Academics

Adult Education/Literacy and High School Equivalency Preparation

The Adult Education/Literacy Program offers tuition-free classes for High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) and English Language Learning (ELL) to adults 17 years and older in the Iowa Central area. HSED classes assist students in com­pleting the five HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) subtest areas in a com­puter-based test format. These subtest areas are Writing, Math, Social Studies, Science, and Reading. Classes are offered throughout the program year in Fort Dodge, Webster City, Storm Lake, Eagle Grove, and Jefferson. Official testing is offered on Fort Dodge, Webster City, and Storm Lake campuses. ELL classes are available for students whose first language is not English. ELL classes reinforce life skills in English in the areas of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. ELL class locations are in Fort Dodge, Webster City, Storm Lake, and Eagle Grove. Contact the Adult Education/Literacy Director for further class information.

Advanced Placement, College Level Examination Program, and Credit for Prior Learning

Students at Iowa Central Community College may be admitted to courses above the introductory level on the basis of the Advanced Placement Examination (AP), the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and Credit for Prior Learning credit for career programs.

Advanced Placement Program

Credit is granted for successfully completing the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board with a score of 3.00 or better.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Credit is granted for successfully completing Subject and General Examinations of the CLEP program. The Academic Resource Center has the information per­taining to CLEP testing and the guidelines for taking the tests.

Transfer of Credit Earned by Examination through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The Regents’ universities accept credit earned through CLEP Subject and General Examinations as indicated on the participating community college transcript provided certain minimum scores are achieved. For this credit to be validated at the Regents’ university, it must be accompanied by at least twelve (12) semester credit hours of course work completed in residence at the community college.

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for Prior Learning credit allows students to earn credit for the skills they bring into Iowa Central Community College. Iowa Central Community College has approved articulated credit from some training programs such as the State of Iowa and the Department of Corrections. Iowa Central Community College also awards credit to those who hold certain licenses and other courses may be tested-out for credit. Fees charged for articulation and test-out vary depending on the credit hour equivalent of the applicable course. $50 is charged for courses of less than two (2) semester hours of credit, $75 is charged for courses of two to four (2-4) semester hours, and $100 is charged for courses greater than four (4) semester hours. Some tests may also have a materials fee. Fees must be paid prior to testing and students must test within the first five days of the semester if they are currently enrolled in the course and want to test out. The maximum number of Credit for Prior Learning credits that can be transcripted is 30.

Students will qualify for test-out of a course(s) they have already taken; after three years of the end date of the course previously taken, if they were withdrawn or failed the course. External entities issuing credentials/licensures would not have to wait the three-year timeframe. Credit will be issued immediately.

Certain, non-credit courses taken at other institutions can be transferred in at the discretion of the Program Coordinator. Students must submit appropriate docu­mentation to the Program Coordinator. The Program Coordinator will submit final approval to Student Records. Fees will be applied in these cases.

Certain, non-credit courses taken at Iowa Central Community College can be converted to credit courses when the non-credit course is equivalent to the credit course. Students must submit appropriate documentation to the Program Coor­dinator. The Program Coordinator will submit final approval to Student Records. No fees will be applied in these cases.

Please see Credit for Prior Learning course list .

America’s Small Business Development Center

America’s Small Business Development Center at Iowa Central Community College serves entrepreneurs and existing businesses in Audubon, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Greene, Guthrie, Hamilton, Humboldt, Pocahontas, Sac, Wright, and Webster counties. The focus of the center is to help build rural Iowa through entrepreneurial and small business initiatives, which include direct client consults, workshops, and webinars. This service ultimately fosters a regional culture of entrepreneurship and business growth.

Assessment of Student Academic Achievement

Iowa Central Community College is a student-centered, learning-focused institu­tion dedicated to continuous quality improvement in its instructional programs. To ensure that the educational mission of Iowa Central is realized through its curriculum, the Assessment Committee has developed a com­prehensive plan of assessment for student achievement of educational outcomes. The purpose and design of this plan is to provide the faculty and administration with evidence linking Iowa Central’s educational expectations with student learning. Such evidence allows the faculty and college to identify strengths and areas needing improvements within the curriculum and its delivery system. This evidence provides faculty with information that can be used to improve curricular design and classroom instruction. In addition to assessing academics each semester, annual assessments of co-curricular events/activities and functional areas of the college are also conducted by faculty, staff, and administration, to determine the impacts these areas have on student learning. Any areas identified as needing improvements may be addressed through academic and institutional planning, as well as budgeting processes.

Assessment of student learning takes place at all levels within the College. The first assessments encountered by students are placement assessments given to ensure each student’s enrollment in the proper writing and math courses. Classroom assessments occur frequently and are intended to improve the teaching and learning that occurs within the class. These classroom assessments are also used to measure student achievement of department and program outcomes, as well as institutional outcomes. Pre- and post-exams are given in many classes to establish academic gains in the course. Functional areas of the college, co-curricular events/activities, and support services offered to students are also assessed to ensure worthwhile educational experiences are provided to students outside the classroom. Students are expected to take all assess­ment activities seriously because they directly or indirectly affect their future.

The assessment plan is for the purposes of improving learning and advancing the educational mission of Iowa Central Community College. The results of assessment data collection are not intended to be measures of an individual student’s performance and have no bearing on either a student’s successful completion of an individual course or individual progress toward the degree.

The student academic assessment process at Iowa Central has clearly defined goals:

• To confirm that student learning is at the heart of every assessment initiative. Student learning is the common goal that drives every academic department and program, every co-curricular activity/event, and every functional area of the college.
• To use assessment to promote an environment that encourages curricular innovation and meaningful learning opportunities.
• To monitor general education requirements.
• To provide valuable feedback for curricular, co-curricular, functional, budgetary, and scheduling processes.
• To ensure institutional goals are monitored and the institutional mission is being met.

Iowa Central Community College is committed to this assessment plan, monitoring the results, and using data to continuously improve educational opportunities.

Attendance Regulations

The College places the responsibility of attendance on the student. Regular attendance is expected. Faculty are required to maintain and submit attendance rosters.

Add/Drop Procedure

Adding a class can be done within the first five (session days) of the term. Dropping a class without a “W” on transcript can be done within the first five (session days) of the term. For definition of session, see section titled Session Days. Dates vary for classes that are less than one full semester. For classes less than fifteen (15) weeks, go to Self-Service in Triton Pass and click on Resources and then Tuition Refund Dates/Last Day to Requesto to Withdraw, or contact Student Records for more information.

Administrative Withdrawal

A student will be administratively withdrawn from a class when the student is absent more than 25% of the total scheduled class meetings by the mid-point of the class. Automatic attendance notifications are sent when the number of absences exceeds 15% and then again at 20%. Students should talk to instructors about their absences and work with them to make plans for success before the 25% is exceeded. School-sponsored absences do count towards these percentages, but the policy for contacting instructors prior to any such absences to arrange for missed work in advance is in place to prevent such absences from impacting a course grade. Students need to check an instructor’s or program’s attendance policy in the course syllabus, which may be more specific and grade related.

Automatic Grade Book Alerts

Faculty can set thresholds for automatic attendance and grade alerts in the Self-Service Gradebook. Look for these notifications via email. Students’ advisors will also receive copies of these alerts. For example, students may receive an email when they miss two classes in a row.

Military Service Policy

If students receive orders from the National Guard or reserve forces of the United States to active duty, or if their spouse or parent receives these military orders, they have the following options to choose from:

Withdraw: withdraw from all courses and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees.

Complete Courses: arrange with the instructor(s) for course grades or incompletes that will be completed by a later date as per the Iowa Central Community College Incomplete Grade Agreement. In this case, the tuition and fees are assessed in full for the courses.

Combination of Withdraw and Completion: a mix of grades, incompletes, and withdrawn courses is possible depending on the dialogue between the instructor and the student based on timeframe of the course and semester. In this case, there would be a mix of refunded tuition and fees for the withdrawn courses and full charges of tuition and fees for the graded and incomplete courses.

Student-Initiated Withdrawal

If you no longer wish to be enrolled in a class, you are expected to withdraw from the course using the online withdraw form which is located in Self-Service. Students choosing to not use the online withdraw procedure must pick up a Change of Enrollment form in the Student Records Office, obtain the instructor’s signature and return the form to the Student Records Office for processing. Failure to process a Change of Enrollment form will result in the grade of “F” on your transcript.

Withdrawal and Total Withdrawal from College

Withdrawing from a course: The last date to request a withdraw from a 15-week course for Fall 2024 is November 21; for Spring 2025, the last day to request a withdraw from a 15-week course is April 10. Dates vary for classes that do not meet for the full 15-week semester. Contact Student Records for more information. Requests must be made by these dates to avoid receiving an “F” on the permanent record. Not attending a class does not constitute a withdrawal request. To withdraw from a course, students must log in to Self-Service, click on “Drop/Withdraw from Class,” and complete and submit the online withdrawal form. Students must make sure they have correctly submitted the online withdrawal form and can check the status of their request(s) in the section labeled “Previous Withdraw Requests” in the online withdrawal form. Students choosing not to withdraw from a class using the online withdrawal procedure must get a Change of Enrollment form in the Student Records Office, obtain the instructor’s signature, and return the form to the Student Records Office for processing.

Failure to attend class, once registered, does not cancel enrollment in any class or classes: Failure to change enrollment status, except according to the above procedure, will result in a grade of “F” recorded on the permanent record. A notation of “W” (withdrawal) will be made on the permanent record if students officially withdraw by the published withdrawal date. For Distance Learning Withdrawal procedures, please contact the Distance Learning Office at ext. 1098.

Total Withdrawal from College: Students who find it necessary to withdraw from all college courses should immediately confer with their advisor and then log in to Self-Service, click the “Drop/Withdraw from Class” link, and complete the online withdrawal procedure. Students who borrowed Federal Direct Loans will be directed to complete the online exit counseling at the time of the withdrawal. Failure to do so will result in the issuance of failing grades in all courses for which the student enrolled. There is no withdrawal via telephone. 

Special Circumstance Withdrawal Policy: After the last date to withdraw during a semester, a student may withdraw only for a major mental or physical illness, significant incapacity, or another life-changing event. Whether a student’s situation constitutes a withdrawal will be the decision of the Special Circumstance Committee: President, Vice President of Instruction, Vice President of Enrollment Services and Student Development, and any other situation-specific employees. A “Special Circumstance Course Withdrawal or “Special Circumstance Total Withdrawal” is a withdrawal from the college after the published last day to drop or withdraw from a class or classes. Students may apply for a (select one): 1) Special Circumstance Total Withdrawal - Withdrawing from all classes in a given semester or 2) Special Circumstance Course Withdrawal - Withdrawing from some classes, but finishing other classes in a given semester. The student should provide the following documentation: 1. Personal statement written by the student that outlines the life-changing event and how it has impacted their success. 2. A copy of the communication that has occurred between the student and the appropriate staff/faculty (such as instructor, financial aid, athletic compliance coordinator, international advisor, etc.). 3. A formal document of support (on letterhead) from a healthcare provider, counselor, lawyer, or another credentialed professional who is knowledgeable of the student’s situation. This formal document must include dates of service, what services were provided, and why they were provided to the student.

Audit Policy

Students may be allowed to audit certain courses. Students who audit will not be held responsible for lesson assignments or tests and will not receive credit for the course. The audit fee is the regular course tuition and fees. A course may be audited before or after it is taken for credit. The decision to audit must precede regis­tration. The audit grade is “N.”

Course Cancellation

The college reserves the right to cancel any courses that have insufficient enrollment.

Course Delivery Methods

Iowa Central Community College delivers courses using a variety of methods to meet the needs of its diverse student population. The delivery method for each class is provided to students on their Fall, Spring, and Summer class schedules in the course/section code. Student schedules also include and define the type of course (lecture, lab, internship, etc.) and provide the start and end dates for each course, which may vary. Regardless of class type, delivery method, or number/length of scheduled class meetings, courses taken for credit at Iowa Central will meet credit hour/contact hour requirements per the definitions. See Credit Hours section below for more information.

Traditional/Face-to-Face

Virtual

These classes consist of live scheduled class meetings that students may attend virtually from anywhere with a webcam-enabled device. The section location after the course number is noted with “VN” (virtual network), e.g. ENG-105-VN01.

Online

These classes are entirely online and noted with “OL” or “8W” as the location in the course listing, e.g. PHI-145-OL01. See Distance Learning for more information about online classes and programs.

Hybrid

A hybrid class, which is designated by an “H” in the last part of a section ID, combines two or more instructional formats. At least 50 percent of the hybrid class contact hours will meet traditionally or virtually.

• Virtual Hybrid: Combines traditional/face-to-face format with live scheduled virtual delivery, noted with VH at end of course section listing, e.g. SOC-115-FD1VH
• Online Hybrid: Combines traditional/face-to-face format with online learning and resources, e.g. FLS-141-FD01H
• Virtual-Online Hybrid: Combines live scheduled virtual delivery with online learning and resources, e.g. LIT-101-VN01H

Arranged Study

Arranged study classes are scheduled with the instructor according to instructor and student availability. Examples of arranged study classes include all applied music lessons (MUA) courses and independent study (Special Projects) courses.

Late-start/fast-track/short-term

These classes do not follow the typical fifteen-week semester; see course schedule for start and end dates for each section. These classes still meet all credit hour/contact hour requirements per the definitions.

Credit Hours

Credit hours are the academic unit of measure for programs, courses, and enrollment status. Every course offered at Iowa Central is worth one or more credit hours. Credit hours are comprised of one or more components, which include different instructional modes or meeting types, such as labs, lectures, and practicums. Each of these components utilizes a formula for required minimum contact hours to satisfy Iowa Department of Education standards for credit hours. The following definitions are used when departments or programs create, modify, and schedule courses:

Lecture

The traditional method of instruction, these courses utilize lecture and formalized classroom instruction under the supervision of an instructor, and students will have assigned readings and/or homework to complete outside of class. Lecture components are coded as LEC on class schedules. Fifteen (15) contact hours or 900 minutes of lecture = one (1) credit hour.

Laboratory

Hands-on experimentation and practice by students under the supervision of an instructor. These courses may or may not require assigned readings and/or homework to complete outside of class. Laboratory components are coded as LAB on class schedules. A minimum of thirty (30) contact hours or 1800 minutes of lab = one (1) credit hour.

Clinical

Applied learning experience in a health agency or office under instructor supervision. These classes may be held off campus at a professional location or a simulation lab. Clinical components are coded as CLI on class schedules. A minimum of forty-five (45) contact hours or 2700 minutes of clinical = one (1) credit hour.

Practicum

Structured, practical experience in a professional setting under instructor supervision. These classes may be held off campus. Practicum components are coded as PRAC on class schedules. A minimum of sixty (60) contact hours or 3600 minutes of practicum = one (1) credit hour.

Internship

Employment-related experience (on-the-job training) coordinated by a college representative and an employer, with control and supervision of the student on the job being the employer’s responsibility. A minimum of sixty (60) contact hours or 3600 minutes of internship = one (1) credit hour.

Developmental Education

The goal of Developmental Education is to provide students with an adequate background in basic skills so that they will be successful in college-level courses and ultimately in the workforce. In order to properly place students with diverse skill levels, Iowa Central requires either their high school GPA, ACT, SAT, ALEKS, and/or ACCUPLACER test scores from all students. If it is determined that students are underprepared, they are required to enroll in Basic Reading, Success Seminar, Basic Writing, Composition I Laboratory, and/or Math Strategies. Placement is based on the 2024-2025 Mandatory Placement . Developmental courses utilize a classroom lecture and/or lab format. Developmental course credit does not meet graduation credit requirements for certificate, diploma, general studies, or associate degree programs.

Communications Department Guidelines for Advancing in Developmental Courses

Students wanting to advance to the next level of writing or reading from ENG 025 - Basic Writing  and/or RDG 048 - Basic Reading  must earn a minimum grade of “CP”  to obtain the necessary post-test score, or in ex­tenuating circumstances, obtain a letter of recommendation from the instructor indicating that the student may be advanced. Students in the co-requisite  ENG 067 - Composition I Laboratory  must earn a “C” or better in ENG 105 - Composition I   to avoid retaking the co-requisite course when retaking ENG 105.

Math Department Guidelines for Advancing in Developmental Courses

Students wanting to advance to college-level mathematics classes from MAT 054 - Math Strategies    Math Strategies must earn a minimum grade of “CP” or the necessary placement score to advance to the next level.

Discontinued Programs/Courses

Students who request a degree from a discontinued program at Iowa Central Community College will be advised regarding their options for completion of a degree. Iowa Central Community College does not guarantee the availability of discontinued courses one year after Board action to discontinue.

Distance Learning

Iowa Central Community College serves a diverse student population with different needs regarding accessibility and convenience of college credit offer­ings. In an attempt to offer students a variety of methods by which to complete college credit coursework, Iowa Central offers Online, Virtual, Hybrid, and various classes offered in partnership with area school districts. See Course Delivery Methods section above for definitions of these formats.

Online Courses

The College began offering classes via the internet during the 1998 fall semester. Convenience to students and flexibility of scheduling are two benefits of distance learning classes. The College strongly recommends that only students with a 3.0 or higher GPA enroll in Online classes. The College has been approved by the Higher Learning Commission to offer Associate Degrees via the internet.

Online classes are structured in format design with assignments, assessments, projects, papers, etc. that must be completed and submitted by the end of each week. Students are not allowed to work ahead and must complete the classwork within the corresponding week. Forums are also an essential portion of the class where participation points are acquired each week.

Online Programs

Iowa Central offers students the opportunity to enroll and complete several Associate Degrees via the Online Programs. In most programs, students enroll in two (2) classes over an eight (8) week block. The programs are completed 100% via the internet and offer the flexibility of “attending” class without traveling to campus. The classes are designed to allow students the convenience of working at a time that best fits their needs. Discussion topics are required weekly along with assignments and other activities. Each student is assigned to an advisor. This advisor works closely with each student as they enroll in one of the programs. The application process, tuition, and other processes may vary due to the nature of the delivery system. For tuition and various fees, please refer to section Tuition and Fees  in the catalog.

Online programs available include:

Accounting A.A.S. Degree
Associate of Arts A.A. Degree
Business Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Business A.A.S. Degree
Computer Networking Technology A.A.S Degree
Criminal Justice Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Criminal Justice A.A.S. Degree
Digital Arts A.A.A. Degree
Early Childhood (Teacher Licensure) Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Elementary Education Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Health Care Administration A.P.S. Degree
Human and Family Servics, Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Human Services A.A.S. Degree
Psychology Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Secondary Education Transfer Major A.A. Degree
Sociology Transfer Major A.A. Degree

Earlybird Classes (Concurrent Enrollment)

Iowa Central Community College and Area V high schools have formed partner­ships to offer high school students opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school. Students in grades 9-12 are able to enroll and complete Iowa Central classes at their high school, on an Iowa Central campus, or online. The high school faculty who meet community college faculty credentials are recognized as adjunct faculty and they must follow the approved Iowa Central syllabus to offer the college-level class within the high school’s schedule.

PSEO (Post-Secondary Enrollment Options)

Students attending a public or accredited nonpublic school who are in the 11th or 12th grade (or 9th and 10th grade TAG students) are eligible to par­ticipate. Students need to consult with their high school to determine other eligibility requirements. Classes offered within PSEO are offered during the fall and spring semesters.

Other Partnerships

A Charter School partnership with Storm Lake Community School District offers access to various programs available at Iowa Central. The institution also offers classes through a North Central Career Academy located in Eagle Grove, the Northwest Career Academy located in Laurens, and Greene County Career Academy in Jefferson. In the Fall of 2022, the College began offering college courses through the Triton Academies which allows high school students the opportunity to enroll in various programs both online and on the Fort Dodge campus. Learn more about Triton Academies. 

Distance Learning Financial Aid Attendance Policy

Federal regulations state that a student must make academic progress in their classes in order to be eligible for financial aid to be disbursed. In an Online class, attendance requirements are met by submitting work, such as an assignment, a quiz, or a test in each Online class. The Financial Aid Office will verify that attendance is established prior to disbursing funds.

In situations where a student officially or unofficially withdraws from a class(es), Iowa Central may be required to return a percentage of financial aid to the federal government. This may result in the student owing a balance to Iowa Central. Our Return of Title IV Funds Policy can be found here: www.iowacentral.edu/financial_aid/forms_docs/R2T4Policy.pdf.

Withdrawing from a class(es) may also affect a student’s eligibility to receive Title IV funds in the future at Iowa Central. Our Satisfactory Academic Standards Policy can be found here: http://catalog.iowacentral.edu/content.php?catoid=4&navoid=164#financial-aid

For questions regarding financial aid, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 1-800-362-2793.

Economic Development

The Economic Development Department at Iowa Central Community College works to enhance economic vitality and ensure a competent/competitive work­force for the region we serve. Iowa Central provides economic development and training services that assist businesses in growth and development, increase of productivity, and enhancement of employee skills. The Economic Development Depart­ment utilizes and manages the Iowa New Jobs Training Program (260E) and the Iowa Jobs Training Program (260F) to provide financial assistance to train new or incumbent workers. Customized training is developed and designed specifically to meet the training needs of companies in the region we serve. Economic Development programs are also used to encourage the expansion of existing businesses as well as to attract new employers to our area.

Educational Opportunities

College Transfer

Iowa Central Community College offers the first two years of a baccalaureate program to students who intend to transfer to a four-year college. Students desiring to transfer should consult with their advisor prior to enrolling to meet the requirements of receiving institutions. Below is a list of degrees offered at Iowa Central.

Associate of Arts

An Associate of Arts Degree is awarded to the student successfully completing sixty (60) semester hours of course work with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00. Requirements for the Associate of Arts selected from the general requirements are:

1. Nine (9) hours of Communications (Composition and Public Speaking)
2. Eight (8) hours of mathematics and science, at least one (1) course from each area
3. Nine (9) hours of social sciences from any two of three areas
4. Nine (9) hours of humanities from any two of four areas
5. Five (5) hours of distributed courses from the four areas above
6. One (1) hour of institutional requirement
7. Three (3) hours of computer literacy requirement

An additional sixteen (16) semester hours are required:

1. Sixteen (16) hours of electives from Arts & Science, or
2. Sixteen (16) hours from applied sciences and technologies courses, or
3. Sixteen (16) hours of combined electives from one (1) and two (2) above.

Developmental courses (numbered <100) do not count toward a degree.

Associate of Science

An Associate of Science Degree is awarded to the student successfully complet­ing sixty (60) semester hours of course work with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00. Require­ments for the Associate of Science selected from the general requirements are:

1. Nine (9) hours of Communications (Composition and Public Speaking)
2. Twenty (20) hours of mathematics and science, at least one (1) course from each area
3. Six (6) hours of social sciences from any two of three areas
4. Three (3) hours of humanities from any of the four areas
5. Two (2) hours of distributed courses from the four areas above
6. One (1) hour of institutional requirement
7. Three (3) hours of computer literacy requirement

An additional sixteen (16) catalog hours are required:

1. Sixteen (16) hours of electives from Arts & Science, or
2. Sixteen (16) hours from applied sciences and technologies courses, or
3. Sixteen (16) hours of combined electives from one (1) and two (2) above.

Developmental courses (numbered < 100) do not count toward a degree.

Associate of Professional Studies

An Associate of Professional Studies Degree - Career Option is awarded to the student successfully completing a specific career option program with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00. Developmental courses (numbered <100) do not count towards a degree. Students enrolled in career option programs are eligible to enter the job market or transfer to a four-year college or university.

Associate of Applied Arts

An Associate of Applied Arts Degree is awarded to the student successfully completing a specific applied arts curriculum of at least two years with a min­imum G.P.A. of 2.00. Developmental education courses (numbered <100) do not count toward a degree.

Associate of Applied Science

An Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded to the student successfully completing a specific applied science and technology curriculum of at least two years with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00. Developmental education courses (numbered <100) do not count toward a degree.

Iowa Central Community College offers a wide variety of applied science and tech­nology programs in the areas of Health Sciences, Business Technologies, and Indus­trial Technology. Placement services are available to students seeking employment.

Associate of General Studies

An Associate of General Studies Degree is awarded to the student successfully completing any sixty (60) semester hours with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00, provided they are not eligible for or previously earned an Associate’s Degree. Developmental education courses (numbered <100) do not apply toward a degree.

Diploma

A Diploma is awarded to the student successfully completing an applied sci­ence and technology or career option curriculum of less than two years with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00. Developmental education courses (numbered <100) do not count towards a degree.

Certificate

A certificate is awarded to a student in a program that requires less than one year with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.00.

EMS Training

Iowa Central Community College is an advanced provider of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training, approved by the Iowa Department of Public Health Bureau of Emergency & Trauma Services section. Courses offered include Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic. Skills taught will range from basic stabilizing techniques, patient assessment and examination, to all advanced emergency medical care skills including cardiac evaluation and treatment, medication effects and treatment, and advanced airway management techniques.

Enrollment and Assessment

The Student Services Staff enroll new, current, former, and transfer students. They acquaint the students with the courses they will be required to take to meet requirements for program completion. Students are to enroll within the dates given in the college calendar. Consult the college calendar for the last day to register and/or add a course(s).

What test scores are accepted and why are scores necessary?

A necessary part of preparation for enrollment is being aware of the students’ strengths, weaknesses, and their goals. In order to obtain this information, Iowa Central requires High School GPA, ACT, SAT, ACCUPLACER, and/or ALEKS scores to guide students to appropriate coursework and to eventual academic success. ACT or SAT tests have usually been taken during high school. For those who have not taken them, Iowa Central offers the ACCUPLACER and ALEKS tests free of charge (first time) to its students (there is a fee for testing for other schools).Placement is based on the 2024-2025 Mandatory Placement , and students may be required to enroll in Basic Reading, Success Seminar, Basic Writing, Composition I Laboratory, and/or Math Strategies.

General Education

Definition

General education is the curricular component that promotes lifelong learning regardless of a student’s specific technical, vocational, or professional field. General education fosters learning development in the following areas: effective communication, critical thinking, and personal responsibility.

Overview

For the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree, Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) Degree, and the Diploma (D), the mastery of the general education skill groups will be achieved by enrollment in these courses, plus some of the courses specific to a program.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree: Awarded upon the completion of a state-approved CTE program intended to prepare students for entry-level technical occupations. It shall consist of between sixty (60) and eighty-six (86) semester credit hours. Of those, a minimum of fifteen (15) semester credit hours must be general education to include at least one (1) course from each of the following areas: communications, social science or humanities, and science or mathematics. The technical core component shall constitute at least 50% of the program’s credits.

Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) Degree: Awarded upon the completion of a state-approved CTE program intended to provide students with skills for employment in a specific field such as art, humanities, or graphics design. This degree consists of between sixty (60) and eighty-six (86) semester credit hours. Of those, a mini­mum of fifteen (15) semester credit hours must be general education to include at least one (1) course from each of the following areas: communications, social science or humanities, and science or mathematics. The technical core component shall constitute at least 50% of the program’s credits.

Diploma: Awarded upon the completion of a state-approved CTE program that is a coherent sequence of courses consisting of fifteen (15) to forty-eight (48) semester credit hours, including at least three (3) semester credit hours of general education from any of the following areas: communications, social science or humanities, science or mathematics. A diploma may be a component (option) of, and apply toward, subsequent completion of an AAS degree.

Academic Department Outcomes

Communications Department: 

1. Analyze diverse perspectives through reading and writing. 
2. Integrate effective writing, speaking, and research strategies. 
3. Utilize the writing process to compose effective oral and written communication for diverse audiences and situations. 

Math Department:

Students have learned to use mathematics effectively when they:

1. Use appropriate concepts and skills of mathematics and statistics to solve problems in personal and job-related application.
2. Read, interpret, and generate graphical information.
3. Perform computations using appropriate methods.
4. Organize, analyze, and interpret data.
5. Express mathematical relationships numerically, graphically, and symbolically.

Science Department:

1. Students will be able to use the scientific method.
2. Students will be able to express how science impacts everyday life.
3. Students will be able to apply scientific principles to a specific problem or scenario and effectively communicate the problem and proposed solution.

Social Sciences Department:

1. Analyze the strengths and weakness of major theories of social science.
2. Apply concepts of social sciences to individual, group, and cultural behaviors and ideologies.
3. Demonstrate basic understanding of research methods of social science disciplines.
4. Demonstrate proficiency in critical thinking, problem analysis, and the syntheses of data regarding social science theories.
5. Evaluate the positive and negative impact of technology on individual, social and cultural change.
6. Interpret major social problems from the perspectives of individuals, groups, and cultures.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the roles of individuals and groups, and communication, in maintaining relationships and functioning. 
8. Explain sociocultural/historical contexts and their influence on individual and collective behavior.

Humanities Department:

1. Students will analyze diverse perspectives in arts and humanities.
2. Students will examine cultural similarities and differences relevant to arts and humanities.
3. Students will demonstrate their ability to create, interpret and/or perform diverse genres of the visual and performing arts.
4. Students will analyze ways that arts and humanities impact or apply to their own lives.
5. Students will demonstrate personal accountability both in and out of the classroom.

Business Department:

1. Apply effective business or career-related communication.
2. Demonstrate business or career-related human relations skills.
3. Solve business or career-related problems.

Grades

Requital of Grades

Requital of Grades is the process of ignoring a student’s prior grades when calculating the credits earned, the quality points, etc. and the grade point average. This new calculation is used for the purposes of graduation and other honor considerations.

Eligibility Guidelines:

1. Students must not have attended any institution of higher education during the previous two years. 
2. Submit formal application for requital to the Registrar prior to completing 12 credit hours (excluding developmental credits). Students may pick up an application in the Student Records Office. 
3. Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.00 for 12 credit hours before grade requital will be indicated on the transcript. 
4. The requital of grades may be granted only once at Iowa Central Community College. 

A person has 2 options:

1. The entire transcript will be requited.
2. The person may select up to 12 credits to remain on the transcript.

Results:

1. If approved, the notation appears on the transcript and the calculation of the GPA and credit hours earned begin from the semester of requital and is inclusive of the aforementioned 12 credit hours. 
2. For financial aid purposes, the entire transcript, including requited grades, will be considered.

Grading System

Grade Designations for Developmental Courses:

Changing Grades

A change of grade (not including a “W”) will be accepted by the Registrar only if properly signed and dated by the instructor who taught the course and the division dean. A “W” grade will not be changed.

A Grade Change form will be accepted only for the following reasons:

1. An error in grade calculation,
2. The terms of an Incomplete Grade Agreement were finished, or
3. A successful resolution of the Student Grade Appeal.

Incomplete Grades

An incomplete “I” grade in a course has an immediate effect on a student’s semester GPA. A meeting arranged by the student with the instructor is held to discuss the reason for the incomplete grade. A contract between the student and instructor, stating the details and time schedule of work that is to be made up, must be agreed upon and signed, and must be submitted prior to the end of the term. The maximum time allowed for an incomplete is one (1) year from the start date of the class. After all work is completed, the instructor will make the proper grade changes for the student’s permanent record. Incompletes are approved only for unusual circumstances with appropriate documentation.

Repeatable Courses for Cumulative Credit:

Certain courses from Iowa Central may be repeated for cumulative credit. Some examples of these courses include Student Government, Newspaper Production, Varsity Sports Conditioning, and Concert Choir. Some work-based learning (WBL) courses may also be repeated for cumulative credit.  

Final Grades

Student grades are distributed to Iowa Central students via Self-Service.

Student Grade Appeals

The following section is from Iowa Central Community College Board Policy #408

A student who believes a course grade is inaccurate may seek an appeal as follows:

1. Within sixty (60) calendar days following the end of a course, the student will inform the instructor or Dean in writing of questions concerning the course grade. The written correspondence will address all questions concerning the criteria and procedures the instructor used in determining the grade, the process by which it was assigned, and to request error correction, if any, in the grade.
2. Within fourteen (14) calendar days after the instructor’s receipt of the student’s written questions, the instructor will offer to meet or communicate with the student to attempt to resolve the questions concerning a grade.
3. If, after the discussion with the instructor, the student believes that the grade is still inaccurate, within fourteen (14) calendar days of the instructor’s decision, the student will submit in writing to the department Dean regarding all questions concerning the course grade. Within fourteen (14) calendar days after receipt of the student’s written questions, the Dean shall meet or communicate with the instructor and student separately and/or together in an effort to resolve the question regarding the grade.
4. If the steps above do not solve the question regarding the grade, the student may submit their written questions concerning the course grade to the Vice President of Instruction no later than ten (10) calendar days after the Dean delivers their final decision of the grade. Within fourteen (14) calendar days after receipt of the written questions from the student, the Vice President of Instruction will submit to the student, the instructor, and the Dean a written decision concerning the appeal of the grade.

Graduation

Commencement exercises are designed to provide formal recognition to students who have satisfied the requirements for a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Students are encouraged to attend the Commencement ceremony at the time of graduation.

Students who plan to receive a certificate, diploma, or associate degree must declare to graduate with Student Records by completing the Graduation Declaration in Self-Service. The Graduation Declaration should be completed at the time of registration for the semester prior to the completion of college coursework.

Iowa Central Community College grants certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees to certify the successful completion of programs of study.

Students may elect to graduate under requirements stated in the catalog in effect at the time of initial entry or in effect during the term of graduation.

Acceptance of transfer credit by Iowa Central toward a degree does not guarantee acceptance at other colleges. We urge students to consult with the college or university where they intend to transfer for more information.

Graduation Requirements:

An award will be granted to all students who:

1. Successfully complete hours required for program,
2. Complete an approved program,
3. Complete at least fifteen (15) semester hours from Iowa Central for an Associate’s Degree and nine (9) semester hours for a diploma,
4. Maintain the required minimum grade-point average, and
5. Pay a graduation fee.

Honors

President’s List/Dean’s List

The following criteria are needed to be named to the President’s List or the Dean’s List for the fall and spring semesters:

1. Developmental courses will not be considered as part of the criteria (grade point average and credit load).
2. Grades are posted on the transcript within three (3) full weeks of the end of the fall and spring terms and not recalculated after that point.
3. Must have completed six (6) credit hours that provide quality points for the grade point average for that semester (e.g. pass credit does not provide quality points).
4. Grade point average for that semester for the President’s List must be 4.0 (not cumulative). Grade point average for that semester for the Dean’s List must be 3.5-3.99 (not cumulative). Recipient list is posted on the Iowa Central website and pins may be picked up at each of the Centers for those who qualify. Fort Dodge Center students can pick up pins at Student Records.

Phi Theta Kappa (International Academic Fraternity)

Iowa Central has a chapter from the Phi Theta Kappa National Junior/Community College Honor Society Fraternity. For membership into Phi Theta Kappa, the following criteria must be met:

1. Grade point must be 3.5 or higher (cumulative).
2. Must have accumulated twelve (12) hours of college credit.
3. Developmental courses will not be considered as part of the criteria (grade point average and credit load).
4. There is a one-time membership fee.

Iowa Central Honor Society

Iowa Central Community College has an institutionally founded Honor Society. For membership into the Iowa Central Honor Society, the following criteria must be met:

1. Developmental courses will not be considered as part of the criteria (grade point average and credit load).
2. Grades must be posted on transcript within three (3) full weeks of end of term.
3. Cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher after the fall semester of the current school year.
4. Have met the credit hour requirements to graduate during the current academic year.

Honor Society is for students who are graduating (not all students with a 3.5 grade point average qualify). The induction ceremony for the Iowa Central Honor Society is held during the spring semester.

Long-Term Care

The following courses are offered on a need basis throughout Area V: Medication Manager, 75-Hour Nurse Aide T9905, and Certified Medication Aide.

Non-Credit Courses

Iowa Central Community College offers a variety of non-credit courses, semi­nars, and workshops designed to meet the needs of our workforce. Programs are provided to help students prepare for a specific job, upgrade skills for an existing job, meet licensure certification and/or re-certification requirements, learn basic skills, and increase general knowledge.

We offer numerous general adult and community education courses that can be customized to meet the needs of small groups to best serve a particular area of interest. These courses may include business, industrial technology, and recreation/leisure courses, as well as English as a Second Language, High School Equivalency Diploma classes, and other general knowledge courses. Iowa Central Community College adds new community education courses frequently to meet the needs of the residents and local areas businesses in the communities we serve.

Repeating Courses

A student may repeat any course more than once. Only the hours attempted and the grade point earned on the last repeat shall be used in calculating the cumulative grade point average. Withdrawing from a course that is being re­peated and receiving a “W” does not erase the previous grades and does not constitute repeating the course. Courses from other colleges may be repeated with a like course at Iowa Central.

Scholastic Dishonesty

Iowa Central Community College may initiate disciplinary proceedings against a student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating and plagiarizing. Plagiarism is presenting someone else’s words as one’s own, whether in writing or in speaking. Cheating and plagiarism, whether intentional or accidental, are serious offenses.

Scholastic dishonesty will not be tolerated in any course. Plagiarism and other forms of cheating are examples of such dishonesty and will result in serious consequences.

One is plagiarizing if one:

• uses direct quotes without quotation marks and textual citation of the material;
• paraphrases without crediting the source;
• presents another’s ideas as your own without citing the source;
• submits material written by someone else as your own (this includes pur­chasing or borrowing a paper);
• submits a paper or assignment for which one has received so much help that the writing is significantly different from one’s own.

One is cheating if one:

• copies someone else’s exam or homework;
• purposefully allows another student to copy your work or submit work that you have written as their own;
• refers to a text, notes, or other materials during an exam without authori­zation to do so;
• submits a paper or assignment for which you have received so much help that the writing is significantly different from your own;
• passes test answers to another student during or before a test.

Disciplinary Action by the Instructor

An instructor who suspects a student of scholastic dishonesty will inform the student of the allegation as soon as possible. It is up to the instructor to determine the disciplinary action to be taken, which could include giving the student a zero for the assignment, reducing the student’s grade for the course, assigning an “F” for the course, or other action. The instructor will send a written report of the incident to the student, the appropriate division dean and the Vice-President of Instruction. If the instructor concludes that the incident merits additional disciplinary action (such as suspension or expulsion), they will send a written report of the case to the Vice-President of Instruction for recommended additional disciplinary action.

Student Appeal

If the student believes that the finding of scholastic dishonesty is in error or the penalty unjust, the student may appeal to the Vice-President of Instruction. An informal hearing will be held and an administrative decision will be presented to the student.

Semi-Truck Driving Program

ZST-206 - The PTDI Certified Course is 390 hours. Students will receive either a PTDI Certificate of Attainment or PTDI Seal of Attainment (placed on the Iowa Central certificate). A minimum of 51 Sessions (11 weeks) will be required. The program consists of classroom, pre- and post-trip inspections, cab familiarization, proper shifting techniques (RPM ranges), basic control of equipment, turning, backing, and over the road trips. Classes are M-F, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm. Most students average 2,000 miles of driving experience in the program.

ZST-207 - On the Job Training (OJT) consists of 210 hours (4 weeks) with the student’s new employer.

Requirements for Admission:

1. Minimum of 18 years of age or older.
2. Must possess a valid driver’s license.
3. Must possess a social security card (metal version not accepted).
4. Must have no more than five (5) moving violations in the last three (3) years.*
5. Must have no suspensions or serious moving violations in the last twelve (12) months.
6. Must meet all applicable requirements of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including physical, mental, and vision.
7. No preventable accidents in the last twelve (12) months.
8. No alcohol-related offenses in the last three (3) years.*
9. No drug-related offenses in the last three (3) years.*
10. Must be able to verify the last ten (10) years of work history (if applicable).
11. Criminal history must be reviewed and approved prior to starting.

*Must be approved prior to starting.

Tuition is $5,500.00 plus $850 in fees (books/DOT physical & drug test/MVR/criminal background check & fuel). Housing is available for $600. Grants and financial aid are available for individuals meeting the financial aid requirements.

Course Description

The classroom prepares the student for the concepts of operating a semi-tractor and trailer safely. The hands-on operation applies the learned knowledge into practical application. This time will be spent on inspections (all types), basic control, serpentine driving (control of trailer), backing (all types), proper set-ups, turns, shifting, coupling and uncoupling, along with driving (all types) rural, city, and interstate conditions. Teaching a student to operate a truck safely at 80,000 pounds will include map reading, trip planning, logging, load securement, and proper weight distribution.

Weather-Related Cancellations, Delays, and Dismissals

The following guidelines will apply to cancellation or delay of College classes and activities in case of hazardous conditions involving weather:

Cancellation or Delay of Classes

The decision to cancel, delay, or make classes virtual will be made by the President or designee. If classes are cancelled, delayed, or virtual, a text message and email will be sent to TritonAlert subscribers. The announcement will also be posted on the College’s website, social media, and TV stations by 6 a.m. or as soon as possible. At times, due to staff availability or changing weather conditions, there may be a delay in making announcements. When the College delays opening, students will report to the class currently in session. All offices open as soon as the College opens. 

Early Dismissal of Classes

In the event that classes will be dismissed early, a text message will be sent to TritonAlert subscribers, and an email will be sent to to all students and all employees. The announcement will also be posted on the College’s website, social media, and TV stations as soon as possible. 

Evening Classes

Any decision regarding evening classes starting after 5 p.m. shall be made as soon as possible.

Cancellation or Delay of Activities and Non-Credit Classes

Department staff will determine any start time for activities or non-credit classes when the College is closed or opens late.