Academic Policies

Academic Performance

Academic performance is a measure of a student's performance. Student performance is assessed by 1) grade point average (GPA); and 2) course completion. Academic performance is calculated beginning with the first semester that a student enrolls and all subsequent semesters.

The levels of academic performance include 1) good standing, 2) academic warning, 3) academic probation, and 4) academic suspension. Students who do not maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 will be placed on academic warning, academic probation, or academic suspension.

Students may view their academic record online at www.lit.edu or by requesting a copy of their transcript from the Records Office (Wimberly Building) or emailing transcripts@lamar.edu.

Standards of Academic Progress

Good Standing. Acceptable academic performance, also known as Good Standing, is based upon student academic progress toward successful course and program completion. Good Standing is earned by students who maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and who complete at least one course each semester/session of enrollment.

A student will be considered to be in good academic standing when a student earns both a semester and a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.

A student will be considered to be making academic progress when a student earns a semester GPA of at least 2.0 but has a cumulative GPA less than 2.0.

Academic Warning. A student will be considered to be on academic warning each time his or her semester GPA falls below a 2.0. Students who have experienced a low semester GPA for the first time are expected to take advantage of the many college resources. A student on academic warning will not be allowed to register for more than twelve (12) semester credit hours of coursework.

Academic Probation. A student will be considered to be on academic probation if he or she meets the following criteria:

Level One Probation

Level Two Probation

Students on academic probation must see an advisor in the Department Office for their major.

Academic Suspension. A student with a continuing history of low academic performance is placed on academic suspension when both the semester GPA and cumulative GPA are below a 2.0 (Academic Probation, Level Two). An academic suspension will result in a student being denied enrollment for a minimum of one long semester. Students placed on academic suspension will be reinstated on academic probation. A student may appeal an academic suspension by following the Appeal for Academic Suspension Guidelines.

Appeal of Academic Suspension

Students placed on Academic Suspension may appeal the suspension. To appeal a suspension, the student must request an exemption from the Academic Standing Policy. The form, Request for Exemption from Academic Standing Policy, requires the student to provide current information that includes 1) name, 2) student identification number, 3) address, 4) current telephone number, and 5) a written statement that includes the reason(s) for the academic performance. The appeal will be evaluated by the Associate Vice President of Student and Academic Success and the student will be notified of the decision of the appeal. Decisions of the Associate Vice President of Student and Academic Success are final.

Guarantee

Lamar Institute of Technology guarantees that students who successfully complete a two-year program of study will have the job skills for entry-level employment in the occupational field for which they have been trained. Students with an Associate of Applied Science Degree who are judged by their employers to lack these basic skills will be entitled to up to twelve (12) additional semester credit hours of tuition-free training in their field of study. This guarantee does not apply to license examinations. Requests for retraining must occur within 90 days of the graduate's initial employment.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is integral to the progression of a student through the curriculum. Academic advising is carried out by a vast number of individuals, including faculty and staff members. Students should regularly meet with an academic advisor within their program of study.

Attendance

Regular attendance in class is important to achieve the educational objectives of the student and the Institute. The instructor must keep attendance records and formulate an attendance policy consistent with departmental policies. The instructor's attendance policy must be documented in the course syllabus and explained in detail to the class at the beginning of the semester.

Class attendance is restricted to those students registered for the course and to the guests invited by the instructor. Persons not properly registered for a course will not be permitted to attend class. Students are not permitted to bring any children to class. Children must not be left unattended on campus.

Absences on Religious/Holy Days

In accordance with the Texas Education Code 51.911, a student who plans to be absent from classes in observance of a religious holy day must notify the instructor of each class no later than the 15th day of the semester. Approved absences allow students to complete an assignment or to take an examination. "Religious holy day" means a holy day observed by a religion whose places of worship are exempt from property taxation under Section 11.20, Tax Code.

Notifications of planned absences must be in writing and must be delivered by the student either (a) personally to the instructor of each class, with receipt of the notification acknowledged and dated by the instructor, or (b) by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the instructor of each class. A form, Notification of Planned Absence for Religious Holy Days, may be obtained from the Records Office. The completed form must be delivered by the student to the instructor of each class affected by the absence. Upon review of the notification form, instructors will sign and date the receipt of the notice, retaining a copy for the instructor and returning one copy to the student.

Instructors may refer any questions regarding the qualification of the absence to the Records Office.

Advanced Standing

LIT students may earn college credit or advanced standing by successfully completing several testing programs. The testing programs include 1) Advanced Placement, 2) Experiential Credit, 3) College Level Examination Program®, 4) DANTES (DSST Testing), 5) Credit by Examination and 6) Transfer of Military Credit.

Advanced Placement by the College Board

Students may earn advanced placement by successfully completing the Advanced Placement (AP) by the College Board. The Advanced Placement exams are offered at area high schools. Some of the most common subject matter areas and the basis for granting credits are listed below:

Other Subject tests may also be submitted for credit. Contact the Dean of Student and Academic Success for additional information. For a list of tests and registration information, go to: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/about.html/.

DSST (formerly DANTES Subject Standardized Tests)

Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) welcomes a variety of students, many of whom bring an established knowledge base with them to the campus. To recognize such knowledge and assist students with matriculation LIT awards credit on the basis of the DSST™ Exams. DSST™ allows students to gain college credit and shorten the time it takes to earn a degree.

A student may receive up to 75% credit of their LIT degree plan by DSST™ and other Credit by Exams (i.e. Department exams and CLEP™). Credit earned by examination is equivalent to credit earned by taking the course. Credit will be awarded only when the student is enrolled at LIT. It is the student's responsibility to request DSST™ credit placed on his/her records. A student may not receive DSST™ credit for any classes that a grade has been posted or will be posted by the time the official score report is received. Credit will not be awarded by examination to students who have prior credit for the same course or its equivalent. Grades will not be assigned, nor will hours be used in the computation of grade point average.

DSST™ is accepted at over 1,900 colleges and universities within the United States. We welcome examinees attending any institution and offer all DSST™ tests available. You should check with your home institution or adviser to verify what DSST™ exams are accepted and the minimum passing score they require, as these may vary by institution. DSST™ scores do not automatically transfer, even if on a college transcript. Each school may have their own criteria.

At this time, LIT recognizes the ACE recommended scores as the criteria for granting credit. LIT reserves the right to change these required scores at any time and any changes made will supersede any previous policy. For a complete list of DSST™ exams available, please visit their website at: http://getcollegecredit.com/ or contact the Testing Center at (409) 839-2027 or email the Testing Center at Testing@lit.edu.

DSST™ Credit Granted by Lamar Institute of Technology

College Level Examination Program®

Lamar Institute of Technology welcomes a variety of students, many of whom bring an established knowledge base with them to the campus. To recognize such knowledge and assist students with matriculation, Lamar Institute of Technology awards credit on the basis of the Subject Examinations of the College Level Examination Program™ (CLEP™). CLEP™ allows students to gain college credit and shorten the time it takes to earn a degree.

General Information

A student may receive up to 75% credit of their LIT degree plan by CLEP™ and other Credit by Exams (i.e. Department exams and DSST™). Except for satisfying the course work-in-residence and the state mandated American History and the American Government requirements, credit earned by examination is equivalent to credit earned by taking the course. Credit will be awarded only when the student is enrolled at Lamar Institute of Technology. It is the student's responsibility to request CLEP™ credit placed on his/her records. A student may not receive CLEP™ credit for any classes that he/she has a grade or will receive a grade.

At this time, Lamar Institute of Technology recognizes the ACE recommended scores as the criteria for granting credit. LIT reserves the right to change these required scores or any policy at any time. Any changes made will supersede any other policy.

CLEP™ is accepted at over 2,900 college and universities within the United States. We welcome examinees attending any institution and offer all CLEP™ tests available. The table below does not constitute all of the CLEP™ exams given. You should check with your home institution or adviser to verify what CLEP™ exams are accepted and the minimum passing score they require, as these may vary by institution. CLEP™ scores do not automatically transfer, even if on a college transcript. Each school may have their own criteria.

The essay sections of the English Composition examinations will be used in the computation of scores.

For more information about the CLEP Examinations, go to: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/about.html/ or contact the Testing Center at (409) 839-2027 or email the Testing Center at Testing@lit.edu.

Competency Based Education

Experiential Credit

Professional certification/licenses may entitle a student to receive up to twenty-four (24) semester credit hours of coursework. Interested students should consult the program coordinator/director and/or the department chair for additional information.

Credit by Examination

Students enrolled at LIT may earn college credit by examination. Eligible students must: 1) be officially enrolled in a course at LIT, 2) have the approval of the Instructor of the course, Department Chair responsible for the course, and the Associate Vice President of Student and Academic Success, 3) complete the Credit by Examination form, 4) pay the necessary advanced standing testing fee, and 5) successfully complete a comprehensive examination that includes the learning outcomes for the course. Students are not eligible if they are enrolled in the course they want to earn credit by examination.

Credit by Examination is intended for students who have completed formal or informal training in topics presented at the rigor of a college level curriculum. Credit is awarded to students that pass an advanced standing examination with a 'C' or better.

Students seeking to earn credit by examination should contact the instructor for the course.

Students must apply to earn credit by examination. Application includes the approval of the Instructor of the course, Department Chair responsible for the course, the Associate Vice President of Student and Academic Success. The Credit by Examination form is available in departmental offices.

A fee of $50 per semester credit hour is assessed for each advanced placement examination. Fees are paid at the LIT Cashier's Office located in the Cecil Beeson Building.

Transfer of Military Credit

Credit may be granted for military experience. Credit will be evaluated based upon the evaluation recommendations outlined in the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services manual. Students must submit one of the following documents: Form DD214 or Form DD256 and SMART transcript. Transcripts can be downloaded from www.acenet.edu.

American Council on Education (ACE) Credit

Lamar Institute of Technology accepts all transfer credits meeting the American Council on Education (ACE) Guidelines. Students enrolled in programs that grant ACE credit must submit official ACE transcripts. Non-equivalent credit is granted by the Institute; however, equivalent credit may be granted by department chairs for use on degree plans.

Transfer Coursework Policy

Lamar Institute of Technology accepts transfer coursework from regionally accredited college and universities, non-regionally accredited colleges and universities, military educational training facilities, foreign educational institutions, and limited non-collegiate training facilities.

1. Regionally accredited colleges and universities. Students must submit all official transcripts from all colleges attended.
2. Non-regionally accredited colleges and universities. Students must submit all official transcripts from all colleges attended. Additional documentation may be required prior to acceptance of credit. Coursework will be evaluated in terms of level, content, quality, comparability, and degree program relevance.
3. Military educational training programs. Evaluation of military credit is based upon the evaluation recommendations outlined in the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services manual. Students must submit both a form DD214 or Form DD256, and a Military Transcript Summary.
4. Foreign educational institutions. Students wishing to transfer college level work to Lamar Institute of Technology from foreign educational institutions must have their official transcripts evaluated by an evaluation service approved by Lamar Institute of Technology. Credit for courses taken at foreign institutions will be awarded according to policies outlined for transfer students.
5. Non-collegiate training facilities. Credit may be awarded for successful completion of learning acquired from participation in formal courses sponsored by associations, business, government, industry, and unions to the extent that the material is applicable and official certification and/or documentation of skills or competencies achieved is provided. Transfer credit for work accomplished in a non-collegiate setting may also be granted upon individual review only for the programs listed and under the provisions expressed in the LIT Catalog and Student Handbook. Many of the recommendations in the American Council on Education (ACE) publication "The National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs" and "Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions" are used to determine the award of credit.

College Success Skills Course (DORI 0200 )

Students registering at LIT for the first time are required to enroll in the College Success Skills Course. Some students may be exempt from the requirement. Exemptions include students who have one of the following qualifications: 1) completed 15 SCH of coursework with a minimum 2.0 GPA, only non-developmental coursework is used in the calculation of the GPA; 2) enrolled in the Police Academy, Fire Academy, or Nurse Aid Program; 3) dual enrolled student; or, 4) Lamar Institute of Technology faculty or staff. The College Success Skills Course is a graduation requirement. For more information regarding exemptions, see the General Education and Developmental Studies Department Chair.

Grades

Grade Assignment

LIT faculty award grades of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, and Q.

Standard Grade Scale

Grade Scale for Developmental Courses

*A grade of "D" is not issued in developmental courses.

The grade of "W" or "Q" is recorded if a student withdraws or drops before the penalty date or the student is passing at the time of withdrawal or drop.

The grade of "I" may be assigned at the discretion of the instructor when appropriate guidelines are met. A grade of "I" is intended to be assigned when the student is unable to complete some course work as a result of unusual circumstances. An "I" is not intended to allow a student to repeat a course. Plans to complete deficiencies in a course should be made with the instructor. Incomplete course work must be finished during the following long semester. If course work is not completed during the long semester, the Office of Records will change the "I" grade to the grade of "F." The course must then be repeated if credit is denied. An "I" grade also automatically becomes an "F" if the student re-registers for the course before removing the deficiencies and receiving a grade change.

The instructor may record the grade of "F" for a student who is absent from the final examinations and is not passing the course.

Semester grades are filed with the Office of Records. A grade may not be recorded for a student not officially enrolled in a course. A grade may not be corrected or changed without the written authorization of the instructor that assigned the grade. The written instruction for a grade change should be accompanied by a statement explaining the reason for the change.

Grade Replacement

The Grade Replacement Policy allows students to replace a grade on their academic record. A student may replace a grade by repeating a course. When a course is repeated, the most recent grade earned is the official grade. In the case of repeated courses, all grades will remain on the transcript, however, only the most recent grade will be used to calculate the grade point average. Once a degree has been conferred, a student may not use the Grade Replacement Policy for any courses used to award the degree or calculate the cumulative grade point average.

A student who wishes to replace a grade in a course must repeat the course by registering and completing the course at Lamar Institute of Technology. Courses completed at other institutions may not be used to replace a grade earned at Lamar Institute of Technology.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

A grade point average is a measure of the student's overall academic performance and is used to determine academic standing, eligibility for graduation, and honors status.

Grade points are assigned to letter grades. An 'A' is assigned 4 points; a 'B' is assigned 3 grade points; a 'C' is assigned 2 grade points; a 'D' is assigned 1 grade point. A grade of 'F' is assigned zero (0) grade points. Course grades of 'I', 'NG', 'W', and 'Q' are not used in the calculation of a Grade Point Average.

The grade points earned in a course are determined by multiplying the number of semester credit hours by the number of grade points assigned to the grade. The grade point average is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of semester credit hours attempted. Only semester credit hours for which grades are awarded are used in calculating the grade point average (GPA).

This policy refers to the calculation of a grade point average at Lamar Institute of Technology. Other institutions may calculate the grade point average differently.

Semester Grade Point Average

The Semester Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for LIT college-level courses with grades of A, B, C, D, and F recorded during a specific term.

Cumulative Grade Point Average

The Cumulative Grade Point Average is calculated and used to qualify students for graduation and graduation honors status. The Cumulative GPA is calculated using LIT college-level courses with grades of A, B, C, D, and F recorded during all semesters enrolled at LIT. Courses transferred to LIT from other postsecondary institutions are excluded from the Cumulative GPA calculation. The Cumulative GPA is recorded on the LIT official transcript.

Audit a Course

A student may register for a course and petition to audit the course. An audit allows the student to attend and participate in all class activities; however, the student will receive a "No Grade" on their transcript for the audited course.

In order to audit a course, the student must have the written approval of the department chair for their major and the course instructor. The student requesting the audit is responsible for completing and filing a Petition for an Audit or No Grade with the Records Office. The deadline each semester for filing the Petition for an Audit or No Grade with the Records Office is the same as the deadline for dropping or withdrawing from a course without penalty.

Student semester credit hours attempted will be reduced by the appropriate number of hours.

Grade Report

Students must view their academic record, including grades on-line at www.lit.edu. Academic records on-line reflect the student's grade, semester grade point average, and cumulative grade point average. Any errors or discrepancies in a student academic record must be reported to their departmental office. Grade Reports are not mailed to students.

Honors

President's List

Lamar Institute of Technology recognizes students that achieve academic excellence. Full-time students who have earned a 4.0 grade point average for the fall or spring semester are included on the President's List. Developmental courses are not included in this honor. The President's List is announced by the President.

Vice President's List

Full-time students who complete twelve (12) or more semester credit hours and have earned a 3.40 to 3.99 grade point average for the fall or spring semesters are included on the Vice President's List. Developmental courses are not included in this honor. The Vice President's List is announced by the Executive Vice President/Provost.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society recognizes and encourages the academic achievement of two-year college students and provides opportunities for individual growth and development through honors, leadership and service programs. The American Association of Community Colleges recognizes Phi Theta Kappa as the official honor society for two-year colleges. The complement of services, innovative programs, and membership benefits offered by Phi Theta Kappa today is unequaled among honor societies. The programs focus on the Society's Hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship.

Students eligible for membership must 1) be in their second semester at LIT, 2) have completed a minimum of twelve semester credit hours (12 SCH) of associate degree course work, 3) have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 and 4) earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher in the previous semester. Eligible students receive invitations to join by mail in the fall and spring semesters. Once a student becomes a member of Phi Theta Kappa, they must maintain a high academic standing throughout their enrollment in the two-year college.

Student Records

Major

Each student must select a major that reflects the program of study they plan to complete. If a student wants to change their major they must have the approval of the department chair of their future major. Students may obtain a Change of Major Form from department offices or the Student Services Office. Change of majors must be requested and approved in writing on the Change of Major Form.

Students who want to change their major from a Texas Success Initiative (TSI) waived certificate program to an Associate of Applied Science Degree program must visit Student Services to have their TSI status changed.

Academic Records and Transcripts

The Academic Record is that internal document or electronic image maintained by the Office of the Registrar that reflects the unabridged academic history of the student at the institution. It is a chronological listing of the student's total quantitative and qualitative learning experiences and achievements and may include any information pertinent to the evaluation thereof.

Institute student records are in the permanent custody of Lamar Institute of Technology. Transcripts of academic records may be secured by an individual personally or will be released on the student's written authorization. The Student Services Office maintains records for Lamar Institute of Technology.

Students who owe debts to the Institute or who have not met entrance requirements may have their official transcripts withheld until the debt is paid.

Chapter 675, acts of the 61st Legislature, 1969 regular Session, provides that no person may buy, sell, create, duplicate, alter, give or obtain a diploma, certificate, academic record, certificate of enrollment or other instrument which purports to signify merit or achievement conferred by an institution of education in this state with the intent to use fraudulently such a document or to allow the fraudulent use of such document.

A person who violates this act or who aids another in violating this act is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, can be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or confinement in the county jail for a period not to exceed one year.

Personal Information

Personal information, such as an address and telephone number, is used to communicate with students. Students are responsible for notifying Lamar Institute of Technology of any change of name, address, and/or telephone number. Changes must be reported to Student Services. Students may request that directory information not be shared. To prevent the sharing of directory information, students must complete a Consent for Access to Educational Records and deliver it to the Records Office. The Consent for Access to Educational Records may be obtained in the Student Services office.

Change of name due to marriage or correction of name because of spelling errors may be made by completing a name change card. All name changes must be accompanied by a copy of the legal document making the name change official. This document will be kept on file in the student's confidential folder. Former student names will be displayed on all official transcripts.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The following information concerning student records maintained by LIT is published in compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (PL 93-380).

Access to educational records directly related to a student will not be granted unless disclosure of the type of record is authorized to be disclosed under the provision of the law. The types, locations, and names of custodians of educational records maintained by the Institute are available from the Registrar. Access to records by persons other than the student will be limited to those persons and agencies specified in the statute.

The release of information to the public without the consent of the student will be limited to the categories of information which have been designated by the Institute of Technology as directory information and which will be routinely released. The student may request that any or all of this information be withheld from the public by making written request to the Student Services Office. Forms for submitting the written request to withhold directory information are also available in the Office of Student Services. The request must be made by the last official day to register for a given session and applies until a written release is received. Directory information includes name, current and permanent address, E-mail, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major and minor, semester hour load, classification, participation in officially recognized activities, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received with dates, and the last educational agency or institution attended.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by Lamar Institute of Technology or the Texas State University System Administrative Office in an administrative, supervisory, academic research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the Institute has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Regents; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the Institute discloses education records without consent to officials of another school, in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

A student has the right to challenge records and information directly related to him or her if it is considered to be inaccurate, misleading or otherwise inappropriate. Issues may be resolved either through an informal hearing with the official immediately responsible or by requesting a formal hearing. The procedures to be followed in a formal hearing are available in the Office of Student Services. The right of parental access to student records may be established by either of two methods: first, by the student's filing a written consent statement, or second, by the parent validating the student's dependency as defined by the Internal Revenue Service.

Retention and Disposal of Records

In accordance with Texas Government Code section 441.158, Lamar Institute of Technology has developed a Records Retention Schedule, which adheres to the Texas State Records Retention Schedule. The retention periods on the schedule apply to the "record copies" of materials. These records may be in hard copy, electronic, microfilm/fiche or any other form for storage. Records listed on the schedule are to be discarded or destroyed upon expiration of the required retention period. Final disposition of state records must ensure that records scheduled for destruction are disposed of in a manner that ensures protection for any sensitive to confidential information and that the final disposition of records is documented. Recommended changes to the schedule must be submitted to the Records Management Office for submission to the State Librarian and the State Auditor for approval. The LIT Records Retention Schedule is in the Registrar's Office for reference.

Course Information and Registration

Students may register for classes in person or online. Students registering for the first time or students with registration holds should contact Student Services for assistance in registering. Students must register for courses before the deadline published in the Academic Calendar.

Academic Courses

Academic courses are used to satisfy the requirements of the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees. Academic courses are listed in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM) published by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM)

The Lower-Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM) is the official list of approved courses for general academic transfer to public universities that may be offered for state funding by public community and technical colleges in Texas. The ACGM lists courses alphabetically by discipline.

Technical Courses

Technical courses form the foundation of the Associate of Applied Science Degree. Technical courses are program specific and are listed in the Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM).

Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM)

The Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM) is a web-based inventory of current workforce education courses available for use by two-year public colleges. WECM courses are not generally transferrable.

Types of Courses

Lecture Course

Time used to present new material with additional cognitive and/or affective learning outcomes is classified as lecture. For lecture/classroom instruction per 16-week semester, a ratio of one SCH to one contact hour (1:1) must be used. If the instruction is compressed into less than a 16-week semester, the course must still require the same number of contact hours as it would in a long semester.

Laboratory Course

Time used by college personnel providing direct supervision of skill development, application and practice of knowledge is classified as laboratory. Also activities conducted in simulation facilities to develop or practice skills are classified as laboratory activities.

Non-Course Based Options (NCBO)

The non-course based options are a pathway to accelerate developmental education. They are subject specific courses and offered in a variety of formats. Students should consult the current class schedule for non-course based options.

Internship and Clinical Courses

Clinical and internship experiences provide workplace settings in which students learn and apply program theory and management of the work flow. Clinical experiences must take place in a health care setting and students must not be paid for the learning experiences. Internship experiences take place in any setting outside of health care and students may or may not be paid for the learning experiences.

Hybrid or Blended Course

Hybrid or blended courses are designed so the student attends class in a traditional face to face format and an online format. Less than 50% of the course is offered in a traditional format.

Online

The entire class is taught online. Students should have good computer skills and be very self-disciplined to be successful in online courses. For more information see Distance Learning. Online courses may require a student to visit a certified testing center in their geographical area.

Practica and Cooperative Education

Practica and cooperative education provide workplace settings in which students gain practical experience in a discipline, enhance skills, and integrate knowledge.

New Courses

To meet changing educational requirements, the Institute of Technology reserves the right to add, change, delete or modify any course and/or degree plan at any time without regard to the listing of such courses in the catalog. It is expected that a listing of these courses will appear in the next catalog issue.

Course Offerings

Courses taught are described in the Course Descriptions. Some courses are offered frequently; however, some courses may not be offered each semester. Lamar Institute of Technology reserves the right to modify course offerings.

Course Numbering

Most courses meet three hours each week and have a credit value of three semester hours (3 SCH). Lamar Institute of Technology has converted to the Texas Common Course Number prefixes and numbers. Each course has an individual alpha-numeric code (such as CDEC 1311). The alpha rubric indicates the subject area. Each number contains four figures. The first digit generally indicates the level of the course: 0 means a developmental level, 1 means it is freshman level, and 2 is sophomore level. The second figure indicates the number of semester credit hours. The third figure indicates the type of course. The fourth figure is a unique identifier for the course.

In the Course Descriptions, each course title is followed by three digits separated by colons (such as 3:2:2). This provides the following information: The first number is the semester hours of credit for the course. The second number is the hours of lecture, recitation or seminar meetings per week. The third number represents the required laboratory hours per week.

Semester Credit Hour

The unit of measure for college credit is the semester credit hour (SCH). Fifty minutes of lecture per week is equal to one semester credit hour. For laboratory courses, one semester credit hour may range from two to four clock hours and equal one semester credit hour. For each classroom hour, two hours of outside study are expected.

Semester Length

There are several semester lengths including sixteen (16), twelve (12), eight (8), six (6), and three (3) week semesters. Most courses are taught in a sixteen (16) week semester, however, some courses are taught in a non-semester length. Non-semester length courses allow a course to be taught in a compressed time line. Classes taught in a non-semester length have the same instructional time, are taught by qualified faculty, offer an approved curriculum, and utilize the same educational facilities.

Traditional Semester (16 weeks)

Traditional instruction occurs in a classroom setting. Students attend class 2-3 times per week for 16 weeks. Classroom lectures, demonstrations, and homework assignments are common in this type of class.

Late Start Semester (12 weeks)

Some classes are scheduled to begin one month after the first day of class for the Traditional Semester. Classes scheduled in the Late Start Semester will meet four days per week Monday thru Thursday for approximately twelve weeks.

1st 8 Weeks/2nd 8 Weeks

Students have the opportunity to complete two classes in one semester with the eight week semester. Classes are taught during a short, intensive eight week term. The class meets four or five times a week for eight weeks. To be successful, students must be disciplined about attending class and completing assignments.

Summer Semesters (6 or 12 weeks)

During the summer semesters courses are offered in both six week and twelve week options. Summer classes meet multiple days a week. Completing assignments and attending class is crucial for successful completion of summer courses.

Mini Semesters (3 weeks)

The May Mini and Winter Mini offer students the chance to complete courses by attending class for three short weeks. Meeting four days a week for 3-4 hours, the concentrated instruction allows students to complete a course quickly.

Evening Classes

LIT schedules classes during the day and evening. Classes scheduled after 5 p.m. are considered evening classes. Classes taught during the day or evening do not differ. Classes are taught by qualified faculty, offer an approved curriculum, and utilize the same educational facilities. Students employed during the day may attend classes in the evening and study to obtain a degree or to expand their knowledge in a special field of interest as non-degree students.

Full Time Status

Twelve semester credit hours (12 SCH) is the minimum full-time load in the Fall and Spring terms. Four semester credit hours (4 SCH) is the minimum full-time load in each summer term. Students that want to enroll in more than a full time load must request that they be allowed to register for more than a full time load. Requests must be made to the department chair of their respective major.

Overload

Students are considered full time if they are registered for more than twelve semester credit hours (12 SCH) during the fall or spring semester and in excess of four semester credit hours (4 SCH) in each summer semester. To register for an overload the student must demonstrate the capability of maintaining a high performance level in all classes. Students may register for more than a full time schedule with the approval of the department chair. A grade point average of 3.5 is required to approve semester hours beyond 12 semester credit hours (12 SCH) in the fall and spring semesters.

Repeated Courses

Students may choose to repeat a course because they did not make a passing grade in a previous course or they want to improve their grade for a particular course. If a student repeats a course, the Texas Administrative Code §13.105 allows institutions to charge a higher tuition rate to a student who 1) repeats a course more than twice or 2) enrolls for the second time in a completed course.

In accordance with State law, additional tuition will be charged when a student enrolls in the same course. The tuition rate will be equal to three times the resident undergraduate tuition rate. This includes transferred courses and dropped courses.

A student is exempted from payment of higher tuition for any course repeated in the final semester or term before graduation, if the course(s) is taken for the purpose of receiving a grade that will satisfy a degree requirement. This exemption applies for only one semester. A student is exempted from the payment of the higher tuition rate if the payment of the higher tuition rate will result in an economic hardship for the student. An economic hardship may be demonstrated if the student has been approved to receive financial aid.

The following types of hours are exempt and not subject to a higher tuition rate under the Repeated Course Policy:

1. Hours for remedial and developmental courses;
2. Hours for special topics courses;
3. Hours for courses that involve different or more advanced content each time they are taken, including but not limited to, workforce education courses and manual special topics courses; and
4. Hours for continuing education courses that must be repeated to retain professional certification.

Repeating a course may affect a student's financial aid award. Students receiving financial aid should consult the Financial Aid Office to determine the effect of a course repeat on their financial aid.

Six Drop Rule

Under section 51.907 of the Texas Education Code, "an institution of higher education may not permit a student to drop more than six courses, including any course a transfer student has dropped at another institution of higher education." This statute was enacted by the State of Texas in spring 2007 and applies to undergraduate students who enroll in a public institution of higher education as first-time freshmen in fall 2007 or later. Any course that a student drops after the census date is counted toward the six-course limit if "(1) the student was able to drop the course without receiving a grade or incurring an academic penalty; (2) the student's transcript indicates or will indicate that the student was enrolled in the course; and (3) the student is not dropping the course in order to withdraw from the institution."

Schedule Changes

All schedule changes, including but not limited to, section changes, adds, and drops should be approved by the department chair of the student's major field. All changes are initiated by the completion of the proper forms available in the departmental office. Usually, a course may not be added after the first two days of the semester. Schedule changes made without departmental approval may result in a student being dropped from other courses.

Drop a Course

Students may drop a course and receive a grade of "Q" during the first six weeks (two weeks in a summer session) of the semester after consultation with their advisor and/or department chair. Classes dropped after the penalty-free period, grades are recorded as "Q" or "F," indicating the student was passing or failing at the time of the drop. A grade of "Q" may not be assigned unless an official drop has been processed through the Records Office or Web for Students. A student may not drop a course within 15 class days of the beginning of final examinations or five class days before the end of the summer term. Students should check the published schedule for specific dates.

Withdrawal

Students who want to withdraw during fall, spring, or summer semesters must complete a Withdrawal Petition. Students must clear all financial obligations and return all uniforms, books, laboratory equipment, and other materials to the point of original issue. However, if the student is unable at the time of withdrawal to clear financial obligations to the Institute and files an affidavit of inability to pay, the student will be permitted to withdraw with the acknowledgment that transcripts will be withheld and re-entry to the Institute of Technology as a student will not be permitted until all financial obligations are cleared. Copies of the withdrawal form signed by the student and by the department chair must be presented by the student.

The Finance Office, on application before the end of the fall, spring, or summer semesters will return such fees as are returnable according to the schedule shown under the "Fees" section of this catalog. If a withdrawal is made before the end of the sixth week (second week of a summer term) of if the student is passing at the time of withdrawal after the sixth week, a grade of "W" is issued for each course affected. A grade of "F" should be issued for all courses not being passed at the time of withdrawal after the penalty-free period.

A student may not withdraw within fifteen (15) class days prior to the beginning of final examinations during the fall or spring semesters or five class days prior to the end of a summer semester. A student who leaves without withdrawing officially will receive a grade of "F" in all courses and forfeit all returnable fees. Students should review the published schedule for specific dates for withdrawals.

Forced Withdrawal by Administrator

The Executive Vice President/Provost, on the advice of competent medical personnel, may require withdrawal or deny admission of a student for health reasons (mental or physical).

Educational Services

Lamar Institute of Technology has several services that are available to LIT students. Services such as internet access, tutoring, and mentoring are available in the Learning Lab. Students are required to present a current Student Identification Card prior to requesting services.

Learning Lab

Lamar Institute of Technology has a Learning Lab located in the Eagles' Nest for Student Success building. The goal of the Learning Lab is to provide computer-based assistance for the TSI Assessment or Texas Success Initiative (TSI) objectives of reading, writing, and mathematics. Personal tutoring is available for developmental classes as well as other subjects offered at the Institute. 

The Learning Lab provides computer access to Institute students. Computers are equipped with instructional software and standard commercial software packages, as well as Internet access.

The Learning Lab offers access through computers to the Mary and John Gray Library. Research may be done online, and if books or other materials are needed, they may be checked out through the Inter-Library Loan System.

The Learning Lab may also be used for study. Tables are set up for individuals or study groups. The hours of operation during the Fall and Spring semesters are 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The hours of operation for the summer semesters are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.

Library

The Mary and John Gray Library serves as the principle library for Lamar Institute of Technology students. LIT students have full access to the entire range of services offered by the library. The library occupies seven floors of the eight-story building, with a fully computerized online system providing access to more than 1,000,000 volumes and 75 electronic indexes and full-text periodical databases. Seating accommodates 860 students and faculty, including 17 study rooms for large group study and a 'quiet' floor.

The first floor service areas include circulation, reference, and interlibrary loans. The second floor houses reserve reading, current periodicals and government documents, and a section of leisure reading. Three floors provide stacks for books and periodicals shelved in the Library of Congress classification sequence.

The seventh floor houses the library administrative offices, Special Collections, Media Services, and the PC lab. The 120-computer lab is open-access and offers students the opportunity to use word processing, database, and spreadsheet software as well as some software purchased to support specific classes.

The eighth floor currently serves as a Reception Center. This spacious and elegant floor, furnished by community donors, is available as a center for meetings, conferences, and social functions.

Expanding library collections support continuously evolving academic and technical programs. In addition to a strong collection of books and periodicals, the Library provides access to state and federal government documents and participates in the library networks that extend access to information resources. LIT students can access the library online system PCs located in the Learning Lab.

Testing Center

Lamar Institute of Technology, a member of the National College Testing Association (NCTA), provides a full service Testing Center for LIT students and the community. Assessments, both in the electronic and paper/pencil format, are offered in a comfortable, secure testing environment. Exams range from student placement exams, national licensures/certificates and state certifications. LIT partners with ACT (Work Keys), College Board (Accuplacer, Accuplacer ESL, SAT, TSI Assessment), ESCO Group, NATE (North American Technician Excellence), Kryterion, NHA, NOCTI, PearsonVUE (GED, TExES, NREMT, AHIMA, PTCE, Microsoft, CompTIA, Texas Real Estate, Texas Insurance, CDA, ICC, IFIA, NACE, and many more), Prometric (Certiport and DSST only), SCANTRON (formerly Castle), local industry, and the State of Texas (TCEQ, TCFP, and TCOLE).

Information about exams, hours of operation, and test center location can be found at www.lit.edu or by contacting the Testing Center at 409-839-2027, 409-880-8687 or testingcenter@lit.edu.

Tutoring

Instructors provide tutoring for students. Faculty are available during their office hours and by appointment. The Learning Lab (Eagles' Nest Building) provides other tutoring resources, both in person and online, in a variety of subject areas, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Individualized tutoring is available in writing, math, reading, computer science, and other subjects requested by students.

During the fall and spring semesters, the hours of operation for the Learning Lab are 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The summer hours of operation are from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday.

Mentoring Program

LIT's Mentoring Program helps students meet the challenges of college and take advantage of the Institute's many resources. This program will serve to connect students with LIT by providing them with a role model with whom they can consult about campus decisions. The Mentoring Program will help promote students' self-confidence by humanizing the campus and guiding them through college life, thereby making the always difficult first year less challenging. The mentor can listen to problems and offer solutions in regard to time management, study skills, curricular choices and the like.

Mentors are faculty members or staff volunteers who are willing to donate attention and guidance to an assigned student. Any currently enrolled LIT student is eligible to participate in the Mentoring program. To enhance the Mentoring Program's effectiveness, students are required to agree to the rules and conditions of the program. For an application or more information, students can visit the LIT webpage, contact the Coordinator of Student Activities and Career Services at 880-8189, or email at mentoring@lit.edu.