Policies, Requirements & Records

Academic Requirements

Degree/Certificate Programs

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is awarded for completion of a comprehensive program of study in professional technical education designed to prepare graduates for technician-level employment. Programs leading to the AAS degree are 90 or more credits in length. 

The Associate of Applied Science - Transfer (AAS-T) option contains the technical courses needed for job preparation, as well as a minimum of 20 credits of transferrable general education coursework in English and math, and in humanities, social science, or natural science. 

Direct Transfer Agreement/Major-Related Program (DTA/MRP) and Associate in Science-Transfer/Major-Related Program (AS-T/MRP) degree options are designed for students who intend to complete a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution before entering the workforce. Completion of these BTC 90-plus credit degrees prepares students to transfer with junior status to a participating college or university. 

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree is a two-year degree added on top of an existing associate degree or previous bachelor degree.

A certificate of completion is awarded for successful completion of an approved course of study totaling less than 90 credits within a program of professional technical education. 

Upon successful completion of an AAS, AAS-T, DTA/MRP, or AS-T/MRP degree, a state high school (HS) diploma is available to students who have not otherwise satisfied the State Board of Education’s high school graduation requirements. Students must meet eligibility criteria as defined in bill SHB 1758 and submit an online High School Diploma application. Once verified, High School Diploma will be posted to the student’s BTC transcript along with the earned degree. 

Students may elect to graduate under the provisions of the catalog in force either at the time of entry OR at the time of completion, providing four (4) years have not lapsed AND the student has remained continuously enrolled in the program. Students needing longer than four years to complete a given degree or certificate will be subject to any updated completion requirements. 

In determining if the requirements for graduation have been met, the college provides assistance through faculty advisors, academic advisors, counselors, and the college catalog. However, the final responsibility for meeting all completion requirements rests with the student. Students have the responsibility of verifying specific completion requirements with their advisor and Degree Audit.

General Completion Requirements

1. Complete, with a passing grade, all technical and academic core courses as listed on the program pages defining requirements for individual degrees/certificates. Some degree/certificate programs may require minimum grades in required courses. See the Programs of Study  pages. 
2. Use the online Degree Audit to obtain an unofficial audit of classes you have completed and are registered for against the requirements for a specific certificate or degree. 
3. Complete and submit the online BTC Graduation Application for each degree or certificate requested to the Registration Office for an official verification of completion. 
4. Meet all financial obligations to the college. 
5. Earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above. Individual programs may require a higher grade point average. Your cumulative GPA includes all grades on your transcript.
6. Complete 15 college-level credits in the required course work at BTC. 
7. BTC may verify and award certificates and degrees as they are earned. 

Program Closure

BTC is committed to student completion of professional technical degrees and certificates. In the event of a degree or certificate program termination, the College will make effort to assist students in the completion of program requirements within a specific timeframe.

Commencement Ceremony

All students who complete a program of 45 credits or more by the preceding fall, winter, spring and following summer quarters are eligible to participate in the June Commencement Ceremony. Students must submit an online graduation application and Commencement Participation form by the published deadline. Guest tickets (no charge) are required for the Commencement Ceremony, and each participating graduate receives four tickets that can be picked up at the Commencement Countdown event. Black cap and gown are required and can be purchased through the BTC Campus Store.

General Education Requirements

General education courses are included in the programs to prepare students with communication, computation, and interpersonal skills required for success. All candidates for degrees and certificate options of one year (45 credits) or longer in length must satisfy the requirements for general education. 

Each program has specific requirements unique to that field of study and employment or transfer. For specific General Education requirements, see individual program pages in the catalog, online at www.btc.edu/Degrees, in Degree Audit.

Minimum General Education Requirements

Certificates of 45 credits or more and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees require a minimum of 3-5 credits in Communications, 3-5 credits in Mathematics, and 3-5 credits in Human Relations.

Associate of Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T) degrees require a minimum of 5 credits in English Composition (ENGL 101  ), 5 credits in college-level Mathematics, and 10 credits in Science, Social Science or Humanities.

Direct Transfer Agreement/Major-Related Program (DTA/MRP) and Associate in Science-Transfer/Major-Related Program (AS-T/MRP) degrees require General Education to satisfy transfer requirements for universities. See requirements at www.btc.edu/Degrees.

Bachelor of Applied Science degree requirements are posted at  www.btc.edu/Degrees.

Classes falling into each of the required categories are listed at www.btc.edu/Academics. Specific programs may be more prescriptive and require a particular class within one of these categories, or may require additional General Education requirements. These requirements are catalog-year specific. Refer to program information at www.btc.edu/Degrees and talk with your advisor regarding particular requirements.

Student Grades

Grading Policy

BTC uses the following letter grading symbols:

Interpretation of Grade Symbols

A (4.0) Excellence in Achievement of Competency 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student has done an exceptionally high level of work and has achieved all competencies. 

B (3.0) Above Average Achievement of Competency 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student has significantly exceeded the average and has achieved all competencies. 

C (2.0) Average Achievement of Competency 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student accomplished an average level of work and, at a minimum, has achieved all competencies. 

D (1.0) Below Average Achievement of Competency 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student did not do average work and did not meet the minimum level competencies. 

F (0.0) Failure to Achieve Minimum Competency 

The student failed to progress toward minimum competencies and performed at exceptionally low level of skill. Student must repeat degree/certificate program course requirement in which an F grade has been earned. 

NOTE: + and - symbols are used with traditional letter grades A through D to differentiate level of achievement within a grade range. The + symbol is not used with the letter grade A, the - symbol is no longer used with the letter grade D, and neither the + or - symbols are used with the letter grade F. 

The following grades do not carry grade point values and therefore are not computed into the grade point average (GPA).

AU - Audit

This designation is used for continuing education courses only and must be requested by the student before the course begins or prior to the second class session. This grade is not used for academic courses or degree/certificate programs course requirements. No credit will be awarded for Audit classes. The student must pay regular tuition and fees. 

CR - Credit for Prior Experiential Learning (portfolio)

Prior experiential learning is credit granted toward the award of a degree or certificate for prior learning experiences, demonstrated through various means of assessment, to be the equivalent of learning gained through formal collegiate instruction. Credits are earned.

I - Incomplete 

The student completed a significant portion (75% or more) of the course requirements, but did not complete all requirements by the end of the quarter. For a student to receive a letter grade, a contract for completing the competencies must be established with the instructor and all work completed according to the contract within one year from the date the I grade was received. Failure to achieve satisfactory completion by the deadline will result in the grade changing from an I to an F. 

I with letter grade - In-Progress (valid grade prior to Summer Quarter 2005)

The student has completed a significant portion of the course at the time of grading and is performing at the level of the grade identified. In-Progress grades will post each quarter until all course requirements are completed. A final grade will be posted in the quarter of completion.

NP - No Pass 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student did not meet the requirements. No Pass is used for internship courses, work-based learning experiences, and clinical courses. 

P - Pass 

In relation to the standards set for the course, the student met all requirements. Pass/No Pass is used for internship courses, work-based learning experiences, and clinical courses. Credits are earned.

R - Repeat (after letter grade)

A grade qualifier that indicates the course has been repeated. Only the highest grade will compute into the cumulative GPA. This indicator appears after the letter grade of the lowest grade.

T - Transfer credit (valid grade prior to Summer Quarter 2009) 

Transfer Credit granted for coursework completed from other regionally accredited institutions, as determined by the designated transcript evaluator or dean through evaluation of official transcripts. Effective Summer Quarter 2009, cumulative transfer credits will be noted on the student transcript. 

V - Unofficial Withdrawal (valid grade prior to Fall Quarter 2010) 

The student discontinued the course and did not officially withdraw. 

W - Official Withdrawal 

A system-awarded grade for students who officially withdraw from a course or program prior to the end of the quarter, or the designation of an administrative withdrawal of the student by the college. 

Grading Policy/Grading Changes 

A grade posted on a student’s transcript is considered final. If a student believes there has been a grading error, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the instructor right away. Instructors can submit grade changes due to an error no more than four quarters from the time the grade was awarded. 

Course Repeat 

• Students who repeat a course need to fill out a Course Repeat form at the time of registration. If registering online, students need to complete a Course Repeat form prior to the course end date.
• Students may not take a class more than three (3) times per state regulation (this is defined as two repeats in addition to the original enrollment). Students must meet with an advisor to develop an educational plan when they repeat a class for a third time. Some programs may have more stringent restrictions for repeating courses (e.g. nursing). Courses with letter grades AU, CR, I, NP, T, or W, are excluded because these grades do not affect the GPA calculation and will remain on the transcript.
• The Repeat Symbol (R) indicates the course has been repeated. Only the highest grade will compute in the cumulative GPA. An R will be placed next to the lowest grade on the transcript.  
• Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits should consult the respective office(s) prior to repeating a course, as benefits or eligibility may be reduced or canceled as a result of the repeat.

Grades and Transcripts 

Quarterly grades for all graded programs and courses are available in myBTC portal or at www.btc.edu\transcripts within three business days following the end of the quarter.  Grades can be viewed on unofficial transcripts. An unofficial transcript is an unsigned and unsealed copy of the student’s academic record and is available online. There is no charge for unofficial transcripts.  The official transcript is a sealed copy of the student’s academic record bearing the college’s seal and the signature of the Registrar. Requests for official transcripts require a student signature and must be accompanied by the appropriate transcript fee. Official transcripts are requested online through the National Student Clearinghouse at www.getmytranscript.com 

GED transcripts are available at www.ged.com

Student records require a student’s legal name. In myBTC portal, students may enter a preferred name for faculty class rosters.

It is the student’s responsibility to review their transcript for accuracy. 

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Quarterly grade point averages are calculated as follows: 1.  The number of credits for a course multiplied by the numerical grade awarded to obtain the grade points for that course. 2.  Add the grade points for all courses taken. 3. Divide the sum of the grade points earned by the total number of credits attempted in course awarding numerical grades to obtain the GPA for a particular quarter. AU, CR, I, P/NP, T, and W grades are not used in computing grade point average.

Academic Achievement

Dean’s List - Students who carry a 12-credit load or more in graded courses and who earn a quarterly grade point average of 3.75 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List for the quarter. 

Honors Designation (effective Fall Quarter 2016) - Awarded to each full-time student enrolled in a degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher at the completion of all degree requirements.  Full-time is defined as being enrolled for a minimum of 12 credits per quarter. 

• Cum Laude: with honor                                                                     3.50-3.74 cumulative GPA
• Magna Cum Laude: with great honor                                                3.75-3.89 cumulative GPA
• Summa Cum Laude: with highest honor                                           3.90-4.00 cumulative GPA

Certificate of Merit - Full- or part-time degree/certificate program students who demonstrate academic and/or program excellence in their program may be awarded the Certificate of Merit by full-time program faculty upon program completion. The Certificate of Merit will be awarded one per full time faculty each academic year per cohort of graduates. Certificate of Merit recipients are announced at the June Commencement Ceremony.

Phi Theta Kappa - This is the international honor society for two year colleges. Its primary goal is to recognize and encourage scholarship among associate degree students. To be eligible, a student must:

• Be  a full time student without an advanced degree
• Completed at least 15 credits of coursework towards an associate degree
• Have a GPA of 3.5 at the time of membership application
• Pay a membership fee

Academic Standards and Progress

Academic Progress 

The primary objective of Bellingham Technical College is to prepare an educated workforce. In educating students, BTC stresses equally the development of technical skills, communication and interpersonal skills, positive work habits, and attitudes that are required for employment. In light of this, BTC expects that students demonstrate academic progress. 

In 2003, the Legislature of the State of Washington established a law requiring colleges to develop policies to ensure that undergraduate students complete degree and certificate programs in a timely manner in order to make the most efficient use of instructional resources and provide capacity within the institution for additional students. 

Academic Standards/Credit Completion Policy 

Students who wish to graduate and receive a degree or certificate must earn a quarterly grade point average of 2.0 or better in the program course requirements for the specific degree or certificate. 

In order to demonstrate satisfactory progress: 

1. All students will maintain regular attendance for each enrollment period. See Attendance below. 
2. All students will demonstrate satisfactory progress toward meeting program objectives. This standard is defined as maintaining a quarterly grade point average minimum of 2.0*.

* Individual programs may require higher-level grades in program or individual course requirements in defining satisfactory progress. These requirements will be published and made available to students upon enrollment in the program. 

Academic Alert/Probation/Suspension/Readmission 

Students who do not demonstrate satisfactory progress as defined above will be placed on academic alert and notified of their status. Students who do not demonstrate satisfactory progress for the following quarter will be placed on academic probation, notified of their status and required to complete an Academic Improvement Plan to their assigned point of contact. Future enrollment will be blocked until the assigned point of contact approves the plan. Students will be suspended after three consecutive quarters of unsatisfactory progress, notified and their future enrollment blocked.

Students who have been suspended as a result of unsatisfactory academic progress may petition for readmission. The suspended student will be required to meet with the appropriate program Dean to complete a plan for academic re-admission by the 5th instructional day of the quarter. The Dean reviews appeals on a case by case basis and may grant an appeal allowing the student to continue under certain circumstances, or deny the appeal.

Attendance 

Regular attendance is required to maintain satisfactory academic progress. This standard is reflected in the grading policy with each degree/certificate program or course syllabus. BTC believes that attendance is a critical workplace competency and is important to overall student success. It is important that students attend all scheduled classes or notify their instructor of any absences. 

Students who fail to attend and there is no class participation in a course activity by the second day of class, may be dropped from class by the Instructor as a No Show. 

It is the student’s responsibility to officially withdraw from a class and review their Student Schedule for accuracy. 

Student Records

Notification of Rights Under FERPA Privacy of Records/Releasing Of Information

Bellingham Technical College policy on privacy of records and releasing of information follows the directives outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the federal law governing the protection of educational records. Registered students will be notified of this policy on an annual basis. Others can find the policy in the Bellingham Technical College catalog and website.

Personally identifiable information will not be released from an education record without the prior written consent of the student, unless an exception has been granted by FERPA (see Exceptions under FERPA section below). 

Rights Under FERPA 

FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to their education records:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days of the day the college receives a request for access. 

   Students should present to the Director of Registration and Enrollment a signed, written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Director of Registration and Enrollment will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the Director of Registration and Enrollment, the director shall advise the student of the college official to whom the request should be addressed. At the time of viewing, the student shall present a form of picture identification, such as a valid driver’s license, before being allowed to view the record. 

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. 

   Students may ask the college to amend a record they believe is inaccurate or misleading. Students should request forms for this purpose from the Director of Registration and Enrollment. Students should clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the college decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent (see Exceptions under FERPA below). 

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures of the college to comply with the requirements of FERPA. 

The office that administers FERPA is: 
Family Policy Compliance Office 
U.S. Department of Education 
400 Maryland Avenue SW 
Washington D.C. 20202-5920

Exceptions Under FERPA

Under certain conditions, as authorized by FERPA, information can be released without student consent: 

Directory Information

The term directory information is a legal term applying to that information the college can release, without student consent, to any third party, with the exception of GED candidates or graduates, and subject to college staff approval. The use of the term directory information does not imply that the college actually has documents containing student directory information or that the college has any obligation to produce such a document. It is the college’s practice not to provide student contact lists to third parties.

BTC has defined directory information as the following: 

• Student name 
• Student e-mail addresses 
• Program of enrollment 
• Full-time or part-time status 
• Period of enrollment 
• Date of completion 
• Degree/certificate awarded 
• Photos/videos of student for use in college press releases, publications, and websites 

The fact that a person has or has not taken a GED test will be treated as confidential information. This information will be released only with written permission by the GED candidate or graduate. 

Students have the right to restrict the disclosure of directory information at any time. To restrict the disclosure of directory information, a student may file a signed written request with the Director of Registration and Enrollment. This request to restrict disclosure of directory information will be honored until such time as the student presents signed written notification to the Director of Registration and Enrollment to remove the restriction. A students name will not appear in the Commencement program or any press releases, no degree or enrollment verifications will be processed for a third party and  the abillity to register online will need to be arranged.

U.S. Military 

According to federal law, the college must release to the U.S. Armed Forces student name, address, phone number, date of birth, and field of study. To restrict the disclosure of this information, a student may file a signed written request with the Director of Registration and Enrollment. 

Authorized Federal, State, and Local Authorities

Student authorization is not required for disclosure to an authorized representative of the following individuals or entities: 

• The Comptroller General of the United States 
• The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education 
• State educational authorities 
• Any party legitimately connected with the student’s application for or receipt of financial aid 
• Accrediting organizations 
• Agencies involving an audit or evaluation of compliance with education programs 
• Organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of educational institutions 

Other Institutions 

Information can be released to other schools to which a student seeks or intends to enroll. 

Emergency Situations

In an emergency, information can be released to law enforcement personnel, emergency personnel, and college officials in order to protect the health or safety of students or other persons. 

Legitimate Educational Interest

Officials of the college who are determined by the college to have a legitimate educational interest may have access to student records without obtaining consent from the student. Officials of the college is defined as: 

• Persons employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position 
• Persons serving on college governing bodies 
• Persons employed by or under contract to the college to perform a specific task, such as an attorney 
• Auditors 
• Persons or companies with whom the college has contracted, such as attorneys, third party services (such as National Student Clearinghouse or BankMobile, auditors, or collection agents/ agencies 
• Persons serving on the Board of Trustees 
• Students serving on official committees (such as a disciplinary or grievance committee) or who are assisting other school officials in performing their tasks 

Officials of the college have a legitimate educational interest if they need to: 

• Perform duties specified in their job description or under terms of contractual agreement 
• Provide campus services related to a student, such as advising, financial aid, and counseling 
• Conduct tasks related to a student’s education or campus discipline 

Judicial Order

Information must be released to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. The college will make a reasonable effort to notify the student of the order or subpoena in advance of compliance, so that the student may seek protective action. However, if the court (or other issuing agency) has ordered that the existence or the contents of the subpoena or judicial order not be disclosed, the college will comply, and notification to the student will be withheld. 

Grievance hearing information about a student or students involved in a grievance investigation or grievance hearing may be released to members of the Grievance Committee, including any students assigned to that committee, if such information is germane to the investigation or hearing. 

Disciplinary Hearing

The results of a disciplinary hearing may be released to an alleged victim of a crime of violence without the permission of the accused. 

Bellingham Technical College Foundation

Student names and addresses may be released to the Bellingham Technical College Foundation for foundation-related activities. The Foundation is considered part of the college and will hold confidential such information, using the information only in specific activities intended to aid and support the college. Release of such information to the Foundation will be made only with the approval of the college president or his/her designee. 

U.S. Patriot Act

The college must release, without consent or knowledge of the student, personally identifiable information from a student’s education record to the Attorney General of the United States or his/ her designee in connection with the investigation or prosecution of terrorism crimes specified in sections 233b (g)(5)(B) and 2331 of Title 18, U.S. Code. 

Written Release

Personnel employed by the college who have consent in the form of a written release of information signed by the student may disclose student information to appropriate outside agencies or persons. 

Student seeking to use BTC faculty or staff as a reference for employment are required to complete the Student Release for Reference or Recommendation form. Students obtain this form from their faculty. 

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Discrimination and Harassment

Bellingham Technical College is committed to providing a learning and working environment characterized by mutual respect and fair treatment among all its constituents. An essential component of this environment is a strong ethic and practice of equality, acceptance, and nondiscriminatory interactions. Harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender, gender identity or manifestation, sexual orientation, religion, age, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran’s status, or any other basis prohibited by college policy or by state or federal laws is unacceptable and will be addressed through this policy.

According to federal law, “No person 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 educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Furthermore, Bellingham Technical College strives to provide a safe environment in which students and employees can pursue their education and/or employment free from the detrimental effects of sexual misconduct, which includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, stalking, sexual assault, and other forms of non-consensual sexual behavior.

Sex- and gender-based harassment, discrimination or violence will be addressed through the College’s Grievance Rules- Discrimination and Harassment available online (Grievance Rules- Discrimination and Harassment).

Office of the Title IX Coordinator for BTC: 360.752.8440 or titleIX@btc.edu

Office of the Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Officer for BTC: 360.752.8549 or hr@btc.edu

Student Conduct Code

All students are subject to the Bellingham Technical College Student Conduct Code published in Chapter 495B-121 of the Washington Administrative Code and as defined in this catalog. 

Copies of the entire Student Conduct Code are published and available to students and the campus community in the Admissions and Student Resource Center and the Office of the Vice President of Student Services and are available on the BTC website Student Resources page. 

Enrollment in the college carries with it the requirement that the student will conduct himself or herself as a responsible member of the community. This includes an expectation that the student will obey appropriate laws, will comply with the rules of the college and its departments, and will maintain a high standard of integrity and honesty. Sanctions for violations of college rules or for conduct that interferes with the operation of college affairs will be dealt with by the college, and the college may impose sanctions independently of any action taken by civil or criminal authorities. In the case of minors, misconduct may be referred to parents or legal guardians. 

Disciplinary action may be taken for a violation of any provision of the student code or violation of other college rules. 

Student Grievance Procedure

Definition of Grievance 

A grievance is a complaint by a student against a policy or practice of the college or college staff that is considered improper or unfair or where there has been deviation from or misinterpretation or misapplication of a practice or policy. 

Grievance Procedure 

• Grievances relating to grades, grade omissions, or faculty must be initiated by the student. 
• Grievances regarding grades will be considered only when no more than four (4) quarters have elapsed from the time the grades were awarded/missed. 

1. A student wishing to pursue a grievance must take the following steps to try to resolve the grievance prior to filling out an official complaint form. 
   1. The student will first try to resolve the matter with the appropriate BTC staff member. 
   2. If resolution is not achieved between the student and the BTC staff member, the student will ask the staff member’s immediate supervisor to resolve the grievance.
   3. If resolution is not achieved at the supervisory level, the student will ask the supervisor’s vice president to resolve the grievance. 
   4. If resolution is not achieved at this point, the student may file a complaint using the appropriate complaint forms. An appointment must be made with the Vice President of Student Services or a designee to obtain the necessary forms and information. 
2. Complaints must be filed with the Vice President of Student Services or a designee. 
3. Complaints must be filed within twenty (20) school days of the date of the action causing the complaint. 
4. The student will receive acknowledgment of the filing of a formal, written complaint. The student may withdraw the complaint at any point during the formal procedure. The Vice President of Student Services or a designee will notify the person(s) against whom the complaint has been filed (hereafter referred to as the staff member). The staff member will also receive a copy of the complaint. 
5. A Grievance Committee will be appointed bi-annually by the college President and will consist of five individuals representing the various college constituencies. The committee will be made up of one administrator, two faculty members, and two support staff members. The complainant may request student representation on the committee. If requested, the President may select two students to substitute for a like number of existing members of the committee. Members of the Grievance Committee will remove themselves from the process if they deem themselves biased or personally interested in the outcome of grievance. 
6. The Vice President of Student Services or a designee will serve as the investigating officer in the complaint. 
7. The investigating officer will: 
   1. Meet with the student and the staff member. 
   2. Examine documentation and interview witnesses. 
   3. Consult with the appropriate vice president, or equivalent unit head and/or other appropriate administrator. 
   4. Prepare a written investigative report. 
8. The investigating officer may meet individually with the student and the staff member to discuss the report in the hope that a resolution can be reached. If a resolution is not achieved, copies of the investigative report will be forwarded to the Grievance Committee, the student, the staff member, and the appropriate administrator(s). 
9. The Grievance Committee will review the complaint and the findings of the investigating officer and determine whether or not the facts warrant a hearing. The committee’s decision will be limited to one of the following statements: 
   1. Based on the evidence presented to us, we find probable cause for believing that an improper or unfair practice or act has been committed. 
   2. Based on the evidence presented, we find no probable cause for believing that an improper or unfair practice or act has been committed. 

The committee will make its report in writing to the Vice President of Student Services or a designee after receipt of the report by the investigating officer. The deliberations of the committee will not be disclosed to anyone except the Vice President of Student Services or a designee who will hold them confidential. 

10. If no probable cause is found, the matter will be considered concluded. However, the student may submit a written appeal to the President within ten (10) working days from the date the decision is made. The appeal must specify in detail what findings, recommendations, or other aspects of the report or decision were not acceptable. The appeal should also include what corrective action the student desires after consideration of the appeal by the President. The President may uphold the decision of the committee; at that point no further appeals within the college will be considered. Or, the President may instruct the committee to go forward with the grievance hearing process. 
11. If probable cause is found, a hearing will be held. 
    1. The committee will select a chair. The chair of the committee will establish a date for the hearing. A notice establishing the date, time, and place of the hearing will be provided to all involved parties. 
    2. The hearing will be held within thirty (30) working days from the date of the hearing notice. 
    3. The student and the staff member will each have the privilege to challenge one member of the committee without cause (stated reason). Unlimited challenges may be issued if it is felt that a member of the committee is biased. In the case of a challenge for bias, a majority of the Grievance Committee members must be satisfied that a challenged member cannot hear the case impartially before the member can be disqualified. In the case of removal of a member through the challenge process, the President will restore the committee to full membership. 
    4. The hearing will be conducted as expeditiously as possible and on successive days, if possible. 
    5. The student and the staff member and any others the committee deems necessary to the proceedings will make themselves available to appear at the proceedings unless they can verify to the committee that their absence is unavoidable. 
    6. The student and the staff member will be permitted to have with him/her a party of his/her own choosing to act as advisor and counsel. The hearing may be monitored by the Assistant Attorney General assigned to the college. 
    7. The hearing will be closed to all except those persons directly involved in the case as determined by the Grievance Committee. Statements, testimony, and all other evidence given at the hearing will be confidential and will not be released to anyone and may be used by the committee only for the purpose of making its findings and recommendations to the President. 
    8. The chair of the Grievance Committee will convene and regulate the proceedings. The student, the staff member, and the members of the hearing panel must be present during the proceedings, unless excused by the chair for good cause. Repeated failure, without reasonable explanation, of either the student or the staff member to appear will be grounds for defaulting that party’s case. The student will have the burden of presenting the case and the staff member will have the burden of challenging the evidence presented. 
       1. All parties will have the opportunity to present evidence, respond to evidence presented, and examine and cross-examine witnesses. 
       2. The hearing panel will be empowered to examine witnesses and receive evidence; exclude any person(s) felt to be unreasonably disruptive of the proceedings; hold conferences for the settlement of the issues involved; make decisions or proposals for decisions; and take any other actions authorized by the rule consistent with this procedure. 
       3. No individual will be compelled to divulge information in any form that he/she could not be compelled to divulge in or in connection with court proceedings. 
       4. Any legal opinion or interpretation given to the Grievance Committee by the parties may be shared with all parties to the case. 
       5. The Grievance Committee will file its findings and recommendations with the President, the Vice President of Student Services, the student, and the staff member after the conclusion of the hearing. If the findings and recommendations of the Grievance Committee are acceptable to the student and the staff member, the President may direct implementation of the recommendations. 
       6. If the student or staff member objects to the findings, a written appeal may be submitted to the President within ten (10) working days from the date the finding is issued. The appeal should also include what corrective action the student or staff member desires after consideration of the appeal by the President. 
       7. After considering an appeal, the President will issue a decision to the parties involved. The decision of the President will be final and no further appeals within the college will be considered.

Absences Due to Faith or Conscience

According to RCW 28B.10.039 Bellingham Technical College will grant reasonable accommodation so that grades are not impacted for students who are absent for reasons of faith or conscience, or for organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or religious organization. Such absences must be requested in writing to instructors within the first two weeks of the quarter and may not incur additional fees for students. Faculty must include the approved language referencing this policy in their syllabi.

If the student has concerns about approval or grade impact they may utilize the student complaint/grievance process, as outlined in BTC Student Grievance or Complaint Procedure (419.0).

See BTC’s website for the college’s full updated Religious Observance Policy.

Children on Campus

No employee, student, or visitor to the College should leave a child unattended at the College including in campus buildings, on campus grounds or in a vehicle. Children are not permitted in classrooms, the library, or other learning environments except with the specific approval of the appropriate instructional Dean, or the Vice President of Instruction on an emergency basis, and for a specified and limited period of time. Children are not allowed in areas where dangerous equipment is operated and/or where chemicals, cleaning products, solvents or hazardous products  are stored or used.

Service Animals

POLICY

In compliance with state and federal laws, service animals are permitted on Bellingham Technical College’s premises or in facilities. This affords individuals with disabilities who require the assistance of a service animal equal opportunity for access to the college facilities, courses, programs, and activities.

Individuals whose animals do not meet the criteria of service animal by state and federal laws are encouraged to consult with the Accessibility Resources Office.

DEFINITIONS

Service Animal

• A dog or miniature horse trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The trained tasks directly mitigate the effects of the disability. Disabilities may be physical, sensory, psychological, intellectual, or other mental disabilities.

Handler

• The person with a disability who has control, custody, or possession of the Service Animal that has been trained to perform tasks for that individual.

Physical Control

• Control by means of a leash or other restraining device held by the handler. Service Animals must be under control of the Handler at all times.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

• An animal that provides emotional or passive comfort alleviating one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of a disability. An Emotional Support Animal is not a service animal under this policy.

Student Identification Numbers

In accordance with Washington State Law SB5509, BTC uses randomly assigned Student Identification (SID) numbers as the primary identifier for students’ academic records. This law is intended to add additional protection to students’ identity, records, and privacy. 

In response to Senate Bill 5463 the 34 Washington State Community and Technical Colleges modified how SIDs are assigned to new students. The purpose of this change is to move toward a common SID across the system, where students eventually will have one single SID regardless of which and how many colleges in the system they attend. 

Students may have the same student ID assigned that was assigned at a previously attended college when they provide a correct social security number. This common SID process only affects students who apply to colleges as of 12/16/2011. It does not apply to previously applied or attended colleges within the Washington State Community and Technical college system. 

Although a student’s social security number (SSN) will not be listed as the primary student identifier, the college will still need to record it for a number of uses including financial aid, tax credits, employment verification, workforce or unemployment data, assessment/accountability research projects authorized by the college and/or the state of Washington, transcripts, and other legitimate uses authorized under state law and/or federal law. 

Student Body Cards

BTC student body cards are available in the Student Center, Campus Center 300. The picture identification card includes the student identification (SID) number, which may be needed for registration, library usage, and other campus functions. It may also entitle the student to some community/retail discounts. 

Student Rights

All students at Bellingham Technical College shall have the right to pursue professional technical education in the area of their choice within the established college standards and policies.

Student Right to Know and Campus Security Acts

In compliance with Public Law 101-542, the Student Right To Know Act and Campus Security Act, as amended by Public Law 102-26 (Higher Education Technical Amendments Act of 1991), Bellingham Technical College provides students with information about the student completion rates for the institution, as well as substance abuse prevention information, campus crimes, and security. All of this information is provided to students by e-mail and is also available on the college’s website: www.btc.edu. 

The college is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. Students use campus lockers at their own risk. 

The Lost and Found is located at the Information Desk in BTC Library, located on the third floor of Campus Center.

Transferring & Earning Credits

Credit Acceptance Policy

Transfer credit is granted for coursework that matches in content a course required for a BTC program. Only courses completed at a regionally accredited college or university with an earned grade of C (2.0) or higher will be considered for transfer credit. Recency of coursework may be considered in acceptance of transfer credit. Transfer credit may not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total credits required for the degree or certificate. 

BTC does not release or certify copies of transcripts from other institutions. Transcripts reflecting a student’s previous secondary and college education, which have been submitted to BTC as part of the official file, will not be returned to the student. Students who need transcripts of course work completed elsewhere must order transcripts directly from the institution where the work was completed. 

Credit Evaluation Procedures

Students seeking transfer credit must submit official, sealed transcripts from the sending institution to the Admissions and Student Resource Center. The form and the official transcript will be reviewed by the college-designated transcript evaluator. Processing typically takes 10-15 business days and may take longer during peak registration periods. It is recommended that students plan ahead and send records in advance of the quarter they plan to attend. For some courses, course syllabi or other descriptive information may be required in addition to an official transcript.

Technical Course Requirements

Students seeking transfer credit for technical courses must submit an official transcript or equivalent documentation to the Admissions and Student Resource Center. Program faculty will be consulted to evaluate and determine credit granted for equivalent technical content.

General Education Courses

Students must submit official, sealed transcripts to the Admissions and Student Resource Center for evaluation and approval of credit granted for equivalent general education content. The form and the official transcript will be reviewed by the college-designated transcript evaluator.

Academic Credit for Prior Learning

Washington State is committed to fostering an educated and skilled workforce, which is essential for economic prosperity and meaningful work for its citizens. Increased enrollment in – and successful completion of – postsecondary learning programs is critical to achieving that goal. Academic Credit for Prior Learning, or ACPL, can help more students complete their training and degree programs sooner by evaluating an individual’s existing knowledge and competencies for college credit, including knowledge that may have been acquired through documented military training.

ACPL credits have the following limitations:

• Prior experiential learning (Portfolio) credits can comprise no more than 25% of the credits used to complete a degree or certificate
• ACPL credits are not eligible for Financial Aid and do not count towards full or part time enrollment
• ACPL credits are not eligible for payment through Running Start
• ACPL credits do not count toward residence requirements
• Only  students who have completed the BTC admission process will be eligible to earn ACPL credits

Credit By Evaluation (Standardized Testing)

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CREDIT

Students who have completed college-level Advanced Placement courses in high school and have taken the Advanced Placement (AP) exams administered by the College Board may receive college credit in selected courses at BTC. A note will appear on the transcript.  To request credit based on AP scores, students must submit either official AP test scores from the College Board or official high school transcripts containing AP scores to the Admissions and Student Resource Center. Credit will be awarded according to the Advanced Placement Credit Chart which outlines the minimum required scores and corresponding courses located online at www.btc.edu

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) CREDIT

Students who have completed International Baccalaureate courses in high school may receive college credit for selected courses at BTC. A note will appear on the transcript.  

To request credit based on IB scores, students must submit official scores from the International Baccalaureate to the Admissions and Student Resource Center. See the college website for additional information at www.btc.edu

COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP) CREDIT

Students who have taken College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams may receive credit. By obtaining a particular score, recommended by the American Council of Education (ACE), students can obtain college credit. To request credit for CLEP scores, students must submit official CLEP scores to the Admissions and Student Resource Center. A note will appear on the transcript. Credit will not be granted for scores below the ACE recommended score. See the college website for additional information at www.btc.edu

Other commonly accepted documented exams such as Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) may also be accepted. Contact the ACPL coordinator for more information.

Credit by Examination (Course Challenge)

The course challenge is a process permitting students to receive credit in courses in which the student demonstrates the knowledge and expertise of that course. Not all courses have a challenge procedure. Contact the ACPL coordinator to discuss the process for challenging a specific course.  Course challenges require a per credit fee be paid to the Cashier prior to completing the challenge. Programs will determine the grade required to pass the course challenge.  

Assessment of Prior Experiential Learning (Portfolio)

Credit for Prior Experiential Learning allows students to receive credit for program course requirements in which the student demonstrates knowledge and expertise that meets the outcomes of each course. Credit for prior experiences can be shown through various means of assessment; however, these experiences must be equivalent to learning gained through formal collegiate instruction.  This experience may include industry certifications, work experiences, and similar out-of-classroom learning.

Prior learning credit is only available for some degree or certificate programs. Credit for prior experiential learning cannot duplicate credit granted by transfer or previously graded work. Contact the ACPL coordinator to discuss the process.

Extra-Institutional Learning

BTC accepts certain credentials from institutions other than regionally accredited colleges for credit. Students should provide documentation to the ACPL Coordinator for evaluation. Program faculty and the ACPL Coordinator may approve credit awards for additional credentials as appropriate.

Awarding Credit for Military Training

BTC enrolled students who are veterans of any branch of the United States armed services must request transfer credit for military training by submitting a Transcript Evaluation Request form to the Transcript Evaluator. The student must provide official Joint Services Transcript (JST), from the Community College of the Air Force transcript or any other college/university attended. 

Per the Veteran’s Administration, all veteran student transfer credit must be evaluated within two quarters of program start. After the third quarter, if the student does not submit all transcripts, the students must be decertified and the use of VA education benefits. 

Veteran students using education benefits are not permitted to opt out of prior credit evaluation. 

Degree and Certificate Program Change

For students who want to change program, add a program, or transfer to a different program, the first step is to discuss the possibility of a program change with a BTC Advisor. Staff will assist with requirements needed for the new program, discuss a revised educational plan, and provide the steps for a program change. A Program Change & Dual Enrollment Request form must be completed and submitted to the Admissions & Student Resource Center.

Those receiving financial aid or other funding should determine the effect of the change on funding status prior to initiating the change. If you change your class schedule, you will be responsible to pay any additional tuition and fees. 

The maximum number of programs you may work on simultaneously is two (2) programs.

Transferability of BTC Credits

To determine transferability of credits earned at Bellingham Technical College, students must request that an official BTC transcript be forwarded to the college where they want to have credits evaluated. The receiving college will determine the value of coursework completed at BTC. Contact the receiving college for evaluation information and instructions. Official BTC transcripts are ordered online through the National Student Clearinghouse at www.getmytranscript.com. The “&” in a BTC course prefix designates Washington State Community and Technical College Common Course Numbering (CCN). Common Course Numbering identifies those courses common within the 34 community and technical colleges in Washington State and to make course transfer between those institutions and to four-year colleges and universities as easy as possible for students, advisors, and receiving institutions. 

Credits, qualifications, or requirements waived by one college may not necessarily be waived by another college. Those decisions are made at each institution. 

Upon student application, each college evaluates and, if appropriate, transfers recognized or accepted credits that apply to the area of study for which the student has applied. The enrolling college determines transfer of credits earned elsewhere. When applicable, students may be accepted for advanced placement or receive a waiver of coursework. 

TRANSFER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1, Students have the right to clear, accurate, and current information about their transfer admission requirements, transfer admission deadlines, degree requirements, and transfer policies that include course equivalencies.

2. Transfer and freshman-entry students have the right to expect comparable standards for regular admission to programs and comparable program requirements.

3. Students have the right to seek clarification regarding their transfer evaluation and may request the reconsideration of any aspect of that evaluation. In response, the college will follow established practices and processes for reviewing its transfer credit decisions.

4. Students who encounter other transfer difficulties have the right to seek resolution. Each institution will have a defined process for resolution that is published and readily available to students.

5. Students have the responsibility to complete all materials required for admission and to submit the application on or before the published deadlines.

6. Students have the responsibility to plan their courses of study by referring to the specific published degree requirements of the college or academic program in which they intend to earn a bachelor’s degree.

7. When a student changes a major or degree program, the student assumes full responsibility for meeting the new requirements.

8. Students who complete the general education requirements at any public four-year institution will have met the lower division general education requirements of the institution to which they transfer.

COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Colleges and universities have the right and authority to determine program requirements and course offerings in accordance with their institutional missions.

2. Colleges and universities have the responsibility to communicate and publish their requirements and course offerings to students and the public, including information about student transfer rights and responsibilities.

3. Colleges and universities have the responsibility to communicate their admission and transfer-related decisions to students in writing (electronic or paper). 

Articulation Agreements

Through county-wide agreements with school district superintendents and BTC, students may enroll in classes to receive high school and college credit at the same time. These articulation agreements are managed through the Whatcom County CTE Dual Credit Consortium and provide opportunities for high school students under five career pathways: science and natural resources, arts and communications, business and marketing, engineering and technology, and health and human services. 

Participating schools and colleges must assure compliance with all applicable state regulations and the federal requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the American Disabilities Act of 1991, Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975.

Articulation agreements with certain public and private colleges and universities provide BTC students with transfer options to earn four-year degrees related to specific programs of study. To view a current listing of those colleges, please visit the BTC website, www.btc.edu/transferoptions. Beyond the formalized degree articulation agreements, BTC has a number of transfer agreements with state colleges and universities regarding courses. To determine if BTC credits are transferable to other colleges, contact the Registrar at the receiving college.