Student Opportunities

Academic Support Services and Programs

African-American Studies Institute (AASI)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2028 | 301-546-0535

The African-American Studies Institute at Prince George’s Community College is an intellectual hub for coordinating academic programs, courses, and events focusing on the African experience throughout the Diaspora. The AASI fulfills this purpose through research, advocacy, community outreach, training, and partnering to facilitate the examination of national and local issues and trends that impact Prince George’s County in the areas of education, health, crime, economic empowerment, and workforce issues. The objectives of the AASI are to:

• Promote African-American studies courses to enrich the Prince George’s Community College academic program.
• Partner with civic, political, economic, and educational organizations in Prince George’s County to develop action plans for addressing local and national issues impacting county residents.
• Serve as an archive and clearinghouse for the dissemination of information, publications, research, and resources concerning Africans throughout the Diaspora.
• Provide a learning-centered, community-based vehicle for faculty, students, staff, scholars, and community leaders to engage in cultural, historical, educational, and scientific research and programming.
• Create professional development opportunities and promote standards of excellence for students by offering apprenticeships, internships, institutes, capstone projects, and service learning.
• Develop articulation agreements with historically black colleges and universities to increase transfer, retention, and graduation rates among African-American students.
• Promote student study abroad, faculty exchanges, and international learning experiences with institutes of higher learning in African-American studies.

Collegian Centers

The college has five Collegian Centers that bring students in particular disciplines together for academic activities and opportunities. The six Collegian Centers are:

• Administration of Justice Collegian Center | ajcollegiancenter@pgcc.edu
  For students interested in criminal justice, corrections, forensic science, paralegal/pre-law, fire science, or cybercrime investigation
• Business Collegian Center | businesscollegian@pgcc.edu
  For students interested in business management and accounting
• Health Sciences Collegian Center | healthsciencescollegiancenter@pgcc.edu
  For students admitted to any of the Health Sciences clinical programs
• PSE Collegian Center | psecollegiancenter@pgcc.edu
  For students interested in psychology, sociology, and education
• STEM Collegian Center | stemcollegiancenter@pgcc.edu | academic.pgcc.edu/scc
  For students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

The Community Financial Center of Prince George’s Community College

Center for Advanced Technology, Room 102 | 301-546-1332 | cfc@pgcc.edu

The Community Financial Center of Prince George’s Community College supports financial literacy and asset building for students and residents of Prince George’s County. The center provides free tax services, financial education, and access to financial information and resources.

Students who wish to volunteer with the center should contact the office.

Students can obtain financial services, such as financial coaching, business coaching, and year-round tax services at the Financial Empowerment Center located in the Center for Advanced Technology, Room 102.  Appointments can be made at www.pgcc.edu/go/fec

Computer Labs

The college provides students with comprehensive, conveniently located academic computer support and services. Open walk-in labs, located in Bladen Hall and the Center for Advanced Technology, offer access to a wide range of educational and productivity software and are staffed with support personnel to provide individual assistance. Each open lab is equipped with networked PCs with Internet access and printing capabilities. The college also provides computer labs and services for students at Joint Base Andrews, University Town Center in Hyattsville, and Laurel College Center.

The Health Technology Learning Center provides access to computers and a variety of computer applications designed for drill, self-paced study, tutoring, and prescribed learning. The lab also offers exercises in non-computer formats to accommodate the diversity of students enrolled in health science clinical programs.

The Mathematics Learning Center provides mathematical assistance, computer facilities, and small group meeting and study rooms for credit mathematics students.

The college also has computer classrooms that support specific content areas such as accounting, art, computer information systems, continuing education, engineering technology, English, health sciences, language studies, mathematics, science, and social sciences.

Open Walk-in Labs

Developmental Studies Program

Learning Foundations Division | Marlboro Hall, Room 2118 | 301-546-0495

The Developmental Studies Program exists to help students develop academic skills for succeeding in college-level courses. The program focuses on basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics. The program also emphasizes study and test-taking strategies, calculator and computer skills and laboratory skills-all important for success in college.

Students in the program use self-paced learning features such as computer-assisted instruction, computer-monitored feedback on individual progress, and individualized laboratory experiences to improve specific skills.

Providing ways for students to make the most of their potential is a priority of the Developmental Studies Program. Students can work with mentors, counselors, faculty and peer tutors to address special needs and concerns. To give students more opportunities to use the program, daytime and evening courses are offered on the college’s main campus in Largo. In addition, some developmental studies courses are offered at off-campus extension centers and online.

Most developmental studies courses are equivalent to four semester hours for academic load and tuition purposes and for financial aid eligibility. Equivalent hours (EHs) are awarded to students for successful completion rather than credits. Developmental studies courses do not carry academic credit toward a certificate or an associate degree and are not transferable to another college.

Instructional Components

Below are the four instructional components and accompanying course titles of the Developmental Studies Program. Course descriptions for each of the instructional components can be found here .

1. Developmental Learning Support (DLS)
2. Developmental English (DVE)
3. Developmental Mathematics (DVM)
4. Developmental Reading (DVR)

Developmental Math Redesign

The Developmental Mathematics Sequence (DMS), which includes DVM-0031 , DVM-0071 , and MAT-0104 , has been redesigned. These new classes are very different from traditional mathematics classes. They are scheduled in modern computer classrooms featuring an individual computer-based study using a sequence of modules. Students must master the content of one module before moving to the next module. An instructor-tutor team will be assigned to each class and provide students guidance and/or mini-lessons when needed and will include supplemental learning activities. This newly design model offers students the opportunity to work and progress more rapidly through the DMS, possibly reducing the time required to complete developmental coursework. The goal is for students to complete the DMS and be successful in credit-level mathematics courses needed to earn a degree.

International Education Center

Center for Health Studies, Room 1209 | 301-546-0750 | internationalcenter@pgcc.edu | www.pgcc.edu/go/internationalcenter

The International Education Center is a center that welcomes new and current students from other countries or students interested in learning about other countries and cultures. The center provides support and assistance to students who need help while acclimating to a new country and the American higher education system. The center brings international and American students together for learning enrichment activities that foster awareness and understanding of cultural and global issues. As a resource for faculty and staff, the center offers guidance in developing strategies to integrate globalization into the curriculum, identifies sources of educational opportunities abroad, and assists with intercultural communication.

• Drop-in Services
  PGCC faculty members at the Center Monday through Friday can answer your questions and help you be successful in college. Student mentors may also be available to provide international students with navigating the culture of US higher education.
• Guest Speakers
  Student panels and guest speakers present and discuss topics of interest to international students, such as the law and immigration, human trafficking, African and African-American perspectives, and avenues to peace in the Middle East, or informative topics such as study abroad.
• Global Café
  Students set up country tables at this event, bringing traditional food, music, clothing, pictures, and artifacts to teach about their nations and cultures.
• International Education Week
  This is an annual November celebration of the diverse cultures at the college.
• Kaleidoscope Club
  This social club provides opportunities for international students and U.S. American students to develop deeper understanding of diversity.
• Learning Our Viewpoints
  This open student forum meets four times each semester to discuss cultural, racial, and religious perceptions.
• Travel Study at Prince George’s Community College
  The International Education Center offers information on travel study opportunities, including those available on the Maryland Community College International Education Consortium (MCCIEC) website at www.mcciec.org. PGCC students can earn PGCC credit for some courses offered through MCCIEC. Students should speak with an academic advisor to determine which travel study opportunities may earn credit at PGCC as well as the process for earning credit.

International Student Services

Prince George’s Community College values the diversity of the backgrounds of its students. To promote that diversity, all international students and non-native speakers of English will find ready access to a variety of coordinated programs and services that support admissions, advising, academic assessment, personal counseling, coursework and involvement in college clubs, events and activities. Quality instruction is provided in writing and reading fluent, understandable English and speaking Standard American English at a wide range of levels. Ease of entry into these and other college courses is supported by services designed to enhance the college experience.

Prince George’s Community College is authorized by the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) to issue I-20s to foreign students who wish to study at the college. Persons who wish to attend on an F-1 student visa should contact the Office of Admissions and Records or the Academic Advising Office for complete information regarding entrance criteria. This office also issues all documents needed to maintain good standing with BCIS. Students wishing to apply for any change in status should contact an International Student Advisor located in the Academic Advising Office.

International students must meet with an advisor who will assist them in building a class schedule that places them in the appropriate English as a Second Language (ESL) and Speech Communication (SPH) courses. All students seeking enrollment in credit courses for the first time are required to demonstrate basic academic proficiencies in reading, written and oral expression, and mathematics. English language courses for non-native speakers include instruction in grammar, writing, reading, listening, and speaking. They are designed to prepare students to communicate effectively in all settings.

Partners

Library

Accokeek Hall | 301-546-0476 (research information) | 301-546-0475 (circulation) | 301-546-0462 (administration) | library.pgcc.edu

The library provides access to a wide variety of information resources, services, and technologies. Materials are selected first for their relevance to the instructional programs and second for their potential to serve the cultural and recreational interests of the college and community. Research and circulation services are available in addition to photocopy, scanning, and photo ID services. Individual study rooms and group study rooms with computer access are also available.

The library collection consists of print books and periodicals, e-books and journals, electronic databases, streaming videos, and DVDs. Skilled professionals are prepared to help locate information needed for study and research. Access to state and national information resources is provided through interlibrary loan and the Internet. Books, periodicals, and media materials are accessed through the website at library.pgcc.edu.

Marlboro Learning Lab

Marlboro Hall, Room 2129 | 301-546-0503

The college provides additional support for students needing extra help to overcome academic deficiencies. Faculty members are available in their offices on a regular basis to help students. Learning lab technicians and specialists help students learn how to use computer programs and other technology used in developmental courses. Instructional program coordinators also are assigned in the Marlboro Learning Lab to work with students in the areas of writing, reading, and mathematics to ensure further understanding of software programs for drills, self-paced study, exercises on tape, video, and other kinds of technologies to increase academic skills.

Trained math tutors work with students to overcome academic shortcomings. In addition, trained tutors in the Tutoring Center work one-on-one with students in writing and mathematics. For more information, call 301-546-0503.

Service-Learning

Bladen Hall, Room 210 | 301-546-0713 | servicelearning@pgcc.edu

The Service-Learning Program encourages the development of civic responsibility through students’ participation in community service projects that support their academic objectives. Through Service-Learning, students learn actively, applying principles learned in the classroom while developing critical, reflective thinking as well as personal and civic responsibility.

Service-Learning at Prince George’s Community College is an academic component that can be integrated within the coursework of most disciplines and also is available as a separate independent credit course. Students who participate enhance their academic skills, while developing a better understanding and appreciation of civic responsibility.

Tutoring Center

Bladen Hall, Room 107 | 301-546-0748 | www.pgcc.edu/go/tutoringcenter

The Tutoring Center provides one-on-one and small group tutoring in a variety of subjects. Students are allowed to make two one-hour appointments per subject, per week for courses in which they are currently enrolled. Appointments can be made in person, by phone (301-546-0748) or on a walk-in basis (when a tutor is available). Limited tutoring is available at University Town Center (301-277-5934) and at Laurel College Center (410-772-4162).

Writing Center

Bladen Hall, Room 107 | 301-546-0748 | www.pgcc.edu/go/writingcenter

The Writing Center offers one-on-one tutoring for any writing assignment in any credit course. Faculty tutors work with students at any stage of the writing process, helping them to generate and support ideas, organize material, incorporate and document sources, revise effectively, and address all other writing concerns. Grammar, ESL, and speech tutoring also are offered. Tutoring is available at Largo (301-546-0748), University Town Center (301-546-8000), and Laurel College Center (443-518-4162). For more information, visit http://www.pgcc.edu/Services_and_Support/Support_Services/Academic_Support_and_Tutoring/Tutoring_and_Writing_Centers/Tutoring_and_Writing_Centers.aspx

Campus Life and Activities

Alumni Association

Development Office | Accokeek Hall, Room 312 | 301-546-0858

The Prince George’s Community College Alumni Association is open to all graduates of an associate or certificate program, former students of the college who have attained a minimum of 15 credits, or Workforce Development and Continuing Education students who have completed at least four noncredit courses. Members of the Alumni Association receive identification cards that admit them to campus movies, the library, Novak Field House, and entitle them to discounted use of the Natatorium. Members are also welcome to use Career Services and participate in the college’s PC Purchase program.

Bookstore

Largo Main Campus | Largo Student Center, First Floor | 301-546-0912 | www.pgccbookstore.com
University Town Center | Lower Floor | 301-546-8150 | www.pgccbookstore.com

The PGCC Bookstore is an independently-run bookstore servicing the Prince George’s Community College community offering textbooks for rent or for purchase, as well as a wide selection of school supplies, electronics, collegiate merchandise, drinks, snacks, and more. Textbooks also can be rented or purchased online at www.pgccbookstore.com and can be picked up in store, shipped via FedEx or USPS, or sent via PGCC campus courier to University Town Center or Laurel College Center. The PGCC Bookstore accepts cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Financial Aid is also accepted during a limited time period at the beginning of each semester. PGCC Bookstore hours are subject to change and may be extended at the beginning and end of each semester. Current store hours are posted in-store and online.

Campus Activities Board

Student Engagement and Leadership Office | Largo Student Center, Room 242 | 301-546-0853

The Campus Activities Board is a student group charged with the responsibility of creating and implementing campus-wide social, recreational, and co-curricular events for the college community. The students in the organization get involved and network with faculty, administrators, agencies, and college stakeholders to provide a high-quality program of activities outside the classroom at Prince George’s Community College. Leaders of the Campus Activities Board are recognized student leaders who work closely with the Student Governance Board and attend college-sponsored leadership programs that prepare them to fulfill the responsibilities of their positions.

Clubs and Organizations

Student Engagement and Leadership Office | Largo Student Center, Room 149 | 301-546-0853

See the current Prince George’s Community College’s Student Handbook for an updated listing and descriptions of college clubs and organizations. More than 35 clubs and organizations are active on campus.

To support learning outside the classroom as well as within, the activities program at the college includes a wide variety of offerings-student governance and leadership development, intramural and intercollegiate sports, music and drama, cultural events, and recreational activities-to serve the needs and interests of all campus citizens. The Student Engagement and Leadership Office serves as the focal point for these activities and is the point of contact for registering a campus organization, scheduling and publicizing events, and receiving help with all types of activity programming projects or special needs.

To receive complete information on all organizations and an explanation of student rights and responsibilities, contact the Student Engagement and Leadership Office and request a copy of the Student Handbook. To obtain a listing of upcoming events on campus or to take the first step toward getting involved in a group or project, contact this office and ask to speak with someone for more information.

Dining Services

Largo Student Center, Second Floor | 301-546-0904

The food service areas on campus are operated on a contracted basis. The areas consists of a full-service dining hall, a cyber café, vending areas, catering services, and food and drink machines in various campus locations.

Hours of Operation

Special hours are posted for periods when classes are not in session. Refunds on vending may be obtained from any cashier in the dining hall, located in the Largo Student Center.

Fine Arts

Box Office | Queen Anne Fine Arts (closed for renovation) | 301-546-0920

The Humanities, English, and Social Sciences Division of Prince George’s Community College sponsors a comprehensive cultural program that includes art exhibits (Marlboro Gallery), dance (Hallam Theatre), films (Rennie Forum, Largo Student Center), music (Hallam Theatre), and theatrical productions (Hallam Theatre). Students holding a valid college ID card are admitted free of charge to most events. Students interested in participating in one of these programs should contact the related academic department for more information.

Intercollegiate Athletics

Novak Field House, Room 111 | 301-546-0518

The Prince George’s Community College Athletic Department is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference (MD JUCO). Twelve intercollegiate teams represent the college in the NJCAA and MD JUCO-men’s and women’s soccer; men’s and women’s cross-country; men’s and women’s indoor track; men’s and women’s basketball; men’s baseball; women’s softball; and men’s and women’s outdoor track. Student athletes must meet NJCAA eligibility requirements. Many athletes transfer to four-year colleges to continue their academic and athletic experience.

Student Governance Association (SGA)

Student Engagement and Leadership Office | Largo Student Center, Room 242 | 301-546-0888

Elected by students, the Student Governance Association represents and promotes student interests. It oversees many co-curricular activities and works with faculty and administrators to ensure student representation for the development of college policies and procedures.

Student Publications

Student Engagement and Leadership Office | Largo Student Center, Room 245 | 301-546-0853

The college supports two student-created publications. A student newspaper, The Owl, is published every three weeks during the fall and spring semesters. Reflections, a literary and arts magazine composed of poetry, short stories, artwork, and essays submitted by students, is published once each semester.

Swimming and Exercise Facility

Robert I. Bickford Natatorium | Largo Campus | 301-546-0676

The Robert I. Bickford Natatorium houses a 50-meter pool, training pool, weight training room, and four racquetball courts. All of these are available to the college community and the public.

Honors Programs and Organizations

Honors Academy

Marlboro Hall, Room 1089 | 301-546-7530 | www.pgcc.edu/go/honors

The Honors Academy is designed for academically outstanding Honors students who are interested in a rigorous program of academic excellence, intellectual development, leadership and community service.

Benefits of Honors Academy Membership

Financial Aid

An Honors Academy scholar receives in-county tuition financial support from Prince George’s Community College as long as he/she satisfies the requirements of the Academy and maintains his/her eligibility. Upon graduation from Prince George’s Community College, the Honors Academy scholar receives Honors Academy recognition and seamlessly transfers into a partnering institution and will receive financial support from the partnering four-year college or university.

Honors Academy partnering institutions include American University; Catholic University; Goucher College; Howard University; St. Mary’s College; Towson University; University of Maryland, Baltimore County; University of Maryland, College Park; and Washington College.

Excellent Education and Opportunities

At Prince George’s Community College, Honors Academy scholars:

• Have an Honors Academy advisor
• Work with fellow academy Honors Academy scholars
• Participate in various community service and leadership co-curricular activities
• Are inducted into Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society for two-year colleges

Application Requirements for the Honors Academy

Currently enrolled PGCC students must:

• Have a 3.5 cumulative GPA or higher, based upon at least 12 college credits
• Have completed at least six out of the 12 credits in general education courses
• Be currently enrolled in or eligible for admission into the Honors Program
• Have received a grade of A in EGL-1010  
• Be eligible for a math course above MAT-0104  
• Be interested in transferring to a partnering institution (see list under “Financial Aid” above)

Incoming students must:

• Have applied for admission to Prince George’s Community College
• Have a 3.5 minimum cumulative high school GPA and a 1650 combined essay, math, and critical reading SAT score (math placement should be above MAT-0104 )
• Be eligible for admission into the Honors Program
• Be interested in transferring to a partnering institution (see list under “Financial Aid” above)

Obligations of an Honors Academy Scholar

Students admitted into the Honors Academy must:

• Be a full-time student
• Maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA
• Maintain membership in the Honors Program
• Perform 15 hours of community service each semester
• Take a leadership role in the Honors Society, Phi Theta Kappa Tau Pi Chapter, and throughout campus
• Meet regularly with the Honors Academy advisor to determine the appropriate course of study
• Determine a timetable for completion of an associate degree
• Complete a minimum of seven Honors courses, one of which should be an Honors colloquium
• Graduate from Prince George’s Community College

Honors Program

Marlboro Hall, Room 1089 | 301-546-7530 | www.pgcc.edu/go/honors

The mission of the Prince George’s Community College Honors Program is to promote the intellectual growth and enrichment of academically outstanding students. The program offers a curriculum that challenges and stimulates students through special Honors courses. Members of the college’s Honors Program are provided with many unique opportunities and benefits to include:

• Academic advising
• Stimulating classes that provide challenging course work and engaging class discussions
• The designation of Honors courses on students’ transcripts
• Citation in Honors designation on students’ transcripts for eligible students
• Awards to outstanding students
• An Honors Blackboard site highlighting Honors Program activities and student achievements
• Co-curricular activities sponsored by the Honors Society
• Membership in Phi Theta Kappa for eligible students
• The opportunity to meet, work, and socialize with other Honors students
• Resume workshops
• Scholarship preparation and support

Students are admitted to the Honors Program based on their college placement examination scores, high school, or college grade-point average. Admission is open to full- and part-time students. To determine eligibility, complete a program application and return it to the Honors Program office in Marlboro Hall, Room 1089. Honors courses may be used to fulfill academic requirements for an associate degree at the college and for transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

Honors Program students may receive Honors credit through contract arrangements. Credit may not be received for a course on a contract if an Honors version of the course is offered. All arrangements for contract credit are handled by the Honors Program coordinator.

Citation in Honors

The Citation in Honors is a significant accomplishment that demonstrates students have made a commitment to a rigorous course of study in the Honors Program. Students may apply for and earn the Citation in Honors if they have been accepted into the Honors Program, completed a minimum of 15 credits in Honors courses and earned an overall cumulative GPA of 3.25. Students should apply for the Citation in Honors during the semester in which they will complete the requirements. The Citation in Honors is awarded at the annual Student Honors Convocation in the spring and will be noted on the students’ transcripts.

Honors Program Outcomes

An Honors Program student graduating from Prince George’s Community College should be able to:

1. Demonstrate critical thinking;
2. Communicate effectively;
3. Demonstrate integrity in the application of academic principles and values;
4. Prepare to be a productive global citizen.

Honors Society

Marlboro Hall, Room 1089| 301-546-7530

The Honors Society is a student organization run by Honors Program students. The society sponsors a variety of events including guest speakers and social activities. The society meets regularly and is always seeking new members. Membership in the Honors Society is an excellent way to meet other students and get involved in college and community activities.

Phi Theta Kappa Tau Pi Chapter

Marlboro Hall, Room 1089 | 301-546-7530

Phi Theta Kappa International Honors Society was founded in 1918 to recognize the academic achievement of students at two-year colleges. Phi Theta Kappa’s programs are based on the hallmarks of scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. The organization offers many transfer scholarships available only to society members. Other benefits include automatic nomination for the National Dean’s List publication of outstanding students from two-year, four-year, and graduate schools, as well as automatic enrollment in the Phi Theta Kappa database from which four-year and senior-level institutions actively recruit.

Membership criteria includes a 3.50 GPA and a minimum of 15 completed credit hours earned at Prince George’s Community College. The Tau Pi Chapter at Prince George’s Community College inducts new members in the fall semester and at the annual Student Honors Convocation in the spring semester. As part of the leadership, service and fellowship hallmarks, Tau Pi Chapter members may participate in a community service project each semester.

Psi Beta

Department of Psychology | 301-546-0547

Psi Beta National Honors Society in Psychology for Community and Junior Colleges encourages and recognizes student scholarship and interest in the discipline of psychology. Students enrolled in psychology classes become members by invitation from the campus chapter, which is operated by Psi Beta student members and faculty sponsors. Students are invited to join Psi Beta if they rank in the top 35 percent of their class or have an overall GPA of 3.00 and have at least a B average in psychology. Psi Beta participates with Psi Chi, the national honor society in psychology for senior colleges and universities, at the American Psychological Association’s annual meeting and other regional conventions.

Scholarship Programs

www.pgcc.edu/paying_for_college/paying_for_college.aspx

Hillman Entrepreneurs Program

Marlboro Hall, Room 2051 | 301-546-0700 | www.pgcc.edu/go/Hillman-Entrepreneurs

The Hillman Entrepreneurs Program is an innovative educational initiative tailored to the needs of transfer students who begin their studies at Prince George’s Community College and complete their bachelor’s degrees at the University of Maryland, College Park. It is a three-year scholarship program targeted to students who have an interest in entrepreneurship and an enthusiasm for starting a business venture or leading a company.

What it means to be a Hillman Entrepreneur at Prince George’s Community College

• Receive a scholarship for up to 66 percent of tuition plus a textbook scholarship of $500
• Receive one-on-one advising and mentoring
• Develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills
• Be a member of a group of aspiring entrepreneurs
• Have summer job opportunities
• Earn an associate degree from Prince George’s Community College

How to continue as a Hillman Entrepreneur at University of Maryland College Park

• Receive a scholarship for up to 66 percent of tuition and a $1,000 merit scholarship
• Receive one-on-one advising and mentoring
• Continue to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills
• Build business ideas with the help of on-site mentors
• Earn a bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland, College Park

Selection Criteria

Students selected to be Hillman Entrepreneurs demonstrate:

• A GPA of 2.5 or higher
• A minimum of 30 credits have been completed by program entry
• Potential for becoming a successful entrepreneur or leader within a larger organization
• Ability to be successful academically and graduate from Prince George’s Community College and ultimately from University of Maryland, College Park

Program Requirements

Students must be:

• Maryland residents (U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or covered by the DREAM Act)
• Enrolled (or eligible to enroll) at Prince George’s Community College and taking college-level classes
• Enrolled in a program of study that transfers to University of Maryland, College Park (pre-law is not eligible)
• Available for Hillman courses each semester offered during the day
• Committed to additional program and team-building activities
• Progressing successfully toward graduation with an associate degree in a transferable major at Prince George’s Community College and toward graduation with a bachelor’s degree at University of Maryland, College Park

Student Services and Special Programs

http://www.pgcc.edu/Services_and_Support/Services___Support.aspx

Academic Transfer and Career Advising

Bladen Hall, Room 124 | 301-546-0151 | advising@pgcc.edu

The Advising Services staff help students develop a plan to accomplish their educational and career goals. Advisors:

• Interpret placement test scores
• Assist with course selection
• Advise on general academic policies and procedures
• Provide information on transfer to other institutions
• Unofficially evaluate student records and transcripts to determine course and program eligibility
• Advise on choice of program of study or major appropriate for educational and career goals
• Conduct workshops on transfer and ARTSYS as well as perform periodic graduation audits
• Help students develop an educational plan and monitor progress toward program completion, transfer, and graduation
• Refer students to campus programs and services to meet individual needs
• Provide referrals to outside agencies and resources

Students interested in selective admissions programs such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, nuclear medicine technology, or health information management must meet with advisors to discuss special procedures to be followed for admission to these programs. Advisement is also available at Joint Base Andrews, 301-546-0778; University Town Center, 301-277-5934; and Laurel College Center, 866-228-6110.

Owl Link and the Academic Advising Process

While Owl Link provides important online services to help students accomplish educational and career goals, advisors provide students with an overview of Owl Link and the functions of the “My Credit Academic Records” section of the Credit Students menu. Most importantly, advisors instruct students in the use of the academic planning tool, Student Planning.

Student Planning

This online tool allows student to plan coursework in advance, keeping them on track to successfully complete their program of study. Students electronically plan coursework in advance for their entire program of study and then register for those future semesters when registration opens to them. The My Progress feature of Student Planning combines several tools to check a student’s progress by looking at four areas: program requirements, completed coursework, in-progress coursework, and planned coursework.

Accessing Student Planning

On the Owl Link Students Menu, credit students can access Student Planning from the My Credit Academic Records section to accomplish the following:

• View program of study, GPA, and current schedule of classes in calendar format.
• Review My Progress to see program of study requirements and student progress. My Progress personalizes program requirements with the student’s completed, in-progress, and planned coursework and also provides a thorough report of progress.
• Engage in educational planning, which is completed directly from My Progress. Course status is updated at the time of registration and again after course completion.
• Use the Plan & Schedule feature to view the educational plan by semester and register for classes.
• View test scores.
• View assigned advisor and advisor contact information.

Air Force ROTC

Advising and Transfer Services | Bladen Hall, Room 124 | 301-546-0151 | www.afrotc.umd.edu

Students at Prince George’s Community College have an opportunity to enroll in the Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Program at the University of Maryland, College Park. AFROTC allows students to work toward becoming an officer in the United States Air Force while pursuing a college degree. To complete the AFROTC program, students must complete a bachelor’s degree after leaving Prince George’s Community College.

Career Development and Internships

Bladen Hall, Room 124 | 301-546-0136 | CareerServices@pgcc.edu

The Career Development and Internships staff help students at all stages of career planning, including career exploration, choice of college major, assistance through career transitions, and assistance in acquiring internship positions or engaging in supervised work experiences that align with their major course of study. Advisors assist clients to identify their career goals that use the clients’ skills, interests, and values. The staff provides assistance to clients seeking employment by offering help with job-hunting strategies, interviewing techniques and resume writing. Career Development and Internships uses the online job portal “Career Connection” which is updated weekly with additional jobs. Numerous employers visit the campus throughout the year for on-campus recruitment and interviewing. Other services available include:

• Career Assessment and Planning courses on career/life planning and college success.
• Free workshops on career and life management topics
• Career counseling and advising
• Resource materials on occupations, national and regional job market projections and strategies for personal and professional development
• Computerized career guidance systems (Focus 2 and Career Coach) for assessment and information on occupations and educational programs
• Job fairs (fall and spring) and career fairs
• Internet access to career resources

Internship Options

All students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program of study may complete a “culminating experience” (capstone and/or work-based learning course). Students seeking this capstone experience are eligible to begin their work-based learning field experience after completion of 15 credits, six of which must be in their major, and achievement of a 2.0 or higher GPA. All students regardless of degree program are encouraged to seek an internship experience that will enhance their learning and marketability with future employers. Please visit Career Development and Internships for additional information.

Cashier’s Office

Bladen Hall, Room 120 | 301-546-0691

The Cashier’s Office receives bill payments and resolves student account problems. It also manages the college’s deferred tuition payment program, NBS/FACTS.

Disability Support Services (DSS)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2102 | 301-546-0838 | 301-546-0122 (TTY or TDD) | dss@pgcc.edu

Students in need of classroom accommodations must provide medical or educational documentation and meet with DSS staff in order to arrange appropriate accommodations. Students who need interpreters, scribes, or recorded materials must register and submit a paid tuition bill to the Disability Support Services Office no later than one month prior to the start of classes in order to avoid possible delays in delivery of needed services. For detailed information, click here to go to the Disability Support Services Web page.

The following services are provided:

Diverse Male Student Initiative (DMSI)

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-5292 | dmsi@pgcc.edu

The Diverse Male Student Initiative (DMSI) provides an experiential year-long program that supports men and helps them focus their energies toward self-improvement and community involvement. An aggressive college retention program that targets all diverse males enrolled at the college, DMSI aims to increase participants’ retention and academic achievement; develop participants’ self-knowledge, focus, and initiative in plotting and implementing a plan for personal success; and improve participants’ career/entrepreneurship readiness.

Dreamkeepers

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-0149

Dreamkeepers is an emergency financial assistance program geared to providing assistance for college students who are faced with unforeseen financial difficulties and at risk of dropping out due to a financial hardship. By providing emergency funding, Dreamkeepers helps students manage unexpected crises that may threaten the continuation of their college education. Tuition and books are not included.

Enrollment Support Services

Admissions and Records | Bladen Hall, Room 126 | 301-546-7422 | admissions@pgcc.edu

In addition to processing applications for admission and conducting registration for both credit and continuing education courses, the Office of Admissions and Records performs a variety of other functions of importance to students. These include:

• Determining residency status for tuition purposes
• Evaluating prior coursework for acceptance in transfer
• Certifying students for graduation
• Transmitting Prince George’s Community College transcripts to other colleges and outside agencies
• Verifying enrollment to federal agencies, employers, and external funding sources
• Maintaining and updating student academic and demographic records
• Processing requests for F-1 student visas
• Processing petitions for admission to the Health Sciences Programs

Owl Success Track - First Year Experience (OST-FYE)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2102 | 301-546-0180

Prince George’s Community College recognizes that making the transition to college is an exciting and challenging time in a student’s life. Our goal is to ensure that students have a first year experience that is positive, engaging, and rewarding. The First Year Experience can make a significant impact in terms of overall level of performance, academic achievement, campus connection, and advancement toward graduation. The college requires all first year students to participate in Student Orientation Advising and Registration (SOAR). This program offers incoming students an excellent way to make the most of a student’s first year.

PGCC Cares

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-0149

Paying for tuition, housing, transportation, and other related expenses can be tremendously difficult and make the journey to obtaining a degree seem impossible. PGCC Cares is a campus and community-wide effort established to respond to students’ critical needs through an on-site food pantry, school supplies and clothes closet, emergency funds to address temporary crisis situations, used textbooks (based on prior students’ donations, supply is limited), and internal and external referral services.

Prior Learning Assessment Network (PLAN)

Bladen Hall, Room 124 | 301-546-0437 | PLAN@pgcc.edu

Prince George’s Community College recognizes that many students have acquired college-level learning through personal and professional experiences. The Prior Learning Assessment Network (PLAN) is an opportunity for students to have their experiences evaluated for college credit through portfolio assessment. Students eligible for PLAN must have five or more years of work/life experience related to courses required in their program of study. Also, students must be eligible to take EGL-1010 , have taken the course, or have completed an equivalent college-level English course accepted in transfer from another institution.

Students eligible for PLAN are allowed to enroll in the CAP-1050  Portfolio Development course. Through portfolio assessment students can earn up to 15 credit hours toward their associate degree requirements. PLAN can jump start a student’s college education, make work/life experience count toward a degree, allow a student to complete his or her degree in fewer semester, and reduce the total tuition costs for a degree.

Servicemembers Opportunity College (SOC)

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-5282

Prince George’s Community College has been designated by the American Association of Community Colleges as a Servicemembers Opportunity College (SOC). SOC-designated institutions provide services to active-duty service members to facilitate their degree attainment while in the military. Evaluation of transfer credit and the establishment of county residency are just two areas in which policies and procedures are designed to provide easier access to public higher education for military personnel and their dependents. For more information, contact the Office of Veterans Services, Bladen Hall, Room 122.

Student Support Services (TRiO)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2087 | 301-546-0681 | 301-546-0972 (TDD) | sss@pgcc.edu

Student Support Services is a specialized program designed to provide individualized support to eligible low-income, first-generation and/or disabled college students to assist them in the completion of a college degree. The program provides tutoring, career and personal counseling, academic advising and cultural activities designed to enhance the development of academic skills, personal growth, career planning and cultural awareness. This program is funded through a four-year grant from the United States Department of Education.

Testing Center

Bladen Hall, Room 100 | 301-546-0090 (academic testing) | 301-546-0147 (placement testing)

In addition to administering the college’s placement tests for new students, the Testing Center is the site selected by some instructors to have their classroom examinations administered outside of regular class times. The center also coordinates the college’s Credit by Examination Program, which allows students with prior experience in a given field to attempt to receive college credit for their knowledge through successful completion of challenge examinations.

Transfer Center

Bladen Hall, Room 124 | 301-546-0151 | articulation@pgcc.edu

The Transfer Center is designed to provide students with the tools to make informed educational choices about transfer from the community college to four-year schools. Emphasis is placed on transfer to Maryland state universities, but some help is available for private and out-of-state schools, particularly in Virginia and the District of Columbia. Workshops are offered during the semester that attempt to help students better understand the transfer process. A statewide, Web-based articulation program (ARTSYS) is available to help students match community college courses and majors to those offered at every public university in the state. Assistance is provided in effective use of the ARTSYS program. Computers are available for virtual college tours and catalog browsing. Transfer Day, held every semester, allows students to speak personally with college representatives from state and local four-year schools in order to validate their transfer choices.

Upward Bound (TRiO)

Marlboro Hall, Room 1082 | 301-546-3013

The Upward Bound program is designed to assist high school students who are low-income and/or potential first-generation college students to succeed in high school and to pursue postsecondary education. Reinforcement of academic coursework, individualized and group tutoring, career/college exploration and cultural trips are emphasized throughout the academic year and during the six-week summer program. This program is funded through a grant from the United States Department of Education.

Veterans Services

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-5282 | veterans@pgcc.edu

Veterans Services exists to help students eligible for veterans educational benefits apply for and successfully use those benefits. Help and information is available to veterans and servicepersons regarding eligibility for V.A. educational benefits, V.A. policies and procedures regarding the receipt of those benefits, and special V.A. requirements and services that exist under each V.A. benefit program. Students must contact this office to activate or continue their benefits for every semester in which they wish to use them. To get information about V.A. benefit programs, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website, www.gibill.va.gov. For information and forms specific to this college, go to www.pgcc.edu/prospective/collegeServices/veteransbenefits.

Veterans Upward Bound

Veterans Upward Bound is a TRiO program at Prince George’s Community College that provides short-term remedial and refresher courses for veterans who have delayed pursuing a post-secondary education. Veterans Upward Bound is funded by the Department of Education for veterans who want to pursue a postsecondary education. There is no cost to the veteran.

Vocational Support Services (VSS)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2102 | 301-546-0730

Vocational Support Services (VSS) provides instructional support to students enrolled in career programs. Workshops and individual assistance are offered in study skills and learning strategies. Staff also provide classroom presentations and consult with faculty on strategies for improving student learning. The VSS program is funded through a grant from the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Career Technology and Adult Learning.

Women of Wisdom (W.O.W)

Marlboro Hall, Room 2102/2103 | 301-546-0725 | wow@pgcc.edu

The Women of Wisdom (W.O.W) program is a highly comprehensive and specialized program that is aligned with our mission to transforms students’ lives. W.O.W transforms the lives of women by providing unique opportunities that enhance their academic, personal, and professional development in a holistic environment. The W.O.W program offers exclusive opportunities including workshops, panel discussions, lectures, field trips, retreats, and the Annual Women’s Summit.

Wellness Center

Counseling Services

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-0149 | counselingservices@pgcc.edu

Counselors are available to enrolled students with personal and interpersonal problems that may be impacting their ability to succeed in college. Short-term counseling is available to help students overcome barriers and deal with cultural and school adjustments. Referrals for long-term counseling will be made to off-campus mental health service providers who charge nominal fees, whenever possible. Emergency assistance is also available in the Wellness Center, Bladen Hall, Room 132.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

Bladen Hall, Room 132 | 301-546-0845

It is the policy of the Prince George’s Community College Board of Trustees to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and to provide for its employees and students a workplace that is drug-free. The president is authorized to make, promulgate, issue, rescind and amend reasonable rules, regulations and procedures to carry out this policy and to assure compliance with the Drug-Free Act of 1988. In addition, the college expects all members of the college community to comply with all federal, state, and local laws pertaining to the possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of alcohol and drugs. A more detailed overview of the college’s Drug-Free Policy and Prevention Statement can be found on the college’s website at www.pgcc.edu, HEA Disclosures.

Violence Prevention Center (VPC)

Bladen Hall, Room 122 | 301-546-5281 | merelasx@pgcc.edu

The Violence Prevention Center (VPC) is designed to enhance safety and justice for victims of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and stalking on campus. Funded by the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, the VPC project uses a multidisciplinary approach that involves the entire campus community as well as the larger community to address crimes of this nature. Its primary objective is to institutionalize campus and community-based response protocols that will increase victim safety and services, hold perpetrators accountable, and eliminate the fundamental causes of violence against women on campus.

Wellness Center

Bladen Hall, Room 132 | 301-546-0845

The mission of the Wellness Center is to be a strong advocate for health education, disease prevention, and health promotion to all members of the college community. The Wellness Center also provides college-wide health promotion programs, health fair screenings, workshops, seminars, referrals, and assistance to persons with disabilities, assistance with nutrition, chronic diseases, acute infections, injuries, social-emotional problems, and reproductive health. Physical exams required by the various health sciences clinical programs are kept on file in the Wellness Center. Registered nurses are available to provide free treatment to students for minor illnesses and injuries with standard first-aid and nonprescription medications, as well as blood pressure readings and monitoring. Referrals are available to mental health providers. The college does not provide health insurance for students. However, insurance applications and information can be obtained in the Wellness Center.