of the affiliating clinical agencies as well as Hinds Community College rules and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to background record checks, clinical health requirements, criminal background checks, and CPR certification. Specific information to meet the requirements will be provided through the College Catalog, Nursing and Allied Health Student Manual, and program guidelines, rules, and regulations. Forms for complying with these requirements will be provided by the program as a part of the orientation process. All requirements must be completed by the health profession program’s designated date. Students who have not met requirements will not be allowed to begin or progress in theory, laboratory, or clinical courses. For students admitted to a new program, failure to submit the clinical health requirements on the due date will result in loss of placement. For students who are continuing in a program, failure to submit clinical health requirements by the due date will result in disruption in progression. Attendance guidelines will be enforced.

Background Records Check

Pursuant to MS statue 43-11-13, students in nursing and allied health programs must meet the requirements of clinical agencies regarding background checks. Students must submit a background check, based on fingerprints, that confirms that the affiant has not been convicted of or pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to a felony of possession or sale of drugs, murder, manslaughter, armed robbery, rape, sexual battery, sex offense listed in Section 45-33-23(f), Mississippi Code of 1972, child abuse, arson, grand larceny, burglary, gratification of lust, aggravated assault, or felonious abuse and/or battery of a vulnerable adult.

The background check must have been completed prior to admission to a program of study or prior to clinical courses, as defined by the program. Students who have a current background clearance processed through a Mississippi clinical agency and the Mississippi State Department of Health may submit that documentation to the program chair/director. If a background clearance expires during a student’s program of study, the student must repeat the background check.

Students will also be subject to repeat a background records check based on clinical agency requirements, changes in the Mississippi law, rules, or regulations, or any suspicion of criminal behavior. Students may be required to participate in additional screening such as the Federal General Services Administration Excluded Parties List System (EPLS) and the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE) as required by clinical agencies.

Clinical Health Requirements

Students in nursing and allied health programs must meet the requirements of clinical agencies regarding health status. Each applicant must submit a College Approved Health Form, completed and signed by a physician or nurse practitioner, confirming that the applicant is of good health and possesses the required physical abilities to function satisfactorily within the particular educational program and occupation. Required immunizations must be current. Drug screening will be required as part of the physical exam.

CPR Certification

Nursing and Allied Health programs, with the exception of Health Information Technology require validation of current American Heart Association, Health Care Provider CPR course.

Special Admission and Progression Requirements for Nursing and Allied Health Programs

Associate Degree Nursing Program

Admission Requirements for Generic Option:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Associate Degree Nursing Program
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15)
6. ACT sub-scores of 18 in math (If taken before October 1989 -15)
7. ACT sub-score of 18 in reading (applicants who took the ACT prior to October 1989 must retake the ACT to obtain the reading sub-score)
8. Overall GPA of 2.5 on transferable college credits or GPA of 2.5 on high school course work (if no transferable college credits are available).

Process for Selection to Generic Option:

1. For classes that begin in the fall term, all admission criteria must be completed by March 31st. For classes that begin in the spring term, all admission criteria must be completed by September 30th.
2. Individuals who have submitted all admission requirements by the specified deadline will be considered for program admission based on a rating scale that includes: ACT Composite Score; ACT Math and Reading sub-scores; and previous certificates or degrees.
3. Applicants not selected for a class must reapply for subsequent classes by submitting a new Application for Selection to the Associate Degree Nursing Program.

Prerequisites to the First Generic Clinical Course (NUR 1119 ):

1. Must have completed Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs and Introduction to Sociology.
2. Science courses taken prior to admission must have been completed with a grade of C or better, within five years of entering the first nursing class.

Admission Requirements for Transition to RN Option:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Associate Degree Nursing Program
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15).
6. A limited number of applicants can be admitted by waiver. A maximum of ten percent of each class can be admitted by waiver with an ACT score of 16 or 17. To be admitted by ACT waiver, the 33 semester hours of general education support courses required in the AD Nursing program must be successfully completed with a GPA of 2.5 or above. Only the first two attempts in the required courses will be considered when computing the GPA. Request for waiver must be made in writing to the Transition to RN admissions processor.
7. TEAS-V score at proficient level or higher. A second attempt on the TEAS-V will be allowed after 60 days with documented remediation through an online practice test purchased by the student. Written permission to retest must be obtained from the Transition to RN Director (601.376.4862). Applicants who meet the following requirements do not have to take the TEAS-V: any applicant who has an ACT composite score of 18 (if taken before October 1989 – 15) ACT sub-scores of 18 in math (if taken before October 1989 – 15), and ACT sub-scores of 18 in reading. Applicants who took the ACT prior to October 1989 must retake the ACT to obtain the reading sub-score.
8. Validation of current unencumbered professional license or certification.
9. Written recommendation from immediate supervisor or instructor from respective practical nursing, paramedic, or respiratory therapy program.

Process for Selection for Transition to RN Option:

1. Selection to the Transition to RN Option is made once a year for each selected campus.
2. For the Jackson Campus - Nursing/Allied Health Center (NAHC) classes that begin in the summer term, all selection criteria must be completed by January 31st. The NAHC is the only campus that accepts paramedics and respiratory therapists.
3. For Vicksburg/Warren Campus classes that begin in the fall term, all selection criteria must be completed by March 31st.
4. Qualified applicants will be given priority for admission based on available space and the earliest validated completed file according to the admission requirements as stated above.

Prerequisites to the First Transition to RN Option Clinical Course (NUR 2214 ):

1. An overall GPA of 2.0
2. Completion of Anatomy and Physiology I & II with labs (4 semester hrs each) and Microbiology with lab (4 semester hrs) with a grade of C or above. Science courses must have been completed within 5 years of entering (NUR 2214).
3. Completion of 3 semester hours of each of the following: English Comp I; English Comp II; General Psychology I; Human Growth & Development; Intro to Sociology; Humanities/Fine Arts Elective; Public Speaking/Interpersonal Communication.
4. For the licensed practical nurse, successful completion of an approved IV course within one year of NUR 2214  or current licensure as a LPN certified in IV therapy. .
5. For the paramedic or respiratory therapist, successful completion of Professional Nursing Skills with a grade of C or better within one year of entering NUR 2214 .

Process for Selection for Transfer Admission:

1. All requirements listed in the criteria for selection to the Associate Degree Nursing Program Generic Option.
2. Letter of Good Standing and written recommendation from previous school of nursing.
3. Credit for transfer courses will be evaluated on an individual basis by the Assistant Dean for Nursing. A maximum of nine semester hours of transfer credit in nursing courses is accepted. Nursing coursework presented for transfer credit must have been completed with a grade of C or better and completed within one year of entering the Generic Option.
4. Participate in scheduled orientation and skills assessment sessions.

Dental Assisting Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Dental Assisting Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15)
6. Schedule an informational session with a dental assisting instructor.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 19 (If taken before October 1989 - 16).
6. Completion of a JRCERT accredited Radiologic Technology Program
7. Verification of ARRT registration or registry eligible status.
8. Selection will be based on date of completion of all requirements.

Emergency Medical Technology

Admission Requirements for EMT-Basic:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Emergency Medical Technology EMT Basic Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 17 (If taken before October 1989 - 14); EMT-Basic students eligible for the Public Service Option may substitute a COMPASS test score of 70 in reading for this requirement; the Public Service Option requires an employer letter verifying employment in the field of emergency medical service, fire service, law enforcement, child service, or healthcare.
6. Students must be 18 years old by the date of program completion.

Admission Requirements for EMT-Paramedic:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Emergency Medical Technology EMT-Paramedic Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 17 (If taken before October 1989 - 14).
6. EMT-Basic registration is a pre-requisite to Paramedic. Students must submit a current copy of National Registry registration (copy of the National Registry card) as an admission requirement.

Prerequisites to the First Clinical Course:

1. Must have completed all pre-requisite courses with a grade of C or better.
2. Science courses taken prior to admission must have been completed with a grade of C or better, within five years of entering the first paramedic class.
3. Students must obtain Mississippi certification as an EMT-Basic.

Health Information Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Health Information Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15)
6. Placement level: ENG=3, MAT=3, REA=4
7. Keyboarding courses from high school or college or demonstrate keyboarding proficiency
8. Selection will be based on date of completion of all requirements.

Prerequisites to Health Records Systems, HIT 1113 :

1. All required courses taken prior to admission must be completed with a “C” or above.
2. Science courses taken prior to admission must have been completed within five years of entering the first HIT class.
3. Computer courses taken prior to admission must have been completed within five years of entering the first HIT class.

Medical Assisting Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College. 
2. Application for selection to the Medical Assisting Technology Program. 
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 17 (If taken before October 1989 - 14). If a student does not have a 17, the student must take A&P I and II with concurrent labs and pass with a GPA of 2.5 before entering the program.

Medical Laboratory Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for Selection to the Medical Laboratory Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (15, if taken before October 1989)
6. Applicant must be eligible to take College Algebra (MAT 1313 ) and English Composition I (ENG 1113 ) as determined by the Hinds Community College mandatory Testing and Placement procedure.
7. GPA of 2.5 on high school course work or overall GPA of 2.5 on transferable college credits

Process for Selection:

1. Deadline for file completion for fall classes is March 31st.
2. Individuals who have submitted all required admission documents by the specified deadline will be considered for program admission based on a rating scale that includes: ACT Composite Score; ACT Math and Reading sub-scores; and previous certificates/degrees.
3. Applicants not selected for a class may reapply for subsequent classes by submitting a new Application for Selection to the Medical Laboratory Technology Program.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15)

Prerequisites to Healthcare Experience I, PTA 1111 :

1. Must have completed Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs and College Algebra with a 2.5 GPA. Only the first two attempts in required science and math courses will be considered for acceptance into the program.
2. Science courses taken prior to admission must have been completed with a grade of C or better, within five years of entering the first physical therapist assistant class.

Practical Nursing

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Practical Nursing Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT score of 16 (12 if taken before October 1989).  (Compass scores are no longer accepted as of July 1, 2010.
6. TEAS-V score at proficient level or higher. A second attempt on the TEAS-V will be allowed after 60 days with documented remediation through an online practice test purchased by the student. Written permission to retest must be obtained from the District Director of Practical Nursing (601.376.4850). Applicants who meet the following requirements do not have to take the TEAS-V: any applicant who has an ACT composite score of 18 (if taken before October 1989 - 15) and ACT sub-scores of 18 in reading and math (if taken before October 1989 – Math - 15). Applicants who took the ACT prior to October 1989 must retake the ACT to obtain the reading sub-score.
7. Beginning Fall 2010, a maximum of 5 seats will be reserved each admission period for applicants who have successfully completed Allied Health I & II at the secondary level, and meet all other admission requirements.

Radiologic Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Radiologic Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 19 (16, if taken before October 1989) submitted by January 31st.
6. Completion of the following college courses with a grade of C or above.
   1. Human Anatomy and Physiology I with lab (not older than 5 years from start of RGT program)
   2. Human Anatomy and Physiology II with lab (not older than 5 years from start of RGT program)
   3. College Algebra
7. Four hours of documented observation in a hospital radiology department submitted by January 31. (Contact chairperson for details)
8. Students must be 18 years old prior to the first scheduled class day.

Process for Selection:

1. All selection criteria must be completed by January 31.
2. Applicants must attend an orientation session with the application committee at which time the written communication component will be composed.
3. Selected applicants will be interviewed by the program admission committee based upon written communication skills, academic GPA and ACT scores.
4. Individuals who have completed the interview process will be considered for program admission based on a rating score that includes completion of documented observation, interview rating scores, GPA on prerequisite courses, and ACT scores, including all sub-scores.

Respiratory Care Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Respiratory Care Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (15, if taken before October 1989)
6. Math placement Level = 3 or completion of College Algebra with a grade of C or above.

Process for Selection:

1. Preference will be given to applicants who complete the application procedure by April 15.
2. Individuals who have submitted all required admission documents will be considered for program admission based on a rating scale that includes ACT composite with sub-scores, RCT program prerequisite courses, and previous certificates/degrees.

Prerequisites to the First Respiratory Therapy Course:

1. Eight hours of documented observation in a hospital respiratory therapy department. (Contact the chairperson for details.)
2. Completion of the following college courses with a grade of C or above:
   1. Human Anatomy and Physiology I with lab (not older than 5 years from start of RCT program) (BIO 2513  and BIO 2511 )      
   2. Human Anatomy and Physiology II with lab (not older than 5 years from start of RCT program) (BIO 2523  and BIO 2521 )
   3. College Algebra (MAT 1313) or Microbiology (BIO 2921  and BIO 2923 )
   4. All required courses must be completed with a “C” or above, and science courses taken prior to admission must have been completed within five years of entering the first Respiratory Therapy class.
3. Applicants must attend an orientation session.

Surgical Technology

Admission Requirements:

1. Application for admission to Hinds Community College.
2. Application for selection to the Surgical Technology Program.
3. Validation of high school graduation by official high school transcript, GED equivalency transcript, or college transcript.
4. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, except Hinds Community College.
5. ACT composite score of 18 (If taken before October 1989 - 15)

Progression/Graduation Requirements for Nursing and Allied Health Programs:

In order to progress in a Nursing or Allied Health program, a grade of C or better is required in all program specific courses. Selected programs may require a C in all courses in the program plan. Students must have successfully completed program coursework within one year for continued progression. Programs may also have other progression and graduation requirements. (See individual program plan of study.)

Readmission Procedure for Nursing and Allied Health Programs:

Applicants will be considered for readmission based on compliance with the following criteria:

1. Meet all of the program specific requirements listed under Regular Program in college catalog.
2. Meet all of the requirements listed under Procedure for Readmission of Students in the Hinds Community College Nursing and Allied Health Student Manual (available on the College website at www.hindscc.edu).

Policy Change

The College reserves the right to change policies as necessary; written notification to the students and applicants approved for admission is sufficient to effect policy change.

Residency Requirements

Hinds Community College observes the following definitions with regard to residential status of applicants and students as interpreted from laws engaged by the Mississippi Legislature. Students must have resolved all residency challenges with the District Admissions and Records Office by midterm of the current semester of enrollment. A student’s residency status cannot be changed after midterm and their residency status at midterm will have determined the tuition and fees for that semester.

Residence Required

No student may be admitted to any community/junior college as a resident of Mississippi unless his residence, as defined herein, has been in the district or State of Mississippi preceding his admission.

Residence of a Minor

The residence of a person less than twenty-one (21) years of age is that of either parent. If both parents are dead, the residence of the minor is that of the last surviving parent at the time of that parent’s death, unless the minor lives with his or her legal guardian, duly appointed by a proper court of Mississippi, in which case the residence becomes that of the guardian.

Residence of an Adult

The residence of an adult is that place where he is domiciled, that is the place where he actually, physically resides with the intention of remaining there indefinitely or of returning there permanently when temporarily absent.

Moving of Parents from District or State

If the parents of a minor who is enrolled as a student at a community/junior college move their legal residence from the State of Mississippi, the minor is immediately classified as an out-of-state student.

Resident Status of a Married Student

A married student may claim the residence status of the spouse, or may claim independent residence status under the same regulations set forth above as any other adult.

Children of Parents who are Employed by the College

Children of parents who are members of the faculty or staff of any institution under the jurisdiction of the board of trustees of any community/junior college may be classified as residents for the purpose of attendance at the institution where their parents are faculty or staff members.

Military Personnel Assigned to Active Duty Stationed in District or State

Members of armed forces on extended active duty stationed within the State of Mississippi may be classified as residents for the purpose of attendance of state supported institutions of higher learning and community/junior colleges of the State of Mississippi. Resident status of such military personnel, who are not legal residents of Mississippi as defined under “legal residence of an adult,” shall terminate upon their reassignment for duty in the continental United States outside the State of Mississippi.

Children of Military Personnel

Resident status of children of members of the armed forces on extended active duty shall be that of the military parent for the purpose of attending state supported community/junior colleges of the State of Mississippi during the time that their military parents are stationed within the district or State of Mississippi and shall be continued through the time that military parents are stationed in an overseas area with last duty assignments within the district or State of Mississippi, excepting temporary training assignments en route from Mississippi. Resident status of minor children shall terminate upon reassignment under Permanent Change of Station Orders of their military parents for duty in the continental United States outside the district or State of Mississippi, excepting temporary training assignments en route from Mississippi.

Certification of Residence of Military Personnel

A military person on active duty stationed at Hinds Community College or in Mississippi who wishes to avail him/herself or his/her dependents of these provisions must submit a certificate from his or her military organization of assignment and its address (may be in the letterhead) that the military member will be on active duty stationed in the district or in Mississippi on the date of registration at the state supported community/junior college of the State of Mississippi; that the military member is not on transfer orders; and the signature of the Commanding Officer, the Adjutant, or the Personnel Officer of the unit or assignment with signer’s rank and title. A military certificate must be presented to the Registrar of the state supported community/junior college of the State of Mississippi each semester at or within ten days prior to registration each semester for the provisions hereof to be effective.

Register Under Proper Residence Status

The responsibility for registering under proper residence status is placed upon the student. In addition to any administrative action which may be taken by governing authorities of the state-supported institutions of higher learning or community/junior colleges concerned, any student who willfully presents false evidence as to his/her residence status shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof may be fined not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00).

Distance Learning

The College has been offering distance learning courses for a number of years. Offerings are growing each semester. These courses are offered to those whose schedules and circumstances make it difficult to attend traditional classes and are designed for the student who can work independently and discipline him/her self to keep up with the assigned material. Registration procedures are the same as for traditional courses. Online courses have an additional $20 per credit hour charge. Online courses require that the student have unlimited access to a computer, compatible software, and activate and use the college e-mail account. Students may view student services at www.hindscc.edu under Prospective Students and Current Students links.

The online courses are offered in cooperation with the Mississippi Virtual Community College (MSVCC) giving the student access to many courses from which to choose. For further information about Distance Learning, visit www.hindscc.edu/Departments/distance_learning/default.aspx. Students can also call 601.857.3834 or e-mail distancelearning@hindscc.edu. For information about Mississippi Virtual Community College courses visit hindscc.blackboard.com and link to course offerings under the MSVCC tab.

The Office of Distance Learning is dedicated to providing online courses equal to traditional classes. In order to maintain integrity and quality of online education, all students enrolled in Hinds Community College online courses will be required to take and pass at least one (1) proctored exam in each course in order to pass that course. A government issued picture ID is required to take a proctored exam to ensure compliance with our accrediting body’s standards for identity verification.

Minimum Competencies for Online Students

A Hinds Community College student taking online courses through MSVCC should have a minimum level of computer competence to be successful. Below is a list of minimum competencies expected before the student is allowed to register for an online class. A self-evaluation is available on the Hinds Distance Learning web page for a student to assess his/her readiness for taking distance learning courses. Additionally, minimum hardware requirements are listed on the Hinds Distance Learning page. Printed copies of the following information will be available for counselors and advisors to give to students at registration.

Minimum Computer Competencies Expected of the Online Student

1. Students must own or have permanent access to a computer meeting the requirements as found on http://www.hindscc.edu/Departments/elearning/distance_learning/FAQ.aspx and as listed below under Minimum Computer Requirements.
2. Students must activate and use the go.hindscc email account and understand the general use of email. Students must be able to attach a document to an email.
3. Students must have a compatible word processing application (Microsoft Word recommended).
4. Students must meet any technology related prerequisites that exist for the courses they wish to take.
5. Students taking an online course for the first time must complete the READI orientation found at http://www.hindscc.edu/Departments/elearning/distance_learning/Online_Orientation.aspx.
6. In order to successfully complete an online course, each student must take and pass at least one proctored exam in each course in order to pass the course. Instructors may require more at their own discretion.

Computer Requirements for Taking an Online Course

MSVCC students are required to own or have permanent access to a computer with an Internet connection. Students are welcome to use open computer labs throughout the Hinds district but should not use this as their sole resource. Instructors will not accept excuses in regard to computers or Internet service. For this reason you should complete assignments prior to the deadline and always have a backup computer plan. Minimum specifications for computers are listed below.

Operating System: An IBM-compatible PC with Windows 2000 or later, XP or NT4 OR, a Macintosh with MacOS 8.6 or above.

Processor Speed/Type: PC, 400 MHz Pentium II or equivalent; MAC, 300 MHz PowerPC G33.

Monitor Resolution: 800 x 600

CPU Memory: 256 MB of RAM

Free Hard Disk Space: 100 MB

Audio: 16-bit sound card

Drives: An external drive option (CD, jump drive, etc.)

Internet Connection: High-speed preferred

Browser: Mozilla Firefox 3.0 is the recommended browser. (Internet Explorer 8 and AOL’s browsers are incompatible with many of the Blackboard functions. The use of these browsers to take courses with MSVCC is not recommended.)

Advisement for Course Selection

Academic counselors and career-technical counselors assist students in course selection and educational planning. Students choosing academic, career or technical majors should seek course advisement through the counseling office to select appropriate classes for his/her major. If a student wishes, he or she may choose to be advised by a faculty member. The counselor or advisor will provide students with a plan of study which records the classes students are advised to take while they are enrolled at Hinds. After the first semester of enrollment, students are not required to see a counselor or advisor to register for future semesters. Students are encouraged, however, to seek advisement if they change their program of study (major), do not successfully complete the courses for which they register, or have questions about their programs of study. Students who register early will have the best selection of course times. Registration and advisement occur in April, May, June, July, August, November, December, and January.

Declaration of College Program or Major 

Each student seeking credit through Hinds Community College will indicate an intended major field of study on the initial application for admission and will make a formal declaration of his/her program or college major during the advising process.

Change of College Program/Major

A student who wishes to change his/her college program/major after their formal declaration should come to one of the college counseling offices for an evaluation of previous completed course work and for course advisement for the new program. Students should recognize that changing programs/majors could result in having completed courses that will not apply to the new program/major. A student may ONLY change his/her program of study (major) during registration for the next semester of enrollment. The program change will not begin until the next term of enrollment.

Veterans should be very careful when changing his/her programs/majors because the change is also subject to counseling approval with the Veterans Administration Regional Office.

Registration

Registration will be held at all locations of Hinds Community College. (See registration schedule for dates and times at each location.) Students will be registered on a first come-first served basis. Before being allowed to register, students must have an application on file in the District Office of Admissions and Records and must clear all admission requirements. Transfer students must have an official transcript from their former state or regionally accredited college on file in the District Office of Admissions and Records before they can register. First time students must contact the Counseling Office of the location they plan to attend for course advising and scheduling. While returning students may register online at my.hindscc.edu, they may also see a counselor for advisement.

Students may pay all fees at the time of registration or they may be billed, but fees must be received in the Business Office ten days prior to the first day of traditional classes or have a payment plan in place with the business office, or have verification of awarded financial aid. Failure to complete one of these steps will result in deletion of your class schedule. Students may check their account balance or pay tuition and fees using electronic check or credit card at my.hindscc.edu.

Before the start of classes, students who have registered, paid tuition and are unable to attend classes should contact the appropriate Counseling Office to officially withdraw from school. A student must withdraw according to the College’s complete withdrawal policy to receive a refund. Students who have registered, have NOT paid tuition and are unable to attend classes must mail the tuition billing notice back to the District Office of Admissions with a statement indicating that they will not be attending classes. This must be done immediately upon receiving the billing so that they can be removed from classes.

REGISTRATION NOTICE

1. Any class or section for which fewer than 10 students have registered is subject to cancellation without advance notice.
2. While every effort will be made to avoid them, instructor and/or room changes may be made without advance notice.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)
Hinds Community College

Hinds Community College maintains certain policies and practices to assure compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). While students are enrolled in high school, their parents typically “own” their educational records. However, once students are enrolled in college, they become the owners of their personal educational records. FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to these records. These rights include the following:

1. The right to inspect and review their educational records within 45 days from the day HCC receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Records Office written requests that identify the record(s) that they wish to inspect. A HCC official from the District Office of Admissions and Records will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the District Office of Admissions and Records, the Admissions and Records official shall coordinate with the appropriate office in order to insure that the requesting student is able to view his or her educational record.
2. The right to request an amendment to their educational records if the student believes the records are inaccurate or misleading. Students who wish to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate should write the HCC official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record that they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If HCC decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, HCC will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when he or she is notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s educational records. However, there are some exceptions in which FERPA authorizes disclosure without student consent.

One exception permits disclosure without consent to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by HCC in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel); a person or company with whom HCC has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee (such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks). A school official who needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility has a legitimate educational interest.

In addition, upon request, HCC may disclose educational records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks to enroll.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Hinds Community College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

The contact information of the Office that administers FERPA is as follows:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202- 8520

The contact information for the HCC office that administers FERPA is as follows:

Hinds Community College
Office of Admissions and Records
P.O. Box 1100
Raymond, MS 39154

Directory Information

Directory Information is information contained in a student’s educational record that generally would not be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Under the terms of FERPA, Hinds Community College has established the following as directory information:

1. Name, address, and telephone number
2. Classification (Freshman, Sophomore, etc.,)
3. Major (program of study)
4. Dates of attendance
5. Enrollment status (full or part-time)
6. Degrees earned
7. Honors received
8. Most recent educational agency or institution attended
9. Photographic images
10. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
11. Weight and height of members of athletic teams
12. Employment information (full or part-time)

Directory information is considered public information and may be released without a student’s consent. However, Hinds Community College does not routinely release such information to third parties. A student may submit a Directory Information Restriction Request, available at any campus admissions office and on the HCC website, to the District Office of Admissions and Records to withhold this information. If a student submits a restriction request, his or her record will be noted “confidential,” and no information will be released without prior written consent.

Nondirectory Information

Nondirectory Information is personally identifiable information such as grades, transcripts, grade point average (GPA), and academic standing, most of which is part of a student’s educational record. Educational Records are those records directly related to a student’s scholastic performance and maintained by the institution. HCC does not release this information without written authorization from the student, with the exceptions mentioned in #3 above. If a student wishes to have any personally identifiable information regarding his or her educational record released, a Third Party Release form, available at any campus admissions office and on the HCC website, must be completed by the student.

Entrance and/or Placement Tests

NOTE: ALL TESTS REQUIRE A PHOTOGRAPH IDENTIFICATION

HCC uses COMPASS (by ACT), Residual ACT Assessment, and/or National ACT Assessment to place students in appropriate courses. Academic, technical and career students must take one of these placement tests prior to registering for classes. Placement test results assist the institution in advising, placing and admitting students in appropriate course levels that match their skills and help students succeed. Students should contact the counseling office at the campus they plan to attend to schedule a test date or secure more information about the tests. COMPASS or Residual ACT testing is available for students who have been admitted or are in the process of applying to Hinds Community College and cannot take the ACT Assessment on a national test date. The COMPASS and Residual ACT cannot be transferred to other colleges, nor does Hinds accept the COMPASS or Residual ACT scores from other colleges. NOTE: many scholarships are awarded based on ACT Assessment scores (residual or National).

Academic and technical students who have a high school diploma or have passed the GED may choose to fulfill the mandatory placement requirement by taking COMPASS. COMPASS by ACT is a computerized course placement test that measures skills in the areas of mathematics, reading and writing. These tests usually take a total of one to two hours to complete, results are immediate, and there is no charge for the test. Students who have ACT scores may not need to test. For more information on COMPASS, visit www.act.org/compass.

Students who have taken the ACT:

Students who have taken the ACT, but wish to improve their placement levels may only attempt the COMPASS placement test one time. COMPASS is divided into three individual tests. A student may choose to skip any of the three tests but will not be allowed another opportunity to complete a test that was skipped. Testing must take place at least 12 calendar days before the first day of class. Students taking the COMPASS for initial placement and admission shall be given first priority to test.

Students who have not taken the ACT:

A student who has not taken the ACT may take the COMPASS placement test twice. The second attempt must be one week or more after the first testing date and the student should complete appropriate tutorial work prior to taking the second test. Testing must take place at least 12 calendar days before the first day of class. A student will forfeit the second testing attempt if there are less than 12 calendar days before the start of classes for the semester. Students taking the COMPASS for initial placement and admission shall be given first priority to test. Test dates and times are available at any HCC Counseling office or on the Hinds’ website at www.hindscc.edu/student_services/testing/Compass.aspx.

Career students are required to take the COMPASS placement test. Admission and financial aid is available to non-high school graduates who make the required scores on the COMPASS test as defined by Federal Ability to Benefit Laws. These scores are: 32 or higher in Writing Skills (English), 62 or higher in Reading, and 25 or higher in Pre-Algebra/Number Skills. For this reason, career students are urged to register early, should one or more retakes become necessary to attain financial aid eligibility. Test dates and times are available at any HCC Counseling office or on the Hinds’ website at www.hindscc.edu/student_services/testing/Compass.aspx.

NOTE: After one unsuccessful testing it is highly advisable for non-high school graduates to enroll in GED preparation classes.

All Students:

During the first week of each term, additional testing may be available to students who are dissatisfied with his/her initial placement in Math. A student wishing to take the math by-pass test should notify the instructor during the first class meeting. The instructor will provide details regarding test dates and location. Arrangements for by-pass testing must take place during the first week of classes. The student may then be placed in the appropriate level based upon that test.

What students need to know and do prior to testing:

1. Students must have an application on file in Admissions so scores can be entered into the system. This must be done before a student can register.
2. The COMPASS test is not timed. It usually takes one to two hours to complete.
3. Non-programmable calculators are allowed. Two calculators are available on the computer for student use.
4. Test results are available immediately following the test.
5. No cellular phones, pagers, timers, gum, candy, drinks, food, or tobacco products are allowed in the testing room.
6. COMPASS scores are non-transferable to other colleges.

What students need to bring to the testing site:

1. A current valid picture identification (Driver’s License, Work or School ID or Passport).
2. Verification of Social Security number, if not printed on ID.
3. An advising and scheduling ticket from Admissions/Registration.

Residual ACT Test Information (paper-pencil test):

Residual ACT testing is available for students who 1) are enrolled, 2) have been admitted or 3) are in the process of applying to HCC. Students preparing to take the Residual ACT should call the individual campus for specific information and also be aware of the following:

1. The cost of the test is $35. Students must pre-register for a specific test date. The fee is non-refundable and reserves a place for the originally scheduled test date and location only.
2. Current valid picture identification (issued by school, employer, city, state/federal agency) is required.
3. You must wait at least 60 calendar days between residual testing sessions or your scores will be invalid.
4. Non-programmable calculators are permitted.
5. This is a timed test that takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

National ACT Assessment Test Information:

Applicants may prefer to sit for the National ACT prior to enrollment at Hinds. Scores from a National Test Administration are transferable to other institutions and used for NCAA Athletic Eligibility. To register for the National ACT, complete a registration packet and mail it directly to ACT or register via the ACT website at www.act.org. Registration packets may be obtained in any high school counseling office or in the counseling offices at Hinds. Hinds Community College Jackson Academic Technical Center and Raymond Campuses are test sites for the National ACT test. The site code for Jackson ATC is 021770 and Raymond is 021980. Registration deadlines and further information may be obtained from the ACT website.

Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS-V):

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS-V) is a multiple choice test which is designed to provide an assessment of the nursing school applicant’s basic academic knowledge in reading, mathematics, science and English and language use. The objectives assessed on the TEAS-V exam are those which are deemed most appropriate and relevant to measure entry level skills and abilities of nursing program applicants. Tests are given by appointment only, every Monday, at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday at 2 p.m. and Thursday at 1 p.m., except for holidays observed by the College. Location of testing is in the District Adult Education Center, Raymond Campus (601.857.3650). Applicants must preregister for the TEAS-V on the Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) website (www.atitesting.com). The fee for the test is $40.00, payable online by credit or debit card. Detailed information about the TEAS-V is provided on the program website.

For applicants to the Associate Degree Nursing Program - Transition to RN Option:

The required score for admission to the associate degree nursing program is proficient level or higher. A second attempt on the TEAS-V will be allowed after 60 days with documented remediation through an online practice test purchased by the student. Written permission to retest must be obtained from the Transition to RN Director (601.376.4862). Applicants who meet the following requirements do not have to take the TEAS-V: any applicant who has an ACT composite score of 18 (if taken before October 1989 – 15) and ACT sub-scores of 18 in reading and math (if taken before October 1989 - Math – 15). Applicants who took the ACT prior to October 1989 must retake the ACT to obtain the reading sub-score. For additional information regarding the TEAS-V or admission to the Hinds Community College Associate Degree Nursing Program-Transition to RN Option, contact the Admission Processor at 601.376.4813 or a counselor at the Nursing/Allied Health Center.

For applicants to the Practical Nursing Program:

The required score for admission to the practical nursing program is proficient level or higher. A second attempt on the TEAS-V will be allowed after 60 days with documented remediation through an online practice test purchased by the student. Written permission to retest must be obtained from the District Director of Practical Nursing (601.376.4850). Applicants who meet the following requirements do not have to take the TEAS-V: any applicant who has an ACT composite score of 18 (if taken before October 1989 – 15) and ACT sub-scores of 18 in reading and math (if taken before October 1989 - Math – 15). Applicants who took the ACT prior to October 1989 must retake the ACT to obtain the reading sub-score. For additional information regarding the TEAS-V or admission to the Hinds Community College Practical Nursing program, contact the Admission Processor at 601.376.4812 or a counselor the Nursing/Allied Health Center.

Proctored Tests:

Students from four-year colleges and universities who request proctored testing for a course will be charged $25 per test. The students should call the counseling and testing center to make an appointment.

General Education Development Test (GED):

Hinds Community College is authorized to give the General Education Development (GED) Test. An individual who has been a resident of Mississippi for 30 days or more, is at least 18 years old and has not been enrolled in a secondary school for at least three (3) months is eligible to take the GED Test. For further information contact the Hinds Community College Counseling Department on the Raymond Campus, Vicksburg-Warren Campus or the Testing and Career Development Center on the Utica Campus. Successful completion of this test results in a certificate of high school equivalency being issued. The initial cost is $40 for the complete battery. Examinee must pay $12 per test to take any subject area. The number of times per year the test can be taken is limited. Current valid picture identification (driver’s license or government ID) must be furnished at the time of testing. Pre-registration is required. Students must furnish original receipt of payment at time of pre-registration. Accommodations for documented disabilities are available. For more information, visit GED web site: http://www.acenet.edu.

Mandatory Testing and Placement Procedure

Placement is mandatory for all degree seeking students whose declared program of study is academic or technical. Upon his/her first registration at Hinds every student subject to mandatory placement must have complete ACT scores on file, or he/she must, at the time of registration, take placement tests appropriate to the courses for which he/she enrolls that term. ACT scores or placement test results are used to determine if a student must enroll in courses in one or more developmental areas, and if so, at what point he/she must begin.

All such students are required to enroll initially in all prescribed developmental courses and must continue to enroll each semester in all consecutive prescribed developmental courses. A student’s developmental mathematics prescription is fulfilled when he/she reaches the first math course required in his/her declared program of study. A student’s developmental English prescription is fulfilled with the successful completion of ENG 0123 , and a student’s reading prescription is fulfilled with the successful completion of REA 0133 .

All prescribed developmental courses must be satisfactorily completed with a grade of “C” or better. In unusual circumstances, a student may score sufficiently high on the exit criteria to by-pass the next developmental course. In such cases, the student’s placement level will be entered into the College database to reflect the higher level; however, he/she will receive credit only for the developmental course in which he/she originally enrolled for that term.

During the first week of each term, additional testing may be available through the departments for students who are dissatisfied with their initial placement in English, mathematics, or reading.

For initial placement purposes, the following Enhanced ACT, ACT Compass and/or Placement scores will be used to place students in the following courses. Also, see below for complete requirements about placement in Developmental Studies. 

English

Math

Reading

Education

Review the ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES

Global Developmental Course Prerequisites

Students who are prescribed the course shown in the heading of a column must not schedule any of the courses listed in that column. If a listed course is a pre-requisite or a co-requisite to the other courses which are not listed, the unlisted courses must not be scheduled.

Developmental Studies

Developmental Courses - Math, English, and Reading

Developmental instruction is offered through the following courses: LLS 0111 /LLS 0113 ; LLS 0121 /LLS 0123 , MAT 0113 , MAT 0123 ; REA 0113 , REA 0123 , REA 0133 ; ENG 0113 , ENG 0123 , SPT 0113 . Based on ACT scores or placement tests, students are prescribed these courses to prepare them for success in traditional college courses. For more information on testing, please refer to the Mandatory Testing and Placement Procedures section in this catalog. Students who stop attending class before the withdrawal date or do not properly withdraw are subject to receiving a grade of “F” for non-attendance. (See the Attendance Policy  in this Catalog.) Developmental courses cannot be used as electives to meet graduation requirements.

Career Related Studies

The Related Studies Laboratory is available to aid students who are deficient in basic academic skills to the extent that they might have difficulty succeeding in their chosen technical or career program. This laboratory is also available to help non-high school graduates who are enrolled in career programs to obtain their GED.

Transitional Students:

In an effort to assist the college student who needs additional support to complete college level course work, the College
requires eligible students to participate in the Transitional Student Program.

First-time Transitional Students are those who meet all of the following conditions:

1. are first-time, full-time academic or technical students,
2. begin their college studies during or after Summer 2004,
3. are developmental Level 1 or 2*, and
4. have an ACT composite score of less than 18 or a SAT total score less than 870.

*See definition of Developmental Levels below. Additional placement testing (COMPASS, ACT, etc.) and/or developmental courses passed that move a student to Developmental Level 3 or out of developmental status also remove the student from Transitional status. Additional placement testing which occurs after the second week of a term becomes effective with the following term.

During his/her first fall or spring semester the Transitional Student is admitted to the College on Scholastic Probation and must complete seven (7) or more semester hours with a minimum 2.0 term GPA to be placed in Good Scholastic Standing. Those in Good Scholastic Standing following the first semester will no longer fall under the Transitional Program guidelines.

Transitional Students who fail to pass seven (7) hours with a minimum 2.0 term GPA, including withdrawal from all classes will be placed on Scholastic Suspension for the corresponding fall or spring semester. Suspended students may return after the absence of one fall or spring semester and will enter on Scholastic Probation and with the classification of Transitional. These students will remain transitional until the 7.0 credit hour and 2.0 GPA guidelines are both met. For returning transitional students, the 2.0 GPA may be either for a fall or spring term or cumulative. Transitional students who are scholastically suspended at the end of a fall or spring term may appeal their suspension by following the Scholastic Appeals  procedure as stated in the College Catalog and in the Student Handbook. If the appeal is granted, students may enroll the next semester as transitional and on Scholastic Probation.

During the summer term, students are not subject to Transitional Program guidelines; however, summer coursework does apply toward total hours earned and cumulative GPA.

Transitional Students residing in campus housing must enroll in 15 semester hours, will be assigned designated residence halls, and will enroll in LLS 1151  where supervised study/college life sessions will be required. Failure to attend LLS 1151 will result in disciplinary action (13 demerits) and the student must move from the College residence hall. In addition to the required academic coursework, Transitional Students living on campus will enroll in a P.E. Activity Class or Band, and may enroll in an Orientation Class, or a Career Exploration Class. Students with physical disabilities will be exempt from the P.E. Activity Class.

Developmental Courses and Levels are as follows:

     Developmental Level 1

All academic and technical students with an ACT composite of 13 and below and/or placement in three development courses must take the course sequences as listed below:

Level 1 Students may take no more than thirteen (13) hours composed of the following:

Note: LLS 1151  required for residence hall students.

All students in Level 1 may take one (1) semester hour of HPR activity OR career exploration OR band. In addition to mandatory courses, varsity athletes may take appropriate HPR courses.

**If students (by virtue of ACT placement or by “testing out” of one of these courses) are able to bypass one or more of these courses, they will enroll in the next higher course.

For advisement purposes, the student will see a professional counselor who will help select courses appropriate to the student’s placement levels.

     Developmental Level 2

All academic and technical students who meet one of the following criteria:

Level 2 students may take no more than thirteen (13) hours composed of the following:

Note: LLS 1151  required for residence hall students.

All students in level 2 may take one (1) semester hour of HPR activity OR career exploration OR band. In addition to mandatory courses, varsity athletes may take appropriate HPR courses.

**If students (by virtue of ACT placement or by “testing out” of one of these courses) are able to bypass one or more of these courses, they will enroll in the next higher course.

For advisement purposes, the student will see a professional counselor who will help select course appropriate to the student’s placement levels.

     Developmental Level 3

All academic and technical students who meet one of the following criteria:

Students in Level 3 may take no more than 17 hours composed of the following:

All students in level 3 may take one (1) semester hour of HPR activity OR career exploration OR band. In addition to mandatory courses, varsity athletes may take appropriate HPR courses.

**If students (by virtue of ACT placement or by “testing out” of one of these courses) are able to bypass one or more of these courses, they will enroll in the next higher course.

For advisement purposes, the student will see a professional counselor who will help select courses appropriate to the student’s placement level. Courses may be selected from the following list. (All exceptions must be approved by the Instructional Dean).

Student Guarantee Policy

Hinds Community College will guarantee to its academic graduates and other students who have met the requirements (up to a 64 credit hour transfer plan) the transferability of course credits to those Mississippi colleges or universities that cooperate in the development of community college selection guidelines. If such courses are rejected by the college or university, the student may take tuition-free alternate courses at Hinds Community College which are acceptable to the college or university.

Special conditions which apply to the guarantee are as follows:

1. Transferability means the acceptance of credit toward a specific major and degree. Courses must be identified by the receiving university and the community college as transferable and acceptable under previous agreements by both the community college and four-year college or university.
2. Limitation on the total number of credits accepted in transfer, grades required, relevant grade point average, and duration of transferability apply as stated in previous agreements between community colleges and four-year colleges and universities.
3. The guarantee applies to courses included in the written transfer plan - which includes the institution to which the student will transfer, the baccalaureate major and the degree sought, and the date such decision was made - which must be filed with the appropriate official of the community college.

If a career or technical graduate is judged by his/her employer to be lacking in technical job skills identified as exit competencies for his/her specific degree program, the graduate will be provided up to nine tuition-free credit hours of additional skill training by the community college district under the conditions of the guarantee policy.

Special conditions which apply to the guarantee are as follows:

1. The graduate must have earned a degree or certificate for a course listed in the current community college catalog.
2. The graduate must have completed his/her course work within a four-year time span.
3. Graduates must be employed full-time in an area directly related to the area of program concentration as certified by the vice president or dean of instruction.
4. Employment must commence within 12 months of graduation.
5. The employer must certify in writing that the employee is lacking entry-level skills identified by the community college as the employee’s program competencies and must specify the areas of deficiency within 90 days of the graduate’s initial employment.
6. The employer, graduate, division dean, job placement counselor, and appropriate faculty member will develop a written educational plan for retraining.
7. Retraining will be limited to nine credit hours related to the identified skill deficiency and to those classes regularly scheduled during the period covered by the retraining plan.
8. All retraining must be completed within a calendar year from the time the educational plan is agreed upon.
9. The graduate and/or employer is responsible for the cost of books, insurance, uniforms, fees, and other course related expenses.
10. The guarantee does not imply that the graduate will pass any licensing or qualifying examination for a particular career.
11. Student’s sole remedy against the district and its employees for skill deficiencies shall be limited to nine credit hours of tuition-free education under conditions described above.
12. The program can be initiated through a written contract with the office of the college president.