The College of St. Scholastica Course Catalog

 

General Information

Student Leadership Center Admission
Student Union and Activities Financial Aid Office
Athletics Fee Schedule
TRIO Program The Academic Program
Student Achievement Center Academic Alternatives and Options
Campus Services Academic Policies and Services
Four-Year Pledge to Students Graduate Placement Report


Curricula
The relatively small size of the College community and its spacious, wooded setting make St. Scholastica a tranquil learning environment as well as an excellent place for friendship and retreat. The campus is full of places to walk and lounge, alone or with friends.

Almost everything a student needs is available on campus. Housing, food service and recreational facilities are near academic buildings. A mailroom, bookstore and business office are open to students for mail service, purchase of personal items, greeting cards, gifts, leisure reading and check cashing.

Duluth's excellent city transit system connects the College with shopping areas, movie theaters and places to visit and explore.


 

STUDENT LEADERSHIP CENTER

Residential Life and Housing

College housing offers an exciting opportunity for both men and women to participate in their education to develop their full potential. The Residential Life Center at The College of St. Scholastica provides residents an environment in which to discover the variety of personalities and experiences our campus has to offer. Residents build a community that reflects the values of The College of St. Scholastica.

Resident students enjoy many recreational, spiritual, social, cultural and community service programs offered by the Residential Life staff and Resident Advisors. They have easy access to faculty and academic resources, as well as to student activities and athletic facilities and events.

The College believes that a well rounded experience is best achieved in a community living component during a student's first and second year of college. As a result, it is the policy of The College of St. Scholastica that all first year and second year students are required to live on campus. To be released from this requirement students must meet the following criteria and receive permission from the Director of Housing: studying abroad, documented medical reasons, graduation, dismissal, internship, student teaching, marriage and/or living at a family member's residence.

Food Services

The College's Food Service offers a variety of nutritional, reasonably priced meals in two locations on campus. Students living in Somers Hall or Suites are required to participate in one of the flexible board plans administered through a debit card system. The board plans do not cover College vacation periods. Commuter students or those living in campus apartments may also join meal plans specially tailored to their needs. The Food Services operates the vending on campus as well as the catering services for all functions occurring on campus.

Campus Ministry

Campus Ministry serves all students at The College of St. Scholastica. The mission of Campus Ministry is to support students in their faith journeys and empower them to live Gospel values of peace and justice. Personal relationships, pastoral counseling, retreats, conferences, prayer experiences, worship and liturgical celebrations, faith sharing/discussion groups and social justice opportunities support personal and spiritual growth. Grounded in the Benedictine Catholic tradition, we provide an opportunity for seekers to grow in their Catholic identity as well as provide multi-faith programming that is open to and supportive of persons from all faith traditions.

Grief/Crisis Ministry

If a student experiences a death or crisis in his/her immediate family or with someone to whom he/she is close, help is available from the Campus Ministers and the Dean of Students. They will provide ongoing support through the experience and will also see that the necessary College personnel are notified, i. e., advisor and professors.

Outdoor PURSUIT! Program

PURSUIT! offers fun outdoor education/recreation opportunities for students, staff, faculty, and alumni. From evening to weeklong experiences, you can learn new skills, meet new people, and get to know our wild backyard. Events are free or reasonably priced and open to all abilities. Volunteer and paid student staff positions are available as climbing wall staff, outing leaders, youth program instructors, PED class assistant instructors, and outdoor orientation leaders. Consider joining a student club like the Northern Explorers, Climbing Club, and Nordic Ski Club and get outside!


STUDENT UNION AND ACTIVITIES

The Port Information Desk

The Port is your information headquarters at the College which features the Java Express Coffee Shop serving Espresso, Cappuccino, teas, and a variety of other gourmet coffees and pastries. The Port also offers a rental program of outdoor equipment (cross-country skis, camping tents, snowshoes, etc.), rental of the original Nintendo, sells movie passes, newspapers, long distance phone cards, and helium balloons for all occasions. Tickets for movies, dances, and other programs are also sold at The Port. In addition, any questions about life and student activities at St. Scholastica can be answered at The Port and game equipment for Storm's Den may be checked out with a Student ID.

Student Organizations:


Amnesty International
Booshke-Giniin
Cable
Calling all Catholics
Campus Activities Board (CAB)
Campus Crusade for Christ
Campus Representatives
Center for Just Living (CJL)
Cheerleading
Circle K
Climbing Club
College Democrats
College Republicans
Computer Information Systems Club
Crafting Saints
Crochet Club
CSS Card Club
CSS Student Education Club
CSS Gentlemen
CSS News
Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) Dance Team
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Figure Skating Club
Guitar Club
Habitat
Independent Film Club
Innkeepers
InterNational Club
Intervarsity
Kaleidoscope Multicultural Club (KMC)
Management Club
Math Society
Merely Players
Nordic Ski Club
Northern Explorers
Open Doors
Otakus Anon Anime Club
Out of Words
Peer Advising
Peer Ministry
Physical Therapy Club
Pre-Law Club
Pre-Med Club
Pre-Pharmacy Club
Psi-Chi
Psychology Association of St. Scholastica (PASS)
Residential Housing and Apartments Association (RHAA)
Saints Investment Club
Shadow
Social Work Club
Spanish Club
Stockfestapalooza
Storm's Advocates (a peer health and wellness program)
Student Alumni Association (SAA)
Student Health Information Management Association (SHIMA)
Student Nurses
Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA)
Student Senate
Students-4-Life
Third Wavers
Volunteer Interaction and Promotion Team (VIP)
Volunteers Involved Through Action (VITA)
Women's Hockey

Campus Activities Board (C*A*B)

C*A*B is responsible for planning dances, performances, movies and other special events. These afford St. Scholastica students respite from their studies and allow them to appreciate other things college life at St. Scholastica has to offer them. All events are planned and carried out by students.

Student Activities Office

The Student Activities Office provides personal growth and development experiences through nonacademic and cocurricular activities. The Student Activities Office promotes student involvement in clubs, organizations, and activities. Student activities are a way for students to connect with other students with similar views, aspirations and concerns and then provide a framework for those students to work together for the common goal, whether that goal is social, recreational, cultural, or political. A variety of campus organizations, clubs, and leadership workshops provide students with many avenues for personal, vocational and social growth.

Student Union

Located on the ground floor of Tower Hall, the Union is the community center of the College for all the members of the College family - students, faculty, administration, alumni and guests. As the "living room" of the College, the Union at St. Scholastica provides the services, conveniences, and amenities the members of the College family need in their daily life on the campus. It is a place for getting to know and understand one another through informal association.

Student Senate

The Student Senate, the officially recognized student government body at St. Scholastica, handles a variety of social, cultural and intellectual programs. The Senate also provides direction for all student activities and represents the students to all elements of the College community. Members of the Senate are significantly involved in the governance structure of the College through participation in faculty and institutional standing committees.


ATHLETICS

Intercollegiate Athletics

The College of St. Scholastica athletic program holds dual memberships in two national affiliations: the NCAA and the NAIA. St. Scholastica offers 14 varsity programs, seven for men and seven for women. With the exception of men's hockey NCHA), all teams compete in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC).

The Saints compete in men's and women's cross country, men's and women's soccer, and women's volleyball in the fall. Both soccer teams and the women's cross country team won UMAC titles in 2004.

Men's and women's basketball and men's hockey compete during the winter season. The Mars Lakeview Arena, located at the nearby Marshall School campus, is home to CSS hockey. The NCHA schedule brings one of the nation's top Division III conferences to the Twin Ports. The women's basketball team won the UMAC tournament to advance to the NAIA national tournament in 2003, and the men's team accomplished the same feat in 2004.

Baseball, softball, men's and women's tennis, and women's track compete in the spring. The Saints softball team, which has won six consecutive UMAC titles, won both the UMAC and Region III tournaments to advance to the NAIA national tournament \where they finished ninth in 2004. The baseball team has won eight consecutive UMAC titles and was ranked seventh in the nation in the final 2004 poll. The women's tennis team also advanced to their third NAIA national tournament, making the 2004 St. Scholastica spring sports season one of the most successful in history.

Sports and Recreation

Students stay physically fit, learn athletic skills and earn credits by participating in a variety of physical activities offered in Physical Education courses. From racquet sports (tennis), outdoor education (skiing, rock climbing, canoeing, sea kayaking, dog sledding, winter camping and backpacking), aerobic training (aerobics, physical conditioning), to golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball and bowling, St. Scholastica provides something for every student.

CAMPUS RECREATION

Campus Recreation serves as The College of St. Scholastica's home for recreational programming on campus. Students, faculty, staff, Sisters and alumni enjoy access to the newly constructed Wellness Center. The 63,000-squarefoot addition to the existing Reif Center is a field house complex featuring an indoor six-lane 200-meter running track, four multipurpose courts, a free weight room, an aerobic dance room, a cardiovascular fitness mezzanine overlooking the track, and new locker rooms. The facility also allows for indoor baseball and softball practice during the winter and early spring months with two drop-down batting cages.

Fitness

Campus Recreation offers a wide range of fitness classes for the beginner to the advanced. Classes such as pilates, yoga, dance, and multiple aerobic classes are offered to meet a variety of interests. Campus Recreation also offers fitness assessments and strength and conditioning programs in conjunction with the Exercise Physiology Department.

Intramural Sports

The College of St. Scholastica's Intramural Sports Program is designed to encourage students, staff, and faculty to participate in organized sporting activities that challenge the body, mind, and spirit. The program includes men's, women's, and co recreational opportunities in sports such as basketball, volleyball, wiffleball, flag football, kickball, floor hockey, dodge ball, and soccer. All teams are student-led and the program is directed by the intramural coordinator.


STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CENTER

McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars Program is one of five TRIO programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It is a graduate school preparatory program designed to assist low-income, first-generation students or students underrepresented in their field of study to prepare for and enter graduate school. The program focuses on mentoring by St. Scholastica faculty; an independent research project; an opportunity to publish research findings; preparation for graduate school entrance tests; a research allowance; trips to graduate schools; and cultural events.

Student Support Services

Student Support Services (SSS) is a TRIO program funded through the U.S. Department of Education. SSS is an academic support program designed to assist eligible students to become personally and academically successful and to remain in school and graduate with a bachelor's degree. The program encourages students to pursue graduate degrees. Academic, career, financial, and personal counseling services include the following areas: study skills instruction, time management and tutoring programs; goal-setting with individual educational and life plans; referrals and advocacy as well as access to the SSS resource library; the loan of calculators and micro cassette players to SSS participants with financial need; opportunities to attend on- and off-campus cultural and educational events; resume writing, job search, interviewing and scholarship search assistance.

Upward Bound Math and Science

Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) is a TRIO program funded through the U.S. Department of Education. UBMS's goal is to prepare high school students for postsecondary education, ensure high school and college graduation, and encourage careers in Math and Science. At The College of St. Scholastica, the Upward Bound Math and Science Program currently serves 50 students from Northeastern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin. Eligible students receive academic support, tutoring services, and attend a monthly Saturday session during the school year. Students also participate in a six-week summer residential program. All academic activities are related to the fields of Math and Science.

Upward Bound

Upward Bound (UB) is a TRIO program funded through the U.S. Department of Education. UB's goal is to prepare high school students for postsecondary education and to ensure both high school and college graduation. At The College of St. Scholastica, the Upward Bound Program currently serves 75 students at eight target schools in northern Minnesota. Eligible students receive academic support, tutoring services, and attend a monthly Saturday session during the school year. Students also participate in a six-week summer residential program.

Educational Talent Search

Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a TRIO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. ETS is intended to identify individuals with the aptitude for education beyond high school and to assist them in completing secondary school and pursuing postsecondary education.

ETS provides services for qualified individuals enrolled in middle, junior and senior high schools, as well as for other young adults. Individuals are identified through schools, social service agencies, community or self-referrals. Services may include career and academic advising, tutoring, assistance with completion of forms, financial aid information, testing information and registration for college entrance tests, information on colleges, universities, trade/technical schools, college visits and cultural events.

Academic Advising

Faculty members assist new students with orientation and registration. Early in the first semester, each student is assigned a faculty advisor who helps the student with his/her early adjustment to campus life and continues to assist the student with registration. The student may later wish to change advisors and select a faculty member from his/her chosen major or an instructor with whom the student works particularly well. Such changes are subject to mutual agreement by the faculty member and the student and normally happen during the end of the freshman year.

Overall, the College expects students to be aggressive in their pursuit of learning, to work closely with their faculty advisors and to take responsibility for their education. Also, in keeping with the Benedictine tradition, the College emphasizes the development of the whole individual within a community, the communal and cooperative nature of education and the need for balance and stability in one's life.

Retention

The College of St. Scholastica admits qualified students from diverse geographical, cultural, economic, racial and religious backgrounds. When reviewing applications, the Admission Committee looks for evidence that a student has the ability to succeed academically and socially at St. Scholastica. If a student does not succeed academically and/or socially, it is his/her choice to leave the College (unless the student is academically dismissed). Students who decide to leave the College are required to complete the official withdrawal procedure. This procedure is initiated through the Dean of Students' Office. It involves the student's contacting the following administrative offices: Academic Advisement, Registrar, Residential Life and Housing, Food Service, Student Accounts and Financial Aid. Every effort is made to assist the withdrawing student with the issue(s) that are keeping the student from succeeding at the College.

In compliance with the Student Right to Know Act, graduation rates are available from the Dean of Students' Office.

Service Learning

Service Learning combines education in the classroom with service in the community. Community service reinforces and expands learning in the classroom while, at the same time, formal learning improves the service students can offer to the community. Specific classes offer service learning as part of their pedagogy. The coordinator of Service Learning works with instructors and students to place the latter in appropriate community sites.

Disabled Student Services

The Access Center provides academic accommodations and auxiliary aids for students with documented disabilities. Students work with the coordinator of the Access Center to apply for accommodations relative to academic requirements, access to programs or physical access to the campus. A campus-wide Access Committee sets policies and reviews requests for accommodations. The procedure for applying for accommodations is outlined in the Student Handbook.


THE STUDENT CENTER FOR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

The Student Center for Health and Well-Being (SCHAWB) provides students with services, education, information, and support utilizing a wellness model. The model serves to enhance personal development, physical and emotional well-being, and responsible life choices in a supportive community.

Departments in The Student Center for Health and Well-Being include: Counseling Services, Health Services, Alcohol and Other Drug Awareness and Violence Prevention.

Counseling Services

These services are free to St. Scholastica students. Counseling Services is in Tower Hall, Room 2150, the phone number is 723-6085, and hours are Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Counseling Services is available to students at any state of their educational career and includes services for ADEP and graduate students. Services offered in this department include:

Personal Counseling

Personal counseling is a vital component of the support services offered at The College of St. Scholastica. Professional counselors work closely and confidentially with students on a variety of issues including: developmental transitions (i.e. beginning college, graduation, etc.), relationship problems with peers or family, substance abuse, eating disorders, difficulty handling emotions and assistance in referrals to community resources. Workshops are held on such topics as assertion, time and stress management, and healthy relationships.

Academic Counseling

Some students may have problems adjusting to the academic environment. Counseling Services can assist students in developing skills necessary to overcome these challenges.

Crisis Intervention

There may be times when a life crisis seems overwhelming. Such events include suicide threats or attempts, physical abuse, sexual assault, and harassment. It is important to recognize that the crisis does not have to be handled alone. All threats or attempts to injure oneself or others should be considered as serious events that require intervention. This intervention involves college counselors and other Student Affairs staff, and may include community referrals for more structured support and evaluation. Any student who is aware of someone in crisis and in need of services should immediately notify Security (ext. 4000), his/her Residence Advisor, The Counseling Center (ext. 6085), or Student Health Service (ext. 6282). They will consult with you to help decide the best course of action.

ALCOHOL/OTHER DRUG AWARENESS AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROGRAMS

The mission of these programs is to increase awareness, promote responsible behavior, and to help develop a culture of mutual responsibility in the St. Scholastica community. The goal of these programs is to present information to students, faculty, and staff in an interesting and thought-provoking manner so students can make informed and thoughtful choices about their life.

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE

Student Health Service (part of The Student Center for Health and Well-Being) provides clinic hours for the evaluation and care of illness, injury and mental health. Our staff includes registered nurses and nurse practitioners and we work collaboratively with our on-campus counselors and the physical therapy faculty. We are able to perform lab testing for strep, mono, urinary tract infections, pregnancy, blood glucose, and hemoglobin on campus. We also provide many immunizations, dressings and splints as needed, the loan of durable medical equipment like crutches and wheelchairs, and over-the-counter medications for common illnesses. We provide health screening exams for health science majors and those involved in campus sponsored study abroad programs. Our nurse practitioners provide services ranging from physical exams to mental health medication evaluations. Our staff also provides campus-wide health education and information.

Career Services

The College of St. Scholastica's mission statement includes the phrase, ". . . the College stresses intellectual and moral preparation for responsible living and meaningful work." One of the most important objectives of Career Services is to assist students in defining for themselves the term, "meaningful work." Searching for a college major and career can be an engaging and exciting process rather than one of confusion or frustration. A career develops throughout one's lifetime, and it can be helpful to periodically examine interests, abilities, skills and values to determine useful directions. At St. Scholastica, counselors are available to discuss career questions and plans. Surveys and inventories may be taken to help clarify interests. Computerized career exploration is available on the Web with a password authorized through Career Services. An extensive career resource library includes occupational information, employer directories, resume and job search books, employment outlook and graduate/professional school information. Regional and national job listings are regularly updated.

Workshops and seminars are held on strategizing a job search, writing resumes and job search letters and developing interviewing skills. Internship opportunities are available and posted on our Web site regularly. Some of career services, including job and internship opportunities, job fair information and links to other valuable career sites, can be accessed through the Career Services home page at http://www.css.edu/career.

Student Diversity Services

The College of St. Scholastica recognizes that minority students can and do benefit from a support network that acknowledges their unique perspective. The Office of Student Diversity Services provides counseling, academic advisement, service referrals and cross-cultural awareness opportunities.The College of St. Scholastica recognizes that minority students can and do benefit from a support network that acknowledges their unique perspective. The Office of Student Diversity Services provides counseling, academic advisement, service referrals and cross-cultural awareness opportunities.


Trio Program Center

Trio Programs: McNair Scholoars, Student Support Services, Upward Bound Math and Science, Upward Bound, and Educational Talent Search

McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars Program is one of several TRIO programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It is a graduate school transition program designed to assist low income, first-generation students or students underrepresented in their field of study to prepare for and enter graduate school. The program focuses on mentoring by St. Scholastica faculty; an independent research project; an opportunity to publish research findings; and preparation for graduate school entrance tests.

Student Support Services

Student Support Services, a TRIO program funded through the Department of Education, is an academic support program designed to assist eligible students to become personally and academically successful, and to remain in school and graduate with a bachelor's degree. The program encourages students to pursue graduate degrees. Academic, career, financial, and personal counseling services include the following areas: study skills instruction, time management, and tutoring programs; goal setting with individual educational and life plans; referrals and advocacy as well as access to the SSS resource library; the loan of calculators and micro cassette players to SSS participants with financial need; opportunities to attend on and off campus cultural and educational events; resume writing, job search, interviewing and scholarship search assistance.

Upward Bound Math and Science

Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) is a TRIO program funded through the Department of Education. UBMS's goal is to prepare high school students for post secondary education, ensure high school and college graduation, and encourage careers in Math and Science. At The College of St. Scholastica, the Upward Bound Math and Science program currently serves 50 students from North Eastern Minnesota and North Western Wisconsin. Eligible students receive academic support, tutoring services, and attend a monthly Saturday session during the school year. Students also participate in a six week summer residential program. All academic activities are related to the fields of Math and Science.

Upward Bound

Upward Bound (UB) is a TRIO program funded through the Department of Education. UB's goal is to prepare high school students for post-secondary education and to ensure both high school and college graduation. At The College of St. Scholastica, the Upward Bound program currently serves 75 students at eight target schools in northern Minnesota. Eligible students receive academic support, tutoring services, and attend a monthly Saturday session during the school year. Students also participate in a six week summer residential program.

Educational Talent Search

Educational Talent Search, a TRIO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is intended to identify individuals with the aptitude for education beyond high school and to assist them in completing secondary school and pursuing postsecondary education.

ETS provides services for qualified individuals enrolled in middle, junior and senior high schools, as well as for other young adults. Individuals are identified through schools, social service agencies or community or self-referrals. Services may include career and academic advising; tutoring; assistance with completion of forms; financial aid information; testing information and registration for college entrance tests; information on colleges, universities, trade/technical schools; college visits and cultural events.


CAMPUS SERVICES

Bookstore

The Bookstore (independently run by Barnes and Noble) sells textbooks, school supplies, greeting cards, gifts, clothes, imprinted items, bestsellers, general reference books and study guides. Visa and MasterCard, Discover and American Express credit cards are accepted. Special orders are welcome with no additional fee.

Business Office

Tuition and Fee payments may be made via the internet, at the cashier's window, or through the mail. Accepted payment methods are credit card, check, cash or money order. Visa, MasterCard and Discover Card are accepted through The College of St. Scholastica Web site http://www.css.edu/Business_Office.

Check Cashing Services are available for students during regular office hours (maximum $50). There is a $20 charge for all returned checks. After three returned checks, checkcashing privileges will be suspended.

Campus Card Accounts. Students may put money on their campus card account for meals and vending services at the cashier's window.

Parking Permits. Faculty, staff and students are required to purchase a parking permit if they park a vehicle on campus. Parking permit application forms are available on the College Web site (http://www.css.edu).

Notary Public Services are available in the Business Office free of charge. Student Accounts. Students with questions about their account may contact the Student Accounts Staff in the Business Office. Payment plan options, insurance information and insurance waiver cards are located in the Business Office as well.

Perkins Loans. Students receiving a Federal Perkins Loan for the first time must complete Entrance Counseling before they can sign the Master Promissory Note. This can be done at the following Web site: https://www/css/edu/ app/depts/bo/loan entrance/ (there is an underscore between loan and entrance, i.e. loan_entrance). If the student has problems with the online counseling, they can come to the Business Office and manually fill out the necessary forms. This loan only has to be signed once during the time the student attends St. Scholastica.

Nursing Loans. Students receiving a Federal Nursing Loan for the first time must complete Entrance Counseling before they can sign the Master Promissory Note. This can be done at the following Web site: https://www/css/edu/app/depts/bo/loan_entrance/ (there is an underscore between loan and entrance, i.e. loan_entrance). After completing the on-line Entrance Counseling, the student must come to the Business Ctffice to sign the Master Promissory Note. This loan only has to be signed once during the time the student attends St. Scholastica.

Center for the Study of Peace and Justice

The Center for the Study of Peace and Justice seeks to bridge social and political barriers, bringing together people of all ages and philosophies to work toward the common goals of peace and justice. The Center sponsors lectures, workshops, seminars and courses on a variety of topics. Recent guests have included: Richard Rodriguez, Wilma Mankiller, Sarah Brady, Stanley Karnow and Nathan McCall.

The College recognizes that the issues of peace and social/economic justice are crucial to the survival of the human race. Through the Center, St. Scholastica seeks to create a forum of inquiry into those issues.

Information Technology Services

The Information Technologies Department seeks to foster an environment that promotes and enhances the College's vision and exemplifies its Benedictine values by providing the technologies to be adaptable, efficient, competitive, and forward thinking; while remaining fiscally responsible as we serve students, faculty and staff. Technology is available to students in eight computer labs throughout the campus. The ResNet program provides high speed internet access to every residence hall room. Wireless connectivity is available in many student common areas. All registered students are issued a login and password providing access to all IT services.

Libraries

The Library serves as a foundation for inquiry and learning in the liberal arts, professional programs, and graduate studies at The College of St. Scholastica. One thousand years ago Benedictine monastic rules recognized the office of librarian and the custom of lending books both within and outside of monasteries. Today, housed above a beautifully renovated Benedictine chapel, the St. Scholastica Library continues a long tradition of service to the community. There are a dozen public access terminals, and the computer lab connects students to campus network services. The physical collection consists of over 130,000 books and audiovisual items, 800 periodical titles, and numerous electronic databases. The Library is particularly strong in music (with a separate Music Library), religious and Catholic areas, American Indian studies, and the health professions. The St. Scholastica Library shares resources with other libraries around the state and nation using the PALS, MINITEX and OCLC systems, and through its Web pages offers on- and off-campus electronic access to subject databases for journal articles. Because of constant adaptation to student needs, the Library's Web pages (http://academics.css.edu/library) constitute the most comprehensive and accurate source of information on library services.

Minnesota Public Radio

The College of St. Scholastica is an institutional sponsor of WSCD-FM 92.9 and WSCN-FM 100.5, member stations of the Minnesota Public Radio network. The stations' programming features a rich blend of cultural and informational offerings, including events and speakers recorded at St. Scholastica.

Orientation

The combination of summer and fall orientation programs prepares students for a positive adjustment to St. Scholastica. The orientation program combines academic advising with social activities. Participation in the program offers opportunities for students to begin friendships and become comfortable with faculty, staff and the campus. All new and transfer students are assigned a peer advisor for their first semester.

Performing Arts

Students at St. Scholastica have many opportunities to become involved in the performing arts. Music lessons are available.

In addition, all music ensembles are open to non-music majors as well as to music majors. Concert band offers a large ensemble experience for students interested in performing quality band literature. Jazz ensemble members explore different styles of jazz through playing, improvising and listening. Collegiate chorus welcomes all students who wish to perform light classics and popular music from different times. Chamber Choir performs choral masterworks from all historical periods.

Students interested in chamber groups may choose from flute, string, piano, woodwind, clarinet, saxophone or brass ensembles, recorder consort, viol consort and mixed ensemble. Pianists may also perform as accompanists. Students earn fine arts credits as members of ensembles.

The Music Department offers many concerts on campus, including the Cambiata Series, featuring internationally known performers. All concerts take place in the College's Mitchell Auditorium, one of the finest small concert halls in the region.

Students have the opportunity to participate in theatre productions open to all majors. Three to four plays are produced each year. Over four years, St. Scholastica produces a play from every major period in theatre history. Productions are staged in the St. Scholastica Theatre and students are encouraged to audition or to work on the technical crew.

Student Accounts Office

See Business Office Services


FOUR-YEAR PLEDGE TO STUDENTS

The College of St. Scholastica pledges that new students who enter the College as first-year undergraduate students and follow these guidelines will graduate in four years.

The College of St. Scholastica makes this pledge because it is committed to quality education, has confidence in its advisement program and availability of course offerings and desires to keep the College affordable to all students.

These are the stipulations for the St. Scholastica Four-Year Pledge:

1. If you complete an average of sixteen (16) credits counting toward graduation each semester (32 credits a year). (You may use credit earned during the summer to meet the 32-credit-per-year requirement);

2. If you maintain a minimum of a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and you attain the required grade in all courses in your intended major;

3. If you do not fail or withdraw from any course without making up the credits during this four year period of time;

4. If you are formally accepted into your chosen major no later than the spring semester of your sophomore year, follow the course sequence in the advisor's manual and maintain that major's required academic progression and skills requirements;

And do not complete your education in four years, St. Scholastica will offer you a grant (after federal and state financial aid have been credited to you) to cover tuition costs until the degree program is completed. (A student exercising the pledge must apply for financial aid as he/she enters the fifth year.)

Exceptions:

If you are formally accepted into one major and change majors during the four-year period;

If you seek licensure in education, elect an additional major, or additional certifications that extend the course of study (such as the gerontology certifcate);

NOTE: Some students seeking licensure in teaching may not be able to complete all requirements in 4 years;

If you "stop-out" for a semester due to personal, financial or other reasons; you are no longer covered by the pledge.


ADMISSION

The College of St. Scholastica admits qualified students from diverse geographical, cultural, economic, racial and religious backgrounds. When reviewing applications, the Admissions Committee looks for evidence that a student has the ability to succeed academically and socially at St. Scholastica.

Admission to the College

Admission to The College of St. Scholastica is granted to first-year students on the basis of: 1) graduation from an accredited high school or its equivalent (GED-average 75th percentile or above), and 2) a satisfactory Calculated Index Score (CNX). The rating is derived from a formula that utilizes the cumulative grade point average from high school and the composite college-bound score of the ACT or SAT or, in the absence of ACT/SAT scores, the composite score of the Admission Committee approved placement test. The placement test score will then be used as a substitute for the ACT or SAT in computing the CNX. Admission is granted to transfer students on the basis of: 1) completion of 12 semester credits at a regionally accredited institution, and 2) a satisfactory cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) from all previously attended post secondary institutions. The Admissions Committee also evaluates, on an individual basis, any applicant who does not meet the minimum requirements. The final decision of the Admissions Committee is based on all available pertinent data.

Time of Application for Admission

To ensure that the student will receive the benefits of pre-college counseling, application for admission by first-year students should be made as early as possible after the completion of the junior year of high school. An application should be in the Office of Admissions at least one month prior to the first day of classes of the semester the student is entering. Although the Office of Admissions processes applications on a continuing basis, certain programs reserve the right to impose a deadline. In addition, various departments at the College have application deadlines for transfer students. Prospective students should contact the Office of Admissions for specific deadlines.

Personal Interviews

A personal interview with a member of the College admissions staff and a tour of the campus are strongly recommended for prospective students. The College of St. Scholastica reserves the right to require a personal interview prior to admission of any student to the College.

Campus Visits

The Office of Admissions recommends that prospective students visit the campus during the school year. A weekday visit is encouraged as it allows the student to observe classes as well as the academic and extracurricular life of the College. Although appointments are not required, they are recommended for those who desire to meet with College faculty, admissions staff members or take a guided tour. Arrangements to visit can be made by calling 1-800-2496412 or (218) 723-6046 or by mailing the Office of Admissions, The College of St. Scholastica, 1200 Kenwood Avenue, Duluth, MN 55811. Campus visits may also be arranged via e-mail at admission@css.edu.

First-Year Student Application Procedure

First-year student applicants must:

  1. Complete The College of St. Scholastica Application for Admission.
  2. Send $25 nonrefundable application fee (check or money order payable to The College of St. Scholastica).
  3. Submit an official high school transcript which includes:
    1. Course work completed and grades;
    2. High school rank if available;
    3. Test scores - ACT or SAT (if test scores are not on transcript, please request them).
    4. Take the Admission Committee approved placement exam if ACT/SAT scores cannot be provided.

Students will be notified of their admission status when all the credentials have been received and reviewed by the Admissions Committee.

Transfer Application Procedure

The College of St. Scholastica plays an important role in meeting the educational needs of community college graduates and other qualified students who wish to transfer to The College of St. Scholastica.

Transfer applicants must:

  1. Complete all steps outlined for freshman applicants (note: transfer students with 24 or more college credits need not submit high school transcripts or test scores).
  2. Request official college transcripts from all previous colleges.

Information for transfer students:

  1. The transfer student must be in good academic standing at all previous colleges, having a grade point average of at least 2.0 (C) on a 4.0 scale.
  2. Only courses with grades "C" and above will transfer.
  3. Transferred courses are not included in computing the grade point average of the student at St. Scholastica.
  4. The number of transfer students who can be accepted in some academic areas such as, but not restricted to, nursing, physical therapy, and education, is limited and some programs require students to transfer in at the sophomore level; therefore, transfer students should contact the Office of Admissions early for specific information on their intended major.
  5. College credit completed at institutions which are approved by a regional accrediting agency are acceptable in transfer provided they are comparable to courses offered at The College of St. Scholastica. In order for a course to be comparable, The College of St. Scholastica must either list the course in its current catalog or offer a significant number of course offerings (minimally four) within the division having primary responsibility for that general area of instruction. Generally, occupational/vocational college-level courses are not accepted at The College of St. Scholastica. Grades recorded as "P" for Pass, "CR" for Credit, etc., will be transferred only if verification is provided by the Registrar of the previous institution that the work was completed with a "C" or better grade. Students desiring transfer credit for courses completed at another institution may be required to provide a copy of the catalog description or the class syllabus from that institution so that the valuation of transfer credit may be made accurately. Limited or provisional credit also may be accepted from specialized or special purpose institutions, including the U.S. Armed Services, provided the work is applicable to St. Scholastica's baccalaureate degree programs and is recommended in appropriate publications of The American Council on Education.

First Year Development Program

Interested first-year applicants who demonstrate the potential necessary to succeed at the College, but do not meet the established admissions criteria may be enrolled in the First-Year Development Program (FYDP). The FYDP is a program specifically designed to assist selected first-year students in acclimating to the rigor and expectations of college-level work. The FYDP begins with a five-day Summer Bridge Program one week prior to fall semester. Summer Bridge introduces students to college life. Students will learn strategies to successfully transition from high school to college, and experience college academic work. Students accepted in FYDP must successfully complete the Summer Bridge in order to enroll in fall semester where they will continue with a study skills course and required activities throughout the year. After 30 students are enrolled in the First-Year Development Program, a waiting list will be activated. Students may be accepted in the First-Year Development Program for fall semester entry only and must submit the matriculation fee and housing deposit by March 1.

Special Status Admission

Interested first-year applicants who do not meet the established admissions requirements of the College may be considered for the First-Year Developmental Program or special status admissions. Special status applicants will be accepted for fall semester entry only and will be required to participate in the First Year Development Program.

Applications and supporting documentation must be submitted by July 1 for review by the Admissions Committee. The Director of the Student Development Center serves as the advisor to all special status students.

Conditional Admission

Interested transfer applicants who do not meet the established admissions requirements of the College may be considered for conditional admission. Applications and supporting documentation must be submitted for review by the Admissions Committee at least one month prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which the student wishes to enroll. At the end of the first term, the conditional admission status may be lifted if the applicant has a 2.0 GPA on all credits attempted. If not, the student will be put on probation.

Readmission to the College

A College of St. Scholastica student who has been absent from the College for one semester or more and is in good academic standing must apply for readmission to the College. This no-fee application is available through the Office of Admissions and may be completed at the time of registration. Official transcripts of all coursework completed while absent from the College will be required as part of the readmission process.

A student who left the College on academic probation or enforced withdrawal, must, in addition to fulfilling the requirements listed above, apply at least one month prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which the student expects to enroll and is advised to show evidence of positive life change or academic progress in support of the application. All such applications are referred to the Admissions Committee, which will provide a recommendation to the vice president for academic affairs. The decision made by the vice president for academic affairs is final.

Fresh Start Program

A student returning to The College of St. Scholastica after a minimum nonenrollment of eight years may petition for a fresh start in his/her GPA. The student must petition the Registrar for the deletion of his/her former GPA. The new record will show all past courses, grades and credits, without indicating honor points. The GPA would then be calculated only on the credits earned upon return to The College of St. Scholastica.

Enrollment: First-Year, Transfer, and Returning Students

Students accepted for admission to The College of St. Scholastica enroll by registering for classes and by sending the $100 matriculation fee to the Office of Admissions by the date stated in the letter of acceptance to the College.

Deferred Admission

A student may delay his or her entrance to The College of St. Scholastica for up to one year. Students deferring entry to the College will be assured of positions in the class for which they apply.

Denial of Admission

The College reserves the right to deny admission to any person who, in the judgment of the Admissions Committee, does not possess the qualifications necessary to succeed at St. Scholastica. While academic achievement is stressed, the College emphasizes the holistic approach to total living that requires great sensitivity on the part of the entire student body, faculty and administration. Accordingly, students who might be successful elsewhere may not be admitted to the College unless the Admissions Committee is thoroughly convinced that they can meet the St. Scholastica standard.

Falsification of Transcripts

Any applicant who submits falsified transcripts will not be granted admission to The College of St. Scholastica. If falsification of transcripts is determined after the student has enrolled, he/she will be dismissed from the College.

Advanced Placement

The College participates in the Advanced Placement Program of The College Board. Advanced placement or college credit is given to qualified students on the basis of these examinations. In order to receive credit a student must receive an Advanced Placement score of three, four or five.

International Baccalaureate Credit

Students who have been formally admitted to The College of St. Scholastica may petition for up to four transfer credits for each International Baccalaureate (IB) course completed with a Higher Level Examination grade of four or above on a seven-point scale. The related academic department at the College will determine the acceptability of a course.

To petition for credit, students must submit to the Registrar a written request for credit, a certificate for each Higher Level IB Examination completed and a syllabus for each course. The certificate will be copied and returned to the student. Documentation on an official transcript will also be accepted.

Correspondence Credit

A maximum of 16 credits earned through regionally accredited correspondence courses may be transferred to the College.

Accelerated Degree Evening Program Admission

Prospective students complete an Accelerated Degree Evening Program application, send a $25 non-refundable application fee (check, money order or Web payment) and obtain original copies of all previous college coursework, high school transcripts or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) as listed below.

Regular Admission

Freshman Applicants

Graduation from an accredited high school with a grade point average of 2.0 or better or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) average 75th percentile or above.

Transfer Applicants

Admission is granted to transfer students on the basis of:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 12 semester credits at a regionally accredited institution and
  2. Good academic standing at all previous colleges, having a grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.

Only courses with grades of "C" or better will be considered for transfer.

College credit completed at institutions which are approved by a regional accrediting agency are acceptable in transfer provided they are comparable to courses offered at the College. In order for a course to be comparable, the College must list the course in its current catalog or offer a significant number of course offerings within the division having primary responsibility for that general area of instruction. Generally, occupational/vocational college-level courses are not accepted at the College. Transfer grades of "P" for pass or "CR" for credit will be transferred only if verification is provided by the Registrar of the previous institution that the work was completed with "C" grade or better. Students desiring transfer credit for courses completed at another institution may be required to provide a copy of the catalog description or the course syllabi from that institution so that the evaluation of transfer credit may be made accurately. Limited or provisional credit may also be accepted from specialized or special purpose institutions, including U.S. armed services, provided the work is applicable to the College's baccalaureate degree program and is recommended in appropriate publications of the American Council on Education (ACE).

Conditional Admission

Freshman Applicants

Applicants who do not meet the above requirements for freshman admission may be considered for special status admission. Applicants will be required to submit supporting documentation (an essay) for review by the Admissions Committee, comprised of the site director and academic liaison.

Transfer Applicants

Applicants who do not meet the established transfer admission requirements may be considered for conditional admission. Applicants will be required to submit supporting documentation (an essay) for review by the Admissions Committee. Conditional admission requires stipulations communicated to the student for their first term of enrollment.

Stipulations may include:

  1. First term enrollment limited to one course in which the student must earn 2.0 or better. Conditional admission status can be lifted if the applicant earns a 2.0 or better grade point average on all credits attempted during the first term of enrollment.
  2. If the student does not achieve a "C" grade or higher in all credits attempted, The College of St. Scholastica reserves the right not to enroll the student for a second term.
  3. A student placed on probation for the second term of enrollment will be required to complete an academic contract with an adviser. If the student fails to meet established academic goals during the second term, the student may be dismissed from the College. If the student attends a post-secondary institution and raises his/her overall grade point average, he/she will be eligible for readmission.
Submit application, fee and transcripts to your campus site.

Early Entry Admission (Minnesota Post-Secondary Enrollment Options Program - PSEOP)

The College of St. Scholastica participates in the Minnesota Post-Secondary Enrollment Options Program (PSEOP). High school students who are interested in this opportunity must contact the Office of Admissions for more information on requirements for admission to the program. PSEOP applicants must apply for the program before May 1.

Acceptance to this program is competitive. Applicants may be offered acceptance as early entry students after meeting the following requirements:

  1. Completion of the junior level in a Minnesota high school;
  2. A class rank in the 80th percentile or higher;
  3. Evidence of college-bound high school coursework on the official high school transcript;
  4. Satisfactory recommendations from the student's high school principal or guidance counselor;
  5. An essay of exceptional quality evaluated by the PSEOP coordinator;
  6. An interview with the PSEOP coordinator..

International Student Admission

An international student is one who is not a U.S. national or does not retain U.S. permanent resident status. Admission requirements for international students are:

  1. A completed College of St. Scholastica International Student Application form, which includes a written essay.
  2. A $50 (U.S. dollars) nonrefundable application fee.
  3. Original or certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary course transcripts- English translations must be included with the transcripts. (Students must have completed a college preparatory program in secondary school. This program should include course work in the humanities, laboratory sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and history). Applications will be reviewed on an individual basis to determine whether the student is acceptable for admission to the college.
  4. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test scores for students from non-native English speaking countries. The TOEFL must include the TWE (Test of Written English). A written test score of 550 on the TOEFL (computer-based test score of 213) and a four on the TWE essay are required for admission. The Michigan Test will also be acceptable, although the TOEFL is preferred. A score of 85 is required on the Michigan Test. Official TOEFL and Michigan test reports must be submitted. In the event this is not possible, a current test score can be verified through ETS if the College has the student's registration number and test score results. Only current and official test results will be accepted.
  5. A completed "Certification of Finances" form (included in the application packet).
  6. An affidavit of support (USCIS Form I-134) for students with US sponsors.
  7. proof of immunization for tetanus, diphtheria, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and proof of negative mantoux testing. If proof of immunization is not possible or provided, immunization will be completed at the College Health Service.
    These materials should be received no later than 90 days prior to the term of entry. International students may begin fall or spring. Students wanting to be considered for 90/10 scholarships have an application deadline of February 1st. The College of St. Scholastica does not have an early decision application deadline; however, international students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
These materials must be received no later than 90 days prior to the beginning of fall or spring semester.

International Student Financial Requirements

In general, international students who are admitted to the College must have funds of their own to finance their education. To ensure that international students have no financial difficulties when they arrive at St. Scholastica, the College requires each international student to make a deposit (in U.S. dollars) in an amount equivalent to $500 after acceptance. Upon receipt of the deposit the USCIS form I-20 A will be issued.

Non-Degree Seeking Students

A person who is not interested in pursuing a degree at the College may take courses if he/she satisfies the College's admission requirements and is properly registered in the class.

A non-degree seeking student may enroll in classes once the following forms have been submitted:

  1. A completed non-degree seeking student information form. This form is available in the Office of Admissions.
  2. a completed registration form (including instructor's permission, if necessary) signed by an Academic Support Services staff member.
Upon completion of the academic work, the courses will be listed on the regular college transcript. Non-degree seeking students are not eligible for financial aid. A non-degree seeking student may apply to become a degree seeking student by completing the normal application process.Upon completion of the academic work, the courses will be listed on the regular college transcript. Non-degree seeking students are not eligible for financial aid. A non-degree seeking student may apply to become a degree seeking student by completing the normal application process.

FINANCIAL AID OFFICE

The Financial Aid office at The College of St. Scholastica seeks to support the mission of the College by providing services that assist students in identifying resources - federal, state, institutional and others - to finance their education. St. Scholastica institutional philosophy on student aid places primary responsibility on the student to provide funds for educational expenses; however, the institution's commitment to a diverse and representative student body is reflected in the fact that nine out of every ten St. Scholastica students are recipients of some form of aid. Students interested in receiving need-based financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The College participates in all the usual federal and state financial aid programs. These programs include:

Federal

  • Pell Grants
  • Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants
  • Stafford Loan (Subsidized)
  • Stafford Loan (Non subsidized)
  • Parent PLUS Loan
  • Perkins Loan
  • Nursing Student Loan
  • Work Study
  • Robert C. Byrd Scholarship
  • Reserve Officers Training Corps Scholarship
  • Veterans Administration Scholarship
  • Federal Indian Scholarship Program

State

  • Minnesota State Grant Program
  • Work Study
  • S.E.L.F. Loan Program
  • State Indian Scholarship Program
  • Division of Rehabilitation Services
  • Post-Secondary Child Care Grant Program
  • Public Safety Officer's Survivor Grant

There is also a substantial amount of institutional aid invested in financial aid programs. In addition to the $1,600,000 in St. Scholastica grants, the College awards need-based scholarships provided by over 100 donors. The generosity of these people and foundations is essential in helping to meet the financial needs of our students.

There are academic/leadership scholarships awarded by the Admissions Office to incoming students which include the Benedictine Scholarship and Opportunity Grant.

Financial aid can be awarded in the form of scholarships, grants, loans or student employment.

General Eligibility Criteria for Financial Aid

A student must:

  1. Be accepted as a degree-seeking student at the College.
  2. Be a citizen of the U.S. or possess permanent resident status.
  3. Maintain satisfactory academic progress in the course of study pursued according to the standards and practices of the institution. (See Satisfactory Academic Progress section.) If the student loses eligibility for financial aid due to unsatisfactory academic progress, there is a procedure to regain eligibility.
  4. Not be in default on any educational loan previously received at St. Scholastica or another institution.
  5. complete the application process as outlined below, and respond to notices or requests from the Financial Aid Office and other awarding agencies within the specified time.
    Failure to respond correctly may result in cancellation of funding for a student.

Financial Aid Refund Policy

If a student withdraws after a term has started, the College or the student may be required to return a portion of financial aid funding. This is a federal regulation effective September 5, 2000, and the specified financial calculation is required for any student withdrawing on or before 60 percent of the term has been completed. Students are encouraged to consult the Financial Aid Office before withdrawing in order to review the financial implications.

The amount of funding to be returned is based on the number of days left in the term divided by the total number of days in the term. Class breaks of five or more consecutive days are excluded in calculating the total number of days in the term.

The College's refund policy for institutional funding follows the state refund policy. Students who plan to withdraw must notify the vice president of student affairs.

Application Process

  1. Obtain and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. The FAFSA is available in high school guidance offices, college and university financial aid offices or the St. Scholastica Financial Aid Office. An applicant may also complete the FAFSA on the Web at www.fafsa.gov. The priority deadline to submit the FAFSA is March 15.
  2. Complete The College of St. Scholastica Financial Aid Application Form. (Incoming students only)
  3. Review the Financial Aid Award Letter and respond to enclosed materials.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

  1. Payment of financial aid awards from College controlled funds will be made by giving the student credit on his/her student account. Such payments will normally be made each semester. Payment of financial aid awards from sources beyond College control will be made at the discretion of the donor.
  2. Each student who receives or applies for financial aid must notify the Financial Aid Office of any financial aid award received from sources outside the College.
  3. Each applicant/recipient has the right to review his/her financial aid application and supporting documents.
  4. Each student who receives a Federal Nursing Student Loan or a Federal Perkins Loan (formerly the National Direct Student Loan) has the responsibility to complete the necessary promissory note, truth-in-lending statement, etc., in the Student Accounts Office within ten days after the start of a semester. Failure to do so may result in loan cancellation.
  5. Every student who has received a Federal Perkins Loan, a Federal Nursing Student Loan or a Federal Stafford Student Loan while in attendance at St. Scholastica must have an exit interview regarding these loans prior to graduation or withdrawal. Failure to do so will result in credentials being withheld.
  6. Federal, state and institutional policies and procedures change. Applicants should be sure that they have the latest information.
  7. Students must use their St. Scholastica email as a formal means of communication.

Outside Financial Aid Resources

Designated scholarships are offered by many organizations such as labor unions, fraternal orders and religious organizations. Students may obtain information concerning these scholarship opportunities from the secretaries of these groups. Special application forms are usually required.

High school seniors should be in close contact with their guidance office to become aware of scholarships for their high school and/or area graduates.

The Financial Aid Office operates a scholarship directory (free of charge) to assist students in locating funding from outside sources. Students should consult with the staff about this information.

Students with physical handicaps who wish to further their education or expand their area of employability may utilize vocational rehabilitation benefits. Students should check their home state Division of Rehabilitation Services to determine the amount of financial aid which may be available under this program.

The Veterans Administration pays veterans' benefits directly to qualified students. The college veterans coordinator will answer questions concerning the G. I. Bill, Dependent Educational Assistance Program Benefits and V. A. Contributory Benefits. The college veterans coordinator may be contacted through the Registrar's Office.

War Orphans Educational Assistance Act (Ch. 35, Title 38, U.S. Code) provides benefits to sons, daughters, wives and husbands of deceased veterans and of living veterans who have disabilities considered to be total and permanent in nature. The veteran must have died or become disabled as a result of service in the armed forces and must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Generally a young person must be between 12 and 23 years of age to attend school under this program. The eligible young person may receive up to 36 months of education. Applications and further information may be obtained from any county veterans office or The College of St. Scholastica veterans coordinator.

Indian scholarship funding may be available from the Minnesota State Indian Scholarship Program and/or the tribe in which the student is enrolled. Students are encouraged to apply by July 1 of each year as there may be limited funding. Please either contact these organizations directly or consult with the Financial Aid Office.

Air Force ROTC Scholarships

St. Scholastica students are invited to apply for Air Force ROTC college scholarships. Air Force ROTC offers high school seniors and college students five-, four-, three-, two- and sometimes one-year scholarships which cover tuition, fees, and a book allowance. Awards are based on the applicant's potential as an Air Force officer, as demonstrated by a combination of the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test score, academic achievement and recommendation of an AFROTC scholarship committee. Application for four-year scholarships must be made early in the senior year of high school. Students seeking scholarships should contact the Department of Aerospace Studies:

University of Minnesota-Duluth
1229 University Drive
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 726-8159

FEE SCHEDULE

The following is the official fee schedule for the 2005-2006 academic year for traditional undergraduate and graduate students at The College of St. Scholastica. Basic fees for the year include tuition, room and board, health service fees and some of the special course/lab fees.

Per Academic Semester Per Year
Tuition
(For students carrying 12 through 18 credits per semester. Less than 12 credits or each credit over 18 will be charged at $688 per credit.) Graduate tuition: $582 per credit. Physical therapy and occupational therapy students will be charged the graduate tuition rate/per credit upon acceptance into the program. Tuition rates may vary for some programs. $11,055 $22,110

Health Service Fee
(Required of all undergraduate and graduate students with 9 or more credits per semester.) $65 $130

Student Health Insurance (2004-2005 rate)
(Automatically charged to undergraduate and graduate students with 12 or more credits unless a waiver card is filled out and returned to Student Accounts within the first two weeks of a semester. Undergraduate students with 9 to 11 credits or graduate students with less than 12 credits have the option to enroll in the program by contacting the Student Accounts Office.) Student insurance is mandatory for all international students (undergraduate or graduate) regardless of number of credits enrolled. Insurance can be either through a separate policy or the College's policy. Proof of insurance is required if the policy is not through the College student insurance plan.

Housing

         Per Academic
Semester
   Per Year
                 
Grove Appartments       $1530    $3060
Birch, Maple, Pine and Willow Appartments       $1935    $4096
Cedar Hall       $2048    $4096
Somers Residence Hall Complex
Double       $3108    $6216
Suite       $3198    $6396

Includes board plan of 14 meals per week (students have the option of chooosing 17 or 10 meals per week by contacting Food Services). A deposit of $150 is required to secure the reservation of housing; this is held as a damage deposit. (Non-refundable after 5/1)

OTHER

$100 nonrefundable enrollment deposit is due on May 1. For applications made after May 1, payment is due upon receipt of acceptance for admission.


Application Fee $25

The following is the official fee schedule for the 2005 - 2006 academic year for the Accelerated Degree Evening Program of the Extended Studies Division of The College of St. Scholastica.

Undergraduate programs $330 per semester credit
$25 Application Fee
Technology Fee $60 per term
Management Graduate Program $375 per semester credit
$50 Application Fee

Special Course Fees (per semester):

Some courses may have lab or course fees associated with them. Details are listed in the class schedule.

The College reserves the right to make adjustments in tuition and fees without advance notice in order to meet current costs.

Student Insurance

The Student Accounts Office, in conjunction with the Health Service, offers information about our student insurance coverage. The College requires all undergraduate and graduate students with 12 or more credits to be covered by a health and accident insurance plan. Arranging such coverage is the student's responsibility and can be done through the College or through a separate policy. If the student is covered by a separate policy, the College requires the student to fill out an insurance waiver card each year and return it to the Student Accounts Office. Without submission of the insurance waiver card, the fulltime student is automatically charged the nonrefundable premium and covered under the College's student insurance plan. Undergraduate students with 9 to 11 credits and graduate students with less than 12 credits have the option of enrolling in the insurance plan and should contact the Student Accounts Office within the first two weeks of the semester to enroll. Students enrolled under the College's insurance plan are also required to pay the Health Service Fee.

Student insurance is mandatory for all international students either through a separate policy or the College's policy. If the policy is not through the College, proof of insurance is required.

Late Fee Assessments

When student accounts are not paid in full or a payment plan has not been arranged, a monthly interest charge of 1 percent will be assessed to the unpaid balance until the account is paid in full. Late fees are assessed the last business day of each month. Students waiting for financial aid should contact the Financial Aid Office to determine if the late fee should be waived due to financial aid arriving late. Students are expected to apply for financial aid on a timely basis. If financial aid has not been received prior to the due date for fees, a late fee will be assessed if the student still has a balance owing. Late fees will be waived only in those instances in which the student submitted all required paperwork in a timely manner. Students must contact the Financial Aid Office or Student Accounts to make arrangements.

Accelerated Degree Evening Program (ADEP) students will be charged a late fee of 1 percent each term. ADEP terms are eight weeks long. Late fees will be assessed prior to registration for subsequent terms.

Late Registration Fee

The College will charge $10 for a late registration (for any number of credits) after the first day of class sessions

Refunds

Generally, no refund on room, board, tuition or other fees is made for late entrance, suspension, dismissal or withdrawal.

Application Fee: No part of the application fee shall be refunded.

Enrollment Deposit: No part of the enrollment deposit shall be refunded.

Registration Drop/Add or withdrawal from College:

A student who drops a course must obtain a drop/add form from the Registrar's Office and personally process it through his/her instructor(s), advisor and the Registrar. There is a fee of $5 for any drop/add after the first week of each semester. When a student who has officially registered for an academic semester drops a class(es) to bring him/her out of the 12-18 credit plateau, the student may be entitled to a refund as outlined below. The student is responsible for filling out a drop/add form on a timely basis. Failure to do so may result in a reduction or forfeiture of refund. The official date of drop will be the date of last attendance as indicated by the instructor on the drop/add form. Students may appeal to the Registrar's Office if extenuating circumstances exist. The appeals committee will review the request and notify the student of its decision. All decisions are final. A student may not drop a course after June 30 of each year.

A student who is withdrawing must obtain a withdrawal form from the vice president of student affairs and personally process it through the offices listed on that form.

Students should refer to the class schedule for refund drop dates.

A. Tuition & Course/Lab Fees

If the registrar certifies that the student
dropped the first day of the term or before: 100% refund

When student has attended classes and has processed the drop/add or withdrawal form to cancel within:
 
10% of semester 90%
20% of semester 80%
30% of semester 70%
40% of semester 60%
50% of semester 50%
60% of semester 40%
70% of semester
and thereafter
NO REFUND

B. Health Fee

If the student drops below 9 credits during the semester within:
 
The first day of
the term or before
100%
10% of semester 90%
20% of semester 80%
30% of semester 70%
40% of semester 60%
50% of semester 50%
60% of semester 40%
70% of semester
and thereafter
NO REFUND

C. Room and Board

When a student's housing contract is canceled during the contract period, the housing deposit will be forfeited.

If a student is suspended, dismissed or withdraws from the College, refunds for meal plans will be based on the room and board schedule listed below. If a student remains enrolled at the College, they will be charged for the entire portion of their planned Dining Dollars. They may use these Dining Dollars until the end of the academic year.

 
10% of semester 90%
20% of semester 80%
30% of semester 70%
40% of semester 60%
50% of semester 50%
60% of semester 40%
70% of semester
and thereafter
NO REFUND

Payments

Tuition and other fees are due two weeks prior to the beginning of a term. Payment may be made in person or mailed to the Business Office in T1130. Checks and money orders should be made payable to The College of St. Scholastica. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted as well as payment through The College of St. Scholastica Web site (www.css.edu/BusinessOffice). It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that his/her account is paid in full and on time. Accounts with an unpaid balance are subject to a 1 percent monthly late fee. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the student from his/her financial obligation or late fee if the amount due is not paid by the due date. Students are encouraged to contact the Student Accounts Office for information and assistance regarding their accounts with the College.

Payment Plans

When a student cannot pay his/her account on time, the student must contact and work with the Student Accounts Office to set up an extended payment plan. Currently, that office has available a payment plan administered by FACTS. The cost for this plan is $45 a year. An agreement form is filled out indicating the amount the student would like to budget for the year. Normally, this amount is divided into ten payments, beginning in July and ending in April. These predetermined payments are processed through the student's bank account on the 5th of each month. An application form and brochure are available in the Student Accounts Office.

Student Refund Checks

Overpayments or excess financial aid will be returned to the student unless the student gives the school written authorization to keep the funds on the student's account. In the case of a PLUS loan, the excess balance will go to the parents. Credit balances are refunded automatically and/or by request at the cashier's window. Student refund checks will be distributed to St. Scholastica mailboxes no later than Friday morning at 8 a.m. each week, unless otherwise directed. According to federal regulations, The College of St. Scholastica is required to have all students who receive Title IV federal financial aid fill out an authorization form permitting the College to apply the Title IV funds to charges other than tuition, fees, room and board. To ensure compliance with federal regulations, all students receiving refunds will be required to fill out an authorization form informing the College how they would like their financial aid disbursed. Authorization forms are available at the cashier's window. Students need to fill out only one form unless the student wants to change his/her authorization from year to year.

Billing

A student will receive one schedule/bill each semester which will be sent to the student's permanent home address approximately one month prior to the term due date. An additional schedule/bill may be picked up in the Business Office. The student is responsible for any changes in courses or fees after the initial schedule/bill. Late registration and/or changes in fees do not extend due dates. A statement of account will be sent to the student's St. Scholastica mailbox or local address monthly. This will allow students to monitor their account status. Students may request that an invoice is also sent to their parents' address by filling out a change of billing address form, available in the Student Accounts Office.

Holds

If a student has a balance in excess of $500 and has made no arrangement for payment, the student will not be allowed to register for the upcoming semester. Also, if a student has a balance owing the College, is past due on a Federal Perkins and/or Federal Nursing Loan or has not completed an exit interview for the above loans, a hold will be placed on their official grade transcripts. If a student is on a payment plan, payment in full will be required prior to the release of transcripts. The student should contact the Student Accounts Office to make arrangements to put his/her account in order.

If a student leaves the College with a balance owing, the College may refer the account to a collection agency or credit bureau and pass any collection costs on to the student. Late fees are still in effect if a student becomes inactive and owes a balance.

Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning Credit

The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (TRA97) provides a tax credit to all students who qualify. The College will send a 1098-T form by January 31 of each year to the most recent home address on file, as required by the IRS. The College will not give out tax advice but will provide information to assist in determining eligibility. For more information on this tax credit, please visit The College of St. Scholastica's Web site (http://www.css.edu/businessoffice/SA_Tax.shtml).

THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM

The curriculum at The College of St. Scholastica reflects a commitment to prepare students for their responsibilities as working professionals, as citizens of a democracy and as individuals who seek to live full human lives.

Overview

A student's academic program consists of three parts: general education requirements, a major, and open electives. The major prepares the student for graduate school or for a profession and is normally selected by the end of the sophomore year. Elective courses allow students to pursue particular interests.

Benedictine Liberal Arts Education at The College of St. Scholastica

The mission of Benedictine Liberal Arts Education at The College of St. Scholastica is to engage students in defining and practicing responsible living and meaningful work. The program has three components: a first year experience known as Dignitas, a range of liberal arts courses called Pathways and a senior level component currently called Writing Intensive.

Historically Benedictines have been scholars, caregivers, educators and artists; the liberal arts mirror the broad pathways that Benedictines have pioneered. The rigor and breadth of our program best prepare St. Scholastica students to meet the present and face the future with wisdom, faith and imagination.

The College of St. Scholastica outcomes of

  1. Ways of Knowing
  2. Effective Communication
  3. Social Responsibility
           define the components of this distinctive program and reflect the Benedictine values of our College. The fourth College outcome, Disciplinary Concentration, is achieved through the major field of study.

Ways of Knowing

As an institution of higher learning the College has the responsibility to help students recognize and value different ways of knowing, ranging from aesthetic to analytical. The student should not only receive knowledge (propositional and procedural) but also learn to evaluate, integrate and construct knowledge. A liberal arts education provides students with the ability to reason in a diverse world.

The student shall:

  • Articulate a critical response to creative works
  • Use qualitative and quantitative data in a systematic approach to arrive at reasoned conclusions
  • Move from intuition into insight through investigation and critical reflection
  • Articulate how people and societies construct perceptions of reality from different perspectives [e.g. religious, philosophical, historical, cultural, scientific]
  • Approach problems and issues from an interdisciplinary perspective
  • Reflect on and challenge perceptions, actions and values based on new information

Effective Communication

The College takes seriously its obligation to help students develop and foster effective communication. Effective communication is the ability to convey and receive messages in a variety of contexts through a variety of media. It requires the ability to understand and express ideas for both personal and professional communication and to demonstrate respect for and understanding of others' differing perspectives.

The student shall:

  • Identify personal strengths, weaknesses and strategies for improvement as a responsible and effective communicator
  • Offer and solicit feedback to enhance the ability to communicate in a variety of contexts
  • Construct and revise messages in an appropriate form for an intended audience
  • Communicate interpersonally, publicly, in oral, written and other ways
  • Demonstrate respect and understanding of differing points of view

Social Responsibility

As a Catholic and Benedictine institution, the College has a particular obligation to share with students the reasons why it believes in the worth and dignity of all persons, why it places importance on extending hospitality to all, and why it works for peace and justice in a diverse world. Equally important is helping students to be better informed citizens, for a democratic society is dependent upon the active participation of all of its people.

The student shall:

  • Explain how power and privilege contribute to the shaping of cultures' and societies' constructions of ethnicity, race, religion, class, gender and sexuality
  • Articulate a reasoned assessment or analysis of issues relating to social justice and stewardship
  • Listen to, consider and articulate conflicting perspectives, and value difference as a source for creative change
  • Both respect and honor differences and similarities/commonalities within a multi-cultural nation and world community
  • Utilize an ethical decision-making model to integrate action, personal values and knowledge related to a social justice issue

Disciplinary Concentration

In order to prepare students for responsible living and meaningful work, the College believes that students should direct a substantial portion of their effort towards excellence within a particular discipline. This entails pursuing a major to develop a depth of knowledge and skills and the modes of inquiry common to that field, as well as considering the larger context of the roles that field plays in society. The program majors and minors are responsible for developing indicators appropriate to their field of study.

Dignitas

The ability to express one's self effectively is integral to success in college, in personal and professional life, and in all public endeavors. To develop communication skills, all beginning students and all first-year transfer students without writing/oral communication competencies are required to complete a two-semester sequence of writing and oral communication courses. This coursework cultivates critical thinking skills and the formation of values and encourages involvement in public discourse.

The Dignitas Program provides a common experience for first year students to develop a foundation for intellectual, personal and social integration. The theme of dignity is integrated throughout all courses in the Dignitas Program. Dignitas 1101 and 1102 use one common text and share common meeting times. Courses are taught by faculty members from several disciplines. Dignitas faculty members decide on the specific disciplinary academic content for their sections. Transitional issues that affect students from their first day of orientation throughout the first year are also included. Patricia Hagen, Ph.D., Director.

Dignitas Requirements:

DGN 1101 The Responsible Self (2 credits)

DGN 1102 And Dignity for All (2 credits)

ENG 1110 First-Year Composition (4 credits)
English 1110 emphasizes the development of thinking and writing skills. Based on principles of contemporary writing pedagogy, the course includes prewriting activities, the writing process, considerations of audience and purpose, writing reflections, peer evaluation, drafting, group writing and conferences with one's instructor. Early assignments depend on personal experience and then sequence to argumentative and research writing. Attention, as necessary, will be given to grammar and syntax. The theme of dignity is integrated in this course.

CTA 1102 Human Communication (4 credits)
CTA 1102 combines the areas of interpersonal communication and public speaking. The course focuses on the nature of the communication process as it applies to relationships, the self, perception, verbal communication, assertiveness, listening skills, nonverbal communication, conflict management, and cultural differences. Students will be introduced to styles of presenting themselves and their ideas to public groups. The course emphasizes purpose, audience analysis, choice of supporting material, organization, delivery behaviors and rhetorical skills.

Pathways Requirements:

Students satisfy Benedictine liberal arts requirements by taking a wide range of courses, amounting to approximately one-third of the 128 credits required for graduation.

Cultural Diversity (I) 4 credits. Students are required to take one course that can count for
both cultural diversity and another liberal arts distribution requirement.

Social Sciences (II) 4 credits.

World Languages (III) 0-8 credits. Students need to demonstrate a language competency equal to the second semester of a beginning language course. This requirement can be met in one of three ways: (1) by having completed three years of one language in high school grades 9-12; (2) by successfully completing ASL 1104, FRN 1104, GMN 1104, LTN 1104, OJB 1104, RUS 1104, or SPN 1104; or (3) by showing equivalent proficiency at the same course levels (respectively in American Sign Language, French, German, Latin, Ojibwe, Russian, or Spanish) through a St. Scholastica placement exam.

Literature (IV) 4 credits. Analytical

Reasoning(V) 4 credits.

Natural Science (VI) 4 credits

History (VII) 4 credits

Fine Arts (VIII) 4 credits

Philosophy (IX) 4 credits.

Religious Studies (X) 4 credits

Writing Intensive (WI) 4 credits. Students are required to take an upper division Writing Intensive course in their junior or senior year. This requirement must be taken at St. Scholastica.

The Roman numerals found after course titles in this catalog identify which Pathway(s) a specific course fulfills. Each course may be used to satisfy only one Pathway with the exception of the cultural diversity requirement.