Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Catalog & Student Handbook 
    
2020-2021 Catalog & Student Handbook [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Special Programs and Services


ADVANCE Business Option

Accelerate Your Future!

The Associate of Applied Science in Business is offered in a cohort schedule for working adults to complete their degree in 16 to 18 months by going year-round including summer semester. It is highly recommended if possible that students start this program in the summer cohort. However, there is also a fall semester start cohort of this program. In the Advance Business Option, students take their courses in a block scheduling format as a group. Classes are accelerated, meeting only on Thursday nights in either Cleveland, Athens or Monroe County. Several courses in the option are offered online as well. 

Working towards your degree as a group has proven to dramatically improve graduation rates. Students are in class with “like minded” people who are very focused, determined and self-disciplined. As working adults, students have real world work experience to share and draw on in applying business theories. In this program, students form strong connections with other students and their instructors. Many students go on to complete their bachelor degree in business upon completion of this associate degree program.

Students must contact the Business Department for more information or for acceptance into this option: advance_business@clevelandstatecc.edu or 423-478-6245.

To view classes contained in this accelerated business pathway, visit: http://www.clevelandstatecc.edu/academics/business/business-concentration.html.

Advanced Technologies Institute

The Advanced Technologies Institute is an Earn While You Learn program designed for students majoring in Advanced Technology programs. SELECT students will work in a classroom setting while supplementing that learning with real-world training in a professional setting while getting PAID.

Local manufacturers have partnered with Cleveland State to offer a true Cooperative Education experience for SELECT Advanced Technology students. These students will be attending classes 2 days/week, and working in a real-world setting the other 3 days/week.  

Starting pay rate for students is set at $13.80 per hour after fulfilling all admissions and company requirements. This institute will allow for not only students to earn wages while in college, but also prepare students for careers in manufacturing, engineering, and IT. 

The Advanced Technologies Institute has specific admission requirements due to its limited placement positions with industry partners. Students seeking admission to the Advanced Technologies Institute must submit the following:

  • Application for Cleveland State Community College
  • Application for Advanced Technologies Institute (found on CougarNet)
  • Written essay showing communication skills (prompt on ATI application)
  • Transcripts 
  • Test Scores (ACT/SAT scores showing scholastic capability (College readiness in all areas, i.e. Math 19, Reading 19, and Writing 18 ACT scores, equivalent SAT scores, and/or CSCC placement test score)*
  • Two letters of recommendation stating the student’s desire to work/advance in the advanced technologies field and/or the student’s commitment to work in a team and problem-solving environment
  • Interview with Business and Industry Partners if not currently employed with an industry partner (date to be set and communicated by CSCC representative after applications are complete)

*If scores are lower than mentioned above, we advise to continue to apply with 1-2 extra letters of recommendation written by a supervisor, mentor, instructor, or someone who is aware of the student’s work ethic and ability.

 Applications are due April 1st each year and the program will begin each fall semester. This will include a 2-week FYS bootcamp the weeks prior to the beginning of the fall course schedule. The selected students will also participate in team meetings throughout the length of the program in order to:

  • Build relationships and networks with other ATI students
  • Grow soft skills such as time management, customer service, attitude, and other essential workplace skills
  • Learn leadership principles and apply those in the workplace
  • Build presentation skills and earn service hours through recruitment efforts

For more information visit www.mycs.cc/ati or email ATI@clevelandstatecc.edu.

Center of Dynamic Instruction

Cleveland State Community College is committed to excellence and the Center of Dynamic Instruction is a central part of providing on-going leadership and support for innovations in teaching, learning and student engagement. The center provides facilities, training and assistance for teaching with instructional classroom technology, integrating high impact pedagogical practices, course design, hybrid and online teaching and so much more.

Mission:  We inspire exploration of innovative, culturally responsive, and collaborative approaches to teaching and learning and support faculty as champions of student success.

Facilities:  While dynamic instruction occurs throughout our campus, the center is located beneath the Library. In our space you will find the following:

  • Dynamic Learning Lab: The Dynamic Learning Lab is located in L-118 and is a modern classroom space that allows you to create a learner centered experience for your students. The room can be moved into many different configurations with rolling chairs and workstations. There is also an emphasis on tactile technology and multiple moveable whiteboards to allow for multiple learning styles.
  • Synchronous Distance Learning: This space offers instructors the ability to connect to other CSCC sites and beyond. Using Zoom, a synchronous audio/video conferencing system, we can transmit down the street or across the globe. The space allows simple control of moving cameras and allows instructors and students to see the participants on the other end seamlessly.
  • Media Center: The Media Center is a fully functioning video production studio. This space is equipped with multiple cameras and studio sets, as well as a key wall. The center also has an audio studio perfect for recording video screen captures, podcasts or other audio projects you may need for your classes.  The center’s staff are knowledgeable about different media and are ready to assist with your multimedia needs.

CSCC @ A Distance

Cleveland State offers many convenient ways to take courses beyond the traditional classroom experience. No matter what your situation is, Cleveland State has an option for you that offers convenient learning experiences that allow you to take courses where and when you need them.

There are four main modes of distance courses that we offer: Hybrid, Online, TN eCampus and Synchronous Video.

  • Hybrid Courses: Hybrid courses are a combination of face-to-face interaction and online learning. Roughly half the time for a hybrid course will be spent in a classroom. The rest of the coursework will be completed online. Hybrid courses are designated by a “Y” in the section number (ex. PSYC 1030 1Y1).
  • Online Courses: Online courses will be completed entirely online in an asynchronous format. This means that instructors will give you assignments and due dates. As long as it is complete by the due date, you can complete these assignments on a time scale that works best for you. These courses are delivered through myCS Courses, our learning management system. In online courses, you may find course documents, learning content, discussion boards, activities, quizzes and much more. Tests can be delivered online or be proctored in the CSCC Testing Center. Students who take online courses should be computer literate and have access to high speed internet. Online courses are designated by a “W” in the section number (ex. PSYC 1030 WWW).
  • TN eCampus: TN eCampus courses run similarly to the regular online courses. The difference is that your instructor could be from a different Tennessee college or university. You will also login to a different site to access your course. There are additional fees associated with taking TN eCampus courses. TN eCampus courses are designated by an “R” in the section number (ex. PSYC 1030 R50).
  • Synchronous Video: Synchronous Video courses are live broadcasts with an instructor teaching at one location and the students receiving the information at another campus, home or any other location. These classes are real time and have specific days and times associated with the delivery of the class. These classes run through the Zoom platform. Synchronous video courses are designated by a “T” in the section number (ex. PSYC 1030 1T1).

Technical requirements:
Students participating in any of these distance methods should have access to the following specifications:

  • a recent model computer,
  • a reliable Internet Service Provider (ISP), and
  • a minimum Internet connection of at least 56kbps, although a broadband or DSL connection is preferred.

Cooperative Education

The Cooperative Education Program at Cleveland State Community College strives to prepare students for the world of work, bridging the student’s academic preparation with hands-on experience in his/her field. A variety of independent study courses available include:

  • Cooperative Education
  • Career Exploration
  • Job Search Skills
  • Soft Skills in the Workforce

Working in conjunction with the student and the student’s academic advisor, the Cooperative Education Office assists the student in identifying a placement related to his/her college major for Cooperative Education (CPED 1010 , 1020 , 2010  & 2020 ). Students develop learning objectives and projects with their supervisor and complete a 150-hour placement during the semester. These three credit-hour courses can be taken for up to four semesters. Students who need assistance in locating a co-op placement need to schedule an appointment with the cooperative education office in advance. Two credit-hour versions (CPED 2100  and 2200 ) are also available and require a 100-hour/semester placement.

Students looking for a job-shadowing opportunity while also learning fundamental work-based skills can enroll in Career Exploration (CPED 1100)  for one semester. Students will develop goals with their business or industry mentor to improve their shadowing experience, while also completing coursework such as a resume portfolio and soft skill discussions with their peers. This one-credit hour course can be taken for one semester, and students who need assistance in locating a job-shadowing placement need to schedule an appointment with the cooperative education office in advance.

In Job Search Skills (CPED 1011) , students receive assistance in developing a resume portfolio, interviewing skills and an individual job search strategy. In Soft Skills in the Workforce (CPED 1012) , students learn about the importance of successfully navigating the work world and the importance of soft skills communication, time management, problem solving, teamwork and customer service skills. Both CPED 1011  and 1012  are one credit-hour courses and like other CPED classes are offered in an independent study format.

Cooperative Education:

  • Connects academic training with the work setting
  • Helps in career decision-making to be sure the student’s chosen career field is a good fit
  • Enhances skills and increases the student’s expertise
  • Provides valuable work experience that can help strengthen the student’s resume portfolio
  • Develops workplace responsibility
  • Encourages students to persevere and complete a college degree

Library

The library serves our college community by supporting learning as an ongoing, dynamic process. Librarians assist students with developing research and information literacy skills that demonstrate “abilities encompassing the reflective discovery of information, the understanding of how information is produced and valued, and the use of information in creating new knowledge and participating ethically in communities of learning” (ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education).

The library affords students and faculty the opportunity to expand their academic and personal horizons by providing access to a collection of 50,000 print books, more than 200,000 e-books, scholarly, print and e- journals, magazines, and newspapers. Video streaming databases are available for faculty and students to support teaching and learning. Cooperative agreements such as the Tennessee Academic Library Cooperative (TALC) offer the campus community borrowing privileges and access to each college or university library from any participating public or private academic library in Tennessee. Interlibrary Loan Service enables students and faculty to borrow materials such as books, journal magazines articles from other libraries at no cost of the user. Inter-campus Item Request allows students and faculty from another CSCC campus to borrow any circulating item to be delivered to a different CSCC campus site at no cost.

Librarians work with faculty to offer group information literacy instruction tailored to meet the specific needs of course assignments.  Information literacy instruction, reference services and all library resources are also available to off-site and dual-enrollment students.  Students, faculty and staff may access the library’s electronic resources via CougarNet or the library website. Librarians provide individualized or group research help in person, via email, chat system, phone, and research subject guides.

Three computer labs are available in the library to support access to course materials, CougarNet, technology support and email. Studio Connect is a collaborative learning space where students have access to interactive technologies, including an Apple TV, iPads, a Promethean Board and iMac computers with creative software.

Service-Learning

Cleveland State Community College is committed to providing students with the opportunity for experiential learning through community service activities. Many courses in various disciplines incorporate service-learning activities, providing students with an opportunity to connect what they are learning in the classroom with service in the community, including First Year Seminar  and Service-Learning Exercise (SRVL 1100) .  Additionally, Introduction to Service-Learning (SRVL 1020)  is a three-credit hour General Education Social/Behavioral Science class that provides students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities to illustrate the concepts of social justice, diversity, personal and civic responsibility. By investing service time with nonprofit and other community focused partners, or by creating their own unique service projects, students will develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and reflective skills that will increase their understanding of community and societal needs. Students will complete thirty hours of individual and five hours of group volunteer service during the semester. 

Service-Learning opportunities are curriculum-based and structured to help students acquire a sense of civic and social responsibility, learn about their community, apply classroom learning, expand critical thinking and problem solving skills and reflect on their experiences. At the same time, the college hopes that the service of student volunteers will assist with many needs of our community and students will choose to continue serving their communities long after their college years. Students who participate in service-learning may be eligible to earn a Service-Learning Recognition Award when they graduate.  Students should contact the Service-Learning Department for details about the award program.

Small Business Development Center

Tennessee’s economic growth and stability depends largely on the small business community and its ability to get products to market. However, getting a new business on solid ground is no easy feat. That’s why the Small Business Development Center at Cleveland State Community College was created. Dedicated to helping entrepreneurs every step of the way, the Small Business Development Center turns small business dreams into reality.

What Is the Small Business Development Center?
Cleveland State’s Small Business Development Center is one branch of Tennessee Small Business Development Centers, a network of professional business consultants with 14 centers and seven affiliate offices throughout the State of Tennessee. The TSBDC provides expert business advice to all types of businesses, whether you’re running a manufacturing, retail, service or professional business. In other words, the TSBDC and the Small Business Development Center at Cleveland State are here to help you help your business.

Over 80,000 businesses have received TSBDC’s expert counsel in countless areas, from accounting, banking and finance to advertising, human resources and sales to location analysis, exit strategies and international trade. How can we help your business?

Personalized One-on-One Counseling
You will be assigned a personal consultant to work with on your business. Your consultant is your point person, the person who will know everything pertinent to your situation. No matter if you need financial, marketing, operations, management or other business advice or services, your personal consultant will work with you on those issues.
 
The Small Business Development Center offers training for you and your staff on many relevant business subjects, including the following:

  • Starting & Managing a Small Business
  • Writing a Business Plan
  • Assistance Preparing Financial Statements for Small Businesses
  • Marketing
  • Finding Funding
  • E-Commerce 

Referrals to Professional Services and Agencies
The TSBDC has extensive resources available which are used to find the answers to your business questions.

Confidential No-Cost Business Counseling and Training
Your one-on-one counseling and consulting services are provided to your business at no cost! Most business seminars are offered at no cost, but some of the more specialized events may come with a small fee. Visit our website for training information: http://www.tsbdc.org/clscc.

Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we field:

Who can benefit from the Small Business Development Center?
Anyone who currently owns a small business or is interested in opening a business.

Do you have a bilingual small business specialist?
Yes. We are fluent in Spanish and English.

How do I make an appointment?
Call the Small Business Development Center at (423) 478-6247. To register for training workshops and seminars, call us or visit the website at http://www.tsbdc.org/clscc.

Where are you located and what are your hours of operation?
The Small Business Development Center is located on the Cleveland State Community College campus in Cleveland, Tennessee, at 3535 Adkisson Drive in the Technology building, Room 126. We are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information about the Small Business Development Center, call (423) 478-6247 or (800) 604-CSCC, ext. 247. 

TN eCampus

The online education offered through TN eCampus mirrors the same education offered at the physical campus locations. You need to select a college campus as your home school and meet the admission requirements. All campuses in the collaboration are regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), while several programs have national accreditation status.

Students can be enrolled in TN eCampus and traditionally structured classes at the same time. These TN eCampus courses are available for all Cleveland State students; however, an additional charge is added per credit hour for TN eCampus classes.

Many instructors are located at campuses across the state and may require you to take your mid-term and final exams at an approved proctor site, such as your home school’s testing center.

You will need to purchase your textbook at the TN eCampus bookstore and log in to class at the site identified as TN eCampus on your CougarNet account.

To learn more about TN eCampus, please visit: http://tnecampus.info.

If you need assistance with registering for a class, contact your advisor. The TN eCampus liaison may be reached at 423-473-2360. 

Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC)

Students enrolled in courses at Cleveland State Community College (CSCC) are encouraged to take advantage of FREE tutoring available at the main campus in Cleveland and at the Athens Center.  The Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC) on the main campus is located in Room 209 in the Library, and the TLC serves as the main “hub” for tutoring needs.  Tutoring is provided on a first-come, first-serve basis.  No appointment is needed.  

We provide on-site and online tutoring. On-site we have peer tutors and CSCC instructors scheduled to assist our students in Writing, English, Spanish, Accounting, Nursing, Biology, and Chemistry. Supplemental instruction is provided in Anatomy and Physiology.

Tutor.com provides 24/7, free online tutoring for our students in every subject.

The TLC is here to support the empowerment of CSCC students to succeed academically and become confident, independent learners by providing tutoring and study sessions in an encouraging and relaxed atmosphere with knowledgeable and respectful staff who incorporate transferable skills and strategies in the learning process. 

Workforce Development and Continuing Education

Cleveland State Community College is committed to providing training solutions to assist in meeting the needs of business and industry.  Cleveland State Workforce Development and Continuing Education team offers training to businesses, companies, and organizations on a customized, contracted basis as well as scheduled open enrollment education programs.  Our team is committed to providing solutions with new and existing advanced manufacturing industries to provide relevant skills training encompassing both employability and technical skills.  Our vision is to recruit, identify, screen, assess, and train a highly skilled workforce in advanced manufacturing, industrial maintenance and workforce to meet immediate employer requirements.

Cleveland State Community College has a dedicated Workforce Development Department committed to collaborate with business and industry to provide training solutions and close skill gaps. Cleveland State Community College has a trained and certified faculty and staff qualified to assess candidates for hire using Scientific Management Techniques (SMT) hands-on, scientifically validated, assessment machines. These machines assess mechatronic skills in mechanical, electrical, PLC, CNC, Process Control skills and mechanical aptitude. These are hands on assessments and the scored reports identify specific skill courses of study, which will close skill gaps. We can provide industrial skills assessments which can accurately predict candidate success on the job. Assessments are used in the hiring process globally for the selection and evaluation of maintenance mechanics, Machine Operators, Industrial Electricians, PLC technicians, Electro-mechanical, Process Control, and CNC personnel.