Admission, Registration, and Enrollment

General Admission

General Admission policy

Lee College is an open admission two-year lower-division undergraduate institution. All persons who have at least one of the qualifications listed below are welcome to enroll. Lee College does not discriminate on the basis of gender, disability, race, color, age, religion, national origin, or veteran status in its admission policies or practices.

1. Persons with diplomas from accredited high schools.
2. Persons with General Education Development (GED) certificates.
3. Transfer students with college-level hours earned at other accredited colleges or universities.
4. International students who meet college and state requirements.

Those who do not meet the qualifications listed above (including persons currently enrolled in accredited high schools) may apply for admission on an Individual Approval (IA) basis (see Individual Approval Admission, below).

Admission to the College does not imply admission to programs such as the Nursing or Honors Programs, which employ special admission requirements (see Enrollment into Special Programs, below). Lee College reserves the right to restrict or limit the enrollment of any instructional program.

The specific provisions and conditions under which students may enroll at Lee College are set forth below:

First-Time-In-College (FTIC) Freshmen

Students may enroll as FTIC freshmen if they have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a General Education Development (GED) certificate. In either case, prospective students must produce high school transcripts or GED certificates no later than the census date of their first semester (see Documents Needed for Admission to the College, below, and Texas Success Initiatives (TSI), below).

Transfer/Transient Students

Students who transfer to Lee College from other institutions must have official copies of their transcripts on file in the Office of Admissions and Records. Official transcripts should be received by Admissions & Records prior to enrollment, but students are typically given a one semester grace period to get all official transcripts submitted (TSI exemptions and/or prerequisites may require that a transcript is received prior to enrollment).  In the event that extenuating circumstances exist, contact the Registrar. 

Students who claim to be exempt from Texas Success Initiative (TSI) testing or claim to have met the TSI College Readiness standard in one or more areas, either because of scores earned on TSI approved tests or courses taken at other colleges or universities, must produce official test scores, transcripts, or other documentation prior to enrollment (see Texas Success Initiatives (TSI) Plan, below).

Transfer students occasionally enroll with the intent of applying the credits they earn at Lee College to degree plans at other schools. Transfer students with this intent may declare themselves Transient Students when they apply for admission. 

Students Enrolled in Accredited High Schools

Persons who are enrolled in accredited high schools and want to start college classes before high school graduation may apply for admission to the College under the Individual Approval (IA) admissions policies and, if admitted, may earn credits which can be applied toward Lee College degrees or transferred to other institutions (see Individual Approval Admission, below).

In addition, some school districts give high school credit to students who complete certain pre-approved college courses. The authority to grant high school credit for college courses resides in the school districts, not in the College. Therefore, students who wish to receive high school credit in addition to college credit for courses taken at the College must receive permission from their high school.

In general, students who are enrolled in high school and who wish to take college courses are subject to TSIA policies regarding testing and must satisfy the prerequisites for the courses.  The policies regarding persons who are enrolled in accredited high schools apply to students who take Lee College courses on their high school campuses for dual credit as well as those who take courses at Lee College sites for college credit only (course prerequisites are a part of the course descriptions included in Course Descriptions ).

Impact Early College High School and Stuart Career Tech High School students should meet with their high school advisor to determine the number of college classes taken each semester.  More information on the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District’s Impact Early College High School and Stuart Career Tech High School can be found at www.gccisd.net.

Students Enrolled in “Home Schooling”

Persons who have completed the equivalent of an approved high school curriculum through home schooling may apply for admission to the College under the Individual Approval (IA) admission policies (see Individual Approval Admission, below).

International Students

Applicants for admission to the College who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents seeking to study under a student visa must show that they have completed a course of study equivalent to that of an accredited U.S. high school. If the applicant completed high school outside the U.S., documentation of successful completion of secondary schooling will be required, and an approved evaluation of the high school transcript may be required (see item 5, below).  In addition, they must meet the following requirements:

1. All admission materials must be received at least 45 days before the first class day of a given semester.
2. Most students must provide evidence of proficiency in the English language (Citizens of some English-speaking countries and those international students who have completed coursework in English may be exempt from this requirement); students may satisfy this requirement by submitting results from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).  Students need a minimum aggregate (TOEFL) score of 530 on the Paper-Based Test (PBT), 197 on the Computer-Based Test (CBT), or 71 on the Internet-Based Version (IBT).  On the (IELTS), a score of 5.5 or higher is required.
3. If the applicant completed high school outside the U.S., documentation of successful completion of secondary school will be required, and an official evaluation from a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services- approved agency may be required after initial review of secondary school documentation.  Original copies of transcripts submitted to the College by the student may not be available for return to the student.
4. Students wishing to transfer college-level work to Lee College from foreign institutions must have their transcripts evaluated by an evaluation service approved by Lee College. Credit for courses taken at foreign institutions will be awarded according to the policies outlined for transfer students.
5. Students must provide proof of financial support. A bank statement showing funds on deposit to cover expenses for at least one year of studies (including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses as calculated by the College) as well as a letter pledging support from the sponsor (if the statement is not in the student’s name) are required. Additionally, an I-134 Affidavit of Support will be required if the sponsor lives in the United States.

Individual Approval Admission

Individual Approval (IA) admission status is available to college applicants who have not graduated from accredited high schools, do not have GED certificates, and do not have transferable credits from institutions of higher education. The IA admission policies also provide for students who are (or were) home schooled. Students who enter the College under these provisions may be restricted to certain classes and/or sections.

Enrollment for Personal Enrichment

Students who are not pursuing certificates or degrees and are not earning credits for transfer to other institutions may enroll at the college for “personal enrichment.” Students who do so may avoid some placement testing but are not eligible for state or federal aid (see Personal-Enrichment/Recreation & Fitness ).

Documents needed for Admission to the College

Application for Admission

To be admitted to Lee College, new students must complete an Application for Admission and provide the residency information cited below, if requested.  Returning and former students who were not enrolled in the past year must also update their Application for Admission and, if requested, their residency information.  Applications for Admission may be submitted at www.applytexas.org

Establishing Residency Status

Under state law, students who move to the state solely for educational pursuits are not entitled to receive Texas residency tuition rates. Students who claim “Texas residency” must be prepared to show residence in the state for the immediate 12 months prior to the census date of the first term of enrollment. Accepted forms of documentation include records of gainful employment with a Texas address, deed to property in the state, registration to vote, and/or Texas vehicle registration documents. Other documents supporting a residency petition, including commercial apartment leases and utility billing documents, and driver’s licenses, may also be considered. Dependents of Texas residents may also need to present their parent’s tax returns. See the Admissions and Records Office for more information on residency classification. See also “Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid ”.

Official Transcripts

High school graduates who have not attended other colleges must provide official high school transcript (showing date of graduation).  Transfer students must provide official transcripts from all colleges previously attended as well as an official high school transcript.  It is preferable that official high school and college transcripts be sent electronically directly from the generating institutions, but they can be mailed or brought in person to Admissions & Records in sealed envelopes.  GEDs earned in Texas will be verified by Lee College, when possible; students who earned GEDs in other states must request that official GED transcripts be sent to Lee College.  Registration may be blocked until official transcripts are received, particularly for transfer students.  Students must request and pay any fees to obtain these documents.  Transcripts submitted to the College will not be returned to the student.

Immunization Requirements

The College reserves the right to request immunization records from all students and to place these records in the students’ files, should the State of Texas mandate such a requirement. The College website contains updates on these requirements.

The College is currently enforcing a meningitis vaccine requirement (required by state law). Restricted programs of the college (such as nursing) may also have additional immunization requirements.

At the time this catalog was released, the meningitis vaccination requirement affect most students under age 22, but there are some exceptions, and there are exemption options.  Students are directed to the Admissions page of the Lee College website, www.lee.edu, for information. 

Registering For Credit

Steps to register:

• Complete the application process online at www.applytexas.org
• Determine the need for testing.
• First-time-in-college (FTIC) students must meet with a counselor or advisor to discuss their degree plan, course options, and review test results. After this meeting, students will be able to register for class.  All first-time-in-college students will be able to register for class.  All first-time-in-college students must complete New Student Orientation.  This includes students who have completed high school dual credit classes.
• Once registered, payment deadlines must be met either in full, an approved payment plan, or approved financial aid awards.
• Any holds for documents or information needed to complete an admission file or for any funds or items owed to the College must be cleared prior to registration.

Adding classes:

Students can add additional classes after initial registration during the registration period.  After classes start, students should contact the Advising & Counseling Center for assistance with adding courses and/or making schedule changes.  See limits on class load, Student Life Opportunities, Services, and Policies .

Dropping classes:

Students are responsible for dropping classes. State- mandated refund policies, as well as drop deadline appear in schedules, and on the college website.

Online Registration

Returning students and new transfers who have established their testing status may register online during valid registration periods at www.lee.edu (via the student portal named “myLC Campus”). New students who have met with an advisor or counselor may also register online.  Students should consult with an advisor or counselor concerning any registration questions they may have.

Course Prerequisites

All courses have prerequisites, which may include a reading, writing, or math level or a specific course. Students are advised to take courses in recommended sequences. (See Course Descriptions  listed in this catalog for course prerequisites in Course Descriptions .)

Procedures for the Validation of High School Completion Providers

High School Validation Committee

If a provider is deemed valid for the purpose of financial aid eligibility, the provider will be added to the approved provider list and added to the drop-down box of high school completion providers on the LEE COLLEGE admissions application.

If a provider is deemed invalid for the purpose of financial aid eligibility, the provider will be added to the invalid provider list and added to the drop-down box of high school completion providers on the LEE COLLEGE admissions application.

Student notification:

If a student is found to have identified an invalid provider as the high school completion provider, the student will receive an automated email and checklist item in the student management system informing them that although they have been admitted, the HS completion provider is invalid for financial aid purposes. If seeking financial aid, the student will be provided with information about other available options (i.e. GED, ATB).

Texas Success Initiative (updated 3/13/20)

The purpose of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) program is to guide Texas colleges and universities in determining whether first time in college students are ready for entry-level college coursework in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics through the administration of the Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA).  Students who do not meet the college ready standard of the TSIA are required to participate in developmental education prior to, or together with, enrollment in college-level coursework.  Developmental supports such as co-requisite and non-course competency-based options help students succeed in meeting their academic and career goals.  Students may be exempt from the TSI standards based on criteria established by the state (see below).

What is the TSI Assessment?

The TSIA is a web-based assessment and part of the Texas Success Initiative program designed to help determine readiness for college-level coursework in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics.  This program also will help determine what type of course or intervention will best meet students’ needs to become better prepared for college-level coursework.  The TSIA is a requirement for all entering college students in Texas unless exempt (see exemptions below) to determine readiness for college level work.

Do I have to take the TSI Assessment?

Not all incoming students need to take the TSIA as there are a number of exemptions as set by the state of Texas.  Qualifying for a TSI exemption means that a student can enroll in any entry-level college course without restrictions.  In other words, there are no prerequisites for enrollment in the entry-level college courses.  Often students may have a partial exemption.  For example, he or she may be exempt in reading and writing, but not mathematics.  

Exemptions include the following:

• Specified minimum college readiness standard scores on the SAT® or ACT.  Specifically:
  • SAT-EBRW score of 480 or higher; Math score of 530 or higher
  • ACT - Composite score of 23 or higher with a minimum of 19 on the English and math sections.  Partial exemptions are granted if you read the composite score of 23 and score a minimum on one of the two areas
• Enrollment in a Level-One certificate program (fewer than 43 semester credit hours);
  • For this exemption, students are limited to taking courses only within the level-one certificate as outlined in the catalog.
• Have been, or currently are, in the military (contact the Veterans Center for more details (va@lee.edu).

Transfer Students and College Readiness

Transfer and dual-credit students who have completed equivalent C-Rule Coursework, as determined by Lee College, may use coursework to establish college readiness in reading, writing and/or math.  A grade of C or better is required.

• Writing - ENGL 1301  , ENGL 1302  , PSYC 2301  , GOVT 2301, GOVT 2302, GOVT 2305 , GOVT 2306 , SOCI 1301  
• Reading - HIST 1301 , HIST 1302 , ENGL 1301 , ENGL 1302 , ENGL 2322 , ENGL 2323 , ENGL 2331 , GAME 2332 , ENGL 2333, ENGL 2326 , ENGL 2327 , ENGL 2328 , PSYC 2301 , GOVT 2301, GOVT 2302, GOVT 2305 , GOVT 2306 , SOCI 1301  
• Mathematics* - MATH 1332 , MATH 1314  , MATH 1414, MATH 1342 , MATH 1442, MATH 2442, *Higher-level math courses also establish college readiness in Mathematics.

Transfer students completing the highest level of developmental coursework are considered college ready in the area(s) completed.  In addition, if the transcript from another Texas institution notes a student as college ready (TSI Complete or TSI Satisfied), that status will continue at Lee College.

Transfer students who cannot satisfy any or all parts of the TSIA through prior testing or coursework must be tested prior to enrollment, just as with first time in college students.

For more information on exemptions or alternative college readiness standards, please contact the Counseling/Advising Center (counselor@lee.edu).  More information can also be found online through the Lee College Testing website at http://www.lee.edu/testing/tsi/.

Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities who would like to request accommodations for the TSI testing may contact the Access Center to identify themselves and provide necessary documentation as required.  Submitted documentation will be reviewed to determine the appropriate accommodation(s), according to institutional policies and federal and state laws.  For more information, contact the Access Center at 281-425-6217 or by email at disability@lee.edu or kvillanueva@lee.edu.

Mandatory Pre-Assessment Activity

Before taking the TSI Assessment for the first time, all students must participate in an online Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA).  the purpose of the PAA is to give students important information about the assessment in order to be better prepared. to complete the PAA:

• Access the module online at https://www.tsipreview.com/welcome/lee-college
• Start the activity and choose “Lee College” as the campus in which you will complete the TSI Assessment.
• An email address will be required.  This will allow receipt of a confirmation for completing the PAA and may be used as proof of completion.  
• In addition, the seven digit Lee College Student ID will be required.  Students receive their ID by email from the Admissions office after submitting the online Apply Texas application.  Students may contact the Admissions Office at admissions@lee.edu for assistance in retrieving the Lee College student ID.

Can I Retake the Test?

Students may retake the TSI Assessment at any time; however, it is strongly recommended that time is set aside for additional review.  (Review information can be found on the Testing Center website http://www.lee.edu/testing/tsi/info-materials/). While there is no fee for initial testing of the TSIA, there is a charge of $15 per section for retesting.

Changing to the TSIA2

After August 31, 2020, the TSIA2 will replace the TSIA as the recognized and only assessment for the state of Texas.  While TSIA scores will continue to be honored, the original TSIA will no longer be available and any retesting will be completed on the TSIA2.

Notable changes with the new TSIA2 include:

• There will be two sections instead of three.  For the new TSIA2, an integrated reading and writing section (ELAR) will replace the separate reading and writing sections used in the original TSIA. 
• Test content is updated to align with new revised standards.
• A free online tutorial will be available to students who do not meet the college ready standard.  Students will get a “code” to customize the tutorial to their needs.

More information can be found online at lee.edu/testing or by contacting the Testing Center at leetesting@lee.edu

Learning Strategies/Learning Pathways Course Requirement Based on Placement Scores

TSI responsible students who are first-time in college and place into developmental coursework must take either LSSS 300 - Learning Strategies for Success , or EDUC 1200 - Learning Frameworks , as noted below.

LSSS 300 -Student tests into developmental coursework in reading and/or writing.
EDUC 1200 -Student tests into developmental coursework in math only.

Students failing to successfully complete the course will be required to re-enroll in LSSS 300  or EDUC 1200  each semester until the course is successfully completed. Students who begin their Lee College enrollment in a summer semester will be given the option to delay the LSSS 300  or EDUC 1200  classes until the fall semester.

Registering for Non-Credit (NC)

While students are urged to register for credit, they may elect to audit a course for non-credit. Students choosing to register in this manner pay full tuition and fees, are not expected to take examinations, and receive a grade of NC for the course. The grade “NC” has no grade point value and cannot be changed at a later date.

Students who wish to register for non-credit may not do so before the first meeting of the class or classes which they wish to audit. Audit enrollment may not be allowed in certain classes. To register for non-credit, students must obtain a non-credit registration form from the Admissions and Records Office and return it to that office with the instructor’s signature.

Non-Degree Seeking Students

Casual Students - A student who, upon enrollment, is not seeking a degree or certificate and will not be required to take a test for TSI purposes if he/she enrolls in specific enrichment courses. The college maintains a list of “personal enrichment” courses that require no prerequisite (testing or course). These students will be exempt from the requirements of the Texas Success Initiative only while enrolled in these courses.

Transient Students - A student who is enrolled in a private or out-of-state institution of higher education and is attending Lee College on a temporary basis is not required to take a test for TSIA purposes if he/she meets the prerequisites and/or placement requirements for the course to be taken. Transient status is only applicable for one long term or the two summer sessions. A student may not remain transient in a subsequent term to the initial term in this status.

Advisement

Students who have not completed the Texas Success Initiative are encouraged to see their assigned advisor each semester prior to registration. The developmental education counselor will monitor their progress toward completing required developmental coursework and will assist with course scheduling.

Students with Disabilities

A student who has a documented disability must contact the Counselor for Students with Disabilities prior to testing to make arrangements for any necessary accommodations on the TSIA. Documentation of the disability is required.

Credit by Examination and Placement into Advanced Classes

Opportunities to Earn Credit for Prior Learning Including Credit by Examinations

To recognize and award credit for prior learning, Lee College may approve a variety of alternatives to traditional credit by exam, including portfolio development and alternative forms of assessment. See the Academic or Technical Dean for details regarding these opportunities.  For credit by exam approval, students should contact the department chair responsible for the subject area for which the exam would cover.  Other credit for prior learning must be approved by a Dean.

Examination Availability

Lee College awards credit specific credit by exams as outlined below. The table on the following pages provides more details.

Credit for Advanced Placement (AP)

High School Students may take Advanced Placement (AP) examinations at area high schools after they complete the appropriate courses. Scores will be accepted up to five years after the test was taken. Refer to the table at the end of this section for accepted tests.

Credit for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Credential

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Program is a two-year curriculum for high school juniors and seniors offered at select high schools. In Compliance with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regulations, the College awards 24 semester hours or equivalent course credit in appropriate subject areas to those students who have completed the IB diploma program and who have achieved the minimum required score on each examination administered as part of the program.

CLEP and DSST Exams

Lee College accepts credit from the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and the Dantes Subject Standardized Test (DSST). Both offer standardized tests that measure a person’s knowledge of the material covered in introductory college courses. Students who score the established minimum score can receive college credit for the specific test area. More information on the CLEP exam can be found at their website: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/exams.html. More information on the DSST exam can be found on their website, www.getcollegecredit.com.

Departmental Exams

Departmental examination are established by the departments within Lee College and are available for specific classes as determined by the department.  Students should speak with the department or an advisor or counselor concerning what classes are currently available for departmental exams.  Students may obtain the application form for these examinations from the Admissions and Records Office and schedule the examinations through the appropriate department.  The fee for departmental examinations must be paid in advance.

Credit Limitations

1. Students may receive a maximum of 30 SCH through credit by examination. Other restrictions apply to the posting of AP credits, the application of transfer credits to degree plans, and eligibility to graduate with honors (see Awarding Credits below, General Graduation Requirements, and Graduation with Honors, below).
2. Students must meet course prerequisites to take examinations. Examinations may not be taken for courses in which students are currently registered or for courses in which students have received grades, including grades of “I,”“W,” and “F” Examinations may not be taken for any course for which the examination is a course prerequisite or for courses in which a student is currently enrolled or has already received credit. Prerequisites are found under “Course Descriptions ”.
3. A year must lapse between attempts to receive credit for the same course by examination. Also, students may not attempt an examination more than twice for the same course.

Awarding Credits

To receive credit (i.e., Semester Credit Hours or SCH), students must meet the following criteria:

1. Generally, students must be enrolled in Lee College at the time credit is awarded. However, with the approval of the Registrar and the Instructional Deans or Vice President of Instruction, former Lee College students may be awarded credit by examination. Former students who wish to receive credit by examination must meet all other requirements regarding the awarding of these credits.
2. Before credit will be posted on student transcripts, official copies of AP and CLEP scores must be sent directly to and received by Lee College, Office of Admissions and Records, P.O. Box 818, Baytown, TX 77522-0818.
3. Credit by examination through departmental examinations, AP or CLEP will be recorded on students’ transcripts with grades of “P” and, as a consequence, will not be a part of the calculation of their cumulative GPAs. The cost for taking a departmental examination is $10 per credit hour.
4. The credit students receive by examination does not apply toward either their earned or attempted hours for purposes of determining full-time status.
5. A maximum of 15 SCHs may be awarded to students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Professional Administrative Technology who have successfully passed all parts of the Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) or Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Examination. Students who wish to receive this credit must submit an application to the lead instructor of the Professional Administrative Technology Program or to the Chair of the Business Technology Division. If granted, the credits apply to ACNT 1303 , POFT 1309 , POFT 1349 , POFT 2312 , and POFT 2331 . Students will be charged a fee of $10 per credit hour when the credit is posted to their transcripts.

(subject to change)

Enrollment Into Special Programs

Allied Health and Nursing Student Admission

Students in institutions of higher education enrolled in health-related courses (nursing), which involve direct patient contact, must meet immunization and serologic titer requirements designated by clinical affiliate agreements. In addition, students must provide proof of Social Security number; current Texas Drivers’ License; personal health insurance; and CPR certification.  Students must pass drug testing, and have a clear criminal background history.

Nursing students must meet the Texas Board of Nursing requirements for eligibility to enter nursing programs.

Admission to the Associate Degree Nursing Program and the Vocational Nursing Program is by application and is based on each candidate’s personal and academic records.  The processes for applying to these programs are explained in the current application.

Contact the Nursing Office for the most recent application and admission requirements.

The Honors Program

The Honors Program is designed to provide students with an enriched intellectual experience, the opportunity to explore subject areas in depth, and more individual attention from instructors. More information and special admission requirements can be found on the Honors Program webpage.

Students successfully mastering a minimum of 15 hours in Honors with a grade of “B” or better in each honors class or honors course by contract and who attain a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 will have completed the Lee College Honors Program. Students who have completed the program will receive a medallion and a certificate.

General Honors Scholarships and American Studies Honors Scholarships are available through the Lee College Foundation. Please contact the Honors Office or the Lee College Foundation.

Honors Guidelines

Students who wish to enroll in the Honors Program must have completed the TSIA or other approved test and must be considered College Ready in reading and writing. Students may be admitted into the program on a conditional basis with approval of the Honors Program Coordinator and recommendation(s) from previous instructor(s). Students who wish to pursue an Honors contract must also have the approval of the course instructor.

In addition to the above, students desiring to enroll in Honors must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Minimum ACT score of 26.
2. SAT scores of 1100 and above (verbal score of >500).
3. Nine or more hours of college level work with a GPA of 3.5 or better.
4. Top 10% of the high school class rank.
5. Interview with and approval of the Honors instructor teaching course and recommendation(s) from previous instructor(s).

Honors Courses

Honors courses will be designated with the letter “H” in their section numbers in the Lee College Schedule. Please contact a counselor or the Honors Program Coordinator for permission to register.

The Human Condition: Interdisciplinary Humanities and English Composition (HUMA 1301  or HUMA 1302  and ENGL 1301  or ENGL 1302 ) 

History of the United States to 1877 (HIST 1301  )

History of the United States since 1877 (HIST 1302  )

Film Appreciation (DRAM 2366  )

Principles of Public Speaking (SPCH 1315 ) 

Federal Government (GOVT 2305 ) 

Texas Government (GOVT 2306  )

American Literature to 1860 (ENGL 2327  )

American Literature: 1860 to Present (ENGL 2328  )

American Studies is an interdisciplinary course combining US History and Government offered some Fall/Spring semesters.

Art History II (14th Centry to the Present) (ARTS 1304 )

Principles of Public Speaking (SPCH 1315 )

In addition to honors courses, students may also fulfill honors requirements through honors contracts in selected courses. Contact the Honors Office or the instructors for individual contract requirements.

Policies Regarding Credit, Grades, and Student Records

The Semester Credit Hour (SCH)

The unit of measure generally used for counting college credit is the Semester Credit Hour, or SCH.  One SCH represents the work done in a typical class that has one hour (50 minutes) of in-class instruction per week for one semester (about 15 weeks) and assigns at least two hours of out-of-class work per week.  A majority of classes have a credit value of three SCH, so they meet for three hours (150 minutes of instruction) each week and assign at least six hours of out-of-class work per week.

Classes in academic terms that are shorter than fifteen weeks will have more instructional minutes and more out-of-class work per week so that the total is equivalent to a course that meets for a full fifteen-week semester.

Classes that do not have a ratio of two hours out-of-class work for each hour of in-class instruction, such as laboratories, studio classes, hybrid courses, online (asynchronous) courses, clinical rotations, internships, etc., will require an equivalent amount of work for each SCH as classes that do have the 2:1 ratio.

The amount of work done in a class is measured not just by the number of minutes of instruction and out-of-class assignments, but by the learning outcomes that are achieved.  The learning outcomes that are achieved in a traditional face-to-face course in a regular fifteen-week semester are the standard against which we measure the learning achieved in courses taught in other modalities, e.g., online, or in different time frames, e.g., an 8-week term.

Freshmen are defined as students who have successfully completed fewer than thirty (30) SCH of college-level coursework at the beginning of a registration period.  Sophomores are defined as having successfully completed thirty (30) or more SCH.

Grades and Grade Points

Grades awarded in credit classes at Lee College, their grade point value, and their meanings are set forth below. Also, see “Grades for Repeated Courses,” and “Developmental Courses ”.

*See drop explanations, below

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Grade Point Average (GPAs) are determined by dividing each student’s total number of grade points by their total number of SCHs attempted. Grade points are determined by the grade awarded in a course and the value of that grade in terms of Grade Points and the number of Semester Credit Hours (SCH) associated with the course. The example demonstrates how the GPA is calculated. Grade Points are not awarded in developmental courses (e.g., MATH 310  and ENRD 402 ) and grades earned in these courses (whether letter grades or number grades) are not included in the computation of GPAs.

Transfer hours will be used to determine the number of hours attempted but will not be included in the computation of students’ cumulative GPAs.

Grades for Repeated Courses

When a student repeats a course, the total attempted SCH remains unchanged and the grade earned in the most recent attempt is used in the computation of the GPA. The original grade will remain on the student’s permanent record. Students who withdraw from a course during a repeat attempt do not lose the original grade or credit from the first prior attempt.

Evaluation of Transfer Credit

Credit for college level work completed at regionally accredited institutions listed in the Higher Education Directory will be awarded according to the following conditions:

1. The Office of Admissions and Records determines the total number of SCH that students may transfer to Lee College from other institutions. Official transcripts will not be returned to students.
2. Credit for courses equivalent to those listed in the catalog will be given for credit earned at regionally accredited institutions of higher education.
3. A minimum of 25 percent of total coursework required by the student’s degree program or 50 percent of the coursework required by the student’s certificate of completion program must be taken in residence at Lee College for the student to become eligible to receive a certificate of completion or an associate degree from Lee College. Transfer students should consult with a counselor regarding their transfer hours and degree programs. In addition, 25 percent of the student’s major field of study semester credit hours must be taken in residence at Lee College.
4. Students may enroll for as many as 18 SCH (semester credit hours) each long semester or 7 SCH each summer session without special permission. Because of state laws, students may enroll in a maximum of 3 SCH during a holiday or mini session.
   Students who wish to enroll for more than 18 SCH during the long semester or more than 7 SCH each summer session must have approval of an instructional official. These credit hours include simultaneous enrollment at other institutions for a part or all of a term. If the simultaneous enrollment includes online learning classes, proctored exams must be taken in the Lee College Counseling Center unless another location and proctor are approved in advance by the Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs. External credits resulting in overloads may not be applied to a student’s degree plan if the overload was not pre-approved.
5. Students may be required to obtain official course descriptions from colleges previously attended before transfer credit can be awarded.
6. Courses in which students earned grades of “D,”“F,” and “incomplete” will not be accepted as transfer credit by Lee College. Religion classes are generally not transferable.
7. Grade points earned at other institutions are not transferred to Lee College. All Lee College students’ cumulative grade point averages which are based solely on grades earned at the College are used to determine their eligibility to graduate and their eligibility to receive honors at graduation.
8. Kinesiology credit may be granted to students who have served at least one year of active duty in the military. Required documentation includes the student’s DD214 (see Awarding Credits, above).
9. Credit will be evaluated for military training based upon the evaluation recommendations outlined in the American Council on Education Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences.
10.  For information regarding credit by examination (for example, CLEP, AP, and departmental examinations), see the section regarding Credit by Examination and Placement into Advanced Classes, above.
11. The college has a process to consider coursework not completed at regionally-accredited institutions as well as clock-hour training. See the office of Admissions and Records for more information.

Academic Fresh Start

Under state law, students may petition their college or university to have all records of courses attempted 10 or more years earlier disregarded in the determination of their cumulative GPAs. The policy is designed to give students who had “false starts” as undergraduates a better chance of entering graduate and/or professional schools. Invoking the policy will not affect a student’s TSIA status. Students requesting a Fresh Start should be aware that this action does not remove any grades from the student’s transcript.

Students who wish to invoke this policy must indicate their desire to do so by completing an Academic Fresh Start request in the Office of Admissions and Records. The Registrar must sign this form confirming that the student is eligible for Fresh Start. The policy has some restrictions and it may only be invoked one time per student. Therefore, students are urged to meet with a counselor prior to initiating requests.

Academic Status

A student’s academic status is determined by the Grade Point Average (GPA) accumulated at Lee College.  GPA determines a student’s eligibility for continuous enrollment.  Individual students are responsible for their GPA, defining their academic status.  At the beginning of each fall and spring term, academic status will be re-evaluated based on the student’s previous semester success.

Academic Notice:  Student did not maintain a 2.0 GPA within a given semester, but has a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA.

• Hold placed on account preventing registration
• Complete a mandatory online resource workshop for hold removal

Academic Warning:  Student did not maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA or higher.

• Hold placed on account preventing registration - to be released once cumulative GPA of 2.0 is achieved
• Limit enrollment to 1-2 courses that semester
• Grade replacement course selection may be required
• Mandatory visit with assigned Advisor/Counselor to discuss an action plan and to register for upcoming semester
• The last week for mandatory Advisor/Counselor visit appointments is two weeks prior to the semester start.  Any time after will result in flex-start courses or a semester break.

Academic Suspension:  Student did not maintain a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher while on Academic Warning. 

• Must sit out for one (1) long semester, to include summer (includes 10 week, 5 week, and mini terms)
• Continued hold placement on account preventing registration - to be released once cumulative GPA of 2.0 is achieved
• Grade placement course selection may be required
• Limit enrollment to 1-2 courses that semester
• Mandatory meeting with assigned Advisor/Counselor, upon return from required semester sit out, to discuss an action plan and to register for upcoming semester
• The last week for mandatory Advisor/Counselor visit appointments is two weeks prior to the semester start.  Any time after will result in flex-start courses or a semester break

Grade Reports

Grade reports are available to students online via students’ myLC account shortly after the end of each semester or session. For an official report on grades in completed coursework, students can request an official transcript once grades have posted.  Transcripts may not be released by the College if any of the following conditions exist:

Transcripts may not be released by the College if any of the following conditions exist:

1. Unpaid tuition and fees.
2. Unpaid student loan.
3. Unpaid library fine.
4. Unpaid parking fine.
5. Returned check.
6. Unpaid nursing insurance.
7. Problem with financial aid.
8. Transcripts not received.
9. Proof of Texas residence not received.
10. Immunization records of students taking clinical courses through the Allied Health or Nursing Department not received.
11. College-owned musical instruments or equipment not returned.
12. Hospital Student Nurse badge not returned to Nursing Department.

Class Attendance

Students are expected to attend class and participate in class activities.  Class attendance and participation policies may vary from instructor to instructor and from course to course.  Please see class syllabi for specific requirements related to class attendance and participation and how it may factor into grading.  For related information and additional policies, see Absences, Student Life Opportunities, Services and Policies.

Online Learning

Online learning provides quality education in a non-traditional environment, where the student and faculty member are in different locations. Lee College faculty strives to promote superior online learning through the college’s online learning management system.

Lee College offers several options for students who are self-motivated and prefer independent learning. Online learning courses require an orientation with the instructor, either personally or online. Courses are completed during a single semester with deadlines set by instructors for course assignments and exams.

Online learning provides courses in which a majority (more than 50 percent) of the instruction occurs when the student(s) and instructor(s) are not in the same place. Two categories of online learning courses are defined as:

Fully Online Learning Course

A course with mandatory face-to-face sessions totaling no more than 15 percent of the instructional time. Examples of face-to-face sessions include orientation, laboratory, exam review, or an in-person test.

Hybrid/Blended Course

A course in which a majority (more than 50 percent but less than 85 percent), of the planned instruction occurs when the student(s) and instructor(s) are not in the same place.

Online Learning Course Length

Classes may be offered in a variety of lengths throughout the semester. During the Spring and Fall semester, classes will be offered in 16-week, 12-week, or 8-week sessions. During the summer semester, classes will be offered in 10 weeks or 5 weeks.

Lee College Course Delivery System

Courses will be offered online through Lee College’s Learning Management System (LMS).

Hardware and Software Requirements

To be successful in an online course, students who use their personal computers must have high speed internet access. Online course users will need at least two Internet browsers - for PC users, Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, and for MAC users, Safari and Mozilla Firefox. PC users need an operating system of Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7. MAC users need an operating system of 10.5 or 10.6. To view all information, including pop-ups, etc., Java should be installed on the computer.

Documentation of Online Attendance (Faculty)

In a distance education context, documenting that a student has logged into an online class is not sufficient, by itself, to demonstrate academic attendance by the student. A school must demonstrate that a student participated in class or was otherwise engaged in an academically related activity, such as by contributing to an online discussion or initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a course-related question…-FSA Handbook 2017-18, Volume 5, p.61.

In order to comply with this federal requirement, Lee College Distance Education offers the following process for documenting attendance when students are enrolled in distance education courses:

Documentation that a student has logged into an online course is not sufficient to demonstrate academic attendance by the student. To show academic attendance, the student must complete some type of “academically related” activity in the course. Academically related activity is demonstrated by participating in an online discussion forum related to the content in the course or initiating contact with the instructor to ask a question about content in the course (see below for additional examples). This participation must occur no later than the college’s official published census date.

If the instructor determines a student has not logged in and participated in an academically related activity as described above, prior to the census date, the student has not attended the class. Therefore, the instructor should without exception leave the student’s name unchecked on the census roster and that student will be administratively dropped by Admissions and Records (no form completion required).

Academically related activities include, but are not limited to:

• physically attending a class where there is an opportunity for direct interaction between the instructor and students;
• submitting an academic assignment;
• taking an exam, an interactive tutorial or computer-assisted instruction;
• attending a study group that is assigned by the school;
• participating in an online discussion about academic matters or initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course

Academically related activities do NOT include activities where a student may be present, but not academically engaged, such as:

• logging into an online class without active participation or
• participating in academic counseling or advisement

Online Attendance and Participation (Student Expectations)

In a distance education context, documenting that a student has logged into an online class is not sufficient, by itself, to demonstrate academic attendance by the student. A school must demonstrate that a student participated in class or was otherwise engaged in an academically related activity, such as by contributing to an online discussion or initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a course-related question..-FSA Handbook 2017-18, Volume 5, p. 61.

Expectations of Students

Students enrolled in distance education courses at Lee College are expected to maintain ongoing course engagement in order to uphold positive academic standing with the college. In an online environment, “attendance” is more than just logging into a course, or the Learning Management System (LMS). Online attendance is measured by your academic engagement with the course content, course tools, course instructor, and with other students in the course. The following is strongly recommended:

First Week of Class

All Lee College online courses open on the first day of the term unless the course is a late-start or second eight week course, then the course will open the first day of the beginning of those scheduled courses. All Lee College online students are expected to login to the LMS (Blackboard) and access online courses during the first week of their classes. Students must engage in an academically related activity prior to the official census date.

Throughout the Term

As the term progresses, all Lee College students are expected to maintain an ongoing online presence in their online courses by participating in course related activities. This may include, but is not limited to reading announcements, taking exams online, participating in group work, posting to discussion forums, submitting assignments and carrying out the requirements set forth by the instructor.

It is a good practice to login to online courses several times a week to stay informed of news, announcements, grades, assignments, and other important course information.

Federal Student Aid and Online Attendance

Federal regulations require that online students establish attendance/participation in coursework each term to be eligible for federal financial aid. Lee College verifies student attendance in accordance with this regulation.

In a distance education context, logging into an online class is not sufficient, by itself, to demonstrate attendance by the student. Students must establish a record of participation in academically related activities in order to comply with this requirement.

Academically related activities include, but are not limited to:

• physically attending a class where there is an opportunity for direct interaction between the instructor and students;
• submitting an academic assignment;
• taking an exam, an interactive tutorial or computer-assisted instruction;
• attending a study group that is assigned by the school;
• participating in an online discussion about academic matters or
• initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course

Academically related activities do NOT include activities where a student may be present, but not academically engaged, such as:

• logging into an online class without active participation or
• participating in academic counseling or advisement

Posting Grades

Lee College policy prevents instructors from publicly posting students’ grades by their names, initials, social security numbers, or other information that might allow any person to link a grade to a particular student.

Incomplete

A grade of “I” indicates incomplete work resulting from illness or other unavoidable circumstances. To be eligible to receive an “I” students must have completed at least 75 percent of the work required for the course in question during the original term of enrollment. To receive an “I,” a student must enter into a contract with the instructor of the course regarding the work that is to be completed and the grade the student will receive in the event that the work is not completed. The remaining work must be completed within one semester unless extenuating circumstances require a longer period for completion. Instructors have the right to submit any grade at any time to replace an “I” grade, with a grade of “F.”

Students who receive “I” grades should not re-enroll for the class unless they are terminating the incomplete agreement and wish to start over with a new section of the class. In this case, the student is urged to contact the original instructor to request release from the incomplete agreement.

After the next long semester has lapsed, if the “I” grade has not been changed to another grade by the instructor, the “I” grade will be replaced with an “F”.

Considerations When Dropping Courses

Legislative actions currently in affect can add additional charges for repeated courses and may limit the number of courses the student can drop at any Texas public institution of higher education.

Surcharges for Certain Repeated Classes

Lee College applies a tuition surcharge when students repeat a class for the third or greater time (since Fall 2002). This action was taken because the state legislation eliminated the funding match the College previously received for these enrollments.

The surcharge is assessed at the non-resident tuition rate in addition to the regular tuition rate based on the student’s residency.

Students are strongly encouraged to keep the surcharge in mind when considering whether to drop a required course. If the drop will result in a grade of “W,” the course will be counted as an attempt. Students should see a counselor or the registrar if they have questions.

Six Drop Policy

The Texas Legislature passed a law designed to limit the total number of course drops to six for undergraduate students at state public institutions of higher education. This legislation affects only students entering any Texas public college Fall 2007 or later. Students who have attended any college prior to Fall 2007 are generally not affected.

Lee College is responsible for tracking and possibly denying drop requests of students affected by the law. Affected students may be asked to give a reason when making a drop request. Drops may be reviewed for compliance with this law. An appeal process will be available for students. The law also requires Lee College to report unexcused drops on an affected student’s transcript. Updates on the College’s six drop policy will be published on the Lee College website and will be available at the Counseling Center.

Drops During Drop Period

The drop period for all classes is during the first 75% of any class term at which time students may drop any class.  These deadlines are printed in the Academic Calendar located on the college website and can be obtained from the Admissions and Records Office.  Students are strongly encouraged, but not required, to notify their instructor and advisor when they drop classes.

Drops during the drop period result in a grade of W1.

Administrative Withdrawal

Students who violate college policies, including TSI policies and the policies outlined in this catalog, may be withdrawn from the College. Students who are withdrawn for policy violation will receive grades of “W3.” There is no grade point value for a “W3.”

Resignation (Complete Withdrawal)

Students may resign from all of their classes in any semester prior to the start of the finals period for any session the student is enrolled in.  Students are required to sign a statement indicating they understand impacts of the resignation and are encouraged to visit with an advisor if they have concerns.  When graded, a resignation results in a grade of W4.

Non-Credit (Audit) Grade

Auditing students will receive grades of “NC.” For more on audit status, see above.

Developmental Courses Policy Regarding Grades and Student Records

Lee College offers sequences of developmental courses in reading, mathematics, and writing. Developmental courses all of which have three digit course numbers, do not apply toward Lee College degrees or certificates and are not transferable to other colleges or universities.

Effective Fall 2012, students who attempt developmental courses will receive grades of A, B, C, D, or F. The meanings of these grades are as follows:

Students in developmental math or reading/writing may also exit the developmental sequence by re-taking and passing TSIA in the subject area.

Incompletes (noted by the grade “I”) are not issued in developmental courses. College credit is not awarded for the completion of developmental courses and grades in developmental courses are not included in the computation of grade point averages. The hours attempted in developmental courses are considered a part of students’ course loads and are used to determine their full-time/part-time status and their eligibility to receive scholarships and/or financial aid. Grades received in developmental courses are recorded on students’ transcripts.

Grade Change Policy

A student who wishes to protest a grade follows the guidelines for academic grievance, which starts by contacting the instructor within 30 instructional days of the incident. Students are responsible for viewing the grades recorded at the end of each term; grades are not mailed. In the event that the original instructor is not available to review a grade, the student should contact the Division Chair.

An instructor may make a change to end of course grades (A, B, C, D, F, S, U, I) recorded within the previous 12 months, for any reason.  The instructor will complete a grade change request online and a correction to the student’s record will be made.

Grade changes (A, B, C, D, F, S, U, I) for classes which ended more than one year prior to the change date shall be approved by both the instructor or, in event the instructor is unavailable, the Division Chair, as well as the Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs.

Transcripts

Once a student completes at least one credit course at Lee College, an official college transcript may be obtained from the Admissions and Records Office.  Students should request their transcript online at  www.lee.edu/admissions or through their myLC Campus.

Official credit transcripts consist of the following: identification of the student, TSI status and method of satisfying TSI components (math, reading, and writing), record of courses taken and course test credit during all semesters where graded classes were recorded, cumulative statistics including credit hours attempted, earned, and related grade points, along with GPA, as well as degrees or certificates and core curriculum completions earned by the student at Lee College. Certain honors and awards may only be listed on the paper transcript.  For faster delivery and/or ease of processing, Lee College will send electronic transcripts via EDI or PDF formats when requested.

Definition of Students’ Records

The Office of Admissions and Records retain records in students’ permanent files including, but not limited to, the following document types:  applications for admission, high school and/or college transcripts, residency documents, vaccination records, registration documentation, and individual test score reports.

Graduation

Graduation Requirements - Associate Degrees

Students in Associate Degree programs must complete the minimum number of semester hours of college credit required for the degree (no less than 60 credit hours) with a cumulative Lee College grade point average of 2.0 or higher.  At least twenty-five percent of the required semester hours of college credit must be earned at Lee College.  Students are encouraged to apply for graduation online in the Admissions and Records portion of the Lee College website.  Students who meet qualifications for graduation but do not apply will be awarded the credential upon successful completion of the program requirements.

Information regarding eligibility to graduate with honors is set forth in the section titled “Graduation with Honors” (on this page). Graduates who meet certain requirements are guaranteed that their job skills will be current (see Guarantee of Job Competency Program ).

Course Waivers and Substitutions for Graduation

Division Chairs and the Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs may, in certain circumstances, approve course substitutions or waive courses listed in degree plans.  Course substitutions must be of similar content and difficulty.  Students who have requested substitutions should ensure that these have been received by the Admissions and Records Office and are reflected on the student’s Advisement Report in the myLC campus account.  Substitution requests are available online on the Admissions and Records portion of the Lee College website.

Commencement

Lee College holds commencement ceremonies in May and December. Persons who complete the requirements for certifications and/or associate degrees during Summer and Fall terms are encouraged to participate in the December ceremony. Spring candidates are encouraged to participate in the May ceremony. The approved cap and gown may be purchased in the bookstore.

Generally, commencement is a celebration reserved for students who have completed all of the requirements for certificates and degrees. However, students in associate degree programs who are very close to the completion of their program may petition for permission to participate in a commencement ceremony as “future graduates.” To be eligible to participate, future graduates must (1) be within 3-9 SCHs of completion of the requirements for an associate degree, and (2) have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher. Contact the Office of Admissions and Records for more information.

The names of future graduates will not be included in the commencement program. However, they will be included in the program for the commencement immediately following the completion of the credits required for graduation. Graduates who cannot attend the commencement in which they are formally recognized may request keepsake programs, while supplies last, from the Admissions and Records Office.

Graduation Under a Particular Catalog

Catalog degree plan requirements change as state regulators, transfer schools, and employers change their expectations.

1. Most students follow the catalog in effect at the time of their first enrollment. They have five years to complete those requirements. Unless they have been continuously enrolled (see item 2), students who do not complete requirements by the fifth year after initial enrollment must follow a newer catalog (enrollment during the chosen catalog year is required).
2. Continuously enrolled students may follow any catalog in effect since their first enrollment. Continuously enrolled means completion of at least two terms of enrollment per year, including at least one long term, earning at least 12 credit hours each of those years.
3. Students who have not been enrolled in the last 5-9 years may apply for graduation under the catalog in effect at the time of their application for graduation.
4. Students who have not been enrolled for more than nine years must use a current catalog and must successfully complete at least one new course in that catalog year.

Students planning to transfer need to review articulation agreements with their transfer institutions. Some schools specify fewer than five years for acceptance of transfer credit and may require that the students make no changes in their choice of major.

Changes made by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board supersede any completion timeline.  If a program of study is deleted from the College inventory, students must complete the program within three years of program deletion.  The Advising and Counseling department will provide assistance to students affected by discontinued programs.

Graduation with Honors

Students in associate degree programs may graduate from the College with honors if they complete, at Lee College, fifty percent or more of the coursework required by their degrees with an overall GPA of 3.5 or better. The following designations for honors graduates will be announced at the commencement ceremony: Summa Cum Laude - 3.86 to 4.00; Magna Cum Laude - 3.75 to 3.85; Cum Laude - 3.5 to 3.74.

Second Associate Degree

Students may receive a second associate degree upon successful completion of the requirements for the additional degree.

Graduation Requirements - Certificates

All students in technical programs are required to successfully complete a capstone experience to demonstrate their ability to transfer classroom knowledge to a job situation. This requirement must be completed prior to the award of an applied science degree or certificate.

Certificates require completion of the minimum semester hours of college credit required for the certificate with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher.

At least fifty percent of the required semester hours of college credit must be earned at Lee College. Students who meet qualifications for graduation but do not apply will be awarded the credential upon successful completion of program requirements.