Academic Regulations

Credit Hours

Credit for curriculum courses is measured in semester credit hours. WCC follows the credit hour definitions provided by the NC State Board of Community Colleges Code. SBCCC 400.1(C) defines credit hours as:

  1. Class: Credit of one semester hour is awarded for each 16 hours of lecture and other instruction provided in a class under the supervision of an instructor.
  2. Clinical Practice: Credit of one semester hour is awarded for each 48 hours of clinical practice. Clinical practice provides an opportunity for health science students to apply knowledge and skills in their delivery of care in a health care setting. A qualified faculty member, clinical instructor, or preceptor, as defined by the program related approving or accrediting body, shall supervise clinical practice to provide the student with learning experiences related to the program and to monitor and assess the student’s application of skills. Clinical practice may utilize experiences that simulate realistic clinical experiences to meet the curriculum and course objectives. The percentage of simulation experiences substituting for traditional clinical practice and the qualifications of faculty providing the simulation experience must comply with the guidelines of the applicable health science accrediting and approving bodies.
  3. Experiential Laboratory: Credit of one semester hour is awarded for each 32 hours of “experiential laboratory work.” Experiential laboratory work means instruction given to a student by an instructor to increase the student’s knowledge and skills without immediate student application.
  4. Faculty Directed Laboratory: Credit of one semester hour is awarded for each 48 hours of “faculty directed laboratory.” Faculty directed laboratory means instructional activities are demonstrated or conducted by an instructor with immediate student application.
  5. Work-Based Learning: Credit of one semester hour is awarded for each 160 hours of work-based learning (WBL curriculum prefix courses). Work-based learning is the development of job skills by providing the student with employment that is directly related to the educational program and coordinated by a college representative.

Course Load

Students enrolled for 12 or more semester hours of credit will be classified as full-time students. The average course load is 16 to 18 semester hours of credit, depending on the program of study. Students planning to carry more than 21 credit hours must obtain permission from their advisor and the division dean.

Student Classification

  • Freshmen: students who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours.
  • Sophomores: students who have earned 30 or more semester hours.
  • Students enrolled in a diploma or certificate program are classified as freshmen.

Contact Information

For questions about academic regulations and policies, contact:

Image of Michael Ward
Michael Ward, MBA
Registrar
Phone: 336-838-6489
mrward284@wilkescc.edu

Attendance

Class attendance is an important part of students’ educational experiences. Absences from the classroom negatively affect student success and learning outcomes. Students are responsible for attendance and are expected to be punctual and to attend every class session. Regardless of reasons for absences, students will be held accountable for all academic activities. Students are expected to take personal responsibility for their attendance and use discretion when making schedule choices to meet the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities.

Absences

Students who know of upcoming absences should notify their instructors in advance; if advance notice is not possible, students should contact instructors immediately upon their return to class.

Absences will be counted from the first meeting of the class. State regulations require that all students must enter and participate in class prior to or on the census date (10% point) for each course in order to remain enrolled in the course. Instructors are required to mark students who fail to attend a course prior to the census date as a “No Show”.

Under extenuating circumstances, a student who has never attended by the ten percent (10%) date may petition for reinstatement in the class and earn course credit. The student and/or faculty should notify the Dean of Student Services, in writing, of the extenuating circumstances that occurred prior to the ten percent (10%) date of the class and provide compelling documentation to support the request for reinstatement. The Dean’s decision regarding reinstatement may be appealed to the Vice President of Instructional Support and Student Services within two (2) business days. The Vice President’s decision is final.

Faculty members who choose or are required by outside agencies to include class attendance as a factor in determining students’ final grades, will include this requirement in their course syllabi. For example, students enrolled in Basic Law Enforcement Training must attend 100% of the total contact hours for the course as mandated by the NC Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.

Instructors are required to withdraw a student when two consecutive weeks are missed in any term before the published withdrawal date (75% point of the term). Students will receive a W grade up to the published withdrawal date (75% point of the term). After the published withdrawal date (75% point of the term), students will not be withdrawn from the course, but will be awarded the grade they have earned.

Co-Requisite Courses

Students enrolled in a course with a required co-requisite will be withdrawn from both the co-requisite course and the companion course if they are withdrawn from either course due to attendance. Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the Division Dean or the Vice President of Instruction, allowing the student to continue in the course without the required local co-requisite.

Extenuating Circumstances

If a student has been withdrawn from a course due to any of the absence policies above and has an extenuating circumstance (court orders, natural disasters, medical issues, or other extreme circumstances) for missing the class(es), the student may submit an appeal to the instructor to be reinstated in the course. If the instructor, division dean, and the Vice President of Instruction approve, then the student will be reinstated.

Excused Absences

An excused absence is defined as a planned absence with prior notification to the instructor or an unplanned extenuating circumstance. In addition to court orders, natural disasters, medical issues, a pandemic, or other extreme circumstances, the following will also be considered excused absences:

College-Related Activities

Student must submit appropriate documentation to the instructor a minimum of five business days prior to the events. If documentation is not submitted at least five business days prior to an event, permission for the absence will be at the discretion of the instructor. In addition, if a student has an excessive number of absences or has unsatisfactory academic performance in the course at the time of the absence, the instructor will inform the student whether he or she will be permitted to miss class. Students missing a class due to official college activities and events bear the responsibility of contacting the instructor regarding advanced submission or make up of work. Once the absence has been approved, the student will be allowed a reasonable opportunity to complete all work missed as a result of the missed class. Official college activities and events include participation in the following: field trips in connection with courses; intercollegiate athletic contests; statewide, regional, and/or national organization events; scholarship events; and student academic competitions and award ceremonies. High school-related activities of Career and College Promise (CCP) and Early College High School (ECHS) students will be considered the same as college-related activities.

Religious Observances

Pursuant to G.S. 115D-5, students may request two excused absences per academic year for religious observances. Curriculum students may obtain a form from the office of the Vice President of Instruction. Continuing education students may obtain a form from the office of the Vice President for Continuing Education. Students attending classes at the Ashe Campus or Alleghany Center may obtain a form from the chief administrator at those locations. The student must provide a written request to each instructor five business days prior to an absence for religious observance(s). (If the day(s) of observance fall within the first four days of class, such request shall be made to the senior administrative officer for curriculum or continuing education courses.) Instructors will forward the request to the office of either the senior administrative officer for curriculum or continuing education as appropriate for filing. Students requesting absences as required by their faith shall be given the opportunity to make up any tests or other work missed. The instructor, in consultation with the student, will identify a deadline for submission of the work that is appropriate to the requirements of the course.

Military Absences

The College shall allow any enrolled student who is in the United States Armed Forces, who has received temporary or permanent re-assignment as a result of military operations, and any National Guard service member placed onto State active duty status during an academic term, to be given an excused absence for the period of time the student is on active duty.

Courses and Programs

National and community college studies indicate that students are more successful if they complete a student success course. Therefore, in the fall of 1997, Wilkes Community College implemented a policy that requires all degree/diploma-seeking students to successfully complete a student success course.

Students in Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs are required to complete ACA 115 within their first 13 semester hours of enrollment at WCC.

All Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Science (AS), and Associate in Engineering (AE) students are encouraged to take ACA 122 during their first semester of enrollment at WCC.

ACA 115: Success and Study Skills

ACA 115 is organized according to three major concepts: extended orientation, academic success strategies, and applied critical thinking. The extended orientation concept involves connecting students to WCC technology, services, and expectations. Students practice reading, note taking, and test taking strategies to enhance their college academic success skills. Finally, information literacy, financial literacy, and career awareness make up the applied critical thinking approach in ACA 115.

ACA 122: College Transfer Success

Students enrolling in the Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Engineering (AE) and Associate in Science (AS) programs are required to take ACA 122 as their student success course. Students are involved in activities that support six outcomes: developing a plan to complete community college goals, creating a transfer plan, understanding North Carolina transfer guidelines, enhancing learning strategies, connecting to college resources, and working with college policies and procedures. Students are expected to compare resources, policies, and procedures between the community college and university levels.

An "AU" grade will be recorded when students audit a course, unless the student is a senior (65+ on or before the first day of class being audited), then a grade of "SR" will be recorded. Students who wish to audit a course must register by completing the audit course form. Regular student audits will be charged full tuition and fees for the course. Senior audit students must provide proof of age and will have tuition waived, but will incur all applicable fees. Senior audit students may only have tuition waived for up to six hours of undergraduate level classes per semester. Auditing students must meet all course prerequisites and corequisites. Students must declare audit status in the Registrar's Office by the end of the drop/add period for the semester of enrollment.

Students desiring to change their program of study should contact the Admissions Office or their advisor. Students will be reassigned to a new advisor, if appropriate, and course credits will be reevaluated. Students certified for VA benefits must notify a VA representative when changing their program of study.

Courses may be repeated as deemed necessary by students. When a course is repeated, an "R" notation is made on the transcript. The highest grade earned will be used to calculate the cumulative grade point average to meet graduation requirements. Career and College Promise (CCP) students, including Early College High School students, are permitted to retake a course one time. CCP students will be responsible for paying any applicable fees associated with the retake. Exceptions to this retake policy may be considered if the repeated course is required for a CCP student's high school or Wilkes Community College graduation.

Only under exceptional circumstances will students be permitted to substitute or deviate from the established requirements of a program of study. The division Dean and Vice President of Instruction must approve substitutions prior to registration. Documentation will be submitted to the registrar prior to taking the course and will become part of the student's official record.

Student Voluntary Withdrawal

Students may add or drop courses during the official registration period as published in the college calendar. These changes will not be reflected on grade reports and transcripts. Students should contact the Registrar's Office at 336-838-6489 or their academic advisor for assistance. 

Students should be aware of the 25% penalty for courses dropped after the semester or term begins. For each course dropped after registration ends and through the published withdrawal date (75% point) for the term, students are responsible for completing a drop form. To access the drop form, click on the E-Forms icon in the WCC Student Portal. After the published withdrawal date (75% point) of the term, students cannot be withdrawn from a course, but will receive the grade they have earned. However, an administrative withdrawal (student receives a "W" grade) may be granted after the seventy-five percent (75%) point for extenuating circumstances (military, court orders, natural disasters, or other extreme circumstances) and must be approved by the division dean and Vice President of Instruction. 

Students wishing to withdraw from the college must submit a properly completed drop form. Students are advised to meet with their advisor before dropping a course. The instructor will indicate the last date of attendance on the drop form. The form is then sent to the Registrar's Office for processing. A drop grade will be given up to the 10% point of the class. A withdrawal grade will be recorded on the grade reports and transcripts after the 10% point and up to the published last date to withdraw (75% point) of the term. Failure to properly file a drop form may result in a failing grade. 

Student Involuntary Withdrawal

  • Students who register for a course and do not attend class prior to the ten percent (10%) point will be dropped by the instructor as a "No Show."
  • Students may be involuntary withdrawn if they fail to meet the attendance for curriculum programs policy (5.2.1) prior to the published withdrawal date (75% point of the term).
  • Students may be administratively withdrawn from courses for disciplinary reasons subject to the student discipline policies.
  • Students enrolled in a course with a required co-requisite will be withdrawn from both the co-requisite course and the companion course if they are withdrawn from either course due to attendance. Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the Division Dean or the Vice President of Instruction, allowing the student to continue in the course without the required local co-requisite.

Medical Withdrawal

The medical withdrawal option allows students who have experienced a medical emergency or other extenuating circumstances to withdraw from classes. Medical emergencies are defined as injuries, illnesses, psychological, or psychiatric disorders that limit the student's ability to attend classes and perform well academically.

Other circumstances may allow for a medical withdrawal and will be considered on a case by case basis. These may include a death in the family or becoming a caretaker. This option allows students to drop classes after the official drop deadline has passes for a semester/term.

Any student wishing to withdraw from any or all classes due to medical concerns or other circumstances must complete a withdrawal form, which must be requested from the registrar's office, and submit supporting documentation. This documentation could include:

  1. Signed note from a licensed health care provider specifying:
    1. Limitations caused by the medical condition
    2. When the condition occurred
    3. Health care provider's recommendation for student withdrawal
  2. Other relevant medical records
  3. Obituaries

Requests for withdrawal will be reviewed by the Dean of Student Services. The Dean of Student Services will consult with the Care Team as needed to approve or deny requests. All requests must be submitted no later than the last day of the following semester.

Any student whose request is denied may submit an appeal to the Vice President of Instruction for reconsideration.

Any approved request for withdrawal will result in the student receiving a "W" grade for the affected course(s), which will not impact the student's grade point average. Students are encouraged to meet with a financial aid representative to discuss the potential impact of the withdrawal on their Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) status/financial aid eligibility.

Grades

At the end of each semester, students will receive final grades based upon the following ten-point system unless noted otherwise in the course syllabus:

Grade Numerical Grade Explanation Grade Points
A 90-100 Excellent 4 per semester hour
B 80-89 Above Average 3 per semester hour
C 70-79 Average 2 per semester hour
D 60-69 Below Average 1 per semester hour
F 0-59 Failure 0 per semester hour

Note: Developmental courses (any course that has 0 as the first number in the 3 digit course number) do not earn credit hours or quality points but may be used for financial aid and athletic eligibility.

Curriculum course grades with no grade points awarded include:

  • TR: Transfer Credit
  • CE: Credit by Exam
  • I: Incomplete
  • EI: Emergency Incomplete
  • IE: Incomplete Emergency (National Federal Emergency)
  • P: Pass (Developmental or Credit by Exam)
  • R: Repeat (Developmental Course Not Passed or Repeated Course, GPA Recalculated)
  • AR: High School Credit
  • W: Withdrawal
  • EW: Emergency Withdrawal
  • WE: Emergency Withdrawal (National Federal Emergency)
  • AU: Audit
  • SR: Senior Audit

These special grades are defined as follows:

  • TR: A “TR” grade represents transfer credit awarded for courses taken at other schools, colleges, or universities.
  • CE: A “CE” grade is awarded if a grade of 80% or better is earned on a credit by examination.
  • I: An “I” grade is given only under extenuating circumstances as determined by the instructor. Such a grade must be removed by the end of the following semester. If not removed within this time, the incomplete becomes a failure.
  • EI: An “EI” grade is given during a declared emergency, such as a natural disaster. Such a grade must be removed by the designated date provided by the college or instructor. If not removed within this time, the incomplete becomes a failure.
  • IE: An “IE” grade is given during a declared national federal emergency (i.e. COVID 19). Such a grade must be removed by the designated date provided by the college or instructor. If not removed within this time, the incomplete becomes a failure.
  • P: A grade of “P” is awarded if a student completes and passes a developmental course or if a “C” or better is earned on a credit by examination.
  • R: A grade of “R” is awarded if a student does not complete or pass a developmental course or if a course has been repeated. A course may be repeated as deemed necessary by students. When a course is repeated, an “R” notation is made on the transcript.
  • AR: An “AR” grade represents credit given for courses completed while in high school as outlined in the North Carolina High School to Community College Articulation Agreement.
  • W: Following the ten percent (10%) period, a withdrawal grade of “W” is given when a student officially withdraws from a course. A withdrawal grade is awarded through the seventy-fifth percent (75%) point of the semester/term. An administrative withdrawal (student receives a “W” grade) may be granted for extenuating circumstances (military, court orders, natural disasters, or other extreme circumstances) and must be approved by the division dean and Vice President of Instruction. Medical Withdrawals (includes death of family member, becoming a caretaker) will still be allowed, per the current Withdrawal Policy.
  • EW: Following the ten percent (10%) period, a withdrawal grade of “EW” is given when a student officially withdraws from a course due a declared emergency, such as a natural disaster. A withdrawal grade is awarded through the seventy-five percent (75%) point of the semester/term.
  • WE: Following the ten percent (10%) period, a withdrawal grade of “WE” is given when a student officially withdraws from a course due a declared national emergency (i.e. COVID 19). A withdrawal grade is awarded through the seventy-five percent (75%) point of the semester/term.
  • AU: An “AU” grade is given when students are auditing courses.
  • SR: An “SR” grade is given when senior (age 65+) students are auditing courses.

The measure of students’ overall academic achievement will be based upon a cumulative grade point average using a 4.00 scale. To compute the GPA: multiply the credit hours attempted for each course (excluding withdrawal and developmental course grades) by the number of grade points assigned for the grade received; then divide the total grade points earned by the total credit hours attempted.

A grade once reported shall not be changed except when the instructor states that an error has been made using the official change of grade form. The grade change must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office within one year of the initial grade posting or, in exceptional cases, at the discretion of the Vice President of Instruction.

This Policy shall apply to grade appeals unrelated to issues pertaining to the Code of Student Conduct. The grade appeal process applies only to final course grades. In the event a student appeals a grade that prevents progression in a program, the student will be allowed to enroll and attend the following semester pending the outcome of the appeal. For sequential classes that have a clinical component, the student will be allowed to take the academic coursework but will not be allowed to participate in the clinical component of the class until the appeal is over. If the grade is upheld, the student will be administratively dropped from the course and refunded the tuition.

  1. If a student is dissatisfied with his or her grade, the student must first meet with the instructor who assigned the grade within five (5) business days after official receipt of that grade. The instructor will make a written determination and provide it to the student. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the instructor, the student may contact the instructor by email. If the instructor is no longer employed at the College, the student may proceed to step B.
  2. If the student is still dissatisfied with the instructor’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may meet with the Department Chair or Program Director (Health Sciences), if there is one and that person is not the instructor of the course, in which case the student should proceed to step C. The student must present the instructor’s written determination. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the Department Chair or Program Director, the student may contact the Chair or Director by email. The Department Chair of Program Director will make a written determination and provide it to the student.
  3. If the student is dissatisfied with the Department Chair’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may meet with the Division Dean. The student must present the instructor’s and Department Chair’s written determination. In cases where the student is unable to meet in person with the Dean, the student may contact the Dean by email. The Dean shall make a written determination and provide it to the student.
  4. If the student is dissatisfied with the Dean’s determination, within five (5) business days thereafter, the student may file a written appeal with all documentary evidence to the Vice President of Instruction. The Dean shall also file a written response, attaching the instructor and Department Chair’s prior written decisions, to the Vice President. The Vice President shall perform an “on the record review” and will make a determination within ten (10) business days after receipt of the student’s appeal. If needed for clarification, the Vice President may meet with the student or ask the student or Dean to submit additional information. The Vice President shall make a written determination and provide a copy of the decision to the student and the instructor. The Vice President’s decision is final.

The academic forgiveness policy is designed to assist students who have failing grades from previous WCC enrollment. Students may request forgiveness for F’s earned five years or more ago by submitting a request to the registrar. Only failing (F) grades may be forgiven from a student’s grade point average. Prior to the reevaluation of credits, the student must be readmitted to the college, register for courses, and complete at least 12 credit hours of course work with a minimum quality point average of 2.0. The request can be submitted at the end of the semester in which the 12 credit hours of coursework is completed.

A student may request academic forgiveness for WCC course grades only one time, regardless of subsequent program changes, subsequent enrollment, or other unanticipated events.

Credits forgiven under the academic forgiveness policy will be exempt from calculation in the student’s cumulative grade point average. While the forgiven grades will continue to appear on the official transcript, the courses and the earned “F” grades will be marked as forgiven.

It is the student’s responsibility to contact the Financial Aid office to determine if the grades covered under the academic forgiveness policy will be included in the grade point average calculation for financial aid or VA educational benefits. Students who plan to transfer to another college or university are responsible for determining the impact forgiven grades may have on their transfer credit before they request forgiveness for those grades at WCC.

Credit for Prior Learning

Wilkes Community College recognizes that students may have received prior training in subject areas that relate to their program of study through previous academic study, apprenticeships, certifications and licensures, courses listed in high school to community college articulation agreements, military education and training, standardized examinations, challenge examinations, portfolio assessments, and public safety training.

To obtain credit for prior learning, a student must be admitted as a full-time or part-time student at the college and meet all requirements for the program in which course credit for prior learning is being sought.

The maximum credit that can be earned through Credit for Prior Learning is 75% of a credential. At least 15% of the credit hours required for graduation must be earned through instruction by WCC. WCC may grant credit for prior learning, but transfer acceptance of these credits is not guaranteed. Verify with your transfer institution if they will accept your credit for prior learning credits.

To request a prior learning assessment, students must follow the appropriate procedure below depending on the type of Credit for Prior Learning the student wishes to obtain.

Students currently enrolled at WCC may earn Work-Based Learning (WBL) credit for registered NC apprenticeship programs. All apprenticeships must be approved and registered with the North Carolina State Apprenticeship Agency through ApprenticeshipNC.

To request credit for a previously completed apprenticeship, follow the below steps:

  1. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms.
  2. Submit all applicable documentation through the E-Form or by mail to the Office of the Registrar at PO Box 120, 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, North Wilkesboro, NC 28697.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the request and supplied documentation, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Students currently enrolled at WCC with a current non-expired industry certification and/or licensure issued or recertified within the last five (5) years prior to the request may request course credit for their certification and/or licensure. Students who hold a certification and/or licensure that does not expire may request course credit for their certification after meeting with the appropriate instructor who will validate course outcomes are met. The certification and/or licensure must relate to the program of study the student is enrolled in.

  1. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms.
  2. Submit all applicable documentation through the E-Form or by mail to the Office of the Registrar at PO Box 120, 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, North Wilkesboro, NC 28697.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the request and supplied documentation, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Check out the Certification and Licensures Crosswalk to see which industry certifications and licensures can earn you college credit.

Students who have taken and successfully passed certain high school courses may be eligible for college credit. College credit will only be granted if the credit the student has obtained applies to the program of study the student is enrolled in.

  1. Submit your official high school transcript to the Office of Admissions.
  2. Review the High School Articulation Agreements to determine which courses are eligible for college credit.
  3. Review the required documentation needed to obtain credit.
  4. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms.
  5. Submit all applicable documentation through the E-Form or by mail to the Office of the Registrar at PO Box 120, 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, North Wilkesboro, NC 28697.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the request and supplied documentation, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Students currently enrolled at WCC who have military training or have taken courses at a military service school may submit their Joint Service Transcript (JOST) and/or military service school transcripts to the college for evaluation.

To have your Joint Service Transcript and/or military service school transcript(s) evaluated for credit, please follow the below steps:

  1. Students must submit their official Joint Service Transcript (JOST) and/or official military service school transcript to the Office of Admissions.
  2. The Office of the Registrar will review the transcript(s) and award all applicable credit.

Once the Office of the Registrar has evaluated the student’s transcript(s), an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Students currently enrolled at Wilkes Community College (WCC) who have taken a standardized examination may submit their official scores to the college for review. Exam scores must be from within the last five (5) years. WCC accepts the following standardized examinations:

To have your standardized examination scores reviewed for credit, please follow the below steps:

  1. Students must submit their official standardized examination scores to the Office of the Registrar.
  2. The Office of the Registrar will review the scores and award all applicable credit.

Once the Office of the Registrar has evaluated the student’s transcript(s), an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Students currently enrolled at WCC with prior proficiency in a course due to previous educational or work experience may apply for credit by examination if the course is eligible.

Credit by examination can be requested only for courses listed in a student’s active program of study in which it is presumed by an instructor the student can demonstrate the required level of proficiency based upon course objectives.

Federal Pell grant and VA funds may not be used to pay for credit by exam.

A successful credit by exam attempt may result in falling below full-time status which could negatively affect Financial Aid.

Credit by exam may be taken only one time for each course and it is not allowable for a course being audited or already attempted.

Credit by exam format may be a written exam, oral exam, shop exercise, and/or lab exercise.

For a successful credit by exam attempt, credit hours will contribute toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. However, the course credit will have no effect on the student’s GPA.

Successful credit by exam attempts will be factored into the maximum amount of credits allowable through the Credit for Prior Learning policy. and only twenty-five percent (25%) of a credential can be credit by exam.

Wilkes Community College offers some internal challenge/proficiency exams (credit by exam), while other courses require the student take the corresponding College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) for the course.

An administrative fee of $25 per credit hour will be assessed for each internally offered challenge/proficiency exam (credit by exam). Example, if a student challenges a course that is 3 credit hours, then the student will pay $75 dollars (3 x $25) to take the exam.

Students who are required to take the CLEP exam to challenge a course must pay the CLEP exam cost plus the testing centers proctoring fee.

To request a challenge/proficiency exam (credit by exam):

  1. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms, to obtain permission from the designated instructor.
  2. The designated instructor will setup a time to interview the student to determine if the student can demonstrate the required level of proficiency based upon course objectives.
  3. If the designated instructor has approved the student to take the challenge/proficiency exam (credit by exam), the Office of the Registrar will review the student’s eligibility to take the exam.
  4. If the student meets the requirements to take the challenge/proficiency exam (credit by exam), the Office of the Registrar will notify the student that they must pay the administrative fee in the Business Office. The administrative fee must be paid before the exam can be given.
  5. The designated instructor will work with the student to setup a time to take the exam.
  6. The student will take the exam.
  7. The instructor will grade the exam and notify the Office of the Registrar.
  8. The Office of the Registrar will award non-course credit for internally created exams in which the student earned a grade of 70% or higher. For courses using the CLEP exam, credit will be awarded based on the minimum passing score as recommended by the American Council on Education.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the student’s scores and awarded all applicable credit, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Currently there are no courses identified for portfolio assessment.

Students currently enrolled at WCC with prior proficiency in a course due to previous educational or work experience may apply for portfolio assessment if the course is eligible.

Portfolio assessment can be requested only for courses listed in a student’s active program of study in which it is presumed by an instructor the student can demonstrate the required level of proficiency based upon course objectives.

Federal Pell grant and VA funds may not be used to pay for a portfolio assessment.

A successful portfolio assessment attempt may result in falling below full-time status, which could negatively affect financial aid.

Portfolio assessment may be completed only one time for each course, and it is not allowable for a course being audited or already attempted.

The required contents of a portfolio will be determined by the division in which the student is seeking to obtain course credit.

Portfolios will be graded based on a standardized rubric specific to the course in which the student is seeking to obtain course credit.

For a successful portfolio assessment attempt, credit hours will contribute toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. However, the course credit will have no effect on the student’s GPA.

Successful portfolio assessment attempts will be factored into the maximum amount of credits allowable through the Credit for Prior Learning policy and only twenty-five percent (25%) of a credential can be from a portfolio assessment.

An administrative fee of $25 per credit hour will be assessed for each portfolio review. Example, if a student challenges a course that is 3 credit hours, then the student will pay $75 dollars (3 x $25) to take the exam.

To request a portfolio review, please follow the below steps.

  1. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms, to obtain permission from the designated instructor.
  2. The designated instructor will setup a time to interview the student to determine if the student can demonstrate the required level of proficiency based upon course objectives.
  3. If the designated instructor approves the student to present a portfolio for review, the instructor will provide the student with type(s) of content that should be included in the portfolio.
  4. If the student is approved to submit their portfolio for review, the Office of the Registrar will notify the student that they must pay the administrative fee in the Business Office. The administrative fee must be paid before the student’s portfolio can be reviewed.
  5. The designated instructor will work with the student to setup a time to review the portfolio.
  6. The instructor will grade the portfolio and notify the Office of the Registrar.
  7. The Office of the Registrar will award non-course credit for portfolios in which the student earned a grade of 70% or higher.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the student’s score and awarded all applicable credit, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Currently there are no Wilkes Community College programs which include the PST prefix.

Degree-seeking students currently enrolled at WCC who have industry-recognized public safety training and/or certifications may receive credit for Public Safety Training (PST) courses if the credit applies to the towards program of study in which the student is enrolled.

To request credit for a previously completed public safety training:

  1. Submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms.
  2. Submit all applicable documentation through the E-Form or by mail to the Office of the Registrar at PO Box 120, 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, North Wilkesboro, NC 28697.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the request and supplied documentation, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Degree-seeking students currently enrolled at WCC, with prior proficiency in a WCC Workforce Development and Community Education (WDCE) course, may request their WDCE course be evaluated for curriculum credit. Credit for WDCE course work will only be granted for courses that have been approved for articulation between WDCE and curriculum. Review the Non-Curriculum to Curriculum Credit Crosswalk to find out which WDCE courses will articulate to curriculum credit.

Students who earn course credit for work completed through WDCE will be award non-course credit, which will not affect the student’s GPA.

To request credit for credit for WDCE courses, submit the Credit for Prior Learning form, located in E-Forms.

Once the Office of the Registrar has reviewed the request and verified the student’s WDCE course work qualifies or does not qualify for curriculum credit, an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Transfer credit is available to students from these educational experiences:

  1. Transfer Credits from Other Colleges: Credits may be transferred from colleges and universities that are regionally accredited. Official transcripts from these institutions will be evaluated only after students have been admitted to the college and placed in a program of study. Credit will be awarded provided the course content parallels that taught at WCC or is in the Combined Course Library of the North Carolina Community College System. Credit is awarded only for courses with a grade of “C” or better. Developmental (Pass/Repeat) grades can be transferred to WCC from other North Carolina community colleges due to the use of a statewide grading system for these courses.
  2. Transfer of Credits from Nationally Accredited Colleges and Programs: Official transcripts from programs that are accredited by national programmatic accrediting organizations and colleges that are recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the United States Department of Education (USDE) will be evaluated only after students have been admitted to the college and placed in a related program of study. Credit will be awarded provided the course content parallels that taught at WCC or is in the Combined Course Library of the North Carolina Community College System. Credit is awarded only for courses with a grade of “C” or better. Credit cannot be awarded for courses intended to transfer under the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement between the University of North Carolina and the North Carolina Community College System.

To have your official transcripts evaluated for academic credit, please follow the below steps.

  1. Students must submit their official transcripts to the Office of Admissions.
    • For electronic submissions, search for Wilkes Community College on the ordering site and select Admissions if prompted. If Wilkes Community College is not an option, send transcripts to ADTranscriptSubmission@wilkescc.edu.
    • For mailed submissions, send transcripts to:
      WCC Admissions Office
      PO Box 120
      Wilkesboro, NC 28697
  2. The Office of the Registrar will review the transcripts and award all applicable credit.

Once the Office of the Registrar has evaluated the student’s transcript(s), an email will be sent to the student’s WCC email address informing them if credit has or has not been awarded.

Contact Information

The Registrar’s Office is the point of contact for all questions concerning credit for prior learning.

Image of Michael Ward
Michael Ward, MBA
Registrar
Phone: 336-838-6489
mrward284@wilkescc.edu

Academic Progress and Standards

Each student is expected to make satisfactory progress toward meeting his/her academic goals. The cumulative grade point average (GPA) is reviewed at the end of each semester and term to determine whether the student has made the expected progress. The minimum cumulative GPA to remain in good academic standing is a 2.0. Developmental courses are not included in the GPA calculation.

A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 is subject to academic warning, which may be followed by probation and suspension. The GPA will be calculated using the most recent grade for each course taken at Wilkes Community College.

Academic Warning

A student failing to meet the minimum cumulative GPA during any semester or term will receive an academic warning letter and be encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to discuss strategies and resources for grade improvement. The warning status will be posted on the student’s transcript and the student’s academic advisor will be notified.

Academic Probation

A student whose cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 for a second consecutive semester or term is placed on academic probation. A student placed on academic probation will receive a letter informing them of their status and must meet with a Student Services representative or academic advisor to review their academic standing. While on probation, a student will be able to register for a maximum of twelve credit hours for fall and spring semesters and a maximum of six credit hours for summer term. The probation status will be posted on the student’s transcript and the student’s academic advisor will be notified.

Suspension

A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for a third consecutive semester/term will be placed on academic suspension. A student on academic suspension will not be allowed to register for curriculum courses. The student may return after one semester or term by completing a re-enrollment meeting with a Student Services representative. A student who is readmitted following an academic suspension will be placed on academic probation. The suspension status will be posted on the student’s transcript and the student’s academic advisor will be notified.

Appeals

A student on academic suspension who believes extenuating circumstances exist that should prevent the suspension may appeal the academic suspension. The student must submit a written appeal to the academic appeals committee which consists of the chief officer of instruction, chief officer of student services, and a designee chosen by the academic and support services council. The decision of the academic appeals committee is final. The academic suspension appeal form is available in the student forms folder within E-Forms. The link to E-Forms is available in the WCC Student Portal.

Requirements for Graduation

To graduate, students must:

  1. Complete all required courses for the degree, diploma, or certificate; (Associate degree graduates may participate in the annual spring graduation exercise if they have one or two courses to complete during the summer term. More than two courses needed during the summer term must be approved by the division dean and registrar. However, the college cannot guarantee courses needed for graduation will be offered during the summer term.)
  2. Attain a cumulative grade point average of “C” (minimum of 2.00) in all work attempted; If a student’s cumulative grade point average is not a 2.0, but their program GPA is a 2.0 or higher after switching academic programs, then the student may request a graduation exception. A graduation exception cannot be granted for certain programs based on state and accrediting body requirements. To request a graduation exception, the student must appeal to the VP of Instruction. If the appeal is approved, then the student will be allowed to graduate based on program GPA.
  3. Complete no less than 25% of the semester hours required in the program of study at Wilkes Community College; and
  4. Satisfy all financial obligations to Wilkes Community College.

Students who will complete all required coursework for graduation during the subsequent summer term may participate in graduation exercises if the following conditions are met:

  1. Students have satisfied the criteria stated above;
  2. Students have registered for all courses required to complete the degree, diploma, or certificate for the subsequent summer term and paid the tuition for the summer term; and
  3. Students have been granted permission from the appropriate division dean. (Diploma seeking students are excluded.)

Students should plan carefully for summer term as only a limited number of courses are offered, and students may not be able to take the courses needed for graduation.

Students will be notified by e-mail when they are eligible to graduate, except for students enrolled in the Associates in General Education (AGE) (A10300) program. If a student wishes to graduate with an AGE, then he/she will need to work with their advisor and notify the Records and Registration office of their intent to graduate from the AGE degree.

Students who have been notified as being eligible for graduation must inform the Registration and Records office of their intent to walk in the graduation ceremony by submitting the appropriate documentation. Potential graduates will be instructed through email on how to obtain the appropriate documentation.

Any student who is not notified of graduation eligibility, but believes they are eligible for graduation from their program(s) will need to meet with their advisor to review their progress. In addition, students scheduled to participate in the annual graduation exercise must pay a graduation fee, which covers the cost of the cap, gown, degree, diploma, certificate, and the mailing of the credentials. Also, graduating students are encouraged to participate in the commencement exercise, but attendance is not required. All degrees, diplomas, and certificates will be mailed, but the college will not be responsible for damage during mail delivery.