Policies & Procedures

The purpose of these policies and procedures is to help students succeed at Sinclair. Please carefully review and address any questions to instructors or the contacts provided.

The college reserves the right to appeal, change, or amend rules, regulations, tuition, and fees and may withdraw, add to, or modify the policies, courses, and programs listed herein.

For current information:

• (937) 512-3000
• (800) 315-3000
• catalog.sinclair.edu

Academic Petition Process

If you experienced an emergency situation which affected your ability to withdraw before the deadline date or your ability to finish course requirements, you may ask the Academic Petitions Committee to consider your circumstances. You must file a petition through the Office of the Assistant Provost as soon as possible, but no later than two years following the term when the grade was recorded. Please note that this process can only be used to change a grade of F or Z to a grade of W.

Examples of emergency situations which might support your petition are:

• Death of a close family member
• Unanticipated out-of-town assignment by employer
• Incarceration
• Other emergencies*

With your petition, you must submit documentation of your circumstances that prevented you from withdrawing before the deadline and/or impacted your ability to attend class and complete coursework. Documentation from your physician, employer, agency, etc. must be on letterhead and contain the dates pertaining to your situation to verify your inability to withdraw or attend class.

Once a petition is submitted, it is logged in and placed on the agenda for the next Academic Petition Committee meeting. This cycle can take up to three months to complete. Additionally, the committee does not meet during the summer months.

The results of the Committee’s petition decision, whether granted or denied, will be communicated to you by a letter sent to the address on the petition you submit.

If you are interested in filing a Tuition Refund Appeal, a separate process must be initiated through the Bursar’s office. You may contact the Bursar’s office directly at 937-512-2568.

For any issues that may fall under the Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct policy resulting in students requiring resources, contact the Title IX office at (937) 512-2961 or at TitleIX@sinclair.edu

*For other medical or mental health emergencies see the Mental/Medical Health Withdrawal policy prior to contacting academic petitions.

Adding/Dropping Courses

Before adding or withdrawing from one or more classes, students should consult an academic advisor and the Welcome Center if using financial aid. The financial aid status of any student may be affected by withdrawing from one or more classes. Current or returning students must have a 2.0 cumulative grade point average to add or drop a course online.

A student who registers for 12 or more credit hours is considered full-time. A student who registers for 11 credit hours or less is considered part-time. Students may withdraw online, in person, or by phone.

• To withdraw from a full term course:
  • Withdraw during the first eight (8) calendar days of the term for 100% tuition refund and no record of the class on the transcript.
  • Withdrawal later than the first eight (8) calendar days, but prior to the Friday of the thirteenth week of the fall and spring term; and prior to the Friday of the tenth week of the summer term, results in no refund and a grade of “W” on the permanent record.
  • Courses that are not full term in length have special deadlines. Students should check their term statement or the Registration Calendar at: www.sinclair.edu/registration-calendar
  • Withdraw online through my.sinclair.edu or regportal.sinclair.edu
  • To drop or withdraw from all classes for the term, students may also contact the Welcome Center, (937) 512-3000, 1-800-315-3000.
  • A copy of the processed Withdrawal will be mailed to the student. This is proof of withdrawal and should be kept for the student’s records. Failure to follow one of these processes means the student will receive a grade, usually an F/Z, in the class.

  Note to Veterans:

  • Veteran education benefits will be affected by withdrawal from one or more classes.
  • Veterans should first contact the Military Family Education Center (formerly Veteran Services) in person at the Dayton Campus, Building 10, Room 10444 or via email at: mfec@sinclair.edu

  For information on Financial Aid Add/ Drop Census Date Policy, see Financial Aid & Scholarships .

  Administrative Withdrawal

  Students may be administratively withdrawn from a class by their faculty member for nonattendance. Faculty must advise students in writing at the first class meeting what attendance record would constitute cause for administrative withdrawal. If a student does not attend the first class, it is the student’s responsibility to obtain a copy of all materials distributed at the first class meeting.

  Students may also be administratively withdrawn from classes as a result of a student conduct hearing with either a hearing officer or the Student Conduct Hearing Panel. Administrative withdrawals may be made when it has been determined that the student’s presence on campus is potentially detrimental to the college, faculty, staff, students or themselves.

  Associate Degree

  To be an associate degree candidate, a student must:

  • Fulfill requirements of the degree program and the institution.*
  • Complete a minimum of 60 semester hours.**
  • Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 either overall or within their program of study.

  *Generally, a student meeting all associate degree requirements in effect at the time they begin their coursework for a degree program will qualify for graduation. However, if the course of study is prolonged beyond six years after beginning, a student is required to consult academic advising to work with the appropriate department chairperson to determine graduation requirements. If a student has been enrolled continuously at Sinclair College for more than six years, and the degree program has not significantly changed, the student may request approval to graduate under their initial catalog requirements.

  **Generally, the requisite 60 semester hours must be earned at Sinclair College or through other arrangements with other regionally accredited institutions or contractual relationships approved by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Additionally, unless a higher number of semester hours are specified by individual academic programs, students earning an associate degree from Sinclair College must earn a minimum of 15 semester hours of their academic program from Sinclair College. Programs requiring additional hours of residency (for accreditation, licensure, etc.) will provide an explanation or justification for any variations of the minimum credit hour requirements in their program literature and college catalog.

  To earn more than one associate degree at Sinclair College, a student must take a minimum of 12 credit hours in one associate degree program that are different from another associate degree program, and a minimum of 24 credit hours in one bachelor degree program that are different from another bachelor degree program. If a student qualifies for more than one degree during the same semester using the same curriculum and does not take the minimum hours difference, the student may choose the degree to be awarded.

  For more information about degree related policies mandated by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), see https://www.hlcommission.org/Policies/assumed-practices.html

  Attendance

  Students are expected to be present at all class sessions. It is the student’s responsibility to read and understand the class attendance policy or the Sinclair Online course participation policy that will be defined in the syllabus for each course. It is the faculty member’s responsibility to define attendance or participation requirements and to monitor and record the students’ fulfillment of these requirements. It is a program’s prerogative to have specific policies across multiple sections due to the unique requirements of that program. Attendance for traditional classes or participation for Sinclair Online classes may affect final grades, financial aid eligibility, and VA Education Benefits. This policy differs from the “Financial Aid Student Attendance Policy”, which may be found under Financial Aid & Scholarships .

  Auditing a Course

  To audit a course means:

  • Students may attend class
  • Students are not required to take exams
  • Students do not receive a grade or credit

  To register for a class to be audited:

  • Registration in audit status will be accepted only during designated late registration periods and before the first meeting of a class. Registration can only be done in person at the Dayton Campus Welcome Center (First Floor, Building 10) or at any of the regional centers. Check www.sinclair.edu/registration-calendarfor deadlines.
  • The fee for auditing is the same as that for enrolling for credit. VA Educational Benefits may not be used to audit a course. In addition, financial aid may not be used to pay for courses that are audited.

  Note: Audit status cannot be changed to credit status, nor can credit status be changed to audit status once registration has been completed.

  Assessment Policy

  Prior to initial registration, students designating themselves as degree or certificate-seeking must be assessed for writing ability and numerical skills. Transfer students who are degree or certificate-seeking and who do not have transferable equivalent math or English courses must be assessed. Students may be exempt from assessment by providing proof of a qualifying college entrance exam score or a qualifying high school transcript. No degree or certificate seeking students can register for credit-bearing courses until they have test scores or other qualifying measures on file.

  All students taking a mathematics or English course must be assessed through Sinclair College prior to enrollment.

  • Qualifying entrance exam scores.
  • Qualifying high school transcripts.
  • Qualifying ACT/SAT scores.
  • Prior Learning Assessment.
  • Transferring credits for appropriate level math and English courses.

  For more information on specifics related to the above assessment, contact an academic advisor.

  Students must begin mathematics and/or English course sequences no higher than the level indicated by their assessment results.

  Students taking classes with prerequisites must meet them, either by assessment, transfer credit, or a qualified prior learning assessment option. Students requiring testing accommodations should make arrangements with the department of Accessibility Services. English as a second language (ESL) students should meet with the ESL coordinator prior to assessment to determine the appropriate assessment steps. International students must meet with the International Education department prior to assessment to determine eligibility and appropriate assessment steps.

  Students taking non-prerequisite courses for personal interest or career development and not pursuing a degree or certificate are exempt from assessment.

  Baccalaureate Degree

  To be a baccalaureate degree candidate, a student must:

  • Fulfill requirements of the degree program and the institution.*
  • Complete a minimum of 120 semester hours.**
  • Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 either overall or within their program of study.

  *Generally, a student meeting all baccalaureate degree requirements in effect at the time they begin their coursework for a degree program will qualify for graduation. However, if the course of study is prolonged beyond eight years after beginning, a student is required to consult academic advising to work with the appropriate department chairperson to determine graduation requirements. If a student has been enrolled continuously at Sinclair College for more than eight years, and the degree program has not significantly changed, the student may request approval to graduate under their initial catalog requirements.

  **Generally, the requisite 120 semester hours must be earned at Sinclair College or through other arrangements with other regionally accredited institutions or contractual relationships approved by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Additionally, unless a higher number of semester hours are specified by individual academic programs, students earning a baccalaureate degree from Sinclair College must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours of their academic program from Sinclair College. Programs requiring additional hours of residency (for accreditation, licensure, etc.) will provide an explanation or justification for any variations of the minimum credit hour requirements in their program literature and college catalog.

  To earn more than one baccalaureate degree at Sinclair College, a student must take a minimum of 24 credit hours in the second program that are different than the first. If a student qualifies for more than one degree during the same semester using the same curriculum and does not take the minimum credit hour difference, the student may choose the degree to be awarded.

  For more information about degree related policies mandated by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), see https://www.hlcommission.org/Policies/assumed-practices.html

  Certificate Programs

  Certificate programs recognized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education require completion of a minimum of 30 semester hours of a specific curriculum with a grade point average of at least 2.0 either overall or within the program of study. To qualify for a Certificate of Completion, students must complete at least 9 credit hours of Sinclair course work within the area of study to fulfill the institutions requirements.

  To qualify as a certificate candidate (30-37 credit hours), a student must:

  • Fulfill requirements of the certificate program and the institution.*
  • Complete a minimum of 30 semester hours.**
  • Maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) requirements by either:
    • Maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 or
    • Maintaining a GPA of at least 2.0 within their program of study.

    *Generally, a student meeting all certificate requirements in effect at the time they began their coursework for an academic program will qualify for a credential.

    **Generally, the requisite semester hours must be earned at Sinclair College or through other arrangements with other regionally accredited institutions or contractual relationships approved by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). To qualify for a certificate of completion, students must complete at least 9 credit hours of Sinclair coursework within the area of study to fulfill the institution’s requirements.

    For more information about degree related policies mandated by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE), visit: https://www.ohiohighered.org/certificates-and-credentials

    Changing an Academic Program

    A student is permitted to select only one active program of study. To change from one academic program to another, a student should meet with an academic advisor, academic coach, or faculty advisor. The advisor will make the change, end other programs that are no longer being pursued, and ensure the student fully understands any implications or consequences that may occur as a result of such changes. Students may also initiate this process online by emailing academicadvising@sinclair.edu.

    Any change in academic program will be indicated on the student record and will not affect the cumulative grade point average.

    Changing Sections of a Course

    Students may request to change to any open section of the same course until the last day to drop the course with a “W.” Acceptable reasons for changing sections may include class conflict with work schedule, childcare, transportation, or health issues.

    To change to a different course section, the student must:

    • First, discuss their situation with the instructor teaching the course section in which the student is currently enrolled to determine if accommodations can be made.
    • Speak with the appropriate department chair for assistance with changing course sections, if the instructor does not believe a reasonable accommodation can be made.
    • Present a letter from their employer verifying a work schedule change, or other official documentation regarding qualifying reasons, to the appropriate academic department chair for approval.

    If the change is approved, the student will forward the email, with the department chair’s signature, to the office of registration at registration@sinclair.edu.

    Children in Classes

    Children (and others who are not officially enrolled) are not permitted in classrooms or laboratories when classes are in session. Additionally, children cannot be left unattended on campus at any time.

    Degree Audit (or Program Evaluation)

    The degree audit (or program evaluation) is a tool that indicates students’ progress toward the completion of a program of study, degrees and certificates. Students request a degree audit from an academic advisor/coach to determine which requirements they have completed and which requirements are remaining for a specific academic program. If they change academic programs, students will have a new degree audit for their new program. Students can run a degree audit for their declared major, or any other Sinclair major, in the Sinclair portal (my.sinclair.edu).

    Equal Opportunity/Non-Discrimination Policy

    Policy Statement: Sinclair Community College is strongly committed to a policy of equal opportunity in its employment practices, educational programs and activities, and the many services it offers to the community. The college does not discriminate against applicants, employees, or students on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or disability.

    Scope: This policy applies to all employees, students, contractors and other designated affiliates of Sinclair Community College. Notice of this policy shall be posted and provided as required by law.

    Provisions: This policy statement shall be used as the official statement on non-discrimination whenever such a non-discrimination policy statement is required. Additionally, employment advertising for Sinclair Community College shall include the phrase: “an equal opportunity employer.”

    Responsibility: Inquiries and complaints concerning this policy should be referred to the Equal Opportunity Officer who coordinates Title VI (discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin); Title IX (discrimination on the basis of sex); ADA (as amended) and Section 504 (discrimination on the basis of disability) and ADEA (discrimination on the basis of age).

    Equal Opportunity Officer - Human Resources Office, Room 7340 Sinclair Community College • 444 West Third Street • Dayton, OH 45402-1460 Phone: (937) 512-2514

    All employees shall be knowledgeable of the provisions of this policy and act accordingly.

    This policy replaces all previous policies related to non-discrimination.

    Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)

    The Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) grants four specific rights to current or former students with respect to their educational records at Sinclair. Those rights are a) the right to inspect and review all the information about them held by Sinclair; b) the right to seek amendment of incorrect records; c) the right to some control over disclosure of the students’ education records; and d) the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s FERPA office in Washington, D.C. For more information about students’ rights under FERPA, review the Sinclair Student Records Policy, available in the Registration & Student Records office or at: https://www.sinclair.edu/services/welcome-center/rsr/student-records/

    Problems or questions concerning the Sinclair Student Records Policy may be brought to the FERPA coordinator, director of Registration & Student Records.

    Fraudulent Identification Policy

    A Sinclair Community College student account may be administratively removed (i.e., courses, IT accounts disabled, etc.) if deemed fraudulent. For purposes of this policy, fraudulent means that the account contains false, misleading, or intentionally inaccurate information.

    To administratively remove a student account based on fraud, the college will use the following procedures:

    1. If college officials determine a student account is fraudulent based on a reasonable interpretation of available information and records pertaining to the student and other relevant circumstances, the fraud procedure and checklist can be referenced for this purpose.
    2. After a determination of fraud has been made, the Vice President for Student Development or the designee will send an “Administrative Removal Letter” to the Sinclair e-mail account, which will serve as notification of the impending course withdrawal and removal from enrollment systems. A copy of this communication will be kept with the Registration and Student Records Office.
    3. The “Administrative Removal” e-mail will inform the student that they are being removed as a student unless they verify their identity and provide other information requested by Sinclair to establish their identity. The student will have seven calendar days from the date the e-mail is sent to provide this information.
    4. If the student does not respond to the “Administrative Removal Letter,” the Vice President for Student Development or the designee will submit a request to the Registration and Student Records Office to process the withdrawal/drop from all course sections, and IT will remove system access. The notation “Administrative Withdrawal” will be notated on the course section in the student information system. The student will receive a “W” on their transcript, which will be assigned by the Registration and Student Records Office.
    5. A student who has been administratively withdrawn from the course(s) is not eligible for a refund of tuition and fees for the course(s).
    6. If a student is administratively removed and later provides sufficient information or documentation satisfactory to the Vice President for Student Development or the designee to verify their identity and/or not to be engaged in fraud, the student will be referred to the Office of the Provost. The Office of the Provost will work with the Department Chair and the Registration and Student Records Office to re-register the student for the course(s) they were administratively withdrawn from, if deemed appropriate or to take such other actions which may be appropriate to enable the student to continue their education at Sinclair. Such actions will be carried out in accordance with other applicable Sinclair policies, and the student may be required to follow the procedures in those other policies.

    Fresh Start Policy

    Fresh Start allows a student, who has returned to the college after an absence of at least two years (6 semesters), and has completed specific requirements, a “one time only” option of having his or her grade point average recalculated from the point of re-enrollment without losing credit for previous course work for which a grade of S, P, C, or better was earned. Financial Aid & Scholarships policies do not recognize the Fresh Start Policy or any changes it may have on a student’s record.

    The academic Fresh Start Policy and its conditions are as follows:

    1. To be eligible for Fresh Start, a student must:
       • Re-enroll in the college after an absence of at least 6 consecutive semesters (including summers).
       • Successfully complete any required Developmental (DEV) courses based on an assessment of language usage, writing, and mathematical skills.
       • Successful completion of a minimum of six credit hours after re-enrollment with grades of S, P, C or better. DEV courses do not count toward the 6 credit hours.
       • Complete a Fresh Start form requesting to apply the policy.
    2. The policy can be applied only once and only to classes taken before re-enrollment. Once approved, the application of this policy to the student’s record is irrevocable.
    3. After a student elects Fresh Start and eligibility is verified, a notation will be added to the student’s transcript indicating that all Sinclair credit hours earned prior to policy enactment will be subject to the following conditions:
       • Previous cumulative GPA is recalculated based upon the elimination of D, F, and Z grades.
       • Credit earned at Sinclair with a grade of at least S, P, C or higher is carried over.
       • Credit earned at Sinclair with a grade of “D” is forfeited.
       • Grades from all course work taken at Sinclair will be shown on the transcript.
    4. Fresh Start may not be applied to any course previously used by the student to complete a degree or certificate.

    The academic transcript will show: The Fresh Start Policy has been applied for academic work taken at Sinclair prior to Term/Year.

    Grades

    The grade point average is computed by dividing the total points earned by the total credit hours attempted. Courses in which a student earns grades of X, I, W, P, N, S, IP, U, Y are not computed in the total credit hours attempted.

    The Financial Aid & Scholarships office may evaluate grades differently when determining Satisfactory Academic Progress. For additional information, review the Financial Aid & Scholarships policy.

    Students may be given an “I” grade if their work has not been completed. The students must contact their instructor and request an I grade. If the instructor agrees, the students and instructor must sign the “Incomplete Grade Contract.” When the required work is completed within 30 calendar days after the beginning of the next term, a grade will be submitted for the “I” grade. If this is not removed within this time, the “I” becomes an “F.” This time limit may be extended by special permission of the instructor.

    If the student fails to contact the instructor to arrange an incomplete grade, the instructor is required to assign an “F” instead of an “I” for the term’s work. For cases in which hardships are involved, the student may make up the work which could change the “F” to the grade otherwise deserved. The instructor’s permission is required and must be done before term ends.

    Exception: Flight Lab Completion Requirements/Registration in subsequent labs

    You have two consecutive semesters to complete the Private, Instrument, Commercial-Multi, CFI, and CFII courses and three consecutive semesters to complete the Commercial rating. If your flight training is not complete at the end of the semester limit, you will be removed from the flight lab. At the end of the initial semester, if you are not complete, your flight instructor will schedule your new flight slots for the next semester and you will fill out an incomplete request form so that the “I” grade can be issued. If the form is not filled out and you do not schedule flight slots for the next semester, you will be issued a grade of “F” and you will be dropped from the flight lab.

    If you do not complete the course in the allotted semester time limit, you will need to reenroll in the course in its entirety. If the program is full at the time you seek to reenroll, you will be put on the waitlist. Additional time for completion will be allotted if you are on place on active duty military-orders. Extensions to the semester time limit for other reasons will be considered on a case by case basis.

    Based on the above guidance the requirement to maintain an Incomplete (I) grade is as follows:

    1. additional semester plus 30 days for AVT 1124, 1126, 1224, 1226, 2266, 2269, 2271, 2277, 2278 AND 2286.

    2. additional semesters plus 30 days for AVT 2263, 2264 AND 2265

    An “N” grade indicates the student attended classes and made satisfactory progress but did not complete all course requirements. A “Z” grade indicates the student was registered for class but never attended. To challenge a grade the student believes is incorrect he/she must contact the instructor as soon as possible.

    Under no circumstance will a grade be changed after two years have elapsed from the end of the term in which the grade was recorded. Within the two-year limitation, a petition may be filed with the office of the Associate Provost asking consideration for change of “F” grade to “W,” ONLY if emergency circumstances supported by documentation prevented either withdrawal by deadline date or completion of class requirement after that date.

    ​Dean’s List

    To be eligible for the Dean’s List in any term, students must have:

    • Six or more credit hours of college level course work
    • A grade point average of 3.4 with no grade below a C for that term
    • Good academic standing

    Courses for which students earn grades of X, IP, I, W, P, N, S, or Y are not computed into total credit hours attempted. Their placement on the Dean’s List will be noted on their academic transcript.

    Academic Intervention, Probation, Dismissal

    1. All students must maintain a minimum academic performance of at least a 2.0 GPA cumulatively (2.0 or greater).
    2. Students will be placed on the following academic standards:
       • First semester below 2.0 GPA-Academic Intervention
       • Second consecutive semester below 2.0 GPA-Academic Probation
       • Third consecutive semester below 2.0 GPA-Academic Dismissal If the term GPA is 2.0 or above, the student will remain on Academic Probation.
    3. Students will be returned to good academic standing when a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater is earned.
    4. Students who are on academic intervention or academic probation will receive correspondence that refers students to academic/faculty advisors/coaches, and Student Affairs for advising, academic assistance, and information on the impact on financial aid.
    5. Students who are on academic probation must be seen by an academic/faculty advisors/coaches to:
       1. register or add classes.
       2. receive additional support information or assistance.

       Students whose semester GPA is 2.0 or greater, but whose cumulative GPA would cause them to be dismissed, will be granted an additional probationary period for each semester in which the semester GPA is 2.0 or greater.

       NOTE: Financial aid considers all assigned grades when calculating cumulative grade point average for satisfactory academic progress evaluation.

       Grade	Quality Points
       A	Excellent	4
       B	Good	3
       C	Average	2
       D	Passing	1
       F	Failure	0
       Z	Non-Attendance	0
       U	Unsatisfactory	0
       I	Incomplete	0
       Y	Proficiency Credit	0
       W	Withdrawal	0
       P	Pass	0
       N	Progress	0
       IP	In Progress	0
       X	Audit	0

       Grades not used in calculation of grade point averages
       AA	Articulation Agreement
       AC	Articulated Credit
       AP	Advanced Placement
       CE	Continuing Education
       CL	College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
       DS	DANTES (DSST) (Standardized Subject Test)
       I	Incomplete
       IP	In Progress
       N	Progress
       P	Pass
       S	Satisfactory Completion
       U	Unsatisfactory
       WC	WEBCAPE
       W	Withdrawal
       X	Audit
       Y	Proficiency Credit
       -	No grade was assigned

       Prior to Fall 1982 grades for courses not applicable to a new major were not considered in computing the student’s cumulative grade point average. Effective Fall 1982 all courses on the student’s record are included in the cumulative grade point average.

       Graduation

       The Registration & Student Records office is responsible for identifying students who have met all their credential requirements. Once a student is listed as a candidate for graduation and completes all required coursework the credential will be awarded even if the student requests a change of study but still completes the previous program.

       Students will receive an email from the Registration & Student Records office during the term in which they are enrolled in the final courses needed to complete their degrees, certificates or short term certificates. This email will simply confirm that the student has indeed registered for the necessary courses and, pending successful completion of those courses, can expect to receive their diplomas or certificates at the end of the term. Once those courses have been completed successfully, students will be graduated. They will receive their diplomas or certificates through the U.S. Postal Service in six to eight weeks after the end of the term.

       Important points for graduating students to do during their last term:

       • Check with an academic advisor to ensure their academic programs are correctly recorded.
       • Check their Sinclair emails.
       • Be sure the Registration & Student Records office has their correct mailing addresses.

       Student must earn a minimum of 15 semester credit hours of their academic program from Sinclair or must earn the last 15 semester credit hours of their academic program at Sinclair.

       Graduation honors are also noted on the transcript. Sinclair awards “graduation honors” for a cumulative grade point average of 3.4 to 3.899. The college awards “high honors” for a cumulative grade point average of 3.900 and above.

       Participation in Commencement

       Students earning their associate or bachelor degrees will be offered the opportunity to participate in Sinclair’s annual commencement ceremony. This ceremony takes place in May. Participation in the commencement ceremony is limited to those students earning associate or bachelor degrees.

       Honors and high honors for the commencement ceremony are determined by the cumulative grade point average at the end of the Fall Semester. To qualify for honors a student must have a cumulative grade point average between 3.400 and 3.899. To qualify for high honors a student must have a cumulative grade point average 3.9 or better. Graduates with Honors or High Honors will wear a gold honor cord draped along their shoulder..

       Guarantees

       Sinclair Guarantee-What happens after graduation? The Sinclair Guarantee of Graduate Quality gives graduates two guarantees they can count on:

       • A guarantee of transfer credit for graduates receiving Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees at Sinclair Community College, for entering a university parallel/transfer program with confidence.
       • A guarantee of job competency for those who have obtained an Associate of Applied Science degree at the college and wish to enter a technical career program.

       This tuition-free education as described below constitutes the sole and exclusive remedy under the Sinclair Guarantee of Graduate Quality.

       Guarantee of Transfer Credit (AA and AS Degrees)

       For students thinking about pursuing a four-year degree, Sinclair Community College guarantees to its Associate of Arts and Associate of Science graduates the transfer of course credits to those Ohio colleges or universities that have articulation agreements with Sinclair Community College.

       The guarantee applies only to courses included in a written transfer/articulation plan that must be on file in the Provost office.

       Limitations on the total number of credits accepted in transfer, grades required, relevant grade point average, and duration of transferability apply as stated in the catalog of the receiving institution. Cost of books, insurance, laboratory and activity fees, and other course related expenses are the responsibility of the graduates. For details about the guarantee, see an academic advisor.

       Guarantee for Job Competency (AAS Degrees)

       Graduates looking for a technical job should be sure to tell potential employers that they are Sinclair graduates. Many of them know that Sinclair Community College guarantees appropriate technical job skills identified in the program outcomes for a specific degree to its Associate of Applied Science graduates. And, if the employer feels the graduates are lacking in technical job skills identified by the program outcomes for the specific degree program, the college will provide the graduates with up to nine (9) tuition free credit hours of additional training by Sinclair Community College, under the conditions of the guarantee policy.

       The guarantee applies only to graduates employed on a full-time basis directly related to the area of program concentration as certified by the Provost. Employment must commence within 12 months of graduation.

       Cost of books, insurance, uniforms, laboratory and activity fees, and other course related expenses are the responsibility of the graduates and/or the employers.

       Special Conditions for the Job Competency Guarantee

       The employer must:

       • Certify in writing the employee is lacking job skills related directly to the degree’s program outcomes.
       • Specify areas of deficiency within six months of the initial employment.
       • Develop a written educational plan for retraining the graduate in cooperation with the appropriate academic department at the college.
       • Retraining will be limited to nine (9) semester hours of credit related to the identified skill deficiency and to those classes regularly scheduled during the period covered by the retraining plan, and must be completed within a calendar year from the time the educational plan is agreed upon.
       • The guarantee does not imply the graduate will pass any licensing or qualifying examination for a particular career.

       Harassment Policy

       Sinclair Community College is committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment. The college’s Student Harassment Policy-pertaining to student on student harassment, and Employee Harassment Policy and Procedure-pertaining to harassment by employees against either students or other employees, can both be found on the College’s intranet website, my.sinclair.edu, and on the Human Resources webpage. These policies both pertain to harassment other than sexual harassment. (The college has a separate Campus Security Report and Non-Discriminatory Practices .)

       Inquiries concerning the Student Harassment Policy should be referred to the Vice President for Student Development. A complaint of harassment by a student against another student should be reported to any of the following persons: Vice President for Student Development, Director of Student Affairs, Dean, or Department Chairperson.

       Inquiries concerning the Employee Harassment Policy should be referred to the Equal Opportunity Officer/Director of Human Resources. A complaint of harassment on the part of a College employee against a student or another employee should be reported to the Equal Opportunity Officer/Director of Human Resources, the complaining employee’s supervisor or supervisor’s superior, Department Chairperson, Dean, or Vice President for Student Development.

       Honors Program

       Academic Honors offers many rewards:

       • Availability of Sinclair Academic Excellence Scholarships
       • Opportunity to participate in Service Learning
       • Academic challenge and personal enrichment
       • Honors designation on transcript
       • Special commendation as an Honors Scholar after completing required courses
       • Attendance at regional meetings of Honors students and faculty from other colleges and universities
       • Better preparation for entering baccalaureate and advanced programs
       • Increased opportunities for financial aid and membership in honor organizations like Phi Theta Kappa
       • Scholarships and/or transfer articulations with Miami University, University of Dayton and Wright State University.

       Students can participate in Honors in two ways:

       Individual Honors Courses

       Students with a 2.8 GPA may enroll in individual Honors courses whether or not they plan to become Honors Scholars. To receive Honors credit, a student must earn a minimum of “B” in the course. What honors courses will be offered next term? Ask your instructor! Any course on campus or online beyond the Developmental level may be taken with an Honors option, with the approval of the instructor and the department chair. To find courses, students can search the online course schedule planner by keyword. Enter “honors” in the search box under keyword and a list of courses offering honors options will come up.

       Honors Scholars Program

       Students may apply to become Honors Scholars. Interviews take place each term. Upon acceptance, scholars undertake to complete four honors experiences while maintaining an overall 3.25 GPA. Two of the four honors courses must be in different disciplines and one course must be Interdisciplinary. The interdisciplinary requirement may be waived if courses are taken from four different disciplines.

       In addition to other financial aid and scholarships, Honors Scholars may apply for up to six Academic Excellence Scholarships on a per-term basis during their time in the program.

       Honors Scholars are required to fulfill a Service Learning requirement before completing the program. Students will perform unpaid community service as part of a selected Honors course or just on their own. Students seeking help in choosing a service project are encouraged to contact Sinclair’s Service Learning office at: www.sinclair.edu/service-learning

       Find the application and other Honors Program forms at: www.sinclair.edu/academics/honors-program/honors-forms/

       Late Registration

       Students may register for open classes during Sinclair’s official late registration period after first payment due and before first day of the semester.

       • Late registration period is the week before each term begins. See the online class schedule for exact dates for each term.
       • To audit a class, students register during late registration; there is no late fee charge. Register in person only.

       NOTE: Sinclair classes are considered to have met as of midnight on the second day of the term.

       Medical or Mental Health Withdrawal

       A medical or mental health withdrawal is defined as withdrawal from classes due to a severe medical condition, either physical or emotional. It is intended for use only in extraordinary circumstances in which unanticipated serious illness or injury prevents a student from continuing to attend or participate in one or more classes and must be submitted no later than two years following the term when the grade was recorded.

       1. Withdrawals requests based on physical or emotional issues should be completed as soon as possible by the student or the student’s legal guardian and submitted electronically www.sinclair.edu/about/offices/provost/academic-petition-form-medical-or-mental-health-withdrawal/.
       2. Medical statement must be completed by physician and/or therapist www.sinclair.edu/medical-health-withdrawal. All application materials will be confidentially maintained.
       3. If you receive financial aid or veterans benefits, discuss the impact of your withdrawal on your eligibility for the assistance received.
          • Students receiving financial aid or military-related funding should speak with departmental staff members in the Military Family Education Center or with an enrollment specialist in the Welcome Center to have an understanding how it may impact their current financial aid, or future financial aid.
          • Students requesting to be withdrawn from classes may be required to return their financial aid refund amount for that semester.
       4. If the withdrawal is approved, the student will receive a W on the transcript for all courses approved.

       For more information, or assistance in initiating this process, contact the office Student Affairs (937) 512-2291

       Military Training

       Sinclair evaluates military training according to the American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations. Please refer to the Transfer of Credit to Sinclair policy for complete instructions on how to submit transcript.

       My Schedule

       My Schedule provides students with their course schedule for the term in a weekly format. My Booklist provides students with a list of required and/or recommended books for their courses as well as the ISBNs and prices for each book. This book list provides a direct link purchase books from eCampus. To use these tools, log into my.sinclair.edu, click on the registration portal, and select My Schedule or My Booklist on the left side of the page.

       Students can also access their schedule by logging in to my.sinclair.edu, selecting the Term Statement on the student finance portlet, and clicking View Statement. This term statement includes dates classes begin, dates to withdraw without records, dates to withdraw with record, and end of term dates for each class.

       National Change of Address

       In accordance with the United States Postal Service regulations effective January 4, 2010 all addresses are required to go through a Post Office approved validation process. A process is run every 90 days to verify a student’s address matches with the United States Postal Office. If there is a discrepancy, a student’s address will be updated and could affect your residency/tuition.

       One Year Time Limit on Math Prerequisites

       The following policy applies to all math courses with a MAT course designation except for MAT 1110 , MAT 1120 , and MAT 1130 .

       Students registering for a MAT course are required to have completed the prerequisite course not more than one calendar year prior to the semester in which they are taking the given MAT class. This means the prerequisite course must have been taken in one of the three consecutive semesters (including summer) immediately prior to the semester in which they want to take the given MAT class. For example, in order to register for MAT 1570 in the fall of 2024, a student must have taken the prerequisite course MAT 1470 no earlier than the fall 2023 semester.

       Students whose prerequisites for MAT courses were completed more than one calendar year ago should see an academic advisor for assistance in registering for a MAT course.

       NOTE: This policy does not apply to courses offered by other departments that have a MAT course as a prerequisite.

       Personal Data

       To change a name or address:

       • Apply online at: my.sinclair.edu, or
       • Complete the online Change of Information Form at https://www.sinclair.edu/services/welcome-center/rsr/forms/name-address-phone-changes/change-of-information-form/

       To change a social security number, students can log into my.sinclair.edu, select Registration and Student Records in the Secure Document Upload tile, and upload a copy of the social security card. Military-affiliated students must report any change to the Military Family Education Center (MFEC) in person or online at Dayton Campus, Building 10, Room 10444 or via email at: mfec@sinclair.edu.

       A change of address does not automatically change residency for fee purposes. For that, students must file a separate application for a change of residency and show proof of eligibility at Registration & Student Records. For deadline dates, see Registration at: www.sinclair.edu/registration-calendar; call (937) 512-3000 or (800) 315-3000.

       To change a name, proper court documentation for Name Change can be submitted in-person or through my.sinclair.edu through the Secure Documents Upload tile.

       Prerequisites

       Some courses have prerequisites which are other courses that must be successfully completed prior to taking these courses. Many beginning classes require the placement testing or completion of developmental or remedial courses before students may enroll in them.

       Transfer and transient (visiting) students who have completed prerequisite courses at another institution may bring an unofficial transcript or a grade card to an academic advisor for review. If the students wish to receive credit for those courses at Sinclair, they must have their official transcript sent from their former institution to the Sinclair Registration & Student Records office.

       Prior Learning Assessment Programs

       The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Program offers students a variety of options to demonstrate learning they’ve done outside the college classroom. Assessments available include course specific proficiency exams, evaluation of industry training and credentials, portfolio assessment, and standardized exams.

       Students interested in PLA should review the different PLA opportunities Sinclair offers to understand the processes, forms, and policies associated with each option. Students should also meet with an Academic Advisor to determine which PLA option best suits their academic goals and program requirements.

       Students should know before starting PLA:

       • Students must have an active record with Sinclair.
       • Any credit earned through PLA does not count toward institutional residency requirements.
       • Credit will be awarded regardless of the active declared program; applicability is based on individual program requirements.
       • All fees charged for the cost of assessment for proficiency exams or portfolio assessments are non-refundable.
       • Courses awarded via PLA will be added to students’ transcripts and may factor into GPA and SAP calculations.
       • PLA credit is recommended to transfer to other Ohio institutions; however, it is not guaranteed. Students must confirm with the accepting institution and program to determine how PLA credit may transfer and apply.

       Advanced Placement (AP) Program

       The College Board’s AP Program (http://apcentral.collegeboard.com) offers high school students the opportunity to earn college course credit by providing examinations in 34 introductory courses in 20 fields. To have AP scores reported to Sinclair Community College, use school code 1720. For AP exams taken previously, contact the College Board at (888) 225-5427 or via the College Board website (https://apstudents.collegeboard.org) to request that an official score report be sent to Sinclair. Students with an AP exam score of 3 or above will be awarded the aligned course(s) and credits for the AP exam(s) successfully completed. Additional information can be found on the PLA website.

       American Council on Education (ACE)

       ACE provides credit recommendations for a variety of industry training, examinations, and coursework. Students are encouraged to send their official ACE transcripts to Sinclair for evaluation. Information on ordering transcripts, organizations served, courses and exams can be found at National Guide resource (http://www2.acenet.edu).

       Articulated Credit

       Articulated credit is earned via industry licensures, credentials and certifications. Students are encouraged to present any credentials they’ve earned to their academic advisor. Most credentials must be current or active and require department chair evaluation. If determined eligible, credit will be awarded to the student’s Sinclair transcript. This evaluation process is completely free.

       College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

       CLEP offers standardized exams that can equate to specific Sinclair courses with a qualifying score. To determine the score needed to earn credit at Sinclair, please visit the PLA website. Interested students are able to purchase exams, find testing locations, and submit official transcripts via the College Board website. Sinclair school code: 1720.

       DANTES Subject Specific Test (DSST)

       DANTES Standardized Subject Tests are standardized exams that can equate to specific Sinclair courses with a qualifying score. To determine the score needed to earn credit at Sinclair, please visit the PLA website. Interested students are able to purchase exams, find testing locations, and submit official transcripts via the Get College Credit website Sinclair school code: 9309.

       Portfolio Based Evaluations

       Portfolio assessment allows students to build an academic portfolio tying their prior learning and experience to the outcomes of a specific course. This option is typically pursued for upper-level classes, capstones, or other classes for which there is no other PLA option. Students should verify their eligibility with an Academic Advisor and can submit their request via the PLA website.

       Proficiency Exams

       Sinclair offers over 150 different proficiency exams in several academic departments. Students who meet course prerequisites are eligible for course specific proficiency testing, and grades of C or higher will be awarded. Students should verify their eligibility with an Academic Advisor and can submit their request via the PLA website.

       Readmission Policy for Dismissed Students

       If you have been dismissed from Sinclair for academic reasons and would like to be readmitted, you must petition for readmission. The petition must be submitted to an academic advisor at least three weeks before the first day of classes for the term you would like to attend.

       If you are dismissed for the first time, you must remain out of school for a minimum of one term, including summer. For example, if the dismissal was at the end of fall term, you cannot attend spring term but may petition for readmission to summer term. If you are dismissed a second time, you must remain out of school for an academic year (three terms).

       If you are dismissed for the third time, you will not be readmitted to Sinclair unless there are documented, extenuating circumstances.

       To be considered for readmission, you must:

       • Meet with an Academic Advisor a minimum of two times
       • Complete a readmission petition
       • Meet with a representative from Counseling Services as referred by your advisor
       • Take any required placement tests

       Call 937-512-3700 to schedule an appointment with an academic advisor on the Dayton campus to begin the readmission process or meet with an academic advisor at one of our regional centers.

       Petitions for readmission are available from the student’s academic advisor.

       Veterans Note: To re-establish VA educational benefits, a student must submit a copy of the readmission paperwork to the Military Family Education Center (formerly Veteran Services) in person, Dayton Campus, Building 10, Room 10444, or via email to mfec@sinclair.edu, after readmission to the college.

       Refund of Fees

       • To receive a refund of fees, students must file the appropriate Drop/Add/Withdraw form online through the Student Self-Service Portal within the specified refund period, which is published online at through the registration calendar.
       • If students withdraw by the eighth calendar day from a full-term course (including Saturday and Sunday) of fall, spring and summer terms, a 100 percent refund will be issued (see refund information at the end of this section). After that date, students will receive no refund for dropped courses. Different refund schedules apply for courses that have beginning and ending dates that do not correspond to the full-length term dates. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of this information and other matters related to his or her registration. For more information, contact the Dayton Campus Welcome Center (First Floor, Building 10), any of the regional centers, or visit the registration calendar at www.sinclair.edu.
       • If students withdraw after the eighth day of the full term, they will not receive a refund of tuition or fees unless the withdrawal was due to exceptional circumstances such as a medical emergency, family death, military deployment, etc. For consideration of the specific situation, students must submit a tuition refund appeal request with support documentation to the Bursar’s Office, lower level of Building 10, Room 016 or submit the appeal online. Students may access the Tuition Refund Appeal form and policy at: www.sinclair.edu/ bursar-refund-policy, select the Tuition Refund Appeal Form link, and follow the steps accordingly. Financial aid or third-party funding may be adjusted due to course drops or withdraws and could be impacted with an approved tuition refund appeal. Refer to the Financial Aid Add/Drop Census Date Policy beginning on page 19, the Withdrawal & Return of Title IV funds beginning on page 29, and Veterans & Military Benefits beginning on page 31 for additional information.
       • If Sinclair Community College cancels the student’s class, the student will receive a 100 percent refund.
       • Sinclair utilizes BankMobile Disbursements a technology solution, powered by BMTX, Inc. to deliver student refunds. For more information about BankMobile, please visit: http://bankmobiledisbursements.com/refundchoicessso/. The first refund disbursement of each term begins approximately 30 to 45 days after the start of the term. Refunds are processed weekly after the first refund of each term. All students are required to select a refund delivery preference through BankMobile Disbursements. All refunds will disburse from BankMobile Disbursement and is dependent upon the refund delivery preference selected by the student. If a selection is not made, a significant delay could take place if a student is due a refund. Instructions for making a refund preference can be found www.sinclair.edu/bursar-refund-policy. If payment was made by Visa or MasterCard, the refund may be issued back to the Visa or MasterCard used for payment through Sinclair. If payment was made by a third party or Financial Aid the refund may need issued back to them and not to the student.

       Repeating a Course

       A student may repeat a course for any reason. When a course is repeated, the most recent grade will be used in calculating the cumulative grade point average (GPA) in place of the original grade. All grades will remain on the transcript even if they are not counted in the cumulative GPA.

       There are some courses which will be counted in the cumulative GPA each time they are taken; the original grade is not replaced by the second one. Such courses are designated in the course descriptions with an R. If a student wants to have the previous grade in such a course replaced by a later grade, special arrangements must be made with the department chairperson.

       Financial aid will only pay for one repetition of a passed course. For financial aid purposes, a “D” grade is considered passing. Review the Financial Aid policy section for additional information.

       Residency Rules

       Residency status of each student is determined during the admissions process. Tuition surcharges to the student and college’s subsidy payments are based upon that decision. The definitions and rules used by all Ohio educational institutions are contained within the document entitled Ohio Board of Regents 3333-1-10, generically known as Rule 10.

       A student who is a non-resident of Ohio must pay a tuition surcharge in addition to other fees. The following rules determine who can be considered an Ohio resident:

       • To be considered a resident of Ohio a person must maintain residence in Ohio for 12 months, be qualified to vote in Ohio and to receive state welfare benefits, and be subject to tax liability under Section 5747.02 of the Ohio Revised Code. A person is not permitted to remain a resident of any other state or nation for any purpose within the time prescribed.
       • A person who has established a place of residence in Ohio for the purpose of attending a college or university will be considered a non-resident for fee purposes.
       • A person admitted to this country as a resident alien may establish Ohio residency in the same manner as any other non-resident.
       • An alien admitted to this country on a student visa or other visas, which do not qualify the person to remain in this country on a permanent basis, will be considered a non-resident for fee purposes.

       Within the above stated general rules, a student will be considered a resident for fee purposes if the student:

       • Has resided in Ohio for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding enrollment and is not receiving, and has not received in that time period, financial support from persons or entities who are not residents of Ohio.
       • Is a dependent student and at least one of his or her parents or legal guardians has been a resident for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding enrollment.
       • Is living in Ohio and employed on a self-sustaining basis in Ohio, and is attending college on a part-time basis. The student’s spouse who is a full-time homemaker will also be considered gainfully employed.
       • Has a parent or spouse who has accepted full-time employment and has established a place of residence in the state of Ohio as of the first day of the term the student enrolls.

       Specific Exceptions

       The student, his or her dependents, and spouse are considered residents of Ohio if the person:

       • Is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States and is stationed and resides in Ohio.
       • Forever Buckeye extends the in-state resident tuition rate to any public or private Ohio high school graduate who leaves the state but returns to enroll in an undergraduate or graduate program at an Ohio college and also establishes residency in Ohio. The Forever Buckeyes provision of law removes the 12-month period of establishing domicile in Ohio before becoming eligible for in-state tuition rates.
       • Is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States, and Ohio is the state of residence for legal purposes.
       • Is transferred by his or her employer beyond the territorial limits of the 50 states of the United States and the District of Columbia, and Ohio is the state of residence for legal purposes.
       • Has been employed as a migrant worker in Ohio and has worked in the state at least four months during each of the three years preceding the date of enrollment.

       Montgomery County

       A student who qualifies as a resident of Ohio, but does not qualify for Montgomery County residency, must pay an instructional surcharge in addition to other fees.

       • The student must qualify as a resident of the state of Ohio in order to qualify as a resident of Montgomery County.
       • A person who has established a place of residence in Montgomery County for the purpose of attending Sinclair will be considered a non-resident for fee purposes.
       • A student who has been classified as a Montgomery County resident shall be considered to have lost his or her residency after he or she (or in the case of a minor), his or her parents or legal guardian move out of the county.

       Within the above stated general rules, a student will be classified as a resident of Montgomery County for fee purposes if the student:

       • Has resided in Montgomery County for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding enrollment at Sinclair and is not receiving, and has not directly or indirectly received during that time, financial support from persons or entities who are not residents of Montgomery County.
       • Is a dependent student and at least one of his or her parents or legal guardians has been a resident of Montgomery County for at least 12 consecutive months preceding enrollment.
       • Is gainfully employed on a self-sustaining basis and resides in Montgomery County and is enrolled on a part-time basis (less than 12 credit hours). The spouse who is a full-time homemaker will also be considered gainfully employed.
       • Has a parent or spouse who has accepted full-time employment and has established a place of residence in Montgomery County as of the first day of the term the student enrolls.

       Specific Exceptions

       The student, his or her dependents, and spouse will be considered residents of Montgomery County if the person:

       • Is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States and is assigned to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
       • Entered active duty in the armed forces of the United States as a resident of Montgomery County and can provide proof of eligibility to vote in the county and intends to maintain Montgomery County as the legal residence.
       • Has been employed as a migrant worker in Montgomery County and has worked in the county at least four months during each of the three years preceding the date he or she enrolled.

       If a student has been classified as a non-resident of the State of Ohio or Montgomery County, he or she must apply for reclassification when the student meets the qualifications for residency. A change of address does not automatically change residency.

       The student must present evidence to support the request for reclassification, including proof of place of residence, place of employment, and sources of financial support. If the student is reclassified from non-resident to resident of Ohio or Montgomery County, he or she will be eligible to pay the resident fees from the date of reclassification; the reclassification will not be retroactive to any previous term.

       Information concerning residency and residency forms are available at https://www.sinclair.edu/ services/welcome-center/rsr/forms/change-of-residency/. Requests for reclassification and supporting documents must be submitted prior to the deadline listed on the residency application.

       Residency information obtained from the application for admission (more than the current address) will be used to determine residency for tuition purposes. If students feel they qualify as a State of Ohio or Montgomery County resident, contact the Registration & Student Records office, (937) 512-3000, for specific policies, procedures, time frames, and required documentation.

       Selective Service Fees

       Ohio law requires that all males who are not in compliance with the federal Selective Service laws pay out-of-state fees. All males who are 18 through 25 years of age must be registered with Selective Service. Men who are on active duty in the U.S. military service are exempt. Students who are not in compliance will be assessed out-of-state fees and, if the fees are not paid within the specified period, the students may be withdrawn from all classes. Students may register at any U.S. post office or at: www.sss.gov

       For information concerning status, call (708) 688-2576, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-6:45 p.m.

       Sexual Harassment and Sex Discrimination Policy & Procedure (Title IX)

       Notice of Non-Discrimination

       “No individual in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” - Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and its implementing regulation at 34 C.F.R. Part 106 (Title IX)

       Sinclair Community College is committed to providing an academic, work, and study environment free of inappropriate and disrespectful sexual conduct and communication in any form. Sinclair will conduct its programs, services, and activities in accordance with applicable federal laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination (SaVE) Act, as well as state and local laws, and Sinclair policies.

       New Title IX Sexual Harassment and Sex Discrimination Policy and Procedures Adopted

       On May 6, 2020 the U.S. Department of Education issued new Title IX regulations that make significant changes to the former Title IX policy and procedures used by Sinclair College. These new regulations, effective August 14, 2020, limit the scope and jurisdiction under which an individual may file a complaint, narrows the definitions of prohibited conduct, and uses a different approach to due process requiring that new grievance procedures be adopted and published by the College. They are a significant shift from the former Title IX processes.

       As always, Sinclair’s Title IX Office works to support a safe, respectful and healthy learning and working environment for all students, employees, and other College community members. With those principles in mind, Sinclair has aligned the College’s new Title IX policy and procedures with the mandates in the new regulations. Sinclair’s President has established new Title IX Sexual Harassment and Sex Discrimination Procedures to comply with applicable statutes, regulations, and official guidance. Sinclair’s Board of Trustees adopted a new Sexual Harassment and Sex Discrimination Policy on September 15, 2020 to carry out Sinclair’s obligations under Title IX and the new regulations.

       Sinclair’s responsibilities and programs for preventing sexual harassment and sex discrimination and addressing it when it occurs are coordinated by the Sinclair Title IX Coordinator. Resources are available for students and employees to address concerns pertaining to sex discrimination, including sexual harassment.

       If you require information, support, or would like to file a complaint, contact the Sinclair Title IX Coordinator or the Deputy Title IX Coordinator:

       Title IX Coordinator OR
       Deputy Title IX Coordinator
       444 West Third Street
       Dayton, Ohio 45402
       Office Phone: 937-512-2961
       Office Fax: 937-512-2777
       Campus Location: Building 7, Room 343
       Email: TitleIX@sinclair.edu

       Sinclair strongly encourages individuals who believe that they or someone else has been the victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and/or other forms of sexual misconduct off-campus to contact Dayton Police and to notify Sinclair Police immediately. Anyone who believes that he or she or someone else has experienced these acts on campus should contact Dayton Campus Police at (937) 512-2700 or dial 911 from any location.

       The United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is the division of the federal government charged with enforcing compliance with Title IX. Information regarding OCR can be found at www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html.

       Short-Term Certificate Programs

       To qualify as a short-term certificate (1-29 credit hours) candidate, a student must:

       • Fulfill requirements of the short-term certificate program and the institution. *
       • Complete the minimum program hours. **
       • Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 either overall
         or
       • Maintaining a GPA of at least 2.0 within their program of study.

       *Generally, a student meeting all short-term certificate (STC) requirements in effect at the time they began their coursework for an academic program will qualify for a credential.

       **Generally, the requisite semester hours must be earned at Sinclair College or through other arrangements with other regionally accredited institutions or contractual relationships approved by industry partners and educational entities. To qualify for a short-term certificate of completion consisting of 18 credit hours or less, students must complete at least 50% of Sinclair course work at Sinclair Community College within the area of study to fulfill the institution’s requirements. Students are required to take a minimum of 9 semester hours of Sinclair College coursework to complete a short-term certificate consisting of 19 hours or more.

       Due to the specialized structure of short-term certificates consisting of 19-29 credit hours, students may be required to take a minimum of 9 semester hours of Sinclair coursework within the area of study to fulfill institutional requirements.

       If the short-term certificate is a lecture/lab combination or only 1 course is required, 100% of the coursework must be completed at Sinclair.

       Disclaimer: If the short-term certificate is regulated by an agency outside of Sinclair, then the student must complete the minimum curricular requirements as defined by that agency.

       For more information about degree related policies mandated by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE), visit: https://www.ohiohighered.org/content/short_term_certificate_program

       Standards of Academic Progress: Academic Intervention, Probation, Dismissal

       Students who earn/maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher are defined, by college policy, to be in good standing.

       Cumulative GPA is calculated each term a student is enrolled in courses for credit. The grade point average is computed by dividing the total points earned by the total credit hours attempted.

       Semester GPA is calculated each term a student is enrolled in courses for credit. The grade point average is computed by dividing the points earned for the term by the credit hours attempted for the term.

       • All students must maintain a minimum academic performance of at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA (2.0 or greater).
       • Students who do not meet the 2.0 requirement will be placed on the following academic standards:
       • First semester cumulative GPA below 2.0 GPA - academic intervention
       • Second consecutive semester cumulative GPA below a 2.0 GPA - academic probation
       • Third consecutive semester cumulative GPA and semester GPA below a 2.0 GPA - academic dismissal

       Note: Students whose semester GPA is 2.0 or greater, but whose cumulative GPA would cause them to be dismissed, will be granted an additional probationary period for each semester in which the semester GPA is 2.0 or greater.

       • Students will be returned to good academic standing when a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater is earned.
       • Students who are on academic intervention or probation will receive correspondence that refers them to academic advisors for course permissions and the Welcome Center for academic assistance and information on the impact to financial aid.
       • Students who are on academic intervention or probation must consult with an academic advisor to register or add classes.

       Student Religious Accommodation Policy

       I. INTRODUCTION

       This Policy is adopted by the Board of Trustees of Sinclair Community College (“Sinclair”) in compliance with Ohio Revised Code Section 3345.026, known as “The Testing Your Faith Act.” This statute requires each state institution of higher education to “adopt a policy that reasonably accommodates the sincerely held religious beliefs and practices of individual students with regard to all examinations or other academic requirements and absences for reasons of faith or religious or spiritual belief system.”

       The requirements set forth in Ohio Revised Code Section 3345.026 and this Policy are in addition to the general obligations Sinclair has under the Constitutions and laws of the United States and the State of Ohio, and this Policy is not intended to limit or restrict Sinclair’s compliance or students’ rights under those provisions.

       II. SCOPE AND APPLICABILITY

       This Policy applies to all Sinclair students enrolled in courses for academic credit and to the instructors teaching those courses. For purposes of this Policy “instructor” includes tenured or tenure track faculty, annually contracted faculty, adjunct instructors (regardless of whether they are employed directly by Sinclair), and any other employee, such as a program coordinator or laboratory technician, serving as an instructor for any course or portion of a course for which Sinclair awards academic credit.

       III. STUDENTS’ RIGHTS UNDER THIS POLICY TO RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

       A. A student shall be permitted to be absent for up to three (3) days each academic semester to take holidays for reasons of faith or religious or spiritual belief system or participate in organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or other religious or spiritual organization. Sinclair shall not impose an academic penalty as a result of a student being absent as permitted in this Policy.

       B. Instructors shall include in each course syllabus a statement regarding this Policy. The statement shall include both of the following:

       1. A description of the general procedure for requesting accommodations (Section IV. A-D, below.

       2. The following contact information for Sinclair’s Associate Provost, who is designated as the Sinclair employee a student may contact for more information about this Policy and for processing student grievances/complaints as set forth below:

       444 West Third Street

       Dayton, Ohio 45402-1460

       IV. GENERAL PROCEDURE FOR REQUESTING RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS

       A. All Instructors must provide students with alternative accommodations regarding examinations and other academic requirements missed due to an absence described under this Policy to take holidays for reasons of faith or religious or spiritual belief system or participate in organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or other religious or spiritual organization if both of the following apply:

       1. The student’s sincerely held religious belief or practice severely affects the student’s ability to take an examination or meet an academic requirement. 2. Not later than fourteen (14) days after the first day of instruction in a particular course, the student provides the instructor with written notice of the specific dates for which the student requests alternative accommodations.

       B. The instructor shall accept without question the sincerity of a student’s religious or spiritual belief system.

       C. The instructor shall keep requests for alternative accommodations confidential. However, in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. 1232g, 34 C.F.R. Part 99, this requirement of confidentiality does not prevent the disclosure of records and information about any request for accommodations among Sinclair officials who have a legitimate educational interest in that information.

       D. The instructor shall schedule a time and date for an alternative examination or assignment, which may be before or after the time and date the examination or other academic requirement was originally scheduled, but shall do so without prejudicial effect.

       E. For a course that includes clinical experience, internship, or other supervised activities outside the classroom, the instructor of the course and/or the academic department chair or program coordinator or other Sinclair employee involved in the outside activity, will assist as needed in communicating and coordinating with the outside preceptor, supervisor, or other persons involved in scheduling or supervising the student’s outside activities to provide accommodations under this Policy.

       V. STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

       A. A student who has a grievance with regard to Sinclair’s implementation of this Policy may submit a complaint using the Academic Complaint Form available on Sinclair’s website at https://www.sinclair.edu/services/help/complaint/ under “Academic Concerns.”

       B. The complaint must include the following information:

       Student’s Tartan ID Number

       Course Name and Number and Section Number

       Copies of any written communications or records about the accommodation request and the substance of the student’s complaint.

       C. The complaint will be forwarded to the Associate Provost, who will notify the Provost of each complaint received. The Provost may designate a Sinclair employee other than the Associate Provost or an outside consultant to review the complaint.

       D. The Associate Provost or other person designated to review the complaint will communicate with the student, the instructor, and others who may have relevant information about the request for accommodation and the issues stated in the complaint.

       E. The student, the instructor, and any other Sinclair employees shall cooperate with and respond promptly to the Associate Provost or other person designated to review the complaint.

       F. The Associate Provost or other person designated to review the complaint will communicate the results of the review to the student in writing.

       G. The results of the review of a complaint may include a requirement that the instructor provide accommodations to the student, including but not limited to opportunities or extensions of time for completion of exams or coursework, adjustment(s) in grade(s) (to be made in consultation with the instructor and the Chair of the Department of the course(s) at issue in the complaint), or such other accommodations that the Associate Provost deems appropriate.

       VI. LIST OF MAJOR RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

       A. Sinclair will post both of the following in a prominent location on the Sinclair web site:

       1. A copy of this Policy;

       2. A nonexhaustive list of major religious holidays or festivals for the next two academic years.

       B. The nonexhaustive list of major religious holidays will be based on the list provided by the chancellor of higher education to each state institution of higher education and may include additional holidays designated by Sinclair’s President.

       C. Each time the list is posted, printed, or published it shall include a statement that the list is nonexhaustive.

       D. The list may not be used to deny accommodation to a student for a holiday or festival of the student’s faith or religious or spiritual belief system that does not appear on the list.

       E. No inclusion or exclusion of a religious holiday or festival on the list posted by Sinclair, shall preclude a student from full and reasonable accommodations for any sincerely held religious beliefs and practices with regard to all examinations or other academic requirements and absences for reasons of faith or religious or spiritual belief system provided under this section.

       VII. AMENDMENT OF POLICY

       Sinclair’s President may amend this Policy as the President deems appropriate, so long as the Policy maintains all of the elements required by Ohio Revised Code Section 3345.026. If any amendment is made, the President shall provide a copy of the amended Policy to the Board of Trustees, cause it to be posted on Sinclair’s website, and communicate it to faculty and other employees involved in the administration of the Policy.

       The Tartan Card (Student I.D.)

       The Tartan Card, proof of student status, is required to use college services or participate in college sponsored activities. The card electronically stores information about the students’ enrollment status. To get the first Tartan Card at no charge, present a term statement and another photo I.D.to Registration and Student Records, the Dayton Campus Welcome Center (First Floor, Building 10) or at any regional centers. Card readers located on Sinclair campuses scan the information and provide access for such transactions as checking out materials in the Library and using the Physical Activity Center (PAC).

       There is a $5 replacement fee for damaged, lost, or stolen cards.

       Transcripts

       For official transcripts of academic work completed at Sinclair, choose from these methods:

       • Online – For the quickest way to order transcripts, visit www.sinclair.edu/transcriptsTranscripts ordered online will be produced and sent in one to two (1-2) business days
       • Mail – Mail the transcript request found on the Sinclair web page to the Registration & Student Records office. Include the student I.D. number, birth date, the term last attended at Sinclair, legal signature, daytime telephone number, and payment. Cost is $5.00 per mailed transcript. Transcripts ordered by mail will be produced and mailed in five business days.
       • Payment for transcripts can also be made at the Bursar Office or at any of the regional centers.
       • A financial hold on your student account will prevent you from receiving transcripts (with the exception of sending to employer or potential employer).

       Tobacco and Tobacco-Related Products Restrictions Policy

       Policy Statement

       Smoking and the use of any smokeless tobacco products, electronic cigarettes or products intended to mimic tobacco products are prohibited on any property owned, leased or controlled by Sinclair Community College.

       This policy does not prohibit the use of nicotine patches, pills, gum or other products specifically designed to assist individuals with the cessation of smoking or tobacco use.

       Scope

       This policy applies to all Sinclair employees, Sinclair students, and visitors to Sinclair facilities.

       Enforcement

       This policy will be enforced by Sinclair police officers and security officers.

       Employees or students who violate this policy may be subject to discipline under applicable college policies or procedures.

       Visitors who violate this policy may be required to leave the property and/or be issued a notice of trespass.

       Responsibility

       Employees, students and visitors shall be knowledgeable of this policy and adhere to its provisions.

       References

       • Ohio Revised Code 3794.01 - 3794.09
       • Policy originally approved by Board of Trustees - December 12, 1995
       • Revised: December 2008; November 2013
       • Revised by Board of Trustees - June 24, 2016; revisions effective January 1, 2017

       Waitlisting

       An upgrade to registration allows students to electronically “wait in line” for the next available seat. As a vacancy becomes available, the next students on the waiting list will be automatically registered for the section. The students will then be notified via their my.sinclair.edu email address that they have been registered for the course section.

       By placing his or her name on the waiting list a student is agreeing that he or she is financially obligated to pay for the courses. Tuition must be paid and follow the tuition payment schedule at: my.sinclair.edu