Joseph Green, Dean
Shannon Pugh, Interim Associate Dean
Kesha T. Lee, Interim Associate Dean
Telephone: 919-530-5235
Fax: 919-530-5230
Main Office: 239 Alexander-Dunn Building
Overview
In order for NCCU students to achieve student success, best practices in higher education must be available for all students with intentional focus during the first two years of the students’ enrollment and matriculation. Research by Noel Levitz, NSSE, John Gardner, and others indicate that effective academic advising, academic support, personal and career counseling, social interaction opportunities, and leadership responsibilities make for student success during the first two years of college. The University College focuses intentionally, consistently, and qualitatively on academic advising, academic support, academic excellence, career placement, socialization skills, soft skills, and personal, civic, and social responsibility and accountability. The goals and objectives of the University College enable NCCU to carry out recommendations of the UNC Strategic Plan, specifically those related to Student Success and Access to Higher Education.
Several initiatives at NCCU work to promote student success: early warning reports, mid-term grade reports, Eagle T.A.L.O.N.S. workshops, tutorial services, Supplemental Instruction, and learning communities. Yet, more intentional work must be done to ensure success for the majority of our students. The University College fills the void with its intentional focus on student success for all new freshmen, sophomores, and transfer students.
The University College is managed by a dean and two associate deans. Core values and specific strategies have been developed with several committees, colleges, and schools across the campus.
Purpose
The purpose of the University College is to provide a means to enhance the successful transition and experiences during the first two years for all freshmen, sophomores, and new transfer students, with an intentional focus on student success.
Mission Statement
The University College promotes student learning and development by providing coordinated and centralized academic resources and support services that help first and second year students define their educational and career goals. Relationships developed through proactive advising, educational planning, academic support and enrichment, and ongoing training ensure students are retained and equipped to persist toward graduation
Vision
To develop and establish a University College that will be recognized regionally and nationally for its record on student productivity and success.
Core Values
Students are the source of North Carolina Central University’s success. They should always receive the strongest commitment of the staff, faculty, and administration. The University College encourages effort, support, and progress in first and second year students.
Retention is based on the ability to attract and develop students who reflect the mission, goals, standards, and culture of North Carolina Central University. The University College seeks to retain students by providing a positive first and second year experience.
Community should be a place where students are nurtured and engaged. The University College promotes a welcoming environment where students have the opportunity to learn from and gain diverse classroom experiences.
University policies and procedures, rules, and regulations are focused on enabling the success of students.
Academic Affairs and Student Affairs personnel work cooperatively in a collegial process.
Goals of the University College
1. An 85% retention rate will be actualized by first time freshmen and first time transfer students.
2. Enhance the academic performance of University College students (first-time freshmen, sophomores, and first- time transfer students) to a level that reduces the number of failures by 15% and increase the number of students achieving a grade of “C” or above by 10% over the prior academic year in GEC courses.
3. Empower students to develop personal goals and manage essential university functions that ensure student success such as the registration process, active participation in student professional development seminars, and relevant career planning.
4. Develop and implement effective means of transitioning students from the University College to the academic department in which the student’s major is housed.
5. Develop and implement a comprehensive training program for the University College that will strengthen student performance and delivery of staff services.
6. Develop and implement a mentoring program that will enhance the academic and social performance of University College students measured by a “C” average in GEC courses for all students actively participating in the mentoring program.
7. Strengthen assessment measures to effectively document student success.
8. Keep abreast of current research and studies in the area of first and second year- experiences, retention and graduation rates, leadership, and management to inform decisions and reports.
Academic Advising
Shannon C. Pugh, Interim Associate Dean
205 Alexander-Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-6129
Fax: 919-530-6655
Academic Advising is an integral component of the educational experience at NCCU. In concert with the mission and goals of the University, the Academic Advising department aims to serve all new first-year freshmen and transfer students with regard to their completion of courses in the General Education Curriculum (GEC) through second year major courses. Additionally, the Academic Advising department assists students in reaching their personal and professional goals given the climate of success in which the office operates.
University College Academic Advising is a department devoted to supporting students during their period of transition into the University. During the orientation experience, an academic advising syllabus is provided which outlines strategies for success during the acclimation period of transition. Students are assigned an advisor to aid with ongoing development and expected to meet frequently throughout the semester. During the advising session academic, personal, professional and social dialogue is fostered to focus on students individual need and progress. Prior to registration students are expected to fulfill the requirement of advising. While academic advisors are available to assist students in making course selections as well as providing additional resources for student success, the student is ultimately responsible for his/her success.
Although, many students enter the University with an idea of the major they intend to pursue, the advisors can also provide support with choosing a major. Students are strongly encouraged to declare a major by the end of their freshmen year. Near the completion of the sophomore year, students who meet requirements of their pursued academic program, are eligible to transition successfully to their academic major department. The University strongly expects students to become familiar with graduation requirements for their chosen major(s), meet with their academic advisor on a regular basis to discuss their academic progress, give their academic work the highest priority, and carefully plan their course selections and sequences. Carefully following these expectations and forming a strong working relationship with your academic advisor can ensure success and graduation from NCCU.
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE ACADEMIC ADVISING STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Students will be able to evaluate academic and personal interests, strengths and challenges.
- Students will be able to identify appropriate courses meeting curricular requirements for selected degree programs.
- Students will be able to describe and follow academic policies and procedures as listed in the undergraduate catalog, NCCU website, and official university communication.
- Students will be able to utilize student information systems (Banner, EAB, email) for access to personal information, registration, and advising appointments.
- Students will be able to describe and utilize various campus resources.
Academic Success and Enrichment Services
Kesha T. Lee, Interim Associate Dean
235 Alexander-Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-6979
Academic Success and Enrichment Services focuses on the enhancement of student performance through quality Academic Coaching Services, Aspiring Eagles Academy, Eagle TALONS Series, Rock the Lyceum Series, Supplemental Instruction and Tutorial Services, and our Writing Studio.
This unit utilizes an intrusive hands-on approach which focuses on the improvement of student academic skills and the enhancement of student performance through student engagement sessions on test-taking skills, stress management, time management, how-to-study programs and related topics. This approach instills a sense of pride and responsibility to maintain satisfactory progress with the ultimate goal of graduation from North Carolina Central University in four years.
Academic Coaching Services is a unique, specialized service, geared towards helping individuals reach their maximum education potential. Students meet with Academic Coaches often, on a one‐to‐one basis, setting goals for the week, bi-weekly, monthly or semester while developing the skills needed to achieve those goals in the most efficient manner. Academic Coaches provide skills training based on the needs of each individual student and refer students to subject‐specific tutors and other support services when needed.
The Aspiring Eagles Academy (AEA) is an academically based enrichment program designed to promote the success of incoming freshmen who have been accepted to attend North Carolina Central University. The academy includes a Leadership Institute, a living-learning community, cultural enrichment, study and travel abroad, intrusive academic coaching and focused academic support. Each cohort consists of 60 students, half of whom are first-generation college students.
AEA provides the means to bridge the preparation and academic achievement gap between students admitted into the program and those who come to the university prepared with skills and abilities to experience college success. Students who participate fully in the academy will be prepared to face the challenges of first-year students in an institution of higher education upon their enrollment.
The Aspiring Eagles Academy does not end when fall semester classes begin. During their first year at NCCU, participants reside together in Rush Hall and participate in monthly seminars to expand their global awareness. They meet regularly with their academic advisors and coaches, attend Rock the Lyceum programs, Eagle T.A.L.O.N.S. series and activities planned by peer mentors.
Eagle T.A.L.O.N.S. (Tackling Academic Learning Opportunities for New Scholars) series are designed to equip the students enrolled at NCCU with the knowledge, skills, and tools to successfully navigate their collegiate experience and ensure that they are equipped to be competitive in a global society. Session topics are chosen based upon the feedback received from student surveys and sessions held during their summer orientation and from observations made through interactions with the students. For the students’ convenience, sessions are offered at 10:40 a.m. break and at 7:00 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The mission of the North Carolina Central University Rock the Lyceum (RTL) Series is to promote and enhance the intellectual, cultural, and aesthetic aspects of student growth and development through a series of outstanding lectures, recitations, concerts, dramas, and exhibitions. Thus, the RTL Series contributes to the establishment of a wholesome and well-rounded environment for the university and the local and state communities. All RTL events are funded by Students’ Lyceum fees. Students in the University College are required to attend at least one RTL event per semester.
Tutorial Services are provided for a wide range of subjects by our undergraduate, graduate, and professional tutors. This is an optional service for most students; however, some students based upon their academic readiness are required to attend a minimum number of tutorial sessions. Students may schedule private appointments with tutors or walk-in for assistance. Currently, Campus SSC is the system students are encouraged to use to view tutor availability and to schedule appointments for services.
The mission of the Writing Studio is to support student learning and work as a writer in the university community through one-on-one and small group collaborative sessions. The Writing Studio is committed to helping North Carolina Central University students, faculty, and staff meet their academic and professional goals by becoming better writers. It is open to all levels of proficiency at all stages in the writing process. Services of the Writing Studio include: one-on-one consultation, brainstorming topics, rough draft development, organization of ideas, and fine tuning student writing.
UNIV 1100 First Year Seminar
Kesha T. Reed, Executive Director of Student Academic Success
235 Alexander Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-6976
E-mail: kesha.reed@nccu.edu
The First Year Seminar-UNIV 1100 is taught in the University College and is required of all students except those who are age 24 and older or transfers with sophomore status (30 credits or more). This two (2) credit course is designed primarily to help new students successfully transition to North Carolina Central University. It will introduce students to college life, and helps them develop skills necessary for their success. The course incorporates high-impact educational practices noted by the American Association of State Colleges and Schools (AASCU) to ensure that students are engaged in authentic instruction with pedagogy that’s designed to support the needs of the Generation Z learner. The course promotes scholastic attainment, the value of education, self-actualization, involvement in the campus and local community, and leadership skill development with a focus on the mastery of study skills, writing skills, critical thinking, health, and related issues.
Sophomore Success Initiative
The Sophomore Success Initiative was established to develop and implement intentional programming to meet the universal academic and social needs of sophomores. The goal is to increase retention rates, support their persistence and enhance their holistic experience. In collaboration with various campus partners, the programming includes a Welcome Back Event, SophoMORE Week in both fall and spring semester and SophoMORE Success Series throughout the academic year. University College is committed to support students as they achieve M.O.R.E.-Meaningful Opportunities for Redefined Success.
The Key Initiatives of the Sophomore Year Experience include:
- Access
- Persistence
- Integrative Learning
- Critical Reflection
- Employability
Learning Outcomes:
- Establish personal identity and develop academic, social and career purpose
- Discover and utilize campus resources
- Develop personal and professional relationships
- Explore career options and indicators
- Explore the concept of community and diversity
- Increase self-awareness, emotional intelligence and self-esteem
- Apply skills for success as a global citizen
Eagles in Flight-MAR Program
Eagles in Flight-MAR Program is one of many intentional programs that provides individualized and group support to ensure a successful matriculation at NCCU. The Eagles in Flight Program-MAR Program enrolls undergraduate first year students who earned the required GPA for admissions, however their SAT or ACT scores were slightly below the requirement. The students are required to attend monthly community meetings and each student is assigned a peer mentor. The mentor and Executive Director provide additional mentoring, coaching and support to each student. The Eagles in Flight program provides various methods of student engagement to ensure that students are engaged and connected to a community and they are offered social support and engagement sessions to enhance critical skills necessary for success.
STEM Promise Living Learning Community
The STEM Promise exposes first year STEM Majors to opportunities for research, professional development, STEM related excursions and collaborative learning with faculty within the Residence Halls and in the Community. The mission of the STEM Promise LLC is to engage students in the STEM Majors at North Carolina Central University by providing living and learning opportunities to support their holistic development, enhanced knowledge and exposure to their specific areas of interest and their retention and progression to degree completion.
Learning Outcomes and Experiences
- Students will achieve learning outcomes and experiences through exposure, engagement, and expansion in the following:
- Expose: Increase student’s exposure to STEM through activities such as periodic outdoor experiences, field trips, and on and off campus STEM related activities
- Engage: Increase student’s engagement with STEM through regularly scheduled activities, student-directed inquiry projects, longer-term team explorations, design-building challenges, technology projects and curriculum lessons. Students will work collaboratively within a group dynamic.
- Expand: Expand depth and breadth with expert support and partnerships, diversifying fields, internships, longer-term inquiry projects, community problem-solving projects, and presentations while fostering and honing critical and creative thinking abilities.
The University Testing Center
Cynthia Duarte, Director
111 Taylor Education Building
Telephone: 919-530-7368
Fax: 919-530-7670
E-mail: cduarte@nccu.edu
The University Testing Center earned national certification in 2017 by the National College Testing Association. The Center provides full-service testing and assessment services to students, faculty, staff, and local communities. There is no cost to NCCU students to use the Testing Center services. Among the many services provided are: planning, coordinating, and administering placement tests in the modern foreign languages (French, German and Spanish); College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) offered to university and community candidates; administration of the GRE; Praxis series (formerly national Teachers Examination); TOEFL, Accuplacer, Distance Education, Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE), SAT, and Test Scoring Services for university faculty.
Computer-Based Testing Center
The University Testing Center also provides the facilities, personnel, and testing resources as a satellite test site for several national and international testing agencies including Prometric, PearsonVUE, UNC Proctoring Network, graduate and occupational testing. A profitable and technically enhanced testing venue, the CBT Center is operated Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5:00 offering computer-based testing for fifteen different education and certification entities. The CBT Center plans, coordinates, and administers standardized computerized tests according to guidelines provided by the testing entity and specifies the physical and environmental conditions under which the test is to be administered. During the busiest testing period from September to January, The CBT Center operates outside of the regular hours, running three sessions daily. Testing is by appointment and registration. Walk-ins needing placement testing are accommodated based on availability.
TRIO Student Support Services
Colleen Scott, Student Support Services Coordinator
230 Alexander Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-5594
Fax: 919-530-5230
E-mail: cscott49@nccu.edu
Mission
TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) Program at North Carolina Central University is a federally funded program that serves participants who are first-generation, low-income, or have accessibility needs. In collaboration with the NCCU community, the TRiO SSS staff will coach participants’ academic, financial, personal, and social development while offering career, cultural, and professional opportunities. Using a holistic and familial approach, TRiO Student Support Services is committed to the perseverance, retention and graduation rates of participants as they transition to their chosen professions as leaders in a global society.
Services
The TRiO Student Support Services Program offers participants’ academic, professional, and personal guidance during one-on-one and group meetings. These sessions address tutoring, financial literacy, career exploration, cultural excursions, graduate school preparation, and leadership development. Participants who meet eligibility criteria may apply for TRiO Grant Aid to reduce their dependence on student loans. The dedication and ongoing support provided by the TRiO SSS team support students’ perseverance in overcoming barriers from acceptance into the program through graduation and post-graduation.
Student Athlete Academic Support Services
Kwadjo Steele, Assistant A.D. for Academic Support Services
240 Alexander Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-6759
Fax: 919-530-5230
E-mail: ksteele9@nccu.edu
The mission of the Student-Athlete Academic Support Services Office is to create an environment that will allow student-athletes the opportunity to maximize their collegiate experience. We recognize that every student-athlete has lifelong goals that can be fulfilled by both athletic and academic success. The Student-Athlete Academic Support Services Office strives to help student-athletes achieve these goals as EAGLES:
- Equally commit to preparing student-athletes academically and professionally to become leaders in a diverse global society;
- Assist parents and student-athletes with the essentials they need to succeed in college;
- Guide student-a to become more accountable and responsible individuals who can make decisions independently;
- Equally commit to preparing student-athletes academically and professionally to become leaders who excel in a diverse, global society;
- Succeed by using all campus resources available to navigate the college experience in fulfilling and rewarding ways while earning their degree from NCCU.
Thurgood Marshall College Fund
William R. Moultrie, Campus Coordinator
239 Alexander-Dunn Building
Telephone: 919-530-5235
Fax: 919-530-5230
E-mail: wmoultri@nccu.edu
Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black College Community. TMCF member-schools include the publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). Publicly-supported HBCUs enroll over 80% of all students attending HBCUs. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization is also a source for top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs. Students at NCCU have the opportunity to participate in a number of initiatives via participation with TMCF.
Readmissions
Ebony Scott, Readmission Counselor
Telephone: 919-530-6973
Fax: 919-530- 7996
Main Office: 103 Alexander-Dunn Building
E-mail: readmissions@nccu.edu
University readmissions at North Carolina Central University was established in 2018 under Enrollment Management and Academic Affairs. Readmission applies to students who have previously been admitted, registered, and attended a degree seeking program at North Carolina Central University. Students must apply for readmission if they skip a term or stop out after completing a single semester or more.
Readmission is completed online only on the university website. Readmission to the university is not guaranteed and is subject to prior academic history and campus safety requirements as noted on the readmission application. Students with less than 53 credits hours are advised with University College to ensure successful transition of first and second year students. Students with 53 credit hours or more, Associate of Arts (AA), or Associate of Science (AS) are advised with prospective department until degree completion.
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