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Academic Services

Academic Advising
The Center For Academic Services
Policy and Procedures for Students with Disabilities
The William L. Adams Writing Center
The Office of International Education
Freshman Seminar Program
Washington Internships
Independent Study
Extended Education
The Library
Information Services
ROTC
Reading Improvement Services
Instructional Services
Honors and Recognitions

Academic Advising

TCU provides academic advising as well as a number of other services and opportunities to help students plan and develop programs suited to their educational and career goals. Academic advising is an ongoing process that helps students clarify plans and goals.

Students should meet with an academic advisor at least once each semester to plan future course schedules and initiate the registration process. At these meetings, students and advisors will discuss academic records, which may include grade reports, transcripts, evaluations of work transferred to TCU, and degree plans. Prior to seeing their advisors, students should become familiar with degree and major requirements for programs of interest and courses for which they wish to enroll. Advisors will answer questions and make suggestions, but the student must assume full responsibility for satisfying all program and degree requirements.

Students who have declared majors will be advised by faculty members in major departments or by professional staff in the school or college of that major. Premajors (those who have not formally declared a major) will be advised by faculty advisors and professional staff associated with the Center for Academic Services. This center provides a number of programs designed to help students identify career interests and possible majors. When students declare a major, they are referred to the major department, school, or college for future advising.

The Center For Academic Services

The Center For Academic Services offers services and programs to enhance the academic experiences of students at TCU.

Major functions of the center include:

- academic advising, including career counseling, for premajors,

- support for students seeking to improve academic skills and performance,

- academic advising for students during Orientation programs, and

- services for students with disabilities.

The center also sponsors a one-hour credit course, Self Assessment and Career Exploration (UNPR 10001), to help students learn about their interests, values, and ambitions. Students explore career paths and learn about majors that may allow them to reach career goals.

Students who are not meeting academic standards or who want to improve academic skills and performance may visit the center to examine a variety of materials providing information on study skills, time management, and related concerns. The center staff will assist students by providing advising, group workshops, a library of related materials, and computer-based programs.

Policy and Procedures for Students with Disabilities

Texas Christian University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 regarding students with disabilities. No otherwise qualified individual shall be denied access to or participation in the services, programs, and activities of TCU solely on the basis of a disability. The University shall provide reasonable accommodations for each eligible student who (a) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, (b) has a record or history of such an impairment, or (c) is regarded as having such an impairment.

Each eligible student is responsible for presenting relevant, verifiable, professional documentation and/or assessment reports to the Coordinator for Students with Disabilities. Information concerning a student's disability is treated in a confidential manner in accordance with University policies as well as applicable federal and state laws. Documentation presented to the Coordinator shall be reviewed by appropriate University professional(s) to verify the existence of a disability. Further documentation may be required from the student to substantiate the claim of a disability or to assist the University in determining appropriate accommodations.

Eligible students seeking accommodations should contact the coordinator as soon as possible in the academic term for which they are seeking accommodations. The Coordinator shall prepare letters to appropriate faculty members concerning specific, reasonable academic adjustments for the student. The student is responsible for delivering accommodations letters, conferring with faculty members, and returning validation of the receipt of information to the Coordinator. The Coordinator shall consult with the student and with University faculty and staff to ensure delivery of appropriate support services and shall serve as liaison between the student and the faculty member as needed.

Students who wish to appeal a decision regarding appropriate accommodations shall file a written request for review with the Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Support.

The William L. Adams Writing Center

The Writing Center offers assistance with writing projects and assignments to all TCU students. Staffed by professional writing instructors and peer tutors, the Writing Center provides students one-on-one tutorials free of charge. Conferences usually focus on a particular project or assignment but may also include general writing instruction.

In addition, the Writing Center maintains a computer lab equipped with Office 97, MicroSoft Word and access to e-mail and the Internet.

The Writing Center is located in Room 100 of the Rickel Building and is open 8 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Students may make an appointment by calling (817) 257-7221 or can drop by and wait for the next available tutor. Students may also use the Writing Center at the library on Sunday through Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. or take advantage of the new on-line tutorial service (instructions available on the Writing Center website at http://gamma.is.tcu.edu/wrt/).

The Office of International Education

The International Education Office serves the University's commitment to the preparation of educated citizens by providing opportunities for significant international academic experiences. The office participates in the recruitment, orientation, and academic and individual advising of international students at TCU. The office also oversees the Intensive English Program and promotes opportunities for study abroad. International education exchange activities including speakers, conferences, and short-term seminars are also coordinated by this office. The Office of International Education is located in Sadler 16, telephone (817) 257-7473.

Study Abroad Programs

For those students who wish to enhance their education through international study, TCU offers a wide range of academic programs including summer courses led by TCU faculty members. In recent years TCU summer courses have featured study in England, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Mexico and Scotland. These intensive courses are developed and directed by TCU faculty members from such disciplines as art history, business, communications, education, geology, history, interior design, literature, modern languages, and political science. Carrying TCU credit and the possibility of financial aid, these courses fulfill many of TCU's graduation requirements while providing an exciting opportunity to work closely with some of TCU's best faculty members.

The TCU London Centre provides a unique opportunity for students to study in one of the major international capitals. The semester-long academic program offered at the Centre uses London and Great Britain as its texts. Course offerings from disciplines such as history, political science, literature, communications, international economics, theater and art history vary by semester with most students enrolling in four classes during the fall or spring semester. TCU's internship program is also coordinated through the London Centre. Because the London Centre is an extension of the Fort Worth campus, TCU financial aid and scholarships may be applied to study in London and all courses earn TCU credits.

Other special study abroad opportunities include exchange programs with the University of the Americas in Puebla, Mexico, and Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka, Japan. Both of these semester-long programs involve direct enrollment in the affiliated university but do not interrupt TCU residency requirements. TCU financial aid and scholarships may be applied to work under these exchange programs and all courses carry TCU credit.

Through TCU's affiliation with prominent consortia such as the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) and the Council for International Educational Exchange (CIEE), students may study in many Asian, European, and Latin American countries for a summer, semester, or full year.

The Intensive English Program

The aim of the Intensive English Program (IEP) is to help students advance rapidly towards their academic, professional, or personal English language goals. Advanced-level IEP students may enroll in TCU courses for degree credit while in the noncredit, certificate program. Graduates of the IEP are not required to take the TOEFL for unconditional admission to the TCU degree programs. In addition, the University waives the foreign language requirement of the undergraduate degree when students demonstrate exceptional proficiency in English. (Undergraduate candidates should see the admissions section on "Admission of International Students" in this bulletin.)

IEP students use the most advance technology available for learning English. The IEP's networked computer lab distributes streaming audio and video materials to the lab stations; in addition, students access the World Wide Web and self-directed, self-pacing language-learning software.

An IEP student begins at his or her own level and studies intensively at least 25 hours each week. Classes are organized into teams of five or fewer student. The program curriculum fosters and integrates many experiences with the people, books, movies, music, research, higher education, business and language of the United States.

The IEP sessions begin six times a year in January, March, May, July, August and October, with class study breaks for at least a week between sessions.

Freshman Seminar Program

Texas Christian University is an educational community where faculty members promote active learning and encourage personal growth and individual achievement. One means of moving toward achievement of these goals is embodied in the Freshman Seminars offered to first-year students during the fall semester of each academic year.

A common goal of each seminar is to help students develop the intellectual skills and self-confidence necessary for success in a university setting. Guided by scholars, who are often senior faculty members, students learn to approach learning experiences with creativity, self-expression, and independent thinking. Activities in seminars often include discussion of ideas, research on special projects, and fieldwork that can lead to increased communication and critical-thinking skills for students.

The seminars are structured to provide an intensive, personalized learning experience that will enhance the first-year student's sense of belonging to the academic community. Limited enrollment in Freshman Seminars allows for personal contact between students and faculty. Furthermore, the interactive format allows students to get acquainted more easily, leading not only to academic orientation, but also to social integration within the university.

Freshman Seminars, offered in a variety of disciplines, are listed in the Schedule of Classes prepared each semester by the Registrar. Course descriptions appear in a special publication that is distributed during summer orientation sessions for first-year students. Seminars are usually offered only in the fall semester; students may enroll in only one seminar.

Washington Internships

TCU is an affiliate of the Washington Center, a nonprofit independent educational institution which provides comprehensive learning opportunities in the nation's capital for students from over 300 colleges and universities. The program includes placement, supervision, evaluation, seminars, housing, counseling, special events and other support services.

The program is open to students in any major field. Minimum requirements include a 3.0 GPA, and students must return to campus for at least one semester. Individuals must apply one year in advance of the expected internship. All students accepted must take POSC 40900, Washington Internship Seminar, during the spring semester before the internship the following fall.

Students who participate in the fall program in Washington receive fifteen hours of credit in political science. Students should consult with their academic adviser to determine how these credits may satisfy departmental or university requirements. For further information about the program, contact the Political Science Department at TCU.

The University also participates in an experiential learning program in Washington, D.C., through its affiliation with the Washington Center. During a two- or three-week program, students participate in discussions, lectures, tours, site visits, and briefings organized around a central topic, such as Leaders on Leadership, Women as Leaders, Law and Society, The Global Society, and the National Political Conventions. Credit for the program is arranged through independent study. For further information, contact the Department of Political Science.

Independent Study

Most departments at TCU offer an opportunity for independent study, usually pursued late in one's major.

It has a broad range of purposes. Perhaps most important is exposure of the undergraduate student to methods and techniques usually reserved for graduate students. Seminars, reading and reviews, and independent research characterize this phase of a student's work, which normally is optional.

Independent study courses are also available to exceptional students with exceptional needs. A student, for example, may want a more intensive exposure to a specific subject than a standard course provides. With faculty approval, an independent study course can provide the opportunity to go as far as interest and capability allow.

Extended Education

The Office of Extended Education coordinates non-degree admissions to the University. These include nontraditional students age 22 and older. The office also coordinates the Portfolio Assessment Program. This program awards undergraduate degree credit for knowledge acquired through life experience. Information about non-degree admissions and the Portfolio Assessment Program can be obtained by calling (817) 257-7130 or writing to TCU Box 297026, Fort Worth, TX 76129. Financial aid is made available to qualified part-time students to support their part-time studies at TCU. (See "Programs for Non-Traditional Students" in the Finances section.) Contact the Office of Scholarships and Student Financial Aid for more information.

The Library

Research, study and independent inquiry at TCU are greatly facilitated by the collections and services of a centralized university library. The Mary Couts Burnett Library is a modern, attractive and well appointed building complex with over 158,000 square feet dedicated to services and materials storage. The library houses a collection of more than 1.9 million items and maintains current subscriptions to some 4,800 journals. Materials are classified and arranged according to the Library of Congress system; open stacks afford convenient access to most items. Professional librarians and support staff select, maintain and interpret the collections for library users. Particular collections include Texas, United States and European Community documents; the Archives of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition; the papers of former Speaker of the House, James C. Wright, Jr.; the papers of Amon G. Carter, Sr.; the University's historical collection; and special collections of rare books and manuscripts such as the William Luther Lewis Collection of English and American Literature. A music library and audio center; the Brite Divinity Library; and a computer lab are also located within the library building.

The TCU Library maintains a dynamic web site which serves as a gateway to information within the library and to the world at large. As the World Wide Web and the Internet have become integral parts of teaching and information seeking in almost all educational institutions, the role of the library has become one of guidance and evaluation of these resources. Accordingly, it provides access to an array of consistent and reliable databases such as Lexis-Nexis, OCLC FirstSearch and PsycINFO. These, together with a growing number of electronic journals and full-text databases, can be accessed from dorm rooms or home 24 hours a day.

Through active membership in local, regional and national library consortia the Library is able to secure for TCU faculty and students the advantages that come with library resource sharing. Our membership in TexShare enables TCU faculty and students to obtain borrowing privileges from more than 150 academic libraries throughout Texas.

Information Services

The central computing facility, located on the ground floor of the Sid W. Richardson Sciences Building, provides network connectivity throughout the campus and microcomputer services and support for all levels of the University.

Using various client servers, Information Services provides support for all programs used by campus departments and supplies direct access to the Internet, the Library and specialized databases as required.

The Information Services staff is available through the HELP DESK (SWR Room 148, (817) 257-5855) for consultation and assistance with computer problems, as well as the selection and purchase of hardware and software. A newsletter (TCUSER) providing information about new services, products and support activities is published electronically each semester. Various classes on using the administrative software packages are offered for faculty and staff each semester. In addition, a wide selection of training materials for campus-supported software is also available. The Information Services administrative office is located in SWR Room 175, (817) 257-7682.

ROTC

The Reserve Officers Training Corps, Senior Division, became an integral part of TCU in 1951. An Army unit and an Air Force unit are maintained. Students eligible enroll in the service of their choice. Graduates are commissioned as second lieutenants, United States Army Reserve or United States Air Force.

Credit for work in a Senior ROTC unit in another university or college may be transferred to TCU, with the concurrence of the military department concerned and the appropriate dean.

For detailed information, refer to "Reserve Officers Training Corps" in the AddRan College section of this bulletin.

Reading Improvement Services

The School of Education provides instruction to improve reading skills. Criteria for admission to the course in College Reading Techniques are described under the School of Education section of this bulletin.

Instructional Services

The successful integration of instructional technology into the teaching and learning environment is essential in today classroom. Instructional technologies can potentially enrich the education of students at the University. The Center for Instructional Services supports classroom instruction by providing resources to faculty, staff and students to meet their instructional needs. The Center is comprised of five support areas: (1) Classroom Support Services maintains and supports a complement of instructional media equipment for classroom use; training is provided for equipment installed in classrooms and, upon request, equipment may be delivered, set-up, and retrieved. (2) Instructional Graphics Services provides assistance in the planning and production of a variety of instructional and presentation resources. (3) Instructional Video Services provides for a variety of video-based resources for classroom use and special events. (4) Instructional Support Services facilitates the Student Perceptions of Teahcing (SPOT) process and houses a manual Scantron test scoring machine for faculty use. (5) Instructional Technology Consultation for the integration of technology into the curriculum is provided to faculty through workshops and one-on-one training.

The Center for Instructional Services is located in Suite B16 of the Mary Couts Burnett Library, with its own outside entrance on the southeast corner of the library.

Honors and Recognitions

The University honors high academic achievement. The most significant recognitions are conferred at graduation time, but there are many interim awards as well. Some formal recognitions become a part of the student's permanent academic record; others may be in the form of a letter of commendation or list posted on the bulletin board. Each spring, Honors Week focuses attention on high academic achievement through special programs and publications. (Grade point average requirements discussed in the following sections refer exclusively to the TCU GPA.)

TCU Scholars. Full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate students who achieve a 4.0 grade point average (all A grades) in any spring or fall semester are recognized as "TCU Scholars" by the academic deans. In that semester they must have earned credit for at least 12 hours, and "I" and "P" grades are not counted. "TCU Scholars" may audit one course without fee any time within a year of their designation.

Dean's Honor List. At the end of each fall and spring semester, deans of undergraduate schools and colleges announce the names of those who have done exceptionally well. To be eligible for the Dean's Honor List, freshmen must achieve at least a 3.4 GPA, sophomores at least 3.5, juniors at least 3.6, and seniors at least 3.7. In that semester they must have earned credit for at least 12 hours, and "I" and "P" grades are not counted.

Graduation Honors. Students with a grade-point average of 3.9 or above are graduated Summa Cum Laude, perhaps the highest academic distinction. Those with 3.7 or above are graduated Magna Cum Laude, an only marginally less prestigious honor. And for those with 3.5 or above, graduation is Cum Laude.

Graduation honors are reserved for students who earn at least 60 semester hours at TCU exclusive of any credit by examination.

Honor Societies. In almost all academic fields, national honorees societies recognize students who show exceptional ability. Most departments at TCU have chapters of such societies to which high-achieving students are invited. In addition, some prestigious honor societies are open to students from throughout the University. Perhaps best-known at TCU and over the nation are these:

Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest such society in America and one of the most selective, invites to membership students with high grades whose studies show a breadth of knowledge in the liberal arts. Most initiates are seniors, though juniors and graduate students are sometimes invited as well.

Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society of North America, invites to membership persons whose research has made an original contribution to the sciences. Undergraduate students with exceptional research papers meet the society's requirements.

Mortar Board invites students on the basis of their service and leadership as well as scholarship.